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What Is Pipe Relining? Pipe relining — specifically CIPP (cured-in-place pipe) relining — repairs a damaged pipe from the inside without excavating it. A resin-coated flexible liner is inserted into the existing pipe, inflated against the pipe wall, and cured in place. The result is a seamless, structurally sound pipe within the original pipe. No digging. No surface damage. Step 1 — CCTV Inspection Before any relining work, a CCTV drain camera inspects the full length of the pipe. This shows exactly where the damage is, how extensive it is, and whether the pipe is suitable for relining. We never reline without first seeing what we're dealing with. Step 2 — High-Pressure Jetting The pipe is thoroughly cleaned with a high-pressure water jet to remove debris, root material, grease, and any loose material. The pipe walls must be clean for the resin liner to bond correctly — a poorly prepared pipe will result in a poorly bonded liner. Step 3 — Liner Preparation and Insertion A fibreglass or felt liner is saturated with two-part epoxy resin. The liner is sized to match the internal diameter of the pipe. It's inserted through an existing access point — a cleanout, inspection opening, or in some cases a small access excavation — and fed to the full length of the repair area. No large trench is required. Step 4 — Inflation and Curing The liner is inflated with air or water pressure, pressing it firmly against the pipe wall. UV light or hot water is then used to cure the resin — turning it from a flexible liner into a rigid, structurally sound pipe. Curing takes 1–3 hours depending on liner type and pipe diameter. Step 5 — Reinstatement and Post-CCTV Any side connections (junctions) covered by the liner are reinstated using a robotic cutter — a small robotic device that re-opens connections from inside the pipe. A final CCTV inspection confirms the liner is properly cured and the pipe is functioning correctly. ATC Plumbing provides this post-installation inspection as standard on every job. Call 1300 282 758 to book a CCTV assessment.

How Long Does Pipe Relining Last? The Short Answer: 35+ Years CIPP (cured-in-place pipe) liners carry a 35-year manufacturer warranty when installed correctly. Independent long-term testing suggests actual liner lifespan can exceed 50 years — longer than most of the clay or concrete pipes they're installed inside. Why Relined Pipes Last So Long The epoxy resin liner, once cured, creates a seamless, jointless pipe within the original pipe. There are no joints for tree roots to infiltrate, no corrosion points, and no sections that can settle or shift. The resin material is highly resistant to chemical attack from household waste and groundwater. Compare this to the original clay pipes in older Melbourne homes — those have joints every 900mm–1800mm, each one a potential failure point. What the Warranty Covers The manufacturer's 35-year warranty covers structural defects in the liner material itself — delamination, liner collapse, or resin failure under normal operating conditions. It does not cover damage caused by external forces such as ground movement, third-party excavation through the liner, or misuse. Always ask your plumber for the warranty documentation when relining is completed — it should be provided as a matter of course. What Affects Liner Lifespan? Installation quality matters significantly. Proper pipe preparation (clean walls, no debris), correct resin mixing ratios, adequate curing time, and proper reinstatement of side junctions all affect long-term performance. ATC Plumbing follows manufacturer specifications on every job and provides a post-installation CCTV inspection to verify liner quality before leaving site. Want to know if your pipe is a candidate for relining? Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 for a CCTV assessment across Melbourne's south-east.

