In our previous blogs, “Hurry up and install it already” and “You want to put what where?” Bosman Plumbing shared some insightful information about replacement dishwasher installations and new dishwasher installations from the ground up.

Though it is always important to follow the manufactured guidelines regarding installation and maintenance, a little leeway and unique design go a long way in making your kitchen the best asset in your home.

Gone are the days of hidden kitchens and hidden chefs. Your kitchen hosts many everyday tasks, so its functionality and design need to work for you, whether you’re cooking or cleaning. We spend many hours eating and even entertaining in the kitchen. It should be a place you’ll love, looks beautiful and functions efficiently for all your needs.

Bosman Plumbing has put together a few tips on design and functionality that is bound to inspire your next renovation.

1. Pick a work spot and organize around it. Think about actions and items. Store tea and coffee supplies near your coffee machine, cups, and mugs at arm’s length for that morning cuppa. That horrid cutlery drawer and its built-in door chime rattle from all the free willy cutlery and how to contain it.

2. Be the best traffic officer you can be and direct walkways and traffic from the get-go. Ensure your floor plan has enough room between the cabinets, island, stove/freezer, and the island to move through the space quickly. Generally, we want a good-sized triangle between our three big kitchen zones: the stove /fridge and basin. Be sure to look at spaces in your walkways, for example, the accessibility for the refrigerated door and the space around it for people cooking or cleaning

3. Corner carnage – pay attention to corners and the fitment of appliances and cabinetry. Look at the full door clearance as well as swing direction when multiple doors and appliances are open at the same time.

4. Microwave height and island function – decide on the location and accessibility of your microwave and island if you are incorporating them. The nature of the appliance being kid-friendly as well as its placement below or above the countertop. When incorporating a kitchen island, think about its function. Are you going to cook there, use it as a dining place, will you be incorporating a basin or dishwasher within its confines?

5. Parking spots and countertops – allow space for refrigerators and cooktop, your dishwasher and washing if incorporated in the kitchen, as well as stationary appliances like coffee makers and blenders. Think through your meal preparation, how much space you would need to warm up soup in the microwave or cut a loaf of bread. Landing space is also important near the microwave and other small appliances, such as the cabinet height between your counter and wall cabinets or shelves. Measure standard mixers and other appliances for space and height accessibility. Coffee pot or toaster.

6. Consider an additional prep basin with running water or perhaps a swing-out tap for filling pots—alternatively, an extra-long hose attachment connected to your main faucet and even a built-in water filtration system.

Though not necessarily functional, consider choosing one focal point within your kitchen and its design in an area that makes bold statements and catches the eye, from stunning copper-like vintage faucets to an attention-grabbing element like a hanging garden.

In our previous blog, “Hurry up and install it already”, Bosman Plumbing kicked off another helpful series in our ‘Exploring Home Resolutions for 2021 series’. Bosman Plumbing took us on a quick trip on how to install a replacement dishwasher. For some, a little DIY can be very gratifying; for others a hair-raising experience. Luckily for us, Bosman Plumbing has our backs and, with over 25 years of experience in the industry, make quick work of our new replacement installation.

Careful planning is necessary for a first-time dishwasher installation. Not only do we need water, power and drainage, but there are also design issues to consider. The space required and the traffic patterns in said space need consideration. To avoid any issues, Bosman Plumbing suggests spending some time thinking about the aspects, not just on the make, features and model of our new dishwasher — but where it will be needed and best utilised.

1. Choose a Location – the farther you move a dishwasher from the standard position, the more it will cost you in the long run. Consider installation, costs of materials and labour. Colliding doors and blocking pathways can be an issue. Try to keep the standard utility triangle in mind. Another suitable location is within an island directly behind or across the sink, although the plumbing is more complex.

2. Create space – remember to read the manual or user information online. A good grasp of the space needed and dimensions will help you try different locations for size. Consider framed areas as well as the level of the flooring underneath. Remember mounting brackets and perhaps some extra insulation.

3. Make Connections – dishwashers require three utility connections to operate, electric, water and drainage. Follow the proper building / electrical and sanitation guidelines.

