<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"  xmlns:isc="http://dtd.interspire.com/rss/isc-1.0.dtd">
	<channel>
		<title><![CDATA[4 Pumps: Latest News]]></title>
		<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The latest news from 4 Pumps.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:15:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<isc:store_title><![CDATA[4 Pumps]]></isc:store_title>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Bathroom Renovations: The (Number 1) Ultimate Guide]]></title>
			<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/bathroom-renovations/</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2016 14:36:58 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/bathroom-renovations/</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>
It's been said more than once that the heart of a modern house renovation is the bathroom. Just about everyone loves a long, hot winter bath; a bathroom remodelling is one of the easiest ways to add value to your home; and it's the perfect opportunity to make that space burst with your style, add the features you've only dreamed of, and make your house more functional, modern, energy efficient and beautiful than ever before.</p><p>
	<br>
But as those who have done a complete bathroom renovation know all too well, it's not the work of a moment. And it not only takes time, it costs a significant and good amount of money and there are so many hidden avenues and dark allies that you are sure to find at just the wrong moment throughout the planning and execution stages.
	<br>
	<br>
In fact, when people start to think about their bathroom renovations ideas today, the thing they often focus on is how it will look in the end. But that long, winter bath in a modern, beautiful bathroom that just bursts with your personal style is actually just the prize at the end of a long process.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Before you get there, you need to think about:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>The time and labour that will be spent</li>	<br>
	<li>The budget</li>	<br>
	<li>Careful planning for contingencies - because not everything always goes smoothly!</li>	<br>
	<li>The execution</li></ul><p>
	<br>
So to help you along that long and winding road to the perfect bathroom, we are proud to present you with this absolutely comprehensive guide to bathroom remodelling - with plenty of insights, ideas, tips and tricks along the way.</p><p>
	Bathroom Overhaul: What To Expect</p><p>
	<br>
First, it's important to acknowledge that 'renovation' really is a catch-all phrase that isn't overly helpful when it comes to planning your new bathroom. In fact, there are several separate stages to consider as entities of their own.</p><p>
	Your Old Bathroom</p><p>
	<br>
The first hurdle is putting your old bathroom into the annals of history - finally! Walls may need to be torn down, pipes may need to be removed and replaced, and tradesman may be required for the ripping off of tired old tiles and the installation of fresh, new ones.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	When you're seeking your bathroom remodelling contractors or bathroom renovation company, focus on experience, qualifications and recommendations rather than price alone.</p><p>
	<br>
Tiles
	<br>
	<br>
But even before we start ripping at those tired old walls, a meticulous plan is necessary for your property. That's because even a 20-year-old bathroom could have even the most experienced and skilful tradesman struggling with those old tiles. The simple task of 'Removing those tiles' could hit a screeching halt in the form of glue that just won't come unstuck.
	<br>
	<br>
And that's not all you need to know about tiles. For example, while you may be an expert at putting tiles down on your terrace, the tiling in your bathroom is done vastly differently - and the tiles themselves are bathroom-specific. So don't get caught out after you've been through the checkout!
	<br>
	<br>
As for laying those tiles down, you'll need a clean and dry surface, but you'll also need to know the difference between floor and wall tiles. They key, of course, is homework and research.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Plumbing
	<br>
	<br>
When it comes to that all-important plumbing, it really is crucial that it is done expertly well by a quality team.
	<br>
	<br>
It goes without saying that, without the right skills - normally guaranteed by years of experience in bathroom renovations Brisbane clients and beyond really love - your bathroom could come almost literally apart at the seams due to poor plumbing as with in the kitchen. Things you might easily forget about, like checking for leaks and correct&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/pressure-pumps/">water pressure</a>, can become an awfully big problem once the rest of the renovation is done on top.</p><p>
	Plan For Mistakes</p><p>
	<br>
Because small bathroom renovations Perth clients sink their teeth into every day hide a world of complexity, you need to be ready for something to go wrong. Like an Ironman Triathlon, it's impossible to get from the starter's gun to the finish line with everything running like clockwork. So if it's possible for you to remain in your home throughout the remodelling process, so you can always keep an eye on what's going on and leap on those little glitches as they arise, you'll stay in control, prevent issues from spiralling out of control, and keep a lid on the complete bathroom renovations cost.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	When you're doing some initial research and ringing around, ask if contractors will give you a free bathroom renovation quote. Including using an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pits-tanks/undersink-wastewater-lifting-stations/" target="_blank">under sink wastewater lifting station</a> if there isn't enough fall in the pipes. If you're surfing the web, are there websites services or another service that offers a bathroom renovation cost estimator?</p><p>
	<br>
But that doesn't mean you should interfere. Take the philosophy that if you pick them well, tradies or a &nbsp;building professional business are great at what they do. And a great place to turn to for bathroom design advice.<br>
	<br>
	<br>
How to make a bathroom renovation plan ... that works!
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
When you sit down to draw up that bathroom remodelling or renovating plan, two main headings will be helpful:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Space, and</li>	<br>
	<li>Completing your bathroom renovation on a budget!</li></ul><p>
	<br>
You may be tempted to add a third heading - time - but it's actually better to plan for the renovation to take as long as it takes in order to meet all of your objectives whilst staying on budget. Long renovations may be inconvenient and frustrating, but a finished product you are proud of, that really works, and that ticks every box you set out to tick is worth waiting for.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Space
	<br>
	<br>
It sounds simple, but you need to clearly define the space you have available to work within. On the outside borders are your doors and windows, so you need to think about how they function, open and close, as this could significantly impact how the rest of the space is used for your design.
	<br>
	<br>
Your bathroom's plans for plumbing and electrics will also have an impact on how the space is used, as all of those bathtabs, cabinets and other fittings will work around them and need to use the space comfortably and functionally.
	<br>
	<br>
And there's another reason why 'space' is the first heading on your plan: because it helps you to be realistic about those choice of fittings. What you choose needs to work within the space, because trying to adapt a space for your dream (but much too enormous bathtub, for example) is a very bad idea!
	<br>
	<br>
Of course, there's nothing stopping you moving those fixtures around your bathroom - you might want the shower on the other side or the bathroom oriented differently, for example. But also bear in mind that doing so will almost certainly mean significant plumbing changes as well, so factor in the time, cost and labour of doing so. If this is what you want to do, however, it's the initial stage of planning in which you'll want to make these kinds of major decisions.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Budget
	<br>
	<br>
How long is a piece of string? A similar question is 'How much does a bathroom renovation cost?'
	<br>
	<br>
The sky is always a lovely limit, but in the real world, you will be looking at about $13,000 to about double that amount for your bathroom renovation.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
On the upper end of that scale, you'll be looking at roughly:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>$3300 for bathtub</li>	<br>
	<li>$8000 for cabinets</li>	<br>
	<li>$4000 for flooring</li>	<br>
	<li>$2000 for lighting</li>	<br>
	<li>$5400 for shower</li>	<br>
	<li>$2700 for sink</li>	<br>
	<li>$540 for toilet</li></ul><p>
	<br>
But this is just a rough guide: the depth of your pockets and the scale of your renovation will be the actual determining factors. Bathroom renovations Melbourne householders take on could be done on the cheap, but if you're starting from scratch, bear in mind that all of the above bullet-points will need to be addressed.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
However, as the annoying ads always say: 'Wait, there's more!'
	<br>
	<br>
The word bathroom itself is simple, but a top-to-bottom bathroom remodelling is anything but. It's not just the tiles and pluming you need to think about, but:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Bath and shower: When it comes to the fittings, this is where you need to start. That's because it's the centrepiece of the bathroom that will catch the most attention and use up the most space. After working out the required space and the kind of fixture, the rest of the bathroom is designed around it.</li>	<br>
	<li>Toilet: In a close second place for the most important fixture is the toilet. Again, it uses a considerable amount of space and the plumbing needs to be in the right place.</li>	<br>
	<li>Sink: Another important piece of the bathroom jigsaw puzzle, the sink is often downplayed as being purely functional, but most eyes are drawn almost immediately to the style of the sink. Bathroom renovations Gold Coast householders do typically prioritise the look and the function of the all-important basin.</li>	<br>
	<li>Cupboard: Storage is an overlooked but incredibly important component to any bathroom, and getting it right can really liven up your remodelling project. How central it is to your dream bathroom, however, is up to you, as they come in all shapes, sizes and styles, so they can be a centrepiece or something more seamless.</li>	<br>
	<li>Other storage: You don't want to pack everything away - because some people like the look and convenience of neatly stacked fresh towels, or bathroom items and even decorations presented on a shelf.</li>	<br>
	<li>Mirror: A great bathroom is not great without a great mirror, so look beyond mere function and pick something that complements the beauty of the overall design.</li>	<br>
	<li>Lighting: It's not just the size, shape and appearance of the fittings that need to be taken into consideration - we're also talking about the optimum lighting intensity for your particular bathroom. A small tweak in bulb luminosity, colour and temperature, and how it all interacts with your colour scheme and tiles, can have a big impact on the 'feel' of your bathroom.</li>	<br>
	<li>Mats: No, it's not just an afterthought - bathroom mats are an important safety addition to your bathroom, but getting the choice dead wrong can spoil what is otherwise a perfectly devised space and design.</li>	<br>
	<li>Curtain: It may seem unimportant, but stopping water splashing onto the floor creating a hazard - and those embarrassing moments if someone else walks into the bathroom while you're in the shower or tub - is simple with a curtain.</li>	<br>
	<li>Rubbish bin: It's the finishing touches that often set a great renovation alight, so little details like a bin can make all the difference. And they're convenient, too!</li>	<br>
	<li>Towels: Towels and towel rods and racks, however, really are important - because they're an absolute practical necessity, and they need to be accessible and prominent.</li>	<br>
	<li>Toothbrush holder: While a bathroom renovation can be hard work and stressful, the little details are so much fun to shop for - but they can also make or break the overall look of the finished product. For the toothbrush holder, it should complement the nearby and associated sink and mirror.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
But for everything on that bathroom renovation checklist and more, make sure your overall bathroom renovation 'big picture' is always at the front of your mind. Because 'beautiful' isn't something you buy off the shelf: it's the product of many parts that are meticulously and lovingly planned and put together, culminating in bathroom renovations Sunshine Coast dwellers will enjoy for years.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Bathroom Renovation Design Ideas
	<br>
	<br>
Until now, this Big Guide to bathroom remodelling has been mainly the nitty-gritty of getting those fundamentals right. But a renovation is something you can really sink your teeth into in terms of letting your creative juices flow.
	<br>
	<br>
As we teased earlier: imagine what you could achieve if the sky was the limit when it came to your bathroom renovation DIY budget. But there are two things that are not limited by the depth of your pockets:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Space, and</li>	<br>
	<li>Natural light.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
	<br>
Space
	<br>
	<br>
If your space is limited, that will have a big impact on your design - but it doesn't have to fetter your imagination. It may simply be necessary to proportionally scale down the fixtures and features you are dreaming of - because there's no point having all of those fixtures meeting your wildest dreams if you can barely turn around in your new bathroom.
	<br>
	<br>
So if you have limited space, let's take a moment to explore some of the best ways to achieve your bathroom renovation dreams anyway. Because people who remodel small bathroom spaces don't really need to skimp in any area:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Have a centrepiece: If nothing in particular stands out, the thing that stands out could be the obvious fact that 'This bathroom is small!' But if you have a standout centrepiece, like a tub or a basin or a feature storage item, that is where the eye will be drawn</li>	<br>
	<li>Smarter bathrooms placement: Secondly, clever use of limited spaces can have the overall effect of a larger space. For instance, the maximised usage of the corners of the room, or the use of extra shelving that appears chic but is actually very handy for storage. Bathroom renovations Sydney DIY'ers tackle don't have to go without just because there is limited space.</li>	<br>
	<li>Colour: Making the room brighter, and using lighter colours for the paint and tiles, can create the impression of extra space. The kind of colour options selected for bathroom renovations Adelaide locals love will commonly make the most of the light and the bright.</li>	<br>
	<li>No clutter: In a small bathroom remodel, it makes little sense to prominently store lots of extra towels, or have big medicine cabinets. Is it possible to keep those things elsewhere?</li></ul><p>
	Natural Light</p><p>
	<br>
If you are lucky enough to have a bathroom with lots of natural light, for example thanks to a big window opening, then there are lots of things you can do to make the most of it. Similarly, while you're in the design phase of your bathroom makeovers, is it possible to think about adding a skylight? It will not only brighten and broaden that space, it makes use of that free and sustainable source of power - the sun.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
If Your Bathroom Space Has Lots Of Natural Light:</p><ul>
	<li>Make the most of nature: If your big window opening looks out onto lots of greenery, incorporate that natural theme into your bathroom - bring the outside world into your stunning new bathroom. We're talking things like nature and floral designs and bright, natural colours.&nbsp;</li>	<li>Make the most of the city: On the other hand, if your window looks out into the suburbs or the city, match that theme as well with simplistic, minimalist and ultra-modern interior designs. Again, maximise that natural light with matching light colours.
&nbsp;
	</li></ul><p>
If Your Bathroom Space Is Natural Light-Limited:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Add elegance: If natural light is lacking in your space, don't despair - you can compensate with elegant designs and details, and luxurious colour. For instance, embrace the lack of natural light and opt for black or dark blues.</li>	<br>
	<li>Hot tip!: If you're not sure how a dark colour scheme will work, ask yourself 'Are there any budget bathroom renovations near me I can check out?' Have friends or family recently done a reno that you can assess and learn from?</li>	<br>
	<li>Put your focus elsewhere: While natural light can be great, a lack of it can also be taken as an opportunity. Consider the space as a closed environment instead, and focus on making the design work as an enclosed entity.</li>	<br>
</ul><p>
	<br>
Whether you have a lot of natural light to play with or you're forced to focus more within a closed environment, the most important thing is that all the elements of your brilliant new bathroom all work together as a unit.</p><p>
	How To Create The Perfect Bathroom Layout</p><p>
	<br>
Of course, the ultimate aim of your bathroom renovation is a perfect, beautiful and colour-bursting finished product. But don't lose sight on what the bathroom actually exists for - its function. As we said earlier, there's actually no point having all your dream fittings and accessories in place if you can't even stretch out your arms to comfortably wrap a towel around yourself.
	<br>
	<br>
The great thing about a bathroom renovation from scratch, however, is that you have the opportunity to tailor your space. For instance, if you're going to tear out every last tile and every last fitting, you might as well tear down a wall as well!
	<br>
	<br>
So if you are prepared and are able to tear out every last tile and even a wall, the various components of your dream bathroom can be tweaked and tailored so that your layout achieves even the goals you never thought were imaginable.</p><p>
	Here's How:</p><p>
	<br>
1. Shower
	<br>
	<br>
As we said earlier, the bathtub and/or the shower are undoubtedly the biggest elements of your bathroom. So the placement and orientation of these components can really make a big difference, setting a nice bathroom apart from those award winning bathrooms! If you are short of height for the waste water, you can put in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">sewer pump</a> and pit.<br>
	<br>
Placing your tub at the very end of the room, particularly if your bathroom shape is elongated, will have the effect of merely changing the shape of the space. For more square-shaped spaces, placement along the left or right wall is the wisest choice.
	<br>
	<br>
2. Bath
	<br>
	<br>
Another thing to consider is forgoing the bath altogether - particularly if you have limited space. You must, of course, have a shower, but even this shouldn't take up more than a third of the overall floor space of your bathroom.
	<br>
	<br>
3. Toilet
	<br>
	<br>
For a limited space, the toilet is a great opportunity to do a bit of a hiding trick. Unlike a majestic bathtub or a super-modern basin, a toilet is of course functional but it's rarely a bathroom centrepiece. So this could be an opportunity to tuck the toilet behind a door, where it's barely noticed. Or squeezing that toilet between the vanity and the bathtub is another option, although it's important not to create a cluttered look. You can also use a water tank and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/town-tank-pumps/" target="_blank">pump with a water switch</a> to use rainwater to flush the toilets to save water.<br>
	<br>
4. Vanity
	<br>
	<br>
By vanity, we're talking about the sink, cupboard and mirror. Often, it's one of the very first things you spot when you walk into an unfamiliar bathroom, so a central and symmetrical location is ideal. Because it is so conspicuously, it's also worth prioritising the vanity in your budget: because if you cut a cash corner with a centrepiece, you can cheapen the entire look of your dream bathroom.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	Match the size of your vanity to your bathroom mirror. You can email or phone a designer that has lots of online testimonials for the latest lifestyle ideas.</p><p>
	<br>
On the other hand, if you are lucky enough to have a big bathroom space to play with, you can consider two separate sinks. It can add luxury but also greatly increased functionality to a household - particularly a growing one!</p><p>
	5. Towel Hangers</p><p>
	<br>
Sometimes, it's the minor details that make a major difference - and not just for purely aesthetic reasons. A bathroom renovation is the perfect chance to rid yourself of all the frustrations of your old layout - like having to walk 5 steps across the room from the shower or the bath to grab a towel from the rack. When it comes to that bathroom renovation before and after, you really want to ensure the 'after' is much more convenient than the 'before'!
	<br>
	<br>
In all of these ways, it is easy to see how important a thoughtful and well devised layout is to the overall functionality and look of your renovated bathroom project.</p><p>
	How To Choose The Perfect Bathroom Tiles</p><p>
	<br>
Although the bathtub or shower remodel are arguably the centrepiece of any bathroom renovation, it's impossible to overstate the importance of the tiles. Like the solid foundation of a building, the tiles are the very basis of the entire overall concept of your dream bathroom, so taking the time to get it right is much more than time worth spent.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
First, you'll need to consider the different types of tiles:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Ceramic: When most people think 'bathroom tiles', they're usually referring to ceramic tiles. Mainly the most popular due to their price, ceramic tiles are also easy to clean and maintain.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
But there are more luxurious options on the market.</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Stone: Stone tiles are a great option for a natural but also super-modern look, but beware: they are much harder than ceramic tiles to maintain.</li></ul><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Glass: Easier to maintain than stone, the downside to glass tiles is the higher price tag. But if your budget allows it, glass tiles are a great way to get that clean, spick and shiny look, but they're also slippery so think twice about using them on the floor.</li>	<br>
	<li>Porcelain: If your pockets are even deeper, take a second look at the high-end, luxurious porcelain tile option.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
Once you've made your selection when it comes to the type, you're ready to start thinking about the colours of your tiles and how exactly to use them for your bathroom renovation.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Here Are The Things To Consider - And Some Key Tips:
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
1. Colour
	<br>
	<br>
As discussed earlier in this guide, the emphasis you place on the lightness or darkness of your tiles for your bathroom renovations Canberra DIY'ers revel in can depend not only on personal preference, but also the availability of space and natural light.</p><p>
HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	For those bathroom remodel ideas, consider spending a weekend afternoon attending some open inspections or display homes. Or check online for a bathroom remodel photo gallery or two, because one or two bathroom remodel pictures are worth a thousand words!</p><p>
	2. Tiles ... Everywhere!</p><p>
	<br>
Some people are tempted to use the same tiles for both the floor and the walls, but we'd strongly advise against it. Break up your interior design with clever and subtle tile differences. In fact, we'd even recommend you not tiling the entire bathroom - consider simply leaving those walls 'naked'.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	If you do want to use the same tiles for the floor and the walls, consider incorporating your floor tile pick into a single, central strip on the wall.</p><p>
	3. Be Creative</p><p>
	<br>
Tiling the whole bathroom from top to toe is amazingly common, but remarkably uncreative. So instead of tiling the walls completely, just tile up to a certain height and simply paint the rest. You can also use different designs for the floor, wall and shower stall.</p><p>
	4. Be Prepared</p><p>
	<br>
At all costs, avoid heading to the tiling shop without having a clear idea of what you are trying to achieve, and how you plan to go about it. You don't have to have a tiling plan that is 100% clear, but staring at hundreds of different options without having even decided which parts of the bathroom will be tiled just leaves you susceptible to becoming overwhelmed and making a fundamental mistake.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	Remember, those tiles will be the basis of the rest of the bathroom, but don't get caught out with the perfect tile selections only to realise later that they badly clash with your all-important fixtures and accessories.</p><p>
	<br>
The Big Guide: Congrats, you've reached the end!
	<br>
	<br>
We hope we've managed to convince you just how important bathroom remodelling really is. It's a hub of the house, a luxurious haven, an all-important functional room and also a long-term financial investment, so grasping it with both hands and getting that overhaul right from the outset is something bathroom renovators can't afford to fudge.
	<br>
	<br>
So steel yourself for the process, dot those i's, cross those t's and get those creative juices flowing, because you're now ready to tackle that bathroom renovation with pride, style and vigour! And when you're done, pour yourself a glass of champagne for that maiden hot bath, knowing your dream bathroom was really worth the effort.</p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
It's been said more than once that the heart of a modern house renovation is the bathroom. Just about everyone loves a long, hot winter bath; a bathroom remodelling is one of the easiest ways to add value to your home; and it's the perfect opportunity to make that space burst with your style, add the features you've only dreamed of, and make your house more functional, modern, energy efficient and beautiful than ever before.</p><p>
	<br>
But as those who have done a complete bathroom renovation know all too well, it's not the work of a moment. And it not only takes time, it costs a significant and good amount of money and there are so many hidden avenues and dark allies that you are sure to find at just the wrong moment throughout the planning and execution stages.
	<br>
	<br>