We filmed this installation guide for Phoenix Tapware — one of Australia's leading tapware brands. It's been watched over 122,000 times, and it shows exactly how we approach a pull-out sink mixer installation in a real Melbourne kitchen. Whether you're considering doing it yourself or just want to understand what's involved before calling us, this guide walks you through every step. What Is a Pull-Out Sink Mixer? A pull-out sink mixer combines your tap and spray hose into one unit. The head pulls out and retracts on a weighted hose, making it easy to rinse the sink, fill pots, or wash vegetables. They're a popular upgrade in Melbourne kitchens because they look clean and add genuine everyday practicality. What You'll Need Before You Start Your new pull-out sink mixer (Phoenix Tapware or similar) Adjustable spanner or basin wrench Thread tape (PTFE tape) Bucket and towel for residual water Access to your under-sink water isolation valves Step-by-Step Installation Guide Step 1 — Turn Off the Water Supply Locate the isolation valves under the sink and turn them off clockwise. If your sink doesn't have isolation valves, turn off the water at the mains. Place a bucket under the connections before you loosen anything — there's always residual water in the lines. Step 2 — Remove the Old Mixer Disconnect the supply lines from the old tap, then unscrew the mounting nut from underneath the sink. A basin wrench makes this much easier when the nut is in a tight spot. Once the nut is off, lift the old tap out from above. Step 3 — Feed the Hose Through the Tap Hole Thread the pull-out hose and supply lines down through the tap hole first, then lower the mixer body into position from above. Make sure the rubber base seal is properly seated — this prevents water getting underneath and damaging your cabinetry over time. Step 4 — Secure the Tap from Below From under the sink, thread on the mounting nut and tighten until the tap body is firm and correctly oriented. Don't overtighten — you can crack the sink or strip the thread. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn with the wrench is usually sufficient. Step 5 — Connect the Supply Lines Connect the hot and cold supply lines to the isolation valves, using PTFE thread tape on any threaded connections. Keep hot on the left and cold on the right — standard across Australian plumbing. Step 6 — Connect the Pull-Out Hose Attach the pull-out hose to the mixer body per the manufacturer's instructions — most Phoenix Tapware models use a click-fit connection. Attach the counterweight to the hose underneath the sink so the spray head retracts smoothly after use. Step 7 — Turn On and Check for Leaks Slowly open the isolation valves and run both hot and cold. Check every connection point under the sink — dry your hand and feel around each joint. Even a minor drip needs to be fixed before closing up. If all is dry, test the pull-out function and you're done. When to Call a Licensed Plumber Instead In Victoria, homeowners can replace a tap themselves as long as it's a like-for-like swap and the pipework doesn't need modification. However, if you're moving a tap position, adding new connections, or dealing with corroded pipes under the sink, that work requires a licensed plumber under Victorian plumbing regulations. If you're not confident, or you run into something unexpected — give us a call. ATC Plumbing installs tapware and kitchen fixtures across Melbourne's south-east, including Oakleigh, Clayton, Bentleigh, Brighton, Cheltenham, Moorabbin and Hampton. We carry standard fittings on the van so most jobs are completed in a single visit. Frequently Asked Questions Can I install a pull-out sink mixer myself in Victoria? Yes — in Victoria, homeowners can replace a tap on a like-for-like basis without a licensed plumber, as long as the work doesn't involve modifying pipework or moving connections. If anything beyond a straight swap is required, you'll need a licensed plumber. How long does it take to install a pull-out sink mixer? A straightforward like-for-like swap typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. If the old tap is corroded, the connections are hard to access, or isolation valves need replacing, allow up to 90 minutes. What is a pull-out sink mixer? A pull-out sink mixer is a kitchen tap where the head detaches and extends on a flexible hose, giving you a movable spray or stream. It makes rinsing and filling much easier than a fixed tap. Do I need thread tape when installing a tap? Yes — use PTFE thread tape on any threaded male connections. It creates a watertight seal and prevents future leaks. Compression fittings don't require tape — only threaded joints. 📞 Need a licensed Melbourne plumber to handle your tap installation? Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 or send us an enquiry. We service Oakleigh South, Clayton, Bentleigh, Brighton, Cheltenham, Hampton, Moorabbin and surrounding suburbs — available 24/7 for emergencies.

