5 Common Reasons Why It Pays to Have a Professional Plumber Install Your Appliances

There are many reasons why it’s a good idea to upgrade your kitchen appliances. Lower utility bills and convenience are two of the top reasons why many homeowners are opting to upgrade and replace older appliances.

Whether you’re investing in an ice-dispensing smart fridge or a high-performance gas cooktop, experts recommend that the new unit be installed by the plumber Sydney locals trust. This post shares the most significant reasons for this.

Professional Installation is Key to Safety and Longevity

When it comes to installing new appliances, many homeowners opt to do it themselves because it’s believed to be an efficient way to save a few dollars. Besides, how hard can it be? The reality is that a simple mistake in the installation process can trigger a series of structural, financial, and legal nightmares. Here are the top reasons why you should include your plumber in all your new, or even relocated, appliance installations.

1. Australian Standards Regulate Many Installations

If you’re buying appliances for the first time, or you’ve just recently moved into your own home, you may not be aware that some aspects of plumbing work are strictly governed under national and state laws, as seen in the Plumbing Code of Australia and the Plumbing and Drainage Standard (AS/NZS 3500).

These guidelines exist to protect public health, the safety of occupants in the home, and also safeguard the structural integrity of your property. This means that a licensed plumber must install appliances that involve gas and water. Since these experts are well versed in the current laws and compliance regulations, they will be able to install new and relocated appliances correctly and safely.

2. Safeguards the Manufacturer’s Warranty

A sensible purchase usually includes a manufacturer’s warranty. In this regard, it’s essential to read the fine print, as this usually states that product warranties are only valid if the unit has been professionally installed by a licensed tradesman.

This means that if you or an unlicensed handyman install the unit incorrectly, the manufacturer has every right to reject potential repair or replacement claims. Hiring a licensed plumber acts as an insurance policy for your new investment, keeping your warranty completely intact, which can go a long way toward saving money in the long run.

3. Necessary for All Gas Installations

Many modern Australian kitchen upgrades involve switching to gas appliances, as these are generally more cost-effective. In these instances, a licensed plumber’s expertise is invaluable. In Australia, most licensed plumbers undergo extensive additional training to hold a separate gas fitting license. This means a single trade professional can seamlessly manage both your water connections and your gas lines.

Here, homeowners should remember that gas installations operate under AS/NZS 5601 and carry severe safety risks if mishandled. This includes carbon monoxide poisoning or catastrophic gas leaks. A licensed plumber or gasfitter will do the following in connection with your gas appliance:

• Install your appliance safely
• Test for line tightness
• Issue a formal Certificate of Compliance (a legal requirement for gas work in almost all Australian states)

4. Prevents Slow Water Damage Disasters

Just about every homeowner will agree that water damage in any form is not only messy but also costly to repair. With this in mind, our experts want to highlight that water damage rarely happens all at once. It usually happens as a slow drip that grows into something damaging over time.

A small drip from an improperly sealed washing machine connection or a poorly fitted fridge water line can go unnoticed behind cabinetry for months. By the time you notice the musty smell or the slight warping of your kitchen floorboards, the damage is done.

These types of leaks can cause widespread black mould, ruined custom cabinetry, and structural floor repairs costing thousands of dollars to repair or replace. Licensed plumbers possess the exact specialised tools, high-quality fittings, and pressure-testing equipment required to ensure every connection is watertight. They don’t just hook up the hose but also test the structural integrity of the line under real-world pressure.

5. Keeps Your Home Insurance Valid

In addition to safeguarding your space against water damage, you’ll also want to keep your home insurance current. Doing this involves using a professional plumber to install any appliances using water and gas. This is because insurance claims for water damage can be rejected if the cause can be traced back to an improper installation.

Many homeowners only discover this clause in their policies after the damage has already occurred and the claim is rejected. Paying a professional plumber upfront ensures that if the unexpected ever happens, your insurance cover remains bulletproof.

Final Thoughts

Installing a new or relocated appliance may look like nothing more than connecting a few pipes, hoses, and plugs. However, homeowners should be aware that legal compliances dictate that water and gas appliances should be installed by a professional.

Hiring a licensed Australian plumber or gas fitter ensures that the necessary appliance is installed safely and in accordance with local regulations. Once you see how effectively your appliances are working, you’ll be glad you invested!