In fact, when people start to think about their bathroom renovations ideas today, the thing they often focus on is how it will look in the end. But that long, winter bath in a modern, beautiful bathroom that just bursts with your personal style is actually just the prize at the end of a long process.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Before you get there, you need to think about:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>The time and labour that will be spent</li>	<br>
	<li>The budget</li>	<br>
	<li>Careful planning for contingencies - because not everything always goes smoothly!</li>	<br>
	<li>The execution</li></ul><p>
	<br>
So to help you along that long and winding road to the perfect bathroom, we are proud to present you with this absolutely comprehensive guide to bathroom remodelling - with plenty of insights, ideas, tips and tricks along the way.</p><p>
	Bathroom Overhaul: What To Expect</p><p>
	<br>
First, it's important to acknowledge that 'renovation' really is a catch-all phrase that isn't overly helpful when it comes to planning your new bathroom. In fact, there are several separate stages to consider as entities of their own.</p><p>
	Your Old Bathroom</p><p>
	<br>
The first hurdle is putting your old bathroom into the annals of history - finally! Walls may need to be torn down, pipes may need to be removed and replaced, and tradesman may be required for the ripping off of tired old tiles and the installation of fresh, new ones.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	When you're seeking your bathroom remodelling contractors or bathroom renovation company, focus on experience, qualifications and recommendations rather than price alone.</p><p>
	<br>
Tiles
	<br>
	<br>
But even before we start ripping at those tired old walls, a meticulous plan is necessary for your property. That's because even a 20-year-old bathroom could have even the most experienced and skilful tradesman struggling with those old tiles. The simple task of 'Removing those tiles' could hit a screeching halt in the form of glue that just won't come unstuck.
	<br>
	<br>
And that's not all you need to know about tiles. For example, while you may be an expert at putting tiles down on your terrace, the tiling in your bathroom is done vastly differently - and the tiles themselves are bathroom-specific. So don't get caught out after you've been through the checkout!
	<br>
	<br>
As for laying those tiles down, you'll need a clean and dry surface, but you'll also need to know the difference between floor and wall tiles. They key, of course, is homework and research.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Plumbing
	<br>
	<br>
When it comes to that all-important plumbing, it really is crucial that it is done expertly well by a quality team.
	<br>
	<br>
It goes without saying that, without the right skills - normally guaranteed by years of experience in bathroom renovations Brisbane clients and beyond really love - your bathroom could come almost literally apart at the seams due to poor plumbing as with in the kitchen. Things you might easily forget about, like checking for leaks and correct&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/pressure-pumps/">water pressure</a>, can become an awfully big problem once the rest of the renovation is done on top.</p><p>
	Plan For Mistakes</p><p>
	<br>
Because small bathroom renovations Perth clients sink their teeth into every day hide a world of complexity, you need to be ready for something to go wrong. Like an Ironman Triathlon, it's impossible to get from the starter's gun to the finish line with everything running like clockwork. So if it's possible for you to remain in your home throughout the remodelling process, so you can always keep an eye on what's going on and leap on those little glitches as they arise, you'll stay in control, prevent issues from spiralling out of control, and keep a lid on the complete bathroom renovations cost.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	When you're doing some initial research and ringing around, ask if contractors will give you a free bathroom renovation quote. Including using an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pits-tanks/undersink-wastewater-lifting-stations/" target="_blank">under sink wastewater lifting station</a> if there isn't enough fall in the pipes. If you're surfing the web, are there websites services or another service that offers a bathroom renovation cost estimator?</p><p>
	<br>
But that doesn't mean you should interfere. Take the philosophy that if you pick them well, tradies or a &nbsp;building professional business are great at what they do. And a great place to turn to for bathroom design advice.<br>
	<br>
	<br>
How to make a bathroom renovation plan ... that works!
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
When you sit down to draw up that bathroom remodelling or renovating plan, two main headings will be helpful:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Space, and</li>	<br>
	<li>Completing your bathroom renovation on a budget!</li></ul><p>
	<br>
You may be tempted to add a third heading - time - but it's actually better to plan for the renovation to take as long as it takes in order to meet all of your objectives whilst staying on budget. Long renovations may be inconvenient and frustrating, but a finished product you are proud of, that really works, and that ticks every box you set out to tick is worth waiting for.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Space
	<br>
	<br>
It sounds simple, but you need to clearly define the space you have available to work within. On the outside borders are your doors and windows, so you need to think about how they function, open and close, as this could significantly impact how the rest of the space is used for your design.
	<br>
	<br>
Your bathroom's plans for plumbing and electrics will also have an impact on how the space is used, as all of those bathtabs, cabinets and other fittings will work around them and need to use the space comfortably and functionally.
	<br>
	<br>
And there's another reason why 'space' is the first heading on your plan: because it helps you to be realistic about those choice of fittings. What you choose needs to work within the space, because trying to adapt a space for your dream (but much too enormous bathtub, for example) is a very bad idea!
	<br>
	<br>
Of course, there's nothing stopping you moving those fixtures around your bathroom - you might want the shower on the other side or the bathroom oriented differently, for example. But also bear in mind that doing so will almost certainly mean significant plumbing changes as well, so factor in the time, cost and labour of doing so. If this is what you want to do, however, it's the initial stage of planning in which you'll want to make these kinds of major decisions.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Budget
	<br>
	<br>
How long is a piece of string? A similar question is 'How much does a bathroom renovation cost?'
	<br>
	<br>
The sky is always a lovely limit, but in the real world, you will be looking at about $13,000 to about double that amount for your bathroom renovation.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
On the upper end of that scale, you'll be looking at roughly:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>$3300 for bathtub</li>	<br>
	<li>$8000 for cabinets</li>	<br>
	<li>$4000 for flooring</li>	<br>
	<li>$2000 for lighting</li>	<br>
	<li>$5400 for shower</li>	<br>
	<li>$2700 for sink</li>	<br>
	<li>$540 for toilet</li></ul><p>
	<br>
But this is just a rough guide: the depth of your pockets and the scale of your renovation will be the actual determining factors. Bathroom renovations Melbourne householders take on could be done on the cheap, but if you're starting from scratch, bear in mind that all of the above bullet-points will need to be addressed.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
However, as the annoying ads always say: 'Wait, there's more!'
	<br>
	<br>
The word bathroom itself is simple, but a top-to-bottom bathroom remodelling is anything but. It's not just the tiles and pluming you need to think about, but:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Bath and shower: When it comes to the fittings, this is where you need to start. That's because it's the centrepiece of the bathroom that will catch the most attention and use up the most space. After working out the required space and the kind of fixture, the rest of the bathroom is designed around it.</li>	<br>
	<li>Toilet: In a close second place for the most important fixture is the toilet. Again, it uses a considerable amount of space and the plumbing needs to be in the right place.</li>	<br>
	<li>Sink: Another important piece of the bathroom jigsaw puzzle, the sink is often downplayed as being purely functional, but most eyes are drawn almost immediately to the style of the sink. Bathroom renovations Gold Coast householders do typically prioritise the look and the function of the all-important basin.</li>	<br>
	<li>Cupboard: Storage is an overlooked but incredibly important component to any bathroom, and getting it right can really liven up your remodelling project. How central it is to your dream bathroom, however, is up to you, as they come in all shapes, sizes and styles, so they can be a centrepiece or something more seamless.</li>	<br>
	<li>Other storage: You don't want to pack everything away - because some people like the look and convenience of neatly stacked fresh towels, or bathroom items and even decorations presented on a shelf.</li>	<br>
	<li>Mirror: A great bathroom is not great without a great mirror, so look beyond mere function and pick something that complements the beauty of the overall design.</li>	<br>
	<li>Lighting: It's not just the size, shape and appearance of the fittings that need to be taken into consideration - we're also talking about the optimum lighting intensity for your particular bathroom. A small tweak in bulb luminosity, colour and temperature, and how it all interacts with your colour scheme and tiles, can have a big impact on the 'feel' of your bathroom.</li>	<br>
	<li>Mats: No, it's not just an afterthought - bathroom mats are an important safety addition to your bathroom, but getting the choice dead wrong can spoil what is otherwise a perfectly devised space and design.</li>	<br>
	<li>Curtain: It may seem unimportant, but stopping water splashing onto the floor creating a hazard - and those embarrassing moments if someone else walks into the bathroom while you're in the shower or tub - is simple with a curtain.</li>	<br>
	<li>Rubbish bin: It's the finishing touches that often set a great renovation alight, so little details like a bin can make all the difference. And they're convenient, too!</li>	<br>
	<li>Towels: Towels and towel rods and racks, however, really are important - because they're an absolute practical necessity, and they need to be accessible and prominent.</li>	<br>
	<li>Toothbrush holder: While a bathroom renovation can be hard work and stressful, the little details are so much fun to shop for - but they can also make or break the overall look of the finished product. For the toothbrush holder, it should complement the nearby and associated sink and mirror.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
But for everything on that bathroom renovation checklist and more, make sure your overall bathroom renovation 'big picture' is always at the front of your mind. Because 'beautiful' isn't something you buy off the shelf: it's the product of many parts that are meticulously and lovingly planned and put together, culminating in bathroom renovations Sunshine Coast dwellers will enjoy for years.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Bathroom Renovation Design Ideas
	<br>
	<br>
Until now, this Big Guide to bathroom remodelling has been mainly the nitty-gritty of getting those fundamentals right. But a renovation is something you can really sink your teeth into in terms of letting your creative juices flow.
	<br>
	<br>
As we teased earlier: imagine what you could achieve if the sky was the limit when it came to your bathroom renovation DIY budget. But there are two things that are not limited by the depth of your pockets:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Space, and</li>	<br>
	<li>Natural light.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
	<br>
Space
	<br>
	<br>
If your space is limited, that will have a big impact on your design - but it doesn't have to fetter your imagination. It may simply be necessary to proportionally scale down the fixtures and features you are dreaming of - because there's no point having all of those fixtures meeting your wildest dreams if you can barely turn around in your new bathroom.
	<br>
	<br>
So if you have limited space, let's take a moment to explore some of the best ways to achieve your bathroom renovation dreams anyway. Because people who remodel small bathroom spaces don't really need to skimp in any area:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Have a centrepiece: If nothing in particular stands out, the thing that stands out could be the obvious fact that 'This bathroom is small!' But if you have a standout centrepiece, like a tub or a basin or a feature storage item, that is where the eye will be drawn</li>	<br>
	<li>Smarter bathrooms placement: Secondly, clever use of limited spaces can have the overall effect of a larger space. For instance, the maximised usage of the corners of the room, or the use of extra shelving that appears chic but is actually very handy for storage. Bathroom renovations Sydney DIY'ers tackle don't have to go without just because there is limited space.</li>	<br>
	<li>Colour: Making the room brighter, and using lighter colours for the paint and tiles, can create the impression of extra space. The kind of colour options selected for bathroom renovations Adelaide locals love will commonly make the most of the light and the bright.</li>	<br>
	<li>No clutter: In a small bathroom remodel, it makes little sense to prominently store lots of extra towels, or have big medicine cabinets. Is it possible to keep those things elsewhere?</li></ul><p>
	Natural Light</p><p>
	<br>
If you are lucky enough to have a bathroom with lots of natural light, for example thanks to a big window opening, then there are lots of things you can do to make the most of it. Similarly, while you're in the design phase of your bathroom makeovers, is it possible to think about adding a skylight? It will not only brighten and broaden that space, it makes use of that free and sustainable source of power - the sun.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
If Your Bathroom Space Has Lots Of Natural Light:</p><ul>
	<li>Make the most of nature: If your big window opening looks out onto lots of greenery, incorporate that natural theme into your bathroom - bring the outside world into your stunning new bathroom. We're talking things like nature and floral designs and bright, natural colours.&nbsp;</li>	<li>Make the most of the city: On the other hand, if your window looks out into the suburbs or the city, match that theme as well with simplistic, minimalist and ultra-modern interior designs. Again, maximise that natural light with matching light colours.
&nbsp;
	</li></ul><p>
If Your Bathroom Space Is Natural Light-Limited:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Add elegance: If natural light is lacking in your space, don't despair - you can compensate with elegant designs and details, and luxurious colour. For instance, embrace the lack of natural light and opt for black or dark blues.</li>	<br>
	<li>Hot tip!: If you're not sure how a dark colour scheme will work, ask yourself 'Are there any budget bathroom renovations near me I can check out?' Have friends or family recently done a reno that you can assess and learn from?</li>	<br>
	<li>Put your focus elsewhere: While natural light can be great, a lack of it can also be taken as an opportunity. Consider the space as a closed environment instead, and focus on making the design work as an enclosed entity.</li>	<br>
</ul><p>
	<br>
Whether you have a lot of natural light to play with or you're forced to focus more within a closed environment, the most important thing is that all the elements of your brilliant new bathroom all work together as a unit.</p><p>
	How To Create The Perfect Bathroom Layout</p><p>
	<br>
Of course, the ultimate aim of your bathroom renovation is a perfect, beautiful and colour-bursting finished product. But don't lose sight on what the bathroom actually exists for - its function. As we said earlier, there's actually no point having all your dream fittings and accessories in place if you can't even stretch out your arms to comfortably wrap a towel around yourself.
	<br>
	<br>
The great thing about a bathroom renovation from scratch, however, is that you have the opportunity to tailor your space. For instance, if you're going to tear out every last tile and every last fitting, you might as well tear down a wall as well!
	<br>
	<br>
So if you are prepared and are able to tear out every last tile and even a wall, the various components of your dream bathroom can be tweaked and tailored so that your layout achieves even the goals you never thought were imaginable.</p><p>
	Here's How:</p><p>
	<br>
1. Shower
	<br>
	<br>
As we said earlier, the bathtub and/or the shower are undoubtedly the biggest elements of your bathroom. So the placement and orientation of these components can really make a big difference, setting a nice bathroom apart from those award winning bathrooms! If you are short of height for the waste water, you can put in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">sewer pump</a> and pit.<br>
	<br>
Placing your tub at the very end of the room, particularly if your bathroom shape is elongated, will have the effect of merely changing the shape of the space. For more square-shaped spaces, placement along the left or right wall is the wisest choice.
	<br>
	<br>
2. Bath
	<br>
	<br>
Another thing to consider is forgoing the bath altogether - particularly if you have limited space. You must, of course, have a shower, but even this shouldn't take up more than a third of the overall floor space of your bathroom.
	<br>
	<br>
3. Toilet
	<br>
	<br>
For a limited space, the toilet is a great opportunity to do a bit of a hiding trick. Unlike a majestic bathtub or a super-modern basin, a toilet is of course functional but it's rarely a bathroom centrepiece. So this could be an opportunity to tuck the toilet behind a door, where it's barely noticed. Or squeezing that toilet between the vanity and the bathtub is another option, although it's important not to create a cluttered look. You can also use a water tank and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/town-tank-pumps/" target="_blank">pump with a water switch</a> to use rainwater to flush the toilets to save water.<br>
	<br>
4. Vanity
	<br>
	<br>
By vanity, we're talking about the sink, cupboard and mirror. Often, it's one of the very first things you spot when you walk into an unfamiliar bathroom, so a central and symmetrical location is ideal. Because it is so conspicuously, it's also worth prioritising the vanity in your budget: because if you cut a cash corner with a centrepiece, you can cheapen the entire look of your dream bathroom.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	Match the size of your vanity to your bathroom mirror. You can email or phone a designer that has lots of online testimonials for the latest lifestyle ideas.</p><p>
	<br>
On the other hand, if you are lucky enough to have a big bathroom space to play with, you can consider two separate sinks. It can add luxury but also greatly increased functionality to a household - particularly a growing one!</p><p>
	5. Towel Hangers</p><p>
	<br>
Sometimes, it's the minor details that make a major difference - and not just for purely aesthetic reasons. A bathroom renovation is the perfect chance to rid yourself of all the frustrations of your old layout - like having to walk 5 steps across the room from the shower or the bath to grab a towel from the rack. When it comes to that bathroom renovation before and after, you really want to ensure the 'after' is much more convenient than the 'before'!
	<br>
	<br>
In all of these ways, it is easy to see how important a thoughtful and well devised layout is to the overall functionality and look of your renovated bathroom project.</p><p>
	How To Choose The Perfect Bathroom Tiles</p><p>
	<br>
Although the bathtub or shower remodel are arguably the centrepiece of any bathroom renovation, it's impossible to overstate the importance of the tiles. Like the solid foundation of a building, the tiles are the very basis of the entire overall concept of your dream bathroom, so taking the time to get it right is much more than time worth spent.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
First, you'll need to consider the different types of tiles:</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Ceramic: When most people think 'bathroom tiles', they're usually referring to ceramic tiles. Mainly the most popular due to their price, ceramic tiles are also easy to clean and maintain.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
But there are more luxurious options on the market.</p><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Stone: Stone tiles are a great option for a natural but also super-modern look, but beware: they are much harder than ceramic tiles to maintain.</li></ul><ul>
	<br>
	<li>Glass: Easier to maintain than stone, the downside to glass tiles is the higher price tag. But if your budget allows it, glass tiles are a great way to get that clean, spick and shiny look, but they're also slippery so think twice about using them on the floor.</li>	<br>
	<li>Porcelain: If your pockets are even deeper, take a second look at the high-end, luxurious porcelain tile option.</li></ul><p>
	<br>
Once you've made your selection when it comes to the type, you're ready to start thinking about the colours of your tiles and how exactly to use them for your bathroom renovation.
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
Here Are The Things To Consider - And Some Key Tips:
	<br>
	<br>
	<br>
1. Colour
	<br>
	<br>
As discussed earlier in this guide, the emphasis you place on the lightness or darkness of your tiles for your bathroom renovations Canberra DIY'ers revel in can depend not only on personal preference, but also the availability of space and natural light.</p><p>
HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	For those bathroom remodel ideas, consider spending a weekend afternoon attending some open inspections or display homes. Or check online for a bathroom remodel photo gallery or two, because one or two bathroom remodel pictures are worth a thousand words!</p><p>
	2. Tiles ... Everywhere!</p><p>
	<br>
Some people are tempted to use the same tiles for both the floor and the walls, but we'd strongly advise against it. Break up your interior design with clever and subtle tile differences. In fact, we'd even recommend you not tiling the entire bathroom - consider simply leaving those walls 'naked'.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	If you do want to use the same tiles for the floor and the walls, consider incorporating your floor tile pick into a single, central strip on the wall.</p><p>
	3. Be Creative</p><p>
	<br>
Tiling the whole bathroom from top to toe is amazingly common, but remarkably uncreative. So instead of tiling the walls completely, just tile up to a certain height and simply paint the rest. You can also use different designs for the floor, wall and shower stall.</p><p>
	4. Be Prepared</p><p>
	<br>
At all costs, avoid heading to the tiling shop without having a clear idea of what you are trying to achieve, and how you plan to go about it. You don't have to have a tiling plan that is 100% clear, but staring at hundreds of different options without having even decided which parts of the bathroom will be tiled just leaves you susceptible to becoming overwhelmed and making a fundamental mistake.</p><p>
	HOT TIP!:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">
	Remember, those tiles will be the basis of the rest of the bathroom, but don't get caught out with the perfect tile selections only to realise later that they badly clash with your all-important fixtures and accessories.</p><p>
	<br>
The Big Guide: Congrats, you've reached the end!
	<br>
	<br>
We hope we've managed to convince you just how important bathroom remodelling really is. It's a hub of the house, a luxurious haven, an all-important functional room and also a long-term financial investment, so grasping it with both hands and getting that overhaul right from the outset is something bathroom renovators can't afford to fudge.
	<br>
	<br>
So steel yourself for the process, dot those i's, cross those t's and get those creative juices flowing, because you're now ready to tackle that bathroom renovation with pride, style and vigour! And when you're done, pour yourself a glass of champagne for that maiden hot bath, knowing your dream bathroom was really worth the effort.</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[How To Clean A Pool - The (Updated 2017) Definitive Guide]]></title>
			<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/how-to-clean-a-pool-the-definitive-guide/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jun 2016 14:42:09 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/how-to-clean-a-pool-the-definitive-guide/</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>
Everyone who has a pool knows how great it is to be able to come home after a long day of work and take a refreshing dip. Or spend a Saturday with the family playing games and having fun in and around the pool. Or staying fit by swimming regular laps. The benefits are endless. The only, possible, downside to having a pool can be the upkeep required to keep it clean.</p><p>
	<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/relaxing-by-pool.jpg" style="width: 463px;" alt="Pool Cleaning"></p><p>
Do you resort to doing it yourself or do you hire a pool cleaner? Do you spend money on an automated&nbsp;
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/pool-cleaners/">pool vacuum</a> cleaner or do you maintain the weekly cleaning schedule required to maintain a clear-looking, healthy, safe pool? The solutions to these sorts of questions really depends on the following:</p><li>The type of pool you have – inground or aboveground
</li><br><li>The size of your pool
</li><br><li>The amount and type of leaves it collects
</li><br><li>The filter system and pipes you have 
</li><br><li>Your budget
</li><br>
Below, we’ve come up with some pool cleaning instructions and tips that should make maintaining your pool just another benefit to having one. We include the necessary supplies required to clean your pool, tips on cleaning your pool (including if you happen to come across a green pool), as well as how to maintain crystal-clear water. Make use of these, and the stress associated with the upkeep of a swimming pool will be all but a distant memory.
<br>
<br><p>
	<strong>THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES</strong></p><p>
When cleaning a pool, it’s important to have the correct supplies in order to make the job easier and achieve the best effect. Below are a list of necessary tools and chemicals required for cleaning and maintaining a crystal clear pool.</p><p>
	<strong>TOOLS</strong></p><p>
In order to clean your pool yourself, you will need to stock up on the necessary tools required for the job. These include:</p><p>
	<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/pool-net.jpg" style="width: 505px;" alt="How To Clean A Pool"></p><ul>
	