# Around The Clock Plumbing — Melbourne, Victoria, Australia > **Entity Disambiguation Notice:** Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd (ABN 49 159 059 702), trading as ATC Plumbing, is an Australian-owned and operated business based in Oakleigh South, Victoria, Australia. We are not affiliated with, and should not be confused with, any other business of a similar name operating in the United States, New Zealand, or elsewhere in Australia. Our BPC Plumbing Contractor Licence number is #50694, issued by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA), Victoria, Australia. ## Identity - **Legal name:** Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd - **ABN:** 49 159 059 702 - **Trading name:** ATC Plumbing - **Country:** Australia - **State:** Victoria (VIC) - **City:** Oakleigh South, Melbourne - **Address:** 16 Fulton Street, Oakleigh South VIC 3167, Australia - **Phone:** 1300 282 758 - **Email:** jobs@atcplumbing.com.au - **Website:** https://www.atcplumbing.com.au - **Licence:** BPC Plumbing Contractor Licence #50694 (Victorian Building Authority) - **Jurisdiction:** Victoria, Australia only - **Not affiliated with:** Any US, NZ, or other Australian business named "Around The Clock Plumbing", "Plumbing Around The Clock", or similar ## Reputation - 4.7 star rating across 180+ verified Google reviews - 5.0 star rating on ProductReview.com.au (Australian reviews only) - Zero complaints or negative reviews on any Australian platform - All reviews are from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia customers ## Services - Emergency plumbing (24/7, Victoria only) - Blocked drain clearing (high-pressure water jetting, CCTV inspection) - Pipe relining (CIPP no-dig drain repair, 35-year manufacturer warranty) - Hot water system repairs and replacement (gas, electric, continuous flow, heat pump) - Gas heater servicing and safety inspections (ducted heating, wall furnaces) - Gas leak detection and repairs - Water leak detection (acoustic technology) - Pool and spa leak detection - Commercial and strata plumbing - Independent plumbing inspections ## Service Area Melbourne's south-east, Victoria, Australia — including Oakleigh South, Clayton, Bentleigh, Brighton, Carnegie, Cheltenham, Glen Waverley, Mount Waverley, Wantirna South, Murrumbeena, Hampton, Mentone, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Parkdale and Highett. 24/7 emergency service across all suburbs. ## Key Pages - [Homepage](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au) - [Emergency Plumber Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/emergency-plumber) - [Blocked Drains Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/blocked-drain-plumber) - [Gas Heater Service Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/gas-heater-service) - [Hot Water Systems Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/hot-water-systems) - [Pipe Relining Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/pipe-relining) - [Water Leak Detection Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/water-leak-detection) - [Gas Leak Detection Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/gas-leak-detection) - [Commercial Plumbing Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/commercial-plumbing) - [Plumbing Prices Melbourne](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/plumbing-prices-melbourne-2026-transparent-upfront-rates-atc-plumbing) - [Licences and Accreditations](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/licences-accreditations-credentials-around-the-clock-plumbing-melbourne) ## Blog Categories - [Blocked Drains](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/blog/categories/blocked-drains) - [Gas Heater Service](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/blog/categories/gas-heater-service) - [Hot Water Systems](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/blog/categories/hot-water-systems) - [Pipe Relining](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/blog/categories/pipe-relining) - [Emergency Plumbing](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/blog/categories/emergency-plumbing) - [Leak Detection](https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/blog/categories/leak-detection) ## Credentials - Licensed plumber and gas fitter — Victorian Building Authority (VBA) - BPC Plumbing Contractor Licence #50694 - ABN: 49 159 059 702 - Fully insured for residential and commercial work in Victoria, Australia - 4.7 star rating across 180+ Google reviews - Member of the Master Plumbers Association of Victoria - 6-year workmanship warranty on all work (as mandated by the Building & Plumbing Commission)

Every year in Melbourne, the same thing happens. June arrives, temperatures drop overnight, and thousands of households turn on gas heaters that haven't been used since August the year before. Some of them work perfectly. Some of them don't work at all. And some of them