Keep your water flowing
Water pumps rank alongside electricity and heating for their importance in homes; it’s just that for most people the infrastructure is out of sight and dealt with by councils.
Not so in rural areas, where people on farms and lifestyle blocks need to ensure pumps, filters and connections are regularly maintained or risk losing their water supply or, worse yet, receive water that has been contaminated.
Clyne & Bennie managing director Martin de Gouw says the need to chlorinate water in Christchurch has brought home the importance for vigilance in rural areas, too.
For decades, the company has been installing, servicing and repairing pump systems across Canterbury. Recently, it has also been helping a growing number of people with water tests.
‘‘Water testing should be done every two to three years or if household illness is suspected to be caused by the water quality, but people do need to maintain their systems,’’ he says. ‘‘If they’ve got a UV lamp, that should be checked annually and for filters its 6-12 months.’’
Frost protection for water pumps is also important to prevent damage caused by water expanding as it freezes and the blockage of pipes by ice. ‘‘It’s never good when you want a hot shower and can’t get water out,’’ Martin says.
Heat lamps on a thermostat can be installed in pumping sheds to deal with this, and Clyne & Bennie can advise on other plumbing while on site.
Martin notes that while summer might feel a long way off, now is the best time to look at how gardens will be irrigated when rains taper off. Water storage tanks and piping can be set up by Clyne & Bennie so properties will be well-equipped to handle dry spells.
The company also provides gas-fitting services for hot water and heating, drainage work for blockages and CCTV inspections, routine maintenance for onsite waste water treatment systems, and electrical work such the installation of lighting for security and floodlit backyards.
‘‘The range of services we offer makes it very easy for people who aren’t sure what trade to call because they only have to deal with the one outfit,’’ Martin says.
‘‘It’s not a cliche to say we’re that one-stop shop you’re always hearing about.’’
For a free quote on plumbing, gas-fitting, drainage or electrical work, contact Clyne & Bennie on 0800 37 47 37 or visit clyne-bennie.co.nz.