In O’Connor, Canberra ACT, we were engaged to replace an ageing rainwater pump system that was no longer performing reliably. The client wanted a durable, automatic solution that would seamlessly switch between rainwater and mains supply.
Our tradesmen, Brayden and Alex, supplied and installed a Vada S75 submersible rainwater pump with an automatic switching unit, ensuring the home could continue using harvested rainwater efficiently while always having mains water backup.
Problem
The existing rainwater pump had been struggling and was unreliable when paired with the home’s irrigation setup. The client wanted a permanent fix that was efficient, quiet, and low-maintenance.
Initial concerns were also raised about the irrigation system not activating the pump, prompting a closer look at how the system had been connected.
Assessment
On site, Brayden and Alex:
Inspected the tank and external pipework, noting deterioration and poor connections on the old pump.
Identified that the irrigation line was bypassing the pump entirely, drawing water directly from the mains instead of the rainwater supply.
Confirmed that the solution was a complete pump replacement with proper switching control for reliability.
What We Did
Supplied and installed a Vada S75 submersible pump with an integrated automatic rain-to-mains WaterSwitch controller.
Connected the new pump system to the existing rainwater tank and household supply line.
Completed electrical connection and commissioning, ensuring safe operation with weather-protected power points.
Tested the system across both rainwater mode and mains backup mode.
Investigated the irrigation issue and confirmed further modifications would be needed to fully integrate the solenoid-fed system into rainwater supply.
Materials & Standards
We used:
Vada S75 Submersible Pump + Digital WaterSwitch unit – rated to 75 L/min flow and 56m head, stainless steel build, with a 2-year warranty.
PVC Class 12 pipework, fittings, and threaded connections.