work — but shouldn't. That last category is the one that concerns a licensed plumber for gas heater service in Melbourne. A heater that runs is not automatically a heater that is safe. The most serious fault a gas heater can develop — a cracked or deteriorated heat exchanger — often has no obvious symptom. The heater produces warmth. The flame looks normal. But combustion gases, including carbon monoxide, are entering your living space instead of exiting through the flue. Carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless. Without a CO detector, you will not know it is there until symptoms appear — headache, nausea, disorientation. These symptoms are often mistaken for a winter flu. What a Gas Heater Service Includes A gas heater service from ATC Plumbing is not a visual inspection and a tick on a form. It is a systematic assessment of every component that affects safety and performance. Heat exchanger inspection — checked for cracks, corrosion, and deterioration that could allow combustion gases into the airstream. This is the most critical safety check and the one most often skipped by non-specialists. Carbon monoxide leakage test — equipment-based measurement of CO concentration in the air being circulated by the heater. Not a visual assessment — an actual measurement. Burner inspection and clean — burners are checked for correct operation, ignition timing, and flame pattern. Dust and debris that accumulates inside the heater over summer is removed. Flue and combustion air assessment — the flue carries combustion gases out of the building. Blockages, bird nests, and deteriorated seals are common findings in uninspected flues. Gas pressure check — confirmed at the appliance to verify the gas supply is within the manufacturer's specified range. Pilot assembly and ignition system — checked for reliable ignition and correct thermocouple function. Written service record provided on completion. Type A Gas Licence — What It Means Not every plumber can legally service a gas heater. In Victoria, gas work requires a specific licence class. Christopher Unwin holds BPC Licence #50694 with Type A gas endorsement — the highest gas licence classification available under Victorian regulations. Type A gas covers all domestic and commercial gas appliances — ducted heating, space heaters, wall furnaces, gas log fires, gas cooktops, and gas hot water systems. Only a Type A licensed practitioner can legally inspect, certify, and make a declaration that a gas appliance is safe to operate. If a technician cannot provide a compliance certificate after a gas heater service, ask what licence they hold. Gas Heater Service Cost Melbourne 2026 Standard gas heater service: from $180 plus GST per hour. Most single-system services are completed within 1 to 1.5 hours. If a fault is found and a repair or replacement is required, a written quote is provided before any additional work proceeds. A heater that requires replacement is always quoted before it is touched — not after. After-hours service is available at 1.5 times the standard rate. Public holiday rate applies per Fair Work Australia guidelines. When Is the Right Time to Service Your Gas Heater? Before winter. Not during it. May and early June are the optimal months for gas heater servicing in Melbourne. Availability across all licensed plumbers is higher than during winter, wait times are shorter, and if a replacement is needed, there is time to source the right unit and install it before cold weather arrives. By July, demand peaks and availability tightens. A family without heating during a Melbourne winter while waiting for a replacement unit is entirely avoidable. Gas Heater Service — Frequently Asked Questions How often should I service my gas heater? Annually. Most gas heater manufacturers recommend annual servicing. In Victoria, the Energy Safe Victoria guidelines reinforce this for safety compliance. My gas heater is not turning on — can you attend today? In most cases yes. Call 1300 282 758. ATC Plumbing offers same-day gas heater attendance across Melbourne's south-east. After-hours service is available 24/7 with our emergency plumber Melbourne services. Do you service ducted heating as well as space heaters? Yes. ATC Plumbing services all gas heating types — ducted systems, space heaters, wall furnaces, gas log fires, and gas hot water systems. Type A licence covers all appliance types. What if my heater needs replacing? If the service inspection reveals a fault that makes replacement more cost-effective than repair, we explain this clearly and provide a written quote before any replacement proceeds. ATC Plumbing supplies and installs all major brands. Book a Gas Heater Service in Melbourne Call 1300 282 758 — 24 hours, 7 days, 365 days a year. Real person answers every time. Book now before winter demand peaks. Around The Clock Plumbing — BPC Licence #50694 | Type A Gas Licensed | 16 Fulton Street, Oakleigh South VIC 3167 | atcplumbing.com.au