<li><strong>Telescopic Pole</strong>: This is the fundamental pool-cleaning tool to which many of the other pool-cleaning supplies get attached. Make sure the pole you purchase is a decent size relative to the size of your swimming pool. Furthermore, be sure to give the pole a wipe over before
using it in order to ensure no debris from the pole lands in your pool while cleaning. 
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Leaf Skimmer</strong>: The second most important pool-cleaning tool is a leaf skimmer consisting of a net designed to attach to the telescopic pole. This is then used to pick up any leaves or debris floating on the surface of your swimming pool. It is important to empty this net out of all the debris after cleaning your pool so as to keep it clean and ready for the next time you will need to use it.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Leaf Net</strong>: For deeper, dirtier pools, a leaf net comes in handy. This tool has a deeper net than the skimmer and comes complete with a rubber lip that is tapered in order to allow you to scrape the bottom of your pool, if necessary, as well. These also come in handy when picking up toys and the like you’re your kids may have left in the pool. You can purchase a leaf
net from your local hardware store.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Brush</strong>: As with most cleaning tasks, you will need a brush to scrub the walls, steps, and ladders of your pool. These come in different sizes and widths and can either be attached to a telescopic pole or already come with a pole attached. Keep the type of material the
surface of your pool is made of when choosing a pool brush. Choose a rigid brush for plaster-lined concrete pools and a softer brush for vinyl or fiberglass walls. For tiles, use a soft brush to avoid scraping or dilapidation of grout. Pool brushes can also be used to clean a pool deck or patio. As with the your other swimming pool cleaning supplies, make sure you keep your pool brush clean and clear of debris.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Vacuum</strong>: Now that you have taken care of the surface and walls of your pool, you need a tool to clean the floors, which is where the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/pool-cleaners/">pool cleaners</a> comes in. There are various different types of pool vacuums aimed at fulfilling varying needs in pool cleaning depending on your type of pool. Be sure to match your chosen pool vacuum to the surface of your pool, i.e.: vinyl liner, fiberglass, or concrete:
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>pH Tester</strong>: Due to the inclusion of chemicals in your pool water to maintain it’s cleanliness, it is necessary to test the water’s pH levels in order to determine the water safety and whether or not it is fit for swimming. Be sure to purchase a reliable brand of pH tester at your local supermarket. DIY pH tester kits usually consist of two types:
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>1.<strong>Reagent Kits</strong>: require you to extract a sample of water and add liquids or tablets to it. The water will then change colour according to its chemical content.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>2.<strong>Test Strips</strong>: immerse a strip into your pool water and watch it change colour to indicate the chemical balance of the water. Match this colour with a colour chart to determine the pool’s pH level.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Filter</strong>: A reliable pool filter system is essential to maintaining a clean pool. As with pool vacuums, these also come in various types as can be seen in the list below. It is very important that you maintain your filter in order for it to perform at an optimal level. Be
careful, however, of cleaning your filter too often. A slightly dirty filter works better than a completely clean filter as the occurrence of some dirt helps to trap other debris. 
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>Aim to clean your filter when you see an increase in the flow between the pressure gauge and flow meter. It’s time to clean the filter when the variance reaches 10 to 15 pounds (4.5 to 6.8 kilograms) per square inch.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>We recommend emptying your filter’s basket at least once a week and cleaning you’re filter’s pipes once a month. Strainer baskets can be found either attached to the sides of aboveground pools or in the pool deck of inground pools. See more detailed tips on how to clean a pool filter included below:
	</li></ul><ul>
	
