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If you’ve just bought a house or are looking to renovate or refurbish one then you’re probably going to want to move the plumbing fixtures. It’s highly likely that you’ll have a better spot for the kitchen sink, the shower, the bath, and even the toilet
In theory, moving them is simple. But, if you get the plumbing wrong you may end up flooding your new bathroom or kitchen. That’s not an attractive prospect. It will also cost you a lot more than simply calling a qualified plumber Sydney.
If you’re going to have a go yourself you’ll need to consider the following and have the number of a plumber on hand, in case you have an emergency.
Plan First
It makes sense to create a plan first. This means evaluating the current water supply to all the appliances that are being moved. You’ll want to identify the various pipes and where they should be changed to accommodate the position your plumbing fixture is moving to. Don’t forget to consider the drains as well, the water has to go somewhere.
In fact, the drains can be the worst part, especially if the floor is concrete. You’ll need to dig channels into them to allow space for shower, bath and even toilet drains.
Equally, pipework can be buried into walls. You’ll need to decide if the new pipes can also be buried or if you’re happy for them to be visible. Burying them is more difficult and time-consuming.
Shut The Water Off
Once you’re happy that you know where the appliances are going, what pipes need to move, and that you have the necessary materials to undertake the move, you can turn the water off.
You’ll want to open a faucet to ensure as much water as possible is out of the system. It will then be time to disconnect your old appliance. You’ll need a container to catch the water as there will be some left in the pipes.
Change Pipework
Disconnect the waste and move the appliance or bring n the new one. You can now lay your new waste pipes, connecting the new spot either to the original or the waste pipes under the room. Don’t forget to maintain the right gradient for the water to flow away from your home.
You can then do the same with your supply pipes. It’s best to use copper pipes and solder the joints as this provides the neatest finish. It’s also the most cost-effective option. However, if you prefer you can use compression joints or speed fit ones.
The pipework should either be hidden or run next to the wall with suitable support brackets. This will prevent it from buckling when it’s being used.
Attach The Appliance
You can now move the appliance to its new position and carefully attach the waste and supply pipes. These are generally screwed into place.
At this point, you’ll be able to turn the water back on and test for leaks. It’s the most frightening and rewarding part.