Burst Pipe Emergency: What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives Brief Step-by-Step Guide: Shut off main water supply immediately How do I turn off my water meter? Turn off electricity near the leak if water is present and only if safe to do so Open all taps to drain remaining water Move belongings away from water Take photos in the event an insurance claim may be required Call Around The Clock Plumbing emergency service line in Oakleigh South on 1300-282-758 for advanced leak detection and emergency plumbing repairs. Related reading: what to expect during an emergency call-out · choosing a trustworthy emergency plumber

Save Water and Money with Smart Plumbing Upgrades Melbourne households use significantly more water than they need to. Ageing fixtures, inefficient hot water systems, and undetected leaks are responsible for a large portion of residential water bills — and many of the fixes are straightforward and cost-effective. Here's what ATC Plumbing recommends for Melbourne homes looking to reduce water consumption. Fix Leaks First A dripping tap wastes up to 20,000 litres of water per year. A leaking toilet can waste double that — often silently, with no visible drip. Before spending money on new fixtures, have a plumber check for leaks throughout the property. A dye test on your toilet cistern takes two minutes and can reveal a leak you'd never know was there. See our guide on how to check for a water leak at home. Upgrade to Water-Efficient Fixtures WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) rated tapware, showerheads, and toilets can reduce water consumption significantly without affecting performance. A 3-star rated showerhead uses around 7 litres per minute compared to 15+ litres for an older unrated unit. ATC Plumbing supplies and installs a full range of WELS-rated fixtures for Melbourne homes. Hot Water System Efficiency Older gas storage hot water systems heat water continuously, losing heat through the tank walls and wasting energy. Upgrading to a continuous flow (instantaneous) gas system or a heat pump system reduces both energy consumption and the amount of water wasted while waiting for hot water to reach the tap. Heat pump hot water systems are also eligible for Victorian government rebates — see our heat pump hot water guide for the full details. Rainwater Tanks Rainwater tanks connected to toilet flushing, laundry, and outdoor irrigation can reduce mains water consumption by 30–40% for a typical Melbourne home. ATC Plumbing designs and installs compliant rainwater systems — from compact slimline tanks for smaller properties to larger systems with pump and filtration for whole-home use. Tank installations must comply with Melbourne Water requirements and include a compliant first-flush diverter. Irrigation Systems A properly designed drip irrigation system delivers water directly to plant root zones, eliminating evaporation and runoff. Paired with a rain sensor and timer, a good irrigation system uses a fraction of the water that hand watering or sprinkler systems consume. ATC Plumbing designs and installs zone-specific irrigation for Melbourne gardens of all sizes. Start With a Plumbing Assessment Not sure where to start? ATC Plumbing can carry out a water efficiency assessment of your property — checking for leaks, assessing fixture ratings, and recommending the upgrades that will give you the best return. Call 1300 282 758 to arrange an assessment across Melbourne's south-east. Related reading: https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/are-rainwater-tanks-making-a-comeback-in-melbourne (rainwater tanks Melbourne), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/save-water-save-money-transform-your-garden-with-a-site-specific-irrigation-system (irrigation systems), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/hidden-water-leaks-5-signs-you-need-leak-detection (signs of hidden water leaks), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/installing-an-electric-heat-pump-hot-water-system-a-smarter-choice-for-your-home-in-victoria-austr (heat pump hot water). See https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/hot-water-systems.