<li><strong>How to clean a pool cartridge filter</strong>: Turn the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/pool-pumps/">pool pump</a> off, remove the cartridge unit and pressure wash inside and out using a garden hose. If well maintained, cartridges should last for one to two pool seasons depending on how often the pool is used.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>How to clean a pool sand filter</strong>: run regular backwashes. This involves reversing the water flow through the filter and guiding it to the base of the tank, up via the filter media. This results in all debris being flushed out via the waste line. It is recommended to initiate a backwash when the pressure of your filter reaches 10 psi over the original start-up pressure.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>How to clean a pool D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) filter</strong>: refer to how to clean a pool sand filter above. In addition to this, remove the grid units and give them a thorough clean at least once a year. Remove by following the instructions provided and hose down. Then soak grids in warm water, with approximately half a cup of automatic dishwashing detergent, for three to four hours. Once done, rinse off and place back in filter.
	</li></ul><p>
	<strong><br>
	</strong></p><p>
	<strong>CHEMICALS</strong></p><ul>
	
<li><strong>Sanitising Chlorine Tablets</strong>: When added to your pool water, these dissolve over time and emit chlorine aimed at killing any bacteria evident in your swimming pool. Be sure to use stabilised chlorine, which is far more durable when it comes to the sun’s rays. You can purchase these online or at your local hardware store.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Shock</strong>: This is a type of pool cleaner, which targets bacteria associated with hair, urine, and sweat, which can cause skin and eye irritation and dull pool water if left untouched. Furthermore, these contaminants prevent chlorine from effectively sanitising your swimming pool. Pool shock is available in either chlorine or non-chlorine recipes. Shocking your pool will also get rid of the unpleasant ‘chlorine smell’ often associated with pools.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Salt Chlorinators</strong>: Should you wish to have a saltwater pool, you can make use of salt chlorinators, which transform salt crystals into chlorine gas. It is also a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/controllers-alarms/">pump controller</a> in the same unit and runs the automatic function of the pool. Bear in mind that these should only be installed in inground pools due to rust that results when used in aboveground pools.
	</li></ul><p>
	<strong><br>
	</strong></p><p>
	<strong>SWIMMING POOL CLEANING TIPS</strong></p><p>
	<strong></strong></p><p>
The following are some tips / steps to be followed or used when cleaning your pool. The first six relate to a ‘normal’ pool, which has been well maintained. The next five, however, are specifically aimed at a scenario in which you come into contact with an exceptionally dirty pool. For example, a pool that has been left untouched for months in the garden of a house you have just purchased.</p><p>
	<strong><br>
	</strong></p><p>
	<strong>HOW TO CLEAN A SWIMMING POOL</strong></p><ul>
	
<li>The first, and probably the easiest, step to achieving clean pool water is to <strong>skim the surface of your pool</strong> with your leaf skimmer. Simply attach the skimmer to your telescopic pole and use to pick up all the surface debris.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Next, remove the skimmer from the telescopic pole and attach your pool brush instead. Then, use to <strong>brush the sides of your pool, stairs, and ladders </strong>. Use force when necessary to remove any well-populated areas of grime. Furthermore, be sure to pay attention to any
areas in your swimming pool that lack proper circulation.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>To clean the floors of your swimming pool, make use of your pool vacuum. </strong> Assuming you have a manual pool vacuum, you will also attach this to your telescopic pole as you have done with your skimmer and brush. Insert the hose into the pool and make sure you have removed all air from the hose before fitting it onto the pump. Then, vacuum the bottom of your pool much like you would vacuum a carpet. Should you have an automatic pool vacuum, you may not be required to do anything. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Over and above keeping your actual pool clean, <strong>it is important to maintain a clean filter </strong> as well. Make sure you check your filter for and remove and debris or grime as well as anything that could be clogging the filter.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Add sanitising chlorine tablets to your pool when you see fit </strong> by following the instructions provided. Consider adding tablets to your skimmer, floater, and / or automatic feeder as well in order to ensure these tools are void of any bacteria.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Consider adding pool shock</strong> to your swimming pool water to further ensure prevention of contamination and growth or algae.
	</li></ul><p>
	<strong>HOW TO CLEAN A GREEN SWIMMING POOL</strong></p><ul>
	
<li>When a pool is so dirty that it appears green, it is likely that the surface is covered in scum. Attempting to use a skimmer to remove surface debris will only mix the scum further into the pool water making it dirtier. The solution here is to <strong>make use of a leaf net to remove all debris and scum	</strong> from the surface of the pool.</li>	<br>
	
<li>A green pool is most likely full of undesirable bacteria. To correct, first and foremost, 
	<strong>test the pH levels and make use of a pH reducer / increaser accordingly	</strong>. This may take a few days of trial and error and you may need to use an alkalinity in addition. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Next, add chemicals. It is recommended that you <strong>start by adding three to four gallons of shock pool</strong>. Wait 24 hours to see whether the pool remains cloudy white, light green, or clear. If nothing has changed, add another few gallons of shock pool and repeat the process. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Keep the filter on all day every day for up to five days</strong>. During this time, ensure that you backwash the filter three to four times a day. It is likely that there will be a lot of debris / bacteria able to clog the filter and cause damage, which is what you’d like to prevent. Should the pool not clear up after four to five days, have you filter system checked and consider replacing it.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Once the pool water is clear and the pH levels balanced <strong>make use of your pool vacuum to clean the pool floor</strong>. If there happens to be an exceptional amount of debris gathered on your pool floor, consider seeking professional help. Large amounts of debris can clog up your pipes, potentially damaging / ruining your pool’s filter system.</li>	<br>
	
<li>If all else fails you may have to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/submersible-pumps/">drain</a> the pool and send the green algae to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">waste sewage system</a> in the house</li></ul><p>
	<strong>SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE TIPS</strong></p><p>
	As mentioned in the introduction of this piece, the best way to clean a pool is through regular, routine care and maintenance. The following is a guide to maintaining your swimming pool on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly basis.</p><ul>
	
<p>
		<img src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/pool-checking-basket.jpg" style="width: 408px;" alt="Pool Leaf Basket">
	</p><li>Possibly the most obvious maintenance tip for cleaning pools is to be disciplined in <strong>making use of your leaf skimmer on a regular basis</strong>. By removing surface debris daily or weekly, your pool will immediately appear clean.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>The answer to the question of <strong>how to maintain a pool weekly involves using the pool brush</strong> on top of the leaf skimmer. Scrubbing your walls, steps, and ladders on a weekly basis will maintain a clean pool and make it an easier job.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>It is also advised that you <strong>make use of your pool vacuum on a weekly basis
	</strong>. As with the surface of your pool, a lot of debris can gather on the floor of your pool, which will dirty it. Make use of your automatic or manual pool vacuum to achieve the desired effect.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Add pool shock to your pool once a week</strong> to remove any contamination and / ore algae.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Factors such as the weather can alter the pH levels of your pool and make it unsafe for
swimming. Use your pH tester to test the following levels: cyanuric acid, free chlorine, acidity/alkalinity, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness. The chemical balance of your pool is made up of the following:
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>ØpH (acidity / alkalinity) = 68%</li>	<br>
	
<li>ØTotal alkalinity (TA) = 16%</li>	<br>
	
<li>ØCalcium hardness = 16%</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>The ideal pH level for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.6</strong>. If you find your pH level is below or above this, make use of a pH reducer or increaser to fix.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Decreased levels of alkalinity will cause erosion of pool surfaces and corrosion of equipment. Your TA level should be 60 to 200 parts per million. You can raise this by adding 'buffer' – sodium bicarbonate – or decrease it by adding pool acid.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Lastly, decreased levels of dissolved calcium can cause corrosion of pool equipment, and increased levels can create scale. Be sure to monitor this.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Your pH and sanitiser levels should be checked at least three times a week.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Ensure that the pool filter is switched on for between eight to ten hours every day</strong>. Your filter will take care of removing fine debris and microscopic particles. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>It is important to <strong>keep an eye out on the water level of your pool</strong>. Evaporation as well as splashing, swimming, and leaving the pool can cause your water level to drop. As a rule of thumb, try to maintain a water level that reaches halfway up the opening of your skimmer. If your water level goes below this, use a garden hose to fill it up. If you fail to do so, you could end up damaging your pump. Should your water level be too high, consider hiring a waterproof pump to remove the excess water. Should you need to empty your pool for maintenance, be sure not to leave it empty for too long. It is also recommended to leave your pool full during winter as the weight of the water offsets forces from the ground pushing upwards.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>If you are lucky enough to own a pool heater, bear in mind that this will require a certain level of maintenance as well. <strong>Pool heaters are not high maintenance, however, with gas heaters requiring a service every couple of years and electric ones lasting even longer than that.</strong> Refer to instructions provided in the manual to determine specific maintenance guidelines. The main issue with heaters is the build up of calcium that occurs inside the tubes limiting the flow, resulting in inadequate heating of the pool water. Should this be the case, hire a professional to assist in fixing your heater.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>If you suspect your pool has a leak, perform the following test</strong>. Fill a plastic bucket three-quarters of the way fill with water. Mark level of water in bucket on the outside of the bucket. Place bucket of water in pool and allow to float. After a few days, evaluate the level of water in the bucket compared to the level of water in your pool. If both levels have decreased by the same amount, you know it is due to evaporation. If your pool water has, however, gone down more than the water in the bucket, you know your pool has a leak. Get hold of a professional to fix this.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Depending on where you live, you may need to consider winterising your pool</strong>. Should temperatures hit below freezing during your winter season, any residual water left in your pool pipes can freeze and cause damage. To avoid this, make use of an air compressor to get rid of all water from your pool’s pipes just before winter sets in. Furthermore, drain as much water as you can from the filter and heater. Any remaining water can be removed using nontoxic anti-freeze (not to be confused with antifreeze for cars). Then, detach the heater, pump, and chemical feeders, clean and store. Finally, give the pool a thorough clean, close the skimmer line valve, decrease the water level to around 18 inches (45 centimeters) below the coping and super chlorinate, and cover the pool.
	</li></ul><p>
	When swimming season comes around again, clean the area around the pool and remove the cover. Use a garden hose or&nbsp;
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/water-pumps/">water pump</a> to fill the pool up to its original level, reattach everything, and reopen the skimmer valve. Test the water’s pH levels and shock the pool. Bear in mind that it will take approximately a week before the pool’s pH levels are back to normal. Initially, leave the pump on all day every day, reducing this by only one or two hours each day until the water is balanced.</p><p>
	So there you have it! Simply include the above steps and tips into your pool-cleaning routine and, before you know it, it’ll be second nature. Not only will you be able to enjoy your pool all year round, but also, you won’t be stressed about maintaining a clean pool. Here’s to feeling like you are on vacation in your own backyard!</p><p>
	If you would like more information on pool cleaning then be sure to email us.</p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
Everyone who has a pool knows how great it is to be able to come home after a long day of work and take a refreshing dip. Or spend a Saturday with the family playing games and having fun in and around the pool. Or staying fit by swimming regular laps. The benefits are endless. The only, possible, downside to having a pool can be the upkeep required to keep it clean.</p><p>
	<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/relaxing-by-pool.jpg" style="width: 463px;" alt="Pool Cleaning"></p><p>
Do you resort to doing it yourself or do you hire a pool cleaner? Do you spend money on an automated&nbsp;
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/pool-cleaners/">pool vacuum</a> cleaner or do you maintain the weekly cleaning schedule required to maintain a clear-looking, healthy, safe pool? The solutions to these sorts of questions really depends on the following:</p><li>The type of pool you have – inground or aboveground
</li><br><li>The size of your pool
</li><br><li>The amount and type of leaves it collects
</li><br><li>The filter system and pipes you have 
</li><br><li>Your budget
</li><br>
Below, we’ve come up with some pool cleaning instructions and tips that should make maintaining your pool just another benefit to having one. We include the necessary supplies required to clean your pool, tips on cleaning your pool (including if you happen to come across a green pool), as well as how to maintain crystal-clear water. Make use of these, and the stress associated with the upkeep of a swimming pool will be all but a distant memory.
<br>
<br><p>
	<strong>THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES</strong></p><p>
When cleaning a pool, it’s important to have the correct supplies in order to make the job easier and achieve the best effect. Below are a list of necessary tools and chemicals required for cleaning and maintaining a crystal clear pool.</p><p>
	<strong>TOOLS</strong></p><p>
In order to clean your pool yourself, you will need to stock up on the necessary tools required for the job. These include:</p><p>
	<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/pool-net.jpg" style="width: 505px;" alt="How To Clean A Pool"></p><ul>
	