4. Safety and security – follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding mounting brackets, though not always required, look unto securing your new machine directly to the cabinetry or wall. Special brackets are designed to be screwed securely to the underside of the cabinet or countertop. Other models might have side fixtures to the cabinet itself. A fully loaded dishwasher can be very heavy and cause damage to surrounding enclosures if not adequately stabilised. Whichever method you choose, don’t skip this critical installation step.

Dishwashers have become an integral part of modern society. Its installation and addition increased the value of your home. The installation of a standard washing machine, another one of our kitchen workhorses runs in the same lines. It is always important to follow the manufactured guidelines regarding installation and maintenance.

Contact Bosman Plumbing today for all your plumbing and sanitation needs.

OPEN 24HRS a day for your plumbing emergency!

Tel: 021 705 3969

083 658 1402

083 658 1401

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In October Bosman Plumbing will share an in-depth look into different appliance installations. From choosing a location, utilizing existing fittings and complex re-installs, even how to create a space where there previously was none.

First, we look at the dishwasher, which we can all agree on, as a great labour-saving device; not only does it save time cleaning up in the kitchen, but it is also a very water and energy-efficient way to do the dishes.

As with installing any appliance, we have a few things we should keep in mind to ensure all goes smoothly.

Have you measured up correctly, and does your new dishwasher fit? Is all the infrastructure you need, as power, water, drainage, in good working order? Do we have all the tools and supplies on hand, screwdriver and a driver drill, a drop sheet, bucket, and mop for all the messy bits, a little plumbing tape just in case?

Yes, yes and yes, then hurry up and install that bad boy. The dishes aren’t going to wash themselves.

1. Turn off the water, disconnect the power and let the inlet/outlet drain the remaining water. That nifty drop sheet comes in handy to collect the minor spills. Disconnected piping, and use the bucket for any overflow.

2. If your dishwasher is bolted to the wall, countertop or cabinets, unscrew all the bits and bobs, then gently slide the old dishwasher out, making space for the new one.

3. Inspect the cabinetry and outlets for damage. If need be, have any repairs done before installing the new one

4. For the fun part, unpack the new dishwasher, read the new manual, and check for any special instructions for installation.

5. Refit the power outlet, drainage pipes and inlets; make sure to use the new handy U-bend that’s supplied with the dishwasher.

6. Lastly, clamp the hose down and refit the screws and bolts, if necessary, then move into place. Remember to level if needed.

Though relatively simple, replacing a major appliance can be daunting; why not give Bosman Plumbing a call to assist you.

OPEN 24HRS a day for your plumbing emergency!

Tel: 021 705 3969

083 658 1402

083 658 1401

*

In our previous blog, “Scrubbing your scrubbers”, Bosman Plumbing took an in-depth look into our workhorse scrubbers and gave us some helpful hints on how to clean and maintain them. In the past month, we have descaled, decluttered, and washed the winter critters away. With summer around the corner and the last few months of the year rushing to the finish line, we, too, race to the end of the year. We re-look at the home resolutions we came up with at the beginning of the year and planned our last few activities in the time we had left.

It’s important to remember that major appliances add value to your homes and proper installation is as important as maintenance. With that said, Bosman Plumbing spring ‘Exploring Home Resolutions for 2021 series’ continues with major and minor installations of those items we might have overlooked.

As industry experts with over 25 years of experience Bosman Plumbing is there to assist our clients with guidance, value added resources and extraordinary service.

OPEN 24HRS a day for your plumbing emergency!

Tel: 021 705 3969

083 658 1402

083 658 1401

In our previous blog, “What’s that white stuff on my tap?“ Bosman Plumbing shared four helpful hints on banning the calcium scale in our spring ‘Exploring Home Resolutions for 2021 series’. With our faucets looking sparkly and new, we move onto our cleaning masters at home. Many happy Bosman Plumbing clients have had their trusty workhorses installed by us and have frequently asked about the cleaning and maintenance of our home dishwashers and washing machines.

Though scrubbing your scrubbers might sound a little crazy and over the top, there are many benefits to cleaning your cleaning stuff regularly.

Annual maintenance for all items using water and producing wastewater is a necessity. They do all the heavy lifting for us, keeping our homes grime free. Over time our cleaning equipment can also become grubby and clogged with dirt and grime.