Common Plumbing Questions Answered by ATC Plumbing Melbourne These are the plumbing questions we get asked most often by Melbourne homeowners. If your question isn't here, call us on 1300 282 758 — we're happy to advise before you book. How much does a plumber cost in Melbourne? Most plumbers in Melbourne charge a call-out fee plus an hourly rate, or a fixed price per job. ATC Plumbing provides upfront quotes before starting work — you know the price before we start. As a guide, clearing a blocked drain starts from around $200–$450, hot water system replacement from $1,200, and general repairs from $150. See our full plumbing prices guide for detailed 2026 pricing. Do I need a licensed plumber for all plumbing work? In Victoria, all plumbing work must be performed by or under the direct supervision of a VBA-licensed plumber. This includes seemingly minor jobs like replacing taps, installing toilets, and connecting appliances to water supply. Unlicensed plumbing work is illegal and can void your home insurance. ATC Plumbing holds VBA Licence BPC #50694 — all work is performed by licensed tradespeople. How do I know if I have a water leak? Common signs of a hidden water leak include an unexplained increase in your water bill, damp patches on walls or ceilings, the sound of running water when all taps are off, or your water meter moving when nothing is in use. To check: turn off all water in the house, note the meter reading, wait 30 minutes without using any water, then check the meter again. If it's moved, you likely have a leak. ATC Plumbing uses acoustic and thermal leak detection to pinpoint leaks without unnecessary excavation. How long does a hot water system last? Gas storage hot water systems typically last 8–12 years. Continuous flow systems last 15–20 years. Electric storage systems last 8–12 years. Heat pump systems last 10–15 years. If your system is over 10 years old and starting to fail, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repeated repairs. See our full guide on hot water system lifespan. What causes a blocked drain to keep coming back? If your drain keeps blocking after being cleared, the cause is almost certainly structural — tree root intrusion at a joint, a cracked or collapsed pipe section, or pipe bellying where waste pools and accumulates. High-pressure jetting clears the blockage temporarily, but only a CCTV drain inspection identifies the underlying cause. Pipe relining is often the permanent fix — no excavation, 35-year warranty. Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners? Chemical drain cleaners can clear minor blockages caused by grease or hair, but they won't clear root intrusion or structural blockages — and repeated use can damage older clay and PVC pipes. For persistent or recurring blockages, call a plumber for a proper assessment rather than repeatedly pouring chemicals down the drain. What should I do in a plumbing emergency? First: turn off the water at the meter to stop damage. The meter is usually near your front boundary under a small lid. Then call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 — we answer 24/7 for genuine emergencies and can advise over the phone while we're on the way. Related reading: https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/blocked-drain-melbourne-the-complete-guide-causes-costs-solutions (blocked drain guide), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/no-hot-water-troubleshooting-hot-water-system-issues (hot water troubleshooting), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/plumbing-emergencies-101-5-urgent-issues-and-how-to-respond (emergencies guide). View all service areas at https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/locations.

What Is a Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve? The pressure and temperature relief (PTR) valve — sometimes called a TPR valve — is a critical safety device on every hot water system. It's designed to release pressure or temperature if either exceeds safe operating limits, preventing the tank from failing catastrophically. Every storage hot water system has one, usually on the side of the tank near the top. How Often Should You Test It? The PTR valve on your hot water system should be tested every 6 months. Testing involves manually lifting the lever on the valve briefly — water should flow freely from the discharge pipe and the valve should reseat (stop flowing) cleanly when you release the lever. If the valve drips after releasing, it may need replacing. If no water flows when you test it, the valve may be blocked or seized — it needs immediate attention from a licensed plumber. Why Testing Matters A PTR valve that fails to operate correctly is a serious safety risk. Hot water systems operate under pressure — a tank failure caused by a blocked relief valve can be explosive. In addition, PTR valves that have never been tested can seize over years of non-use, making them unable to operate when needed. Regular testing also confirms the discharge pipe is clear and directing water safely away from the unit. Signs Your PTR Valve Needs Attention Watch for: the valve weeping or dripping continuously (may indicate excessive pressure in the system or a faulty valve seat); water staining on the wall or floor near the discharge outlet; the valve releasing water in large amounts without being manually triggered (indicates the system is over-pressurising); or a valve that's obviously corroded or damaged. Any of these signs require a licensed plumber to assess. ATC Plumbing carries out hot water system inspections and PTR valve replacements across Melbourne's south-east. Call 1300 282 758 for same-day hot water service.