<li><strong>Telescopic Pole</strong>: This is the fundamental pool-cleaning tool to which many of the other pool-cleaning supplies get attached. Make sure the pole you purchase is a decent size relative to the size of your swimming pool. Furthermore, be sure to give the pole a wipe over before
using it in order to ensure no debris from the pole lands in your pool while cleaning. 
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Leaf Skimmer</strong>: The second most important pool-cleaning tool is a leaf skimmer consisting of a net designed to attach to the telescopic pole. This is then used to pick up any leaves or debris floating on the surface of your swimming pool. It is important to empty this net out of all the debris after cleaning your pool so as to keep it clean and ready for the next time you will need to use it.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Leaf Net</strong>: For deeper, dirtier pools, a leaf net comes in handy. This tool has a deeper net than the skimmer and comes complete with a rubber lip that is tapered in order to allow you to scrape the bottom of your pool, if necessary, as well. These also come in handy when picking up toys and the like you’re your kids may have left in the pool. You can purchase a leaf
net from your local hardware store.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Brush</strong>: As with most cleaning tasks, you will need a brush to scrub the walls, steps, and ladders of your pool. These come in different sizes and widths and can either be attached to a telescopic pole or already come with a pole attached. Keep the type of material the
surface of your pool is made of when choosing a pool brush. Choose a rigid brush for plaster-lined concrete pools and a softer brush for vinyl or fiberglass walls. For tiles, use a soft brush to avoid scraping or dilapidation of grout. Pool brushes can also be used to clean a pool deck or patio. As with the your other swimming pool cleaning supplies, make sure you keep your pool brush clean and clear of debris.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Vacuum</strong>: Now that you have taken care of the surface and walls of your pool, you need a tool to clean the floors, which is where the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/pool-cleaners/">pool cleaners</a> comes in. There are various different types of pool vacuums aimed at fulfilling varying needs in pool cleaning depending on your type of pool. Be sure to match your chosen pool vacuum to the surface of your pool, i.e.: vinyl liner, fiberglass, or concrete:
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>pH Tester</strong>: Due to the inclusion of chemicals in your pool water to maintain it’s cleanliness, it is necessary to test the water’s pH levels in order to determine the water safety and whether or not it is fit for swimming. Be sure to purchase a reliable brand of pH tester at your local supermarket. DIY pH tester kits usually consist of two types:
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>1.<strong>Reagent Kits</strong>: require you to extract a sample of water and add liquids or tablets to it. The water will then change colour according to its chemical content.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>2.<strong>Test Strips</strong>: immerse a strip into your pool water and watch it change colour to indicate the chemical balance of the water. Match this colour with a colour chart to determine the pool’s pH level.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Filter</strong>: A reliable pool filter system is essential to maintaining a clean pool. As with pool vacuums, these also come in various types as can be seen in the list below. It is very important that you maintain your filter in order for it to perform at an optimal level. Be
careful, however, of cleaning your filter too often. A slightly dirty filter works better than a completely clean filter as the occurrence of some dirt helps to trap other debris. 
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>Aim to clean your filter when you see an increase in the flow between the pressure gauge and flow meter. It’s time to clean the filter when the variance reaches 10 to 15 pounds (4.5 to 6.8 kilograms) per square inch.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li>We recommend emptying your filter’s basket at least once a week and cleaning you’re filter’s pipes once a month. Strainer baskets can be found either attached to the sides of aboveground pools or in the pool deck of inground pools. See more detailed tips on how to clean a pool filter included below:
	</li></ul><ul>
	
<li><strong>How to clean a pool cartridge filter</strong>: Turn the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/pool-pumps/">pool pump</a> off, remove the cartridge unit and pressure wash inside and out using a garden hose. If well maintained, cartridges should last for one to two pool seasons depending on how often the pool is used.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>How to clean a pool sand filter</strong>: run regular backwashes. This involves reversing the water flow through the filter and guiding it to the base of the tank, up via the filter media. This results in all debris being flushed out via the waste line. It is recommended to initiate a backwash when the pressure of your filter reaches 10 psi over the original start-up pressure.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>How to clean a pool D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) filter</strong>: refer to how to clean a pool sand filter above. In addition to this, remove the grid units and give them a thorough clean at least once a year. Remove by following the instructions provided and hose down. Then soak grids in warm water, with approximately half a cup of automatic dishwashing detergent, for three to four hours. Once done, rinse off and place back in filter.
	</li></ul><p>
	<strong><br>
	</strong></p><p>
	<strong>CHEMICALS</strong></p><ul>
	
<li><strong>Sanitising Chlorine Tablets</strong>: When added to your pool water, these dissolve over time and emit chlorine aimed at killing any bacteria evident in your swimming pool. Be sure to use stabilised chlorine, which is far more durable when it comes to the sun’s rays. You can purchase these online or at your local hardware store.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Pool Shock</strong>: This is a type of pool cleaner, which targets bacteria associated with hair, urine, and sweat, which can cause skin and eye irritation and dull pool water if left untouched. Furthermore, these contaminants prevent chlorine from effectively sanitising your swimming pool. Pool shock is available in either chlorine or non-chlorine recipes. Shocking your pool will also get rid of the unpleasant ‘chlorine smell’ often associated with pools.
	</li>		<br>
	
<li><strong>Salt Chlorinators</strong>: Should you wish to have a saltwater pool, you can make use of salt chlorinators, which transform salt crystals into chlorine gas. It is also a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/controllers-alarms/">pump controller</a> in the same unit and runs the automatic function of the pool. Bear in mind that these should only be installed in inground pools due to rust that results when used in aboveground pools.
	</li></ul><p>
	<strong><br>
	</strong></p><p>
	<strong>SWIMMING POOL CLEANING TIPS</strong></p><p>
	<strong></strong></p><p>
The following are some tips / steps to be followed or used when cleaning your pool. The first six relate to a ‘normal’ pool, which has been well maintained. The next five, however, are specifically aimed at a scenario in which you come into contact with an exceptionally dirty pool. For example, a pool that has been left untouched for months in the garden of a house you have just purchased.</p><p>
	<strong><br>
	</strong></p><p>
	<strong>HOW TO CLEAN A SWIMMING POOL</strong></p><ul>
	
<li>The first, and probably the easiest, step to achieving clean pool water is to <strong>skim the surface of your pool</strong> with your leaf skimmer. Simply attach the skimmer to your telescopic pole and use to pick up all the surface debris.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Next, remove the skimmer from the telescopic pole and attach your pool brush instead. Then, use to <strong>brush the sides of your pool, stairs, and ladders </strong>. Use force when necessary to remove any well-populated areas of grime. Furthermore, be sure to pay attention to any
areas in your swimming pool that lack proper circulation.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>To clean the floors of your swimming pool, make use of your pool vacuum. </strong> Assuming you have a manual pool vacuum, you will also attach this to your telescopic pole as you have done with your skimmer and brush. Insert the hose into the pool and make sure you have removed all air from the hose before fitting it onto the pump. Then, vacuum the bottom of your pool much like you would vacuum a carpet. Should you have an automatic pool vacuum, you may not be required to do anything. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Over and above keeping your actual pool clean, <strong>it is important to maintain a clean filter </strong> as well. Make sure you check your filter for and remove and debris or grime as well as anything that could be clogging the filter.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Add sanitising chlorine tablets to your pool when you see fit </strong> by following the instructions provided. Consider adding tablets to your skimmer, floater, and / or automatic feeder as well in order to ensure these tools are void of any bacteria.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Consider adding pool shock</strong> to your swimming pool water to further ensure prevention of contamination and growth or algae.
	</li></ul><p>
	<strong>HOW TO CLEAN A GREEN SWIMMING POOL</strong></p><ul>
	
<li>When a pool is so dirty that it appears green, it is likely that the surface is covered in scum. Attempting to use a skimmer to remove surface debris will only mix the scum further into the pool water making it dirtier. The solution here is to <strong>make use of a leaf net to remove all debris and scum	</strong> from the surface of the pool.</li>	<br>
	
<li>A green pool is most likely full of undesirable bacteria. To correct, first and foremost, 
	<strong>test the pH levels and make use of a pH reducer / increaser accordingly	</strong>. This may take a few days of trial and error and you may need to use an alkalinity in addition. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Next, add chemicals. It is recommended that you <strong>start by adding three to four gallons of shock pool</strong>. Wait 24 hours to see whether the pool remains cloudy white, light green, or clear. If nothing has changed, add another few gallons of shock pool and repeat the process. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Keep the filter on all day every day for up to five days</strong>. During this time, ensure that you backwash the filter three to four times a day. It is likely that there will be a lot of debris / bacteria able to clog the filter and cause damage, which is what you’d like to prevent. Should the pool not clear up after four to five days, have you filter system checked and consider replacing it.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Once the pool water is clear and the pH levels balanced <strong>make use of your pool vacuum to clean the pool floor</strong>. If there happens to be an exceptional amount of debris gathered on your pool floor, consider seeking professional help. Large amounts of debris can clog up your pipes, potentially damaging / ruining your pool’s filter system.</li>	<br>
	
<li>If all else fails you may have to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/submersible-pumps/">drain</a> the pool and send the green algae to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">waste sewage system</a> in the house</li></ul><p>
	<strong>SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE TIPS</strong></p><p>
	As mentioned in the introduction of this piece, the best way to clean a pool is through regular, routine care and maintenance. The following is a guide to maintaining your swimming pool on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly basis.</p><ul>
	
<p>
		<img src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/pool-checking-basket.jpg" style="width: 408px;" alt="Pool Leaf Basket">
	</p><li>Possibly the most obvious maintenance tip for cleaning pools is to be disciplined in <strong>making use of your leaf skimmer on a regular basis</strong>. By removing surface debris daily or weekly, your pool will immediately appear clean.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>The answer to the question of <strong>how to maintain a pool weekly involves using the pool brush</strong> on top of the leaf skimmer. Scrubbing your walls, steps, and ladders on a weekly basis will maintain a clean pool and make it an easier job.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>It is also advised that you <strong>make use of your pool vacuum on a weekly basis
	</strong>. As with the surface of your pool, a lot of debris can gather on the floor of your pool, which will dirty it. Make use of your automatic or manual pool vacuum to achieve the desired effect.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Add pool shock to your pool once a week</strong> to remove any contamination and / ore algae.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Factors such as the weather can alter the pH levels of your pool and make it unsafe for
swimming. Use your pH tester to test the following levels: cyanuric acid, free chlorine, acidity/alkalinity, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness. The chemical balance of your pool is made up of the following:
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>ØpH (acidity / alkalinity) = 68%</li>	<br>
	
<li>ØTotal alkalinity (TA) = 16%</li>	<br>
	
<li>ØCalcium hardness = 16%</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>The ideal pH level for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.6</strong>. If you find your pH level is below or above this, make use of a pH reducer or increaser to fix.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Decreased levels of alkalinity will cause erosion of pool surfaces and corrosion of equipment. Your TA level should be 60 to 200 parts per million. You can raise this by adding 'buffer' – sodium bicarbonate – or decrease it by adding pool acid.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Lastly, decreased levels of dissolved calcium can cause corrosion of pool equipment, and increased levels can create scale. Be sure to monitor this.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>Your pH and sanitiser levels should be checked at least three times a week.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Ensure that the pool filter is switched on for between eight to ten hours every day</strong>. Your filter will take care of removing fine debris and microscopic particles. 
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>It is important to <strong>keep an eye out on the water level of your pool</strong>. Evaporation as well as splashing, swimming, and leaving the pool can cause your water level to drop. As a rule of thumb, try to maintain a water level that reaches halfway up the opening of your skimmer. If your water level goes below this, use a garden hose to fill it up. If you fail to do so, you could end up damaging your pump. Should your water level be too high, consider hiring a waterproof pump to remove the excess water. Should you need to empty your pool for maintenance, be sure not to leave it empty for too long. It is also recommended to leave your pool full during winter as the weight of the water offsets forces from the ground pushing upwards.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li>If you are lucky enough to own a pool heater, bear in mind that this will require a certain level of maintenance as well. <strong>Pool heaters are not high maintenance, however, with gas heaters requiring a service every couple of years and electric ones lasting even longer than that.</strong> Refer to instructions provided in the manual to determine specific maintenance guidelines. The main issue with heaters is the build up of calcium that occurs inside the tubes limiting the flow, resulting in inadequate heating of the pool water. Should this be the case, hire a professional to assist in fixing your heater.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>If you suspect your pool has a leak, perform the following test</strong>. Fill a plastic bucket three-quarters of the way fill with water. Mark level of water in bucket on the outside of the bucket. Place bucket of water in pool and allow to float. After a few days, evaluate the level of water in the bucket compared to the level of water in your pool. If both levels have decreased by the same amount, you know it is due to evaporation. If your pool water has, however, gone down more than the water in the bucket, you know your pool has a leak. Get hold of a professional to fix this.
	</li>	<br>
	
<li><strong>Depending on where you live, you may need to consider winterising your pool</strong>. Should temperatures hit below freezing during your winter season, any residual water left in your pool pipes can freeze and cause damage. To avoid this, make use of an air compressor to get rid of all water from your pool’s pipes just before winter sets in. Furthermore, drain as much water as you can from the filter and heater. Any remaining water can be removed using nontoxic anti-freeze (not to be confused with antifreeze for cars). Then, detach the heater, pump, and chemical feeders, clean and store. Finally, give the pool a thorough clean, close the skimmer line valve, decrease the water level to around 18 inches (45 centimeters) below the coping and super chlorinate, and cover the pool.
	</li></ul><p>
	When swimming season comes around again, clean the area around the pool and remove the cover. Use a garden hose or&nbsp;
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/water-pumps/">water pump</a> to fill the pool up to its original level, reattach everything, and reopen the skimmer valve. Test the water’s pH levels and shock the pool. Bear in mind that it will take approximately a week before the pool’s pH levels are back to normal. Initially, leave the pump on all day every day, reducing this by only one or two hours each day until the water is balanced.</p><p>
	So there you have it! Simply include the above steps and tips into your pool-cleaning routine and, before you know it, it’ll be second nature. Not only will you be able to enjoy your pool all year round, but also, you won’t be stressed about maintaining a clean pool. Here’s to feeling like you are on vacation in your own backyard!</p><p>
	If you would like more information on pool cleaning then be sure to email us.</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[18 (Of The Best) Ideas To Make A Small Bathroom Look Bigger]]></title>
			<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/18-ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger/</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jun 2016 14:47:39 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/18-ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger/</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>
	If you live in a unit or a small house, it is very common to
have a small bathroom. If your bathroom is less than 3 or 4 square meters, it might
be quite challenging to design it.</p><p>
	We have compiled a list of tips, which if you follow, can be
very practical, stylish, save you a lot of space and make your bathroom look
bigger.</p><p>
	Most of these tips will not cost any money while some may
cost a small amount to re-adjust items, so it’s better to look at these tips
before you even start designing the bathroom.</p><p>
	<span style="font-size: 20px;">Want to share this infographics with your audience? Simply copy below code and paste it in your blog html.</span></p><p>
	<textarea rows="5" cols="100%">&lt;img src="http://www.forpumps.com.au/content/ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger.jpg" style="max-width:100%" alt="18 ideas to make a small bathroom look bigger"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
By &lt;a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/18-ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger/" target="_blank"&gt;forpumps.com.au&lt;/a&gt;
	</textarea></p><p>
	<img src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger.jpg" alt="Make A Small Bathroom Look Bigger"></p><p>
By 
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/">forpumps.com.au</a></p><p>
Choosing to live with a little bathroom can be a smart move for both the planet and your bank
account. Smaller living areas cost less to build and less to maintain. Plus, they use less energy. So,
that's good news all-round.</p><p>
	But making a small bathroom work for you can be tricky. You need to get smart when it comes to
making the most of every available space. Otherwise, you might well find yourself going crazy with
frustration, especially when you're rushing to get ready for work or preparing the kids for school.
Efficient organisation is crucial.</p><p>
	That's where this brilliant infographic comes in. Its 18 tips can help any Hobbit-sized bathroom look - and feel - much, much bigger. It's packed with ideas that you might not have thought of yourself.</p><p>
	For example, did you know that a coat of paint can make a big difference? Simply apply the same
colour to walls, floor and ceiling, rather than using contrasting colours, which usually make a space
seem more cramped. The same principle should be applied to tiles. And the addition of a big mirror
can go a long way, too.</p><p>
	Then, of course, there's making the right decisions when it comes to furnishings. Steer clear of
behemoth-sized vanities or stools or wash tubs with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/submersible-pumps/">small puddle pumps</a>, and try visiting your nearest tiny furniture shop,
instead. Luckily, more and more people are choosing to downsize, so interior designers are getting
on the bandwagon. When it comes to pint-sized furniture, there are many, many more choices than
there used to be. And some of them are pure genius.</p><p>
	These ideas are just the beginning. Check out the infographic below and have fun doing some
planning! Your small bathroom - and your family members - will love you for it.</p><p>
	So, you've decided to invest or build or rent a property with a small bathroom. Or maybe, you've
been living with one for a while, but don't feel like it's functioning as well as it could. Don't despair!
The good news is, there's help afoot - in the form of a creative, 18-point infographic dedicated to
small bathroom owners.</p><p>
	Created by a bunch of creatives who are passionate about tiny living spaces, it's bursting with
clever, clever tips. Start applying them and the chances are your small bathroom will seem loads
bigger in a short time.</p><p>
	There are ideas for every budget, timeframe and household. So, if, for example, you want to start
out with some easy, affordable changes, you might consider buying some intelligent, space-saving
storage boxes. These not only make the most of available space, they also get things better
organised, by putting all items at your fingertips. Suddenly, you're no longer wasting time - and
getting grumpy - rummaging through chaotic drawers and cupboards looking for your toothbrushes,
razors or shampoo bottles!</p><p>
	But, if you're ready to spend a bit of money, get into some DIY or hire a handy person, you might be
interested in some of the more time-consuming ideas. For example, re-tiling, so that all surfaces are
covered in a uniform pattern, light, style and colour, is highly likely to make your bathroom seem larger. Or, if
your bathroom is fitted with a swinging door, you might think about ripping it out and replacing it with
a sliding one, which doesn't take up as much space.</p><p>
	These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. Get scrolling below to explore the rest. It won't be long
before your tiny bathroom is looking positively palatial!</p><p>
	There's no doubt that downsizing is on-trend right now. With every week, it seems, a designer
comes up with an incredible new version of a tiny house or a series of mind-blowing concepts for
fitting out little spaces. If you've joined - or are thinking about joining - the downsizing revolution,
you've landed on the right page.</p><p>
	Here, we take a look at small bathrooms. Living with a tiny bathroom is great! You don't spend as
much money on electricity and you definitely don't need as much time for cleaning clutter. After all, who
wants to be taking care of domestics, when there are so many other, more fun things to be doing?</p><p>
	However, if you don't want your small bathroom to become a big inconvenience, then you need to
put some time into designing and planning. Not an architect or an interior designer? You don't need
to be! The infographic below has come to your rescue!</p><p>
	Its 18 killer ideas including glass and using open light styling to make the room appear large will send your bathroom from go to whoa! within a few smart moves. Ready for a
total overhaul? Jump in straight away, with tips for re-painting, re-tiling and structural changes, like
new doors, a white wall and the creation of space-saving recesses.</p><p>
	Prefer to take things more slowly? That's no problem. Start with teeny-tiny changes, like finding
better ways to store your dripping bath mats, hanging mirrors strategically (which people have been
doing since Cleopatra walked the Earth) and adding wall-hangings. They don't cost much, but add
loads of storage space.</p><p>
	At the same time, the infographic lets you in on what not to do, like using contrasting shades of paint
and tiny tiles. You might not know it, but these can make your already small bathroom seem even
smaller!</p><p>
	Start browsing above - you're sure to find some useful ideas.</p><p>
	So, you've found the perfect new home - be it a purchase or a rental - but there's one problem. The
bathroom is microscopic. Well, maybe not THAT small, but still, you're not quite sure how you're
going to manage living with it.</p><p>
	Stop worrying! You've arrived in just the right place. Living with a small bathroom can look difficult,
but with a few clever tips and tricks, you can make it much, much easier. That's why a group of
smart, innovative interior experts whipped up the infographic below. In it, you'll find 10 cracking
ideas for making your small bathroom awesome. You might well be surprised by how much bigger it
both looks and feels.</p><p>
	And besides, by choosing to live with a small bathroom, you're doing yourself a favour! Instead of
having to spend hours and hours scrubbing endless walls, floors and ceilings, you can get the job
done in a nanosecond and get back to doing the things you love! What's more, your wallet will love
you for it - little bathrooms are so much cheaper when it comes to energy costs and upkeep. You can use a small&nbsp;
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/booster-pumps/">booster pump</a> that uses very little electricity and gives you great pressure on your hot water. You're
also doing your bit for the planet. The enormous living spaces that people have become used to in
wealthy nations use up lots of resources and materials. Every time someone decides to downsize or
put up with smaller rooms, the planet takes a big sigh of relief.</p><p>
	Now's the fun bit. Take a look through the infographic and select some ideas that'll work for you. Not
in a position to make structural changes? You can make big changes with furniture and paint! Ready
to call a tradie? Get them on to some hammering and re-tiling. You could even use a&nbsp; <a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pits-tanks/undersink-wastewater-lifting-stations/">undersink wastewater lifting station</a> to add in a new sink. Good luck!</p><p>
	Is your small bathroom driving you a bit bonkers? Are you tired of feeling hemmed in, every time you
stand in there, trying to take a shower or wash your face or apply your make-up? Do you feel like,
every time you reach for an item, it's in an incredibly awkward spot?</p><p>
	There's no doubt that small bathrooms can be challenging. But, there are loads of changes you can choose to make, to get to the most of the space - both visually and practically. You could put the toilet in the corner a have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">macerator</a> outside to save on room or use smaller&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/pressure-pumps/">pressure</a> pipes and&nbsp;boost the pressure&nbsp;to the shower, vanity or bath.</p><p>
	And this fantastic, 18-tip infographic is definitely the place to start. It's absolutely crowded with ideas
that you probably haven't thought of yourself and might not have seen anywhere else. They're
designed to, not only make extra space, but also to create a sense of spaciousness. If you've been
despairing over your small bathroom, prepare to be amazed.</p><p>
	The tips fall into two categories - roughly. Firstly, there are ideas for fairly significant and potentially
costly alterations, for which you might need to call in a tradesperson. Unless, of course, you fancy
taking a bit of tiling or hammering into your own hands. Secondly, there are tips and tricks for more
superficial changes, such as re-painting the walls, adding mirrors and making thoughtful choices
about furniture.</p><p>
	So, if you're nervous about making changes or don't have much time or are strapped for cash, you
can take things slowly - just one step at a time. Begin with what seems easy and gradually progress
to harder, more time-consuming, more expensive tasks. Along the way, you might want to consult
an interior designer, to be sure you're keeping on the right track.</p><p>
	In the meantime, have a browse of the infographic and start dreaming!</p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
	If you live in a unit or a small house, it is very common to
have a small bathroom. If your bathroom is less than 3 or 4 square meters, it might
be quite challenging to design it.</p><p>
	We have compiled a list of tips, which if you follow, can be
very practical, stylish, save you a lot of space and make your bathroom look
bigger.</p><p>
	Most of these tips will not cost any money while some may
cost a small amount to re-adjust items, so it’s better to look at these tips
before you even start designing the bathroom.</p><p>
	<span style="font-size: 20px;">Want to share this infographics with your audience? Simply copy below code and paste it in your blog html.</span></p><p>
	<textarea rows="5" cols="100%">&lt;img src="http://www.forpumps.com.au/content/ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger.jpg" style="max-width:100%" alt="18 ideas to make a small bathroom look bigger"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
By &lt;a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/18-ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger/" target="_blank"&gt;forpumps.com.au&lt;/a&gt;
	</textarea></p><p>
	<img src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/ideas-to-make-a-small-bathroom-look-bigger.jpg" alt="Make A Small Bathroom Look Bigger"></p><p>
By 
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/">forpumps.com.au</a></p><p>
Choosing to live with a little bathroom can be a smart move for both the planet and your bank
account. Smaller living areas cost less to build and less to maintain. Plus, they use less energy. So,
that's good news all-round.</p><p>
	But making a small bathroom work for you can be tricky. You need to get smart when it comes to
making the most of every available space. Otherwise, you might well find yourself going crazy with
frustration, especially when you're rushing to get ready for work or preparing the kids for school.
Efficient organisation is crucial.</p><p>
	That's where this brilliant infographic comes in. Its 18 tips can help any Hobbit-sized bathroom look - and feel - much, much bigger. It's packed with ideas that you might not have thought of yourself.</p><p>
	For example, did you know that a coat of paint can make a big difference? Simply apply the same
colour to walls, floor and ceiling, rather than using contrasting colours, which usually make a space
seem more cramped. The same principle should be applied to tiles. And the addition of a big mirror
can go a long way, too.</p><p>
	Then, of course, there's making the right decisions when it comes to furnishings. Steer clear of
behemoth-sized vanities or stools or wash tubs with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/submersible-pumps/">small puddle pumps</a>, and try visiting your nearest tiny furniture shop,
instead. Luckily, more and more people are choosing to downsize, so interior designers are getting
on the bandwagon. When it comes to pint-sized furniture, there are many, many more choices than
there used to be. And some of them are pure genius.</p><p>
	These ideas are just the beginning. Check out the infographic below and have fun doing some
planning! Your small bathroom - and your family members - will love you for it.</p><p>
	So, you've decided to invest or build or rent a property with a small bathroom. Or maybe, you've
been living with one for a while, but don't feel like it's functioning as well as it could. Don't despair!
The good news is, there's help afoot - in the form of a creative, 18-point infographic dedicated to
small bathroom owners.</p><p>
	Created by a bunch of creatives who are passionate about tiny living spaces, it's bursting with
clever, clever tips. Start applying them and the chances are your small bathroom will seem loads
bigger in a short time.</p><p>
	There are ideas for every budget, timeframe and household. So, if, for example, you want to start
out with some easy, affordable changes, you might consider buying some intelligent, space-saving
storage boxes. These not only make the most of available space, they also get things better
organised, by putting all items at your fingertips. Suddenly, you're no longer wasting time - and
getting grumpy - rummaging through chaotic drawers and cupboards looking for your toothbrushes,
razors or shampoo bottles!</p><p>
	But, if you're ready to spend a bit of money, get into some DIY or hire a handy person, you might be
interested in some of the more time-consuming ideas. For example, re-tiling, so that all surfaces are
covered in a uniform pattern, light, style and colour, is highly likely to make your bathroom seem larger. Or, if
your bathroom is fitted with a swinging door, you might think about ripping it out and replacing it with
a sliding one, which doesn't take up as much space.</p><p>
	These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. Get scrolling below to explore the rest. It won't be long
before your tiny bathroom is looking positively palatial!</p><p>
	There's no doubt that downsizing is on-trend right now. With every week, it seems, a designer
comes up with an incredible new version of a tiny house or a series of mind-blowing concepts for
fitting out little spaces. If you've joined - or are thinking about joining - the downsizing revolution,
you've landed on the right page.</p><p>
	Here, we take a look at small bathrooms. Living with a tiny bathroom is great! You don't spend as
much money on electricity and you definitely don't need as much time for cleaning clutter. After all, who
wants to be taking care of domestics, when there are so many other, more fun things to be doing?</p><p>
	However, if you don't want your small bathroom to become a big inconvenience, then you need to
put some time into designing and planning. Not an architect or an interior designer? You don't need
to be! The infographic below has come to your rescue!</p><p>
	Its 18 killer ideas including glass and using open light styling to make the room appear large will send your bathroom from go to whoa! within a few smart moves. Ready for a
total overhaul? Jump in straight away, with tips for re-painting, re-tiling and structural changes, like
new doors, a white wall and the creation of space-saving recesses.</p><p>
	Prefer to take things more slowly? That's no problem. Start with teeny-tiny changes, like finding
better ways to store your dripping bath mats, hanging mirrors strategically (which people have been
doing since Cleopatra walked the Earth) and adding wall-hangings. They don't cost much, but add
loads of storage space.</p><p>
	At the same time, the infographic lets you in on what not to do, like using contrasting shades of paint
and tiny tiles. You might not know it, but these can make your already small bathroom seem even
smaller!</p><p>
	Start browsing above - you're sure to find some useful ideas.</p><p>
	So, you've found the perfect new home - be it a purchase or a rental - but there's one problem. The
bathroom is microscopic. Well, maybe not THAT small, but still, you're not quite sure how you're
going to manage living with it.</p><p>
	Stop worrying! You've arrived in just the right place. Living with a small bathroom can look difficult,
but with a few clever tips and tricks, you can make it much, much easier. That's why a group of
smart, innovative interior experts whipped up the infographic below. In it, you'll find 10 cracking
ideas for making your small bathroom awesome. You might well be surprised by how much bigger it
both looks and feels.</p><p>
	And besides, by choosing to live with a small bathroom, you're doing yourself a favour! Instead of
having to spend hours and hours scrubbing endless walls, floors and ceilings, you can get the job
done in a nanosecond and get back to doing the things you love! What's more, your wallet will love
you for it - little bathrooms are so much cheaper when it comes to energy costs and upkeep. You can use a small&nbsp;