Though it’s always important to read and implement your manufacturer’s guidelines in maintenance, Bosman Plumbing has put together a quick guide in cleaning your washing machine and dishwasher, keeping them well maintained and germ-free.

Did you know the funky smell from your dishwasher is not normal? Food waste can clog up in the machine’s water system, not just within the device but also in its outlet. Always scrape food remnants and rinse your dishes before loading them. A frequent quick inspection of the filter and outgoing pipes will add years to the life of your trusty dishwasher, keeping it running in tip-top condition.

A dishwasher can be sanitized inside and out with simple white vinegar. Once a month, pour it into the bottom of the machine and the soap dispenser, running an empty machine through the hottest cleaning cycle or setting. Finally, wipe the exterior, interior door and clean all trays and racks using a soft cloth soaked in vinegar.

Our washing machine is one of the more essential household items in our homes. Did you know it’s also the ideal breeding ground for mould and mildew that leads to smelly and unhygienic clothing?

A regular clean every four to eight weeks is recommended to keep your washing machine in great shape and cleaning effectively. To prevent mould growth, keep the door or lid of your washing machine slightly open in-between uses.

Deep cleaning can be done by filling the laundry detergent drawer with one cup of bleach or 2 cups of vinegar and running it on the hottest cycle. The dispenser drawer can be removed and placed in a sink of hot water and bleach to soak, scrub with a toothbrush if things have gotten dire, and dry thoroughly before replacing it correctly. Though the top and front loader is similar in terms of mechanics, remember to check the rubber seal around the door of a front loader. It acts as a collection point for grime and mould. Mould killer can be used if it is awful, or a vinegar and baking soda paste with hot water if it all looks relatively normal. Take your time and explore all the germs hiding places. Lastly, take out the filter, giving it a thorough wash before drying and replacing.

Did you know Bosman Plumbing can assist you with any new dishwasher and washing machine installation?

Your trusty scrubber workhorse will be with you for years and years. Contact one of our amazing plumbers for your next scrubber workhorse installation.

In our previous blog, “Spring is in the air“, Bosman Plumbing shared six helpful hints in our spring ‘Exploring Home Resolutions for 2021 series’. With people to see and places to go, we jumped right into spring-cleaning tips, unclogged ourselves from our winter layers and started our spring-cleaning journey.

In one of Bosman Plumbing’s handy spring tips, we talked about descaling and mineral build-up. For those in the know, you’ve already identified some areas in the home with it, especially if you have hard water. Minerals in water, in your sanitary system, are going to collect around your appliances over time. These scaly deposits result from calcium build-up; though harmless, they’re not pleasant to look at.

So how do you remove Calcium Build-up on Faucets?

1. The dreaded C-word: specialised chemicals can be used to wipe down the affected faucet; though a wet cloth and all-purpose cleaner might work, ordinary dish detergent will also work, depending on the build-up. Focus on scrubbing under and at the back of the offending stained faucet. Remember, the area’s water tends to accumulate. Rinse with fresh, clean water, wipe any residue and dry.

2. Good old lemon and lime: wipe calcium build-up with a lemon wedge. Lemons and limes carry a nifty little agent called citric acid. It is well documented that citric acid can help dissolve calcium minerals. This application can be used on chrome, copper, or brass. Once all the nasties are removed, rinse, wipe and repeat.

3. Vinegar can be used in many cleaning applications and, combined with baking soda made up in a paste, makes an excellent noncorrosive scrubber. The paste can be applied to hard to remove calcium deposits. Wrap a bag or cloth around the applied paste and faucet, sit for several hours, and wipe down the surface as normal.

4. Blocked aerator: aerators are the small filters attached to the edge of your faucet. Not all faucets will have them; if installed, unscrew the tinny screen attached to the edge. Just like a showerhead, calcium build-up can be seen in the mesh or dripping component in them. Use an old toothbrush, not your partners, or any other small brush to scrub any residue on the inside. The aerator screen can also be placed in a small bowl with vinegar for an hour, then rinsed and air dry before screwing it back on.

Follow Bosman Plumbing’s helpful guide for getting rid of calcium build-up as industry experts with over 25 years of experience. Bosman Plumbing is there to assist our clients with guidance, value-added resources and extraordinary service. Give our team a call today should you need any post-winter repairs done.