CIPP Pipe Relining — The Technology Changing Australian Plumbing CIPP (cured-in-place pipe) relining has been used in Australia for over two decades, but recent improvements in resin technology, liner materials, and robotics have made it faster, more reliable, and accessible for residential properties of all sizes. Here's why CIPP is becoming the default choice for pipe repair in Australia. What's Changed in the Technology Early CIPP systems were primarily steam-cured — slow, temperature-sensitive, and requiring specialised equipment. Modern UV-cured systems cure in a fraction of the time, produce more consistent results, and are less sensitive to ambient temperature variations. Robotic reinstatement cutters have become smaller and more precise, making side junction reinstatement cleaner and more reliable. Resin formulations have improved to provide higher structural strength and better chemical resistance. Why It's Better Than Excavation for Most Jobs For the majority of pipe repair jobs in established residential and commercial properties, CIPP relining outperforms excavation on almost every measure. No surface damage to driveways, gardens, or paving. No days of disruption. No need to reinstate expensive surfaces after the repair. A 35-year manufacturer warranty on the liner. And in many cases, a structurally stronger result than the original pipe — epoxy-lined pipe has no joints and is highly resistant to chemical attack. When Excavation Is Still the Right Choice CIPP relining isn't appropriate for every situation. Total pipe collapse requires excavation and replacement — there's nothing left to reline around. Very small diameter pipes may not accommodate the minimum liner thickness required for structural integrity. And where a single, accessible failure point is the problem, a targeted excavation and repair may be simpler and cheaper than a full reline. A reputable plumber will tell you honestly which approach is right for your situation. ATC Plumbing carries out CIPP pipe relining for residential and commercial properties across Melbourne's south-east. We CCTV inspect before recommending any relining work. Call 1300 282 758 for an assessment.

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems — Why They Make Sense in Victoria Heat pump hot water systems are the fastest growing hot water technology in Australia — and for good reason. They use the same refrigeration cycle as your reverse-cycle air conditioner, extracting heat energy from the air to heat water rather than generating heat directly. This makes them significantly more energy efficient than gas storage or standard electric storage systems. How Efficient Are They? A heat pump hot water system typically delivers 3–4 units of heat energy for every 1 unit of electrical energy it consumes — this is expressed as a COP (coefficient of performance) of 3–4. By comparison, a conventional electric element delivers exactly 1 unit of heat per unit of electricity. In practical terms, switching from a standard electric storage system to a heat pump typically reduces hot water energy costs by 60–75%. The Victorian Government Rebate Victoria's heat pump hot water rebate program provides a significant upfront subsidy for eligible households switching from gas or electric storage to a heat pump system. The rebate varies depending on your current system type and household circumstances, but can be $1,000 or more. ATC Plumbing can advise on current rebate eligibility and assist with the application process. Rebates are subject to change — call 1300 282 758 to check the current available amount. Things to Consider Heat pump systems work by moving heat from the surrounding air — they're less efficient in very cold conditions. In Melbourne's mild climate, this is rarely an issue, but sizing the tank appropriately (270–315 litres for a family of 4) ensures adequate recovery even on the coldest nights. Heat pump units require adequate outdoor space for air circulation and produce a low-level noise (similar to a reverse-cycle outdoor unit) — consider placement carefully if you have close neighbours. ATC Plumbing installs heat pump hot water systems across Melbourne's south-east and can advise on current Victorian rebate eligibility. Call 1300 282 758 to discuss your options.

The Honest Answer: It Depends on the Situation Pipe relining is genuinely worth it in many situations — but not all. Here's how to think about it honestly, without the sales pitch. When Relining Is Clearly the Right Choice Relining makes the most sense when the pipe runs under something expensive or difficult to dig up — a sealed driveway, a tiled bathroom floor, a carpark, established landscaping, or under a building slab. In these cases, excavation and reinstatement costs alone often exceed the cost of relining. Relining gets the job done without disturbing the surface at all. It's also the right choice when the damage is widespread — multiple joint separations, root intrusion at several points, or general deterioration across a long run. Digging up and replacing 20–40 metres of pipe is expensive and disruptive. Relining that same run in a single operation is almost always significantly cheaper and takes a day or two rather than a week. When Excavation Is Probably Better If the damage is a single point failure in an easy-to-access location — a cracked joint 600mm under a garden bed, for example — targeted excavation, replacement, and reinstatement is often simpler and cheaper. Relining is not always the right answer, and a reputable plumber will tell you honestly when it isn't. What Does Pipe Relining Cost in Melbourne? Every job is different, but as a general guide: residential CIPP relining typically starts from around $500–800 per metre for standard drain sizes, with a minimum job cost that reflects the equipment and labour involved. Always get a CCTV inspection before accepting a relining quote — it's the only way to accurately assess what's needed. Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 for an assessment and honest recommendation.