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/booster-pumps/">booster pump</a> that uses very little electricity and gives you great pressure on your hot water. You're
also doing your bit for the planet. The enormous living spaces that people have become used to in
wealthy nations use up lots of resources and materials. Every time someone decides to downsize or
put up with smaller rooms, the planet takes a big sigh of relief.</p><p>
	Now's the fun bit. Take a look through the infographic and select some ideas that'll work for you. Not
in a position to make structural changes? You can make big changes with furniture and paint! Ready
to call a tradie? Get them on to some hammering and re-tiling. You could even use a&nbsp; <a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pits-tanks/undersink-wastewater-lifting-stations/">undersink wastewater lifting station</a> to add in a new sink. Good luck!</p><p>
	Is your small bathroom driving you a bit bonkers? Are you tired of feeling hemmed in, every time you
stand in there, trying to take a shower or wash your face or apply your make-up? Do you feel like,
every time you reach for an item, it's in an incredibly awkward spot?</p><p>
	There's no doubt that small bathrooms can be challenging. But, there are loads of changes you can choose to make, to get to the most of the space - both visually and practically. You could put the toilet in the corner a have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">macerator</a> outside to save on room or use smaller&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/pressure-pumps/">pressure</a> pipes and&nbsp;boost the pressure&nbsp;to the shower, vanity or bath.</p><p>
	And this fantastic, 18-tip infographic is definitely the place to start. It's absolutely crowded with ideas
that you probably haven't thought of yourself and might not have seen anywhere else. They're
designed to, not only make extra space, but also to create a sense of spaciousness. If you've been
despairing over your small bathroom, prepare to be amazed.</p><p>
	The tips fall into two categories - roughly. Firstly, there are ideas for fairly significant and potentially
costly alterations, for which you might need to call in a tradesperson. Unless, of course, you fancy
taking a bit of tiling or hammering into your own hands. Secondly, there are tips and tricks for more
superficial changes, such as re-painting the walls, adding mirrors and making thoughtful choices
about furniture.</p><p>
	So, if you're nervous about making changes or don't have much time or are strapped for cash, you
can take things slowly - just one step at a time. Begin with what seems easy and gradually progress
to harder, more time-consuming, more expensive tasks. Along the way, you might want to consult
an interior designer, to be sure you're keeping on the right track.</p><p>
	In the meantime, have a browse of the infographic and start dreaming!</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[10 (Genius) Ways To Make Your Garden Kids Safe And Fun]]></title>
			<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/make-your-garden-a-kids-safe-garden/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 11 Mar 2016 14:51:02 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/make-your-garden-a-kids-safe-garden/</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>
A garden is meant to be a relaxing, rejuvenating place. You know, a spot where you can get back to nature, breathe freely and let your thoughts wander. But, with kids around, it's not always that easy to kick back. After all, you know what kids are like. They do whatever they can to find their way into anything - be it a thorny rose bush, the tools in your garden shed or the bird bath. And, when they're not doing that, they're thinking about wandering further afield.</p><p>
	<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/youth-706014-640.jpg" alt="kids in the garden" style="width: 473px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;"></p><p>
But, the good news is that, with a few simple steps, you can turn your garden into a safe place for kids. Here are some tips to get you started. It won't be long till you and your kid are enjoying yourselves, without having to stress about danger.</p><h4>Fix The Fences</h4><p>
First of all, you need to make sure that your kids can't escape. You know how kids' minds work. They see something interesting in the neighbour's yard and, the next thing you know, they're off - faster than a Melbourne Cup champion. So, the only way to get peace of mind is to make sure your fences are impenetrable. Patch up holes and check that all fences are high enough - all the way around. Keep an eye on this as your kid gets taller.</p><h4>Child-Proof The Gates</h4><p>
Even if your kid can't scale the fence, there's a chance they'll have a go at letting themselves out. So add high-quality, reliable child-proof mechanisms to every single gate especially on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/how-to-clean-a-pool-the-definitive-guide/">pool</a>. Is your kid especially wily? Fortify the mechanisms with serious locks. That way, you'll know they definitely can't go anywhere.</p><h4>Get Rid Of Poisons</h4><p>
	Whether you use herbicides, pesticides, bait or bleach, put all poisons in a place that your child cannot reach - even with a ladder. Your best bet is to lock them away in a secure, dry spot. Some people simply put poisons on high shelves, but why live with the worry of them falling down or being moved by someone else? And if they are out of date, pour them&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">down the sewer</a>. While you're at it, check your garden to ensure that no poisonous plants are growing. Common examples include poisonous mushrooms (which can sprout up quickly after rain), lily of the valley and peonies, but there are loads more. If you're unsure, seek advice from your local nursery.</p><h4>Put Away Sharp Tools And Objects</h4><p>
	Sharp items pose so many risks. Toddlers might put them in their mouths. Little kids might try using them. Older kids might play fight with them. Regardless of your child's age, keep edges and points well away. As with the poisons, sharp objects or a&nbsp;jet pump with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/town-tank-pumps/">water switch</a> are best kept under lock and key. And remember to store them away every time you use them. Even laying an object down for a minute while you duck inside or make a call can be risky - it's too easy to forget.</p><h4>Protect From Thorns</h4><p>
	Thorny plants can be just as dangerous as sharp tools. Any kid who's run at full speed into a rose bush can tell you that. Thorns can rip into skin, causing pain and drawing blood. Either rip out thorny varieties or, if you want to keep them, cordon them off, so your kid doesn't injure him or herself.</p><p>
	<img src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/new-orleans-845531-640.jpg" alt="kids swing in the garden" style="font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 15px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; width: 447px; float: left;"></p><h4>Be Careful About Where You Put Swings</h4><p>
	A surprising number of backyard injuries are caused by swings. Firstly, avoid erecting swings above hard surfaces - if kids fall off, they're more likely to suffer a nasty head injury. Secondly, don't place swings too close to footpaths. You don't want an unsuspecting passerby to be swung into unexpectedly.</p><h4>Reduce Concrete Areas</h4><p>
	Concrete certainly has its advantages - it's much easier to look after than comparable materials. But, if your kid falls, there's not much give. So, wherever you can, cover concrete areas in softer, more fall-friendly materials. You can do this both permanently and temporarily. For example, you might consider buying some thin foam mats, which you can spread out during play time, but put away afterwards. Another option is to cover concrete with wood.</p><h4>Every year, more than 20 preschool aged kids in Australia die from drowning. It's a horrific statistic, made even sadder by the fact that, with a few precautions, many of these deaths can be avoided. Don't ever underestimate the danger that a pool, or even a pond, poses. It's just not worth the risk. Even shallow water can be fatal. Make 100% sure that all water is either fenced off or filled in, and check fences regularly.Pools And Ponds - Fill In Or Fence</h4><h4>Be Sun Smart</h4><p>
	Most of us remember to slip, slop and slap when we're heading to the beach or going on a long walk. But we forget that minutes in the garden can add up to hours. When your kid is playing outside, take the same precautions you would if you were heading out for the day. Ask them to wear a hat, dress them in long sleeves and cover them in suncream. Even with all that protection, it's better to stay undercover on scorching days, so it can be a good idea to build a shelter - even if it's just a shade cloth - so that outdoor play doesn't have to be too compromised by the sun.</p><h4>Supervise, Supervise, Supervise</h4><p>
	Even if you've taken every possible precaution, you should always keep an eye on your kid. You might think you've dealt with every hole, thorn or sharp tool, but surprises can pop up. If, by any chance, something does go wrong, the quicker you're on the scene, the less serious the consequences are likely to be. Don't let your kid hang out in the garden alone.</p><h4>Educate, Educate, Educate</h4><p>
	It's hard to talk sense with a toddler. But it's never too early to start teaching kids about safety. As soon as they understand words like "hot", "sharp" and "danger", show them where they apply. Your kid might not get it immediately, but after a while, things will become clearer.</p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
A garden is meant to be a relaxing, rejuvenating place. You know, a spot where you can get back to nature, breathe freely and let your thoughts wander. But, with kids around, it's not always that easy to kick back. After all, you know what kids are like. They do whatever they can to find their way into anything - be it a thorny rose bush, the tools in your garden shed or the bird bath. And, when they're not doing that, they're thinking about wandering further afield.</p><p>
	<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/youth-706014-640.jpg" alt="kids in the garden" style="width: 473px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;"></p><p>
But, the good news is that, with a few simple steps, you can turn your garden into a safe place for kids. Here are some tips to get you started. It won't be long till you and your kid are enjoying yourselves, without having to stress about danger.</p><h4>Fix The Fences</h4><p>
First of all, you need to make sure that your kids can't escape. You know how kids' minds work. They see something interesting in the neighbour's yard and, the next thing you know, they're off - faster than a Melbourne Cup champion. So, the only way to get peace of mind is to make sure your fences are impenetrable. Patch up holes and check that all fences are high enough - all the way around. Keep an eye on this as your kid gets taller.</p><h4>Child-Proof The Gates</h4><p>
Even if your kid can't scale the fence, there's a chance they'll have a go at letting themselves out. So add high-quality, reliable child-proof mechanisms to every single gate especially on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/how-to-clean-a-pool-the-definitive-guide/">pool</a>. Is your kid especially wily? Fortify the mechanisms with serious locks. That way, you'll know they definitely can't go anywhere.</p><h4>Get Rid Of Poisons</h4><p>
	Whether you use herbicides, pesticides, bait or bleach, put all poisons in a place that your child cannot reach - even with a ladder. Your best bet is to lock them away in a secure, dry spot. Some people simply put poisons on high shelves, but why live with the worry of them falling down or being moved by someone else? And if they are out of date, pour them&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">down the sewer</a>. While you're at it, check your garden to ensure that no poisonous plants are growing. Common examples include poisonous mushrooms (which can sprout up quickly after rain), lily of the valley and peonies, but there are loads more. If you're unsure, seek advice from your local nursery.</p><h4>Put Away Sharp Tools And Objects</h4><p>
	Sharp items pose so many risks. Toddlers might put them in their mouths. Little kids might try using them. Older kids might play fight with them. Regardless of your child's age, keep edges and points well away. As with the poisons, sharp objects or a&nbsp;jet pump with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/town-tank-pumps/">water switch</a> are best kept under lock and key. And remember to store them away every time you use them. Even laying an object down for a minute while you duck inside or make a call can be risky - it's too easy to forget.</p><h4>Protect From Thorns</h4><p>
	Thorny plants can be just as dangerous as sharp tools. Any kid who's run at full speed into a rose bush can tell you that. Thorns can rip into skin, causing pain and drawing blood. Either rip out thorny varieties or, if you want to keep them, cordon them off, so your kid doesn't injure him or herself.</p><p>
	<img src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/new-orleans-845531-640.jpg" alt="kids swing in the garden" style="font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 15px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; width: 447px; float: left;"></p><h4>Be Careful About Where You Put Swings</h4><p>
	A surprising number of backyard injuries are caused by swings. Firstly, avoid erecting swings above hard surfaces - if kids fall off, they're more likely to suffer a nasty head injury. Secondly, don't place swings too close to footpaths. You don't want an unsuspecting passerby to be swung into unexpectedly.</p><h4>Reduce Concrete Areas</h4><p>
	Concrete certainly has its advantages - it's much easier to look after than comparable materials. But, if your kid falls, there's not much give. So, wherever you can, cover concrete areas in softer, more fall-friendly materials. You can do this both permanently and temporarily. For example, you might consider buying some thin foam mats, which you can spread out during play time, but put away afterwards. Another option is to cover concrete with wood.</p><h4>Every year, more than 20 preschool aged kids in Australia die from drowning. It's a horrific statistic, made even sadder by the fact that, with a few precautions, many of these deaths can be avoided. Don't ever underestimate the danger that a pool, or even a pond, poses. It's just not worth the risk. Even shallow water can be fatal. Make 100% sure that all water is either fenced off or filled in, and check fences regularly.Pools And Ponds - Fill In Or Fence</h4><h4>Be Sun Smart</h4><p>
	Most of us remember to slip, slop and slap when we're heading to the beach or going on a long walk. But we forget that minutes in the garden can add up to hours. When your kid is playing outside, take the same precautions you would if you were heading out for the day. Ask them to wear a hat, dress them in long sleeves and cover them in suncream. Even with all that protection, it's better to stay undercover on scorching days, so it can be a good idea to build a shelter - even if it's just a shade cloth - so that outdoor play doesn't have to be too compromised by the sun.</p><h4>Supervise, Supervise, Supervise</h4><p>
	Even if you've taken every possible precaution, you should always keep an eye on your kid. You might think you've dealt with every hole, thorn or sharp tool, but surprises can pop up. If, by any chance, something does go wrong, the quicker you're on the scene, the less serious the consequences are likely to be. Don't let your kid hang out in the garden alone.</p><h4>Educate, Educate, Educate</h4><p>
	It's hard to talk sense with a toddler. But it's never too early to start teaching kids about safety. As soon as they understand words like "hot", "sharp" and "danger", show them where they apply. Your kid might not get it immediately, but after a while, things will become clearer.</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[The Top (10) Ways Families Celebrate World Environment Day]]></title>
			<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/the-top-10-ways-families-celebrate-world-environment-day/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2015 14:52:55 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/the-top-10-ways-families-celebrate-world-environment-day/</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>
	<img itemprop="image" src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/world-environment-day-activities-for-kids.jpg" style="width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;" alt="World Environment Day"></p><p>
	World Environment Day, on June 5, is a time for us to think about the planet, what we’re doing to it, and what more we could be doing to protect it.</p><p>
	In 2015, the theme is Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care.</p><p>
	We all have dreams for our future, but whether some of them will happen depends a lot on us and how we take care of the world we live in. We can make choices that are better for nature, and when we do so, we quickly discover those choices are also better for us in terms of our health and our happiness.</p><p>
	This year, World Environment Day kicks off a long weekend in most parts of Australia, making it a perfect time to get together as a family for some fun activities that celebrate the importance of our environment.</p><p>
	Here are 10 family activities to try this weekend to celebrate World Environment Day.</p><p>
	<strong>1. Get out in nature and appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer</strong></p><p>
	Whether it’s a trip to the beach, a walk in the bush, wandering mountain trails or visiting one of the local nature reserves, simply getting out and connecting with the environment – breathing in that fresh air – is a wonderful way to spend some time together.</p><p>
	You can make up games to play while you’re at it. Use your detective skills to try to track down bugs and insects or identify plants and trees.  Or perhaps make up a scavenger hunt – a gum nut, a pine cone, flat rock, shiny pebble, stick…anything you want…and give everyone 20 minutes to see how many they can find.</p><p>
	<strong>2. Clean up the neighbourhood</strong></p><p>
	Grab some gloves and a bag, and take a walk around your neighbourhood or down to your favourite park, creek or beach, picking up any rubbish you see as you wander along.</p><p>
	Pop it all in a bin when you’re finished (or take it back home if there’s no bin nearby) and then relax knowing you’ve made a contribution to taking care of the environment for yourself, and others.</p><p>
	<strong>3. Plant a native tree</strong></p><p>
	Native trees are far more suited to the harsh extremes of Australia’s climate. They tend to need far less water than non-native trees, and also provide important food and shelter for native birds, insects and animals. You can water them from your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/rainwater-tank-pumps/">rainwater</a> tank to make the garden totally sustainable.</p><p>
	Pick a tree that is native to your area for the best result. Some councils even offer a free native tree program, so see if you might be eligible. Find a good location in your garden and be sure to water it in well, and apply mulch to give it the best start.</p><p>
	<strong>4. Get involved in local events</strong></p><p>
	Many communities hold festivals and events to celebrate World Environment Day. These can include tree planting activities, home gardening workshops, classes in making art from recycled materials and whole day fairs.</p><p>
	See if something’s happening in your area and go get involved. Or resolve to go spend a day at a community garden, or visit one of the local farmers markets to spend time getting to know other like-minded people doing their bit for the environment.</p><p>
	<strong>5. Get your chef on with a huge cook-up</strong></p><p>
	Did you know that one-third of all food produced globally each year is wasted? Food production is responsible for more than 70 per cent of freshwater consumption, 80 per cent of deforestation and is the largest single cause of species and biodiversity loss… All good reasons to use everything we buy.</p><p>
	Why not go through the fridge and the cupboards, pull out those sad and soggy looking vegies and items nearing expiry and see what you can make with them. Throw it all together in a slow cooker for a warming meal for these cool nights; make a soup; or roast things together for a yummy mash. Get inventive and have some fun together…and find ways to make use of everything rather than tossing it in the bin.</p><p>
