Smart Plumbing Upgrades
Saving money in this day and age is always a tough one to manage for households. We know from experience how quickly water bills can sneak up on homeowners. A tiny leak here or an outdated fixture there might not seem like much, but over time, it all adds up.
Matthews Plumbing & Gas are your local experts servicing Ulladulla, Mollymook, Milton and our local suburbs.
Here’s some good news? There are simple plumbing upgrades that can help you save big, not just on your water bill, but also on long-term maintenance and energy costs.
We’ll walk you through our view on smart ways to cut down on water use and increase the efficiency for homeowners across our local community.
Why Water Efficiency Matters
Why It’s Time to Take Water Use Seriously
We’re seeing water costs rise across NSW due to climate pressure and infrastructure upgrades. For homeowners, that often means a bigger chunk of your budget is going to bills. Shoalhaven Water states the average household water bills sit around $1,200 to $1,500 a year – and that’s for a household without major leaks or inefficiencies.
Small Fixes Lead to Big Wins
Most homes waste far more water than they realise. And while we can’t control the cost per kilolitre, we can absolutely reduce how much water flows through inefficient taps, toilets and systems. At Matthews Plumbing & Gas, we’ve helped families cut water use by up to 30% in some cases with simple, smart upgrades.
Smart Plumbing Upgrades That Actually Save You Money
1. Swap to Water-Efficient Tapware and Showerheads
One of the easiest changes you can make is replacing old taps and showerheads with WELS-rated products. We always recommend 4-star (or higher) rated fixtures that give you great pressure while using a fraction of the water.
Why it works: A standard showerhead uses around 15–22 litres per minute. Swap it for a 4-star model, and you’re using just 4.5–7.5 litres. That’s a huge water saving every time someone showers.
2. Install a Dual-Flush Toilet
Still using an older, single-flush toilet? It could be flushing over 11 litres every time. Today’s dual-flush models give you a half-flush (3 litres) and full flush (4.5–6L), letting you control water use with every press.
“We installed a dual-flush toilet in a Ulladulla home that had an old single-flush model. The owner told us their next quarterly water bill dropped by around $60, just from that one upgrade.“
3. Fix Leaks Before They Drain Your Budget
It might seem like a few drops here and there, but a dripping tap can waste more than 9,000 litres a year. Leaky toilets are even worse – up to 60,000 litres annually.
Tip from the team: If you hear dripping, don’t wait too long. Give us a call to do a full inspection.
4. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Hot Water System
Your hot water system plays a huge role in both your water and power bills. Older systems are often inefficient and slow to heat, resulting in longer tap runs and higher heating costs. Consider upgrading to an Instantaneous gas or solar hot water system.
We typically recommend systems with high Energy Star ratings or solar-assisted setups, especially if you’re in a sunny South Coast location.
Note: These are estimates only as every home is different, and we’re happy to assess your setup and provide tailored quotes.
Plumbing Solutions for Long-Term Savings
1. Greywater Systems – A Sustainable Bonus
If you’re really looking to reduce your mains water usage, greywater systems are worth exploring. They collect water from showers, baths and washing machines, then reuse it for things like irrigation and toilet flushing.
Perfect for: Homes with gardens, or anyone interested in sustainable living. You’ll use less fresh water and keep your garden happy.
2. Rainwater Tanks with Smart Pump Systems
Rainwater tanks are a great way to capture free water and reuse it where it counts. We’ve installed systems that pump collected water into toilets and laundry areas, reducing demand on the mains and saving money long-term.
Ready to Save? Here’s How to Start
Let’s Keep It Simple
We get it – knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve made it easy to start with these 3 options:
- Book a Plumbing Inspection – We’ll identify hidden leaks or inefficiencies you might not know about.
- Start Small – Simple upgrades like showerheads or tapware are quick wins.
- Think Big-Picture – When you’re ready, we can help plan more advanced upgrades that deliver long-term value.
Let’s Future-Proof Your Plumbing
As local homeowners ourselves, we know the value of a water-wise home. Smart plumbing upgrades are an investment in your property, your wallet, and your local community.
At Matthews Plumbing & Gas, we don’t just install parts – we provide trusted advice, tailored solutions, and honest service. If you’re ready to reduce your bills and improve your home’s efficiency, we’d love to help.
Request a free quote or give us a call today on 0466 285 101