Monthly Archives: February 2023

Do Hot and Cold Pipes get Water Hammer?

Water hammer can occur in both hot and cold water pipes. It’s caused by a sudden change in the velocity of water flow, like when a valve or faucet is quickly closed. This sudden change in velocity can cause a pressure wave to travel through the pipe, creating the banging or knocking sound that is characteristic of water hammer.

The main cause of water hammer is water pressure that is too high, which causes the water to move too quickly through the pipes. This can happen in both hot and cold water pipes, and can be caused by a variety of factors such as worn out valves, loose pipe connections, or improper pipe installation.

In some cases, the problem is more likely to occur in hot water pipes because hot water is less dense than cold water, and therefore is more susceptible to changes in velocity. However, it is possible for water hammer to occur in both hot and cold water pipes, so it’s important to address the issue as soon as it is detected.

Read our earlier post What is Water Hammer and How to Stop It here

Super Bowl 2023 Flush with Excitement.

The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 38-35 in Super Bowl 57 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale Arizona on Monday morning Sydney time. It was the team’s second title in four seasons. Now Aussies Jordan Mailata an AFL player and punter Arryn Siposs a Rugy league man, made Australian sporting history when they played for Philadelphia. 🙁

Personally, apart from my son going to a game at the stadium when he was studying at NAU Northern Arizona University in 2019, I know little about the contest other than to say the Chiefs star Quarterback Patrick Mahomes apparently won the game after his team was behind 24-14 at half time.

Super

And its the half time break that gets my interest! Specifically, toilet flushing at half time.

In a post from Super Bowl 2016, I wrote that the amount of water used in toilet flushing during the Super Bowl half time break is the same volume that would flow over Niagara Falls in seven minutes.

In doing some research on the topic, anecdotally, it is often joked that there is a Super Bowl flush that occurs during the halftime break, as many viewers may use the bathroom at the same time. However, there is no reliable data to support the claim.

In fact, some experts have suggested that the idea of a simultaneous flush causing water system issues is a myth, as modern water systems are designed to handle large surges in demand. While it is possible that water demand may increase during the halftime break or the Super Bowl flush, the impact on water infrastructure is likely to be minimal.

Our local Sydney news reporting on the Super Bowl reckon there are now more Australians watching that game than the Melbourne Cup.

Given Super Bowl lasts three and a half hours and, The Melbourne Cup lasts three and a half minutes, the halftime Super Bowl flush might be a thing.

What do you reckon?

Five ways street trees affect your home!

If you’re considering buying a home in a tree lined street like this, you need to know how trees can affect houses on the street. Here’s just a few,

  1. Property value: Street trees can have a positive impact on property values. Studies have shown that houses with street trees have a higher market value than houses without street trees.

  2. Energy efficiency: Street trees can help to reduce energy costs by providing shade and reducing the amount of heat absorbed by houses. This can help to keep houses cooler in the summer and reduce the need for air conditioning.

  3. Aesthetics: Street trees can enhance the appearance of a street and contribute to a more pleasant and inviting neighborhood.

  4. Environmental benefits: Street trees can help to improve air and water quality, reduce storm water runoff, and provide habitat for wildlife.

  5. Some species can grow too large and cause damage to the roads, footpaths and sewers and storm water drains of houses or businesses on the street.

It’s important to note that while street trees have many benefits, they also require maintenance and care to ensure they are healthy and safe.

In Sydney Australia, local Councils as the owners, are responsible for maintaining the street trees on their property, including pruning, watering and removing dead branches or fallen leaves, and the maintenance of the blocked drains they cause.

It’s important they select the right species of tree for the location and space available, as some species can grow too large and cause damage to the roads, footpaths and sewers and storm water drains of houses or businesses on the street.

Read our previous posts about street trees and how blocked drains are managed by Randwick Council, Waverley Council and Woollahra Council here.

Street trees
Street trees bring summer shade, bird life and root damage to drains