	<strong>6. Dig up the garden and make a vegie patch</strong></p><p>
	There’s nothing quite like going out into your own garden and harvesting the food for your meal. So many vegies are easy to grow – even in pots if you don’t have a garden – and now is a great time to be preparing the soil and planting seeds for bumper spring-time crops.</p><p>
	For some quick colour and food you can harvest now, plant out some pots of herbs and spices. And think about making your own compost. Any vegies you couldn’t use in your big cook-up can find a new life as food for the vegie patch.</p><p>
	<strong>7) Make art from nature</strong></p><p>
	Gather leaves from the ground and make a collection by gluing them into a book and writing their names underneath. Or turn the leaves into art using other bits and pieces found in nature, along with pencils or paints, to form pictures on paper, or perhaps a diorama in an old shoebox.</p><p>
	If you’re out at the beach, why not get the kids involved in making some installation art pieces. Collect driftwood, shells, pebbles, seaweed – anything lying on the sand – and see what they can create from it. If you’re out camping, or in the bush or rainforest, search around for twigs, leaves, rocks and other bits and pieces to make your masterpiece.</p><p>Let the kids make a small pond with a&nbsp;water feature and watch them play for days to come.</p><p>
	<strong>8. Clean out those cluttered cupboards</strong></p><p>
	Getting rid of your excess can actually be a lot of fun, and really rewarding, when you pull together as a family to clear out those overflowing cupboards. Work together to figure out what you still need and want, and what no longer has a place in your life.</p><p>
	Then the real fun begins – finding new homes. Remember – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!  Some items can be donated to charities and will be gratefully received by others finding it difficult to make ends meet. Buy, Swap and Sell websites and Facebook pages also provide a way to move on your unwanted goods – and you’ll get to see the joy in the people’s faces when you give it to them.  For those special items, try advertising them for sale. Those dollars could help buy seedlings and plants for your garden.</p><p>
	<strong>9. Scrutinise the shopping list</strong></p><p>
	Get everyone involved in making new choices about what you consume.  Do you really need what you’re planning to buy? 
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">Is it going to be wasted</a>? Is it a quality product? Give everyone a task for reading labels – is it certified sustainable? Organic? Locally made?</p><p>
	It might make the shopping trip a little longer at first, but you’ll all be engaged in discussing what you’re buying and why, and making the best possible choices for yourselves and the environment. And remember to take your own bags and say no to plastic.</p><p>
	<strong>10. Make a plan to adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle</strong></p><p>
	As a family, have a look at all the things you 
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/water-pumps/">do well to save water</a>, reduce energy usage and prevent waste. Then all come up with some ideas on what more you could do and vote on three things to introduce this weekend.</p><p>
	Make it fun. Get the kids involved in drawing pictures of your new goals, or writing up lists as reminders of your new habits. Assign yourselves a reward for your first successful week, then your first successful month of following your new habits. Celebrate what you’re doing as a family, and congratulate yourselves for taking action to protect the world we live in.</p><p>
	These activity suggestions have been prepared for you by the fun-loving team at Families Magazine Brisbane. Families Magazine Brisbane is an A4 glossy magazine, a brilliant website, a social media network and its own youtube channel for families in Brisbane. It provides an up-to-date list of What’s On & things to do with kids and families in Brisbane today, tomorrow, next week and next month.</p><p>
	<strong>For more inspiration on activities for your family, visit their website: 
	www.familiesmagazine.com.au
	</strong></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
	<img itemprop="image" src="https://www.forpumps.com.au/product_images/uploaded_images/world-environment-day-activities-for-kids.jpg" style="width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;" alt="World Environment Day"></p><p>
	World Environment Day, on June 5, is a time for us to think about the planet, what we’re doing to it, and what more we could be doing to protect it.</p><p>
	In 2015, the theme is Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care.</p><p>
	We all have dreams for our future, but whether some of them will happen depends a lot on us and how we take care of the world we live in. We can make choices that are better for nature, and when we do so, we quickly discover those choices are also better for us in terms of our health and our happiness.</p><p>
	This year, World Environment Day kicks off a long weekend in most parts of Australia, making it a perfect time to get together as a family for some fun activities that celebrate the importance of our environment.</p><p>
	Here are 10 family activities to try this weekend to celebrate World Environment Day.</p><p>
	<strong>1. Get out in nature and appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer</strong></p><p>
	Whether it’s a trip to the beach, a walk in the bush, wandering mountain trails or visiting one of the local nature reserves, simply getting out and connecting with the environment – breathing in that fresh air – is a wonderful way to spend some time together.</p><p>
	You can make up games to play while you’re at it. Use your detective skills to try to track down bugs and insects or identify plants and trees.  Or perhaps make up a scavenger hunt – a gum nut, a pine cone, flat rock, shiny pebble, stick…anything you want…and give everyone 20 minutes to see how many they can find.</p><p>
	<strong>2. Clean up the neighbourhood</strong></p><p>
	Grab some gloves and a bag, and take a walk around your neighbourhood or down to your favourite park, creek or beach, picking up any rubbish you see as you wander along.</p><p>
	Pop it all in a bin when you’re finished (or take it back home if there’s no bin nearby) and then relax knowing you’ve made a contribution to taking care of the environment for yourself, and others.</p><p>
	<strong>3. Plant a native tree</strong></p><p>
	Native trees are far more suited to the harsh extremes of Australia’s climate. They tend to need far less water than non-native trees, and also provide important food and shelter for native birds, insects and animals. You can water them from your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/rainwater-tank-pumps/">rainwater</a> tank to make the garden totally sustainable.</p><p>
	Pick a tree that is native to your area for the best result. Some councils even offer a free native tree program, so see if you might be eligible. Find a good location in your garden and be sure to water it in well, and apply mulch to give it the best start.</p><p>
	<strong>4. Get involved in local events</strong></p><p>
	Many communities hold festivals and events to celebrate World Environment Day. These can include tree planting activities, home gardening workshops, classes in making art from recycled materials and whole day fairs.</p><p>
	See if something’s happening in your area and go get involved. Or resolve to go spend a day at a community garden, or visit one of the local farmers markets to spend time getting to know other like-minded people doing their bit for the environment.</p><p>
	<strong>5. Get your chef on with a huge cook-up</strong></p><p>
	Did you know that one-third of all food produced globally each year is wasted? Food production is responsible for more than 70 per cent of freshwater consumption, 80 per cent of deforestation and is the largest single cause of species and biodiversity loss… All good reasons to use everything we buy.</p><p>
	Why not go through the fridge and the cupboards, pull out those sad and soggy looking vegies and items nearing expiry and see what you can make with them. Throw it all together in a slow cooker for a warming meal for these cool nights; make a soup; or roast things together for a yummy mash. Get inventive and have some fun together…and find ways to make use of everything rather than tossing it in the bin.</p><p>
	<strong>6. Dig up the garden and make a vegie patch</strong></p><p>
	There’s nothing quite like going out into your own garden and harvesting the food for your meal. So many vegies are easy to grow – even in pots if you don’t have a garden – and now is a great time to be preparing the soil and planting seeds for bumper spring-time crops.</p><p>
	For some quick colour and food you can harvest now, plant out some pots of herbs and spices. And think about making your own compost. Any vegies you couldn’t use in your big cook-up can find a new life as food for the vegie patch.</p><p>
	<strong>7) Make art from nature</strong></p><p>
	Gather leaves from the ground and make a collection by gluing them into a book and writing their names underneath. Or turn the leaves into art using other bits and pieces found in nature, along with pencils or paints, to form pictures on paper, or perhaps a diorama in an old shoebox.</p><p>
	If you’re out at the beach, why not get the kids involved in making some installation art pieces. Collect driftwood, shells, pebbles, seaweed – anything lying on the sand – and see what they can create from it. If you’re out camping, or in the bush or rainforest, search around for twigs, leaves, rocks and other bits and pieces to make your masterpiece.</p><p>Let the kids make a small pond with a&nbsp;water feature and watch them play for days to come.</p><p>
	<strong>8. Clean out those cluttered cupboards</strong></p><p>
	Getting rid of your excess can actually be a lot of fun, and really rewarding, when you pull together as a family to clear out those overflowing cupboards. Work together to figure out what you still need and want, and what no longer has a place in your life.</p><p>
	Then the real fun begins – finding new homes. Remember – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!  Some items can be donated to charities and will be gratefully received by others finding it difficult to make ends meet. Buy, Swap and Sell websites and Facebook pages also provide a way to move on your unwanted goods – and you’ll get to see the joy in the people’s faces when you give it to them.  For those special items, try advertising them for sale. Those dollars could help buy seedlings and plants for your garden.</p><p>
	<strong>9. Scrutinise the shopping list</strong></p><p>
	Get everyone involved in making new choices about what you consume.  Do you really need what you’re planning to buy? 
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/sewage-pumps/">Is it going to be wasted</a>? Is it a quality product? Give everyone a task for reading labels – is it certified sustainable? Organic? Locally made?</p><p>
	It might make the shopping trip a little longer at first, but you’ll all be engaged in discussing what you’re buying and why, and making the best possible choices for yourselves and the environment. And remember to take your own bags and say no to plastic.</p><p>
	<strong>10. Make a plan to adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle</strong></p><p>
	As a family, have a look at all the things you 
	<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/water-pumps/">do well to save water</a>, reduce energy usage and prevent waste. Then all come up with some ideas on what more you could do and vote on three things to introduce this weekend.</p><p>
	Make it fun. Get the kids involved in drawing pictures of your new goals, or writing up lists as reminders of your new habits. Assign yourselves a reward for your first successful week, then your first successful month of following your new habits. Celebrate what you’re doing as a family, and congratulate yourselves for taking action to protect the world we live in.</p><p>
	These activity suggestions have been prepared for you by the fun-loving team at Families Magazine Brisbane. Families Magazine Brisbane is an A4 glossy magazine, a brilliant website, a social media network and its own youtube channel for families in Brisbane. It provides an up-to-date list of What’s On & things to do with kids and families in Brisbane today, tomorrow, next week and next month.</p><p>
	<strong>For more inspiration on activities for your family, visit their website: 
	www.familiesmagazine.com.au
	</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Easy Rainwater Harvesting Tips For Your Garden!]]></title>
			<link>https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/easy-rainwater-harvesting-tips-for-your-garden/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Sep 2014 14:57:04 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.forpumps.com.au/blog/easy-rainwater-harvesting-tips-for-your-garden/</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>
	<strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; background-color: initial;">Rainwater Harvesting with the Davey Rainbank Kit</strong></p><p>
	<a><img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/rainwater-harvesting-with-the-davey-rainsaver-kit.jpg" alt="rainwater-harvesting-with-the-davey-rainsaver-kit.jpg" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; float: left; width: 189px; background-color: initial; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;"></a>With environmental and economic concerns becoming increasingly pressing, more and more individuals are investing in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/rainwater-tank-pumps/">rainwater</a> harvesting systems. You might have also heard it described as rainwater collection or rainwater catchment. There's now a diverse range of strategies available for harvesting rainwater, the simplest being buckets and barrels and the more complex involving various tanks, pumps and purification equipment. One of the most efficient, reliable and popular on the market is undoubtedly the <a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/town-tank-pumps/" target="_blank">Davey Rainbank Kit</a>.<br>
	<br>
	<strong>How the Davey Rainbank Kit works</strong><br>
	<br>
	The Davey Rainbank Kit is the ideal solution for households in metropolitan areas wanting to either start rainwater harvesting or improve their current system. It is comprised of a dual source&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/controllers-alarms/">water controller</a>, which switches automatically between your tank (where rainwater is collected) and your town water supply. As soon as the rainwater has reached critical levels, the Davey Rainbank Kit switches over until the tanks have been replenished, causing it to switch back. What's more, the Kit also responds to tap use. It switches on as soon as a tap is turned on and then switches off the minute it is turned off. <br>
	<br>
	<strong>Benefits of the Davey Rainbank Kit</strong><br>
	<br>
	Basically, the dual controller mechanism ensures that no water is wasted. Plus, two different versions of the Davey Rainbank Kit are available. The HS 50-06 pump is perfect for a two or three storey dwelling (or one of similar size and scope) with up to five taps or water outlets. It is suitable for use with drinking water, dish washing, and washing machines, filling up toilets, showers, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/irrigation-pumps/">irrigation systems</a> and watering the garden. <br>
	<br>
	The Float less Rainbank, on the other hand, is designed to work with installations that are surface-mounted. It is fitted with the incredibly dependable Davey HS pressure pump and works to provide water for toilets, washing machines and gardening. <br>
	<br>
	<strong>Reliability and durability</strong><br>
	<br>
	It's common knowledge that Davey pumps are among the best in the world. The company employs cutting-edge technology and utilises premium materials. Davey Rainbank Kits are designed and constructed to extremely high specifications and are made from stainless steel and ceramic or carbon. They're also the most energy-efficient pumps of their kind on the market. <br>
	<br>
	<strong>Where is the best place to buy Davey pumps?</strong><br>
	<br>
	Are you wondering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/brands/davey-pumps/">where is the best place to buy the Davey</a> Rainsaver Kit? 4 Pumps is the biggest online pumps store in all of Australia. The company stocks an incredibly diverse range of Davey pumps, including Davey Rainbank Kits, as well as pool pumps, sump pumps and automatic water pressure systems. 4 Pumps offers great customer service and incredibly competitive prices.&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
	<strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; background-color: initial;">Rainwater Harvesting with the Davey Rainbank Kit</strong></p><p>
	<a><img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/rainwater-harvesting-with-the-davey-rainsaver-kit.jpg" alt="rainwater-harvesting-with-the-davey-rainsaver-kit.jpg" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; float: left; width: 189px; background-color: initial; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;"></a>With environmental and economic concerns becoming increasingly pressing, more and more individuals are investing in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/rainwater-tank-pumps/">rainwater</a> harvesting systems. You might have also heard it described as rainwater collection or rainwater catchment. There's now a diverse range of strategies available for harvesting rainwater, the simplest being buckets and barrels and the more complex involving various tanks, pumps and purification equipment. One of the most efficient, reliable and popular on the market is undoubtedly the <a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/town-tank-pumps/" target="_blank">Davey Rainbank Kit</a>.<br>
	<br>
	<strong>How the Davey Rainbank Kit works</strong><br>
	<br>
	The Davey Rainbank Kit is the ideal solution for households in metropolitan areas wanting to either start rainwater harvesting or improve their current system. It is comprised of a dual source&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/accessories/controllers-alarms/">water controller</a>, which switches automatically between your tank (where rainwater is collected) and your town water supply. As soon as the rainwater has reached critical levels, the Davey Rainbank Kit switches over until the tanks have been replenished, causing it to switch back. What's more, the Kit also responds to tap use. It switches on as soon as a tap is turned on and then switches off the minute it is turned off. <br>
	<br>
	<strong>Benefits of the Davey Rainbank Kit</strong><br>
	<br>
	Basically, the dual controller mechanism ensures that no water is wasted. Plus, two different versions of the Davey Rainbank Kit are available. The HS 50-06 pump is perfect for a two or three storey dwelling (or one of similar size and scope) with up to five taps or water outlets. It is suitable for use with drinking water, dish washing, and washing machines, filling up toilets, showers, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/pumps/irrigation-pumps/">irrigation systems</a> and watering the garden. <br>
	<br>
	The Float less Rainbank, on the other hand, is designed to work with installations that are surface-mounted. It is fitted with the incredibly dependable Davey HS pressure pump and works to provide water for toilets, washing machines and gardening. <br>
	<br>
	<strong>Reliability and durability</strong><br>
	<br>
	It's common knowledge that Davey pumps are among the best in the world. The company employs cutting-edge technology and utilises premium materials. Davey Rainbank Kits are designed and constructed to extremely high specifications and are made from stainless steel and ceramic or carbon. They're also the most energy-efficient pumps of their kind on the market. <br>
	<br>
	<strong>Where is the best place to buy Davey pumps?</strong><br>
	<br>
	Are you wondering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forpumps.com.au/brands/davey-pumps/">where is the best place to buy the Davey</a> Rainsaver Kit? 4 Pumps is the biggest online pumps store in all of Australia. The company stocks an incredibly diverse range of Davey pumps, including Davey Rainbank Kits, as well as pool pumps, sump pumps and automatic water pressure systems. 4 Pumps offers great customer service and incredibly competitive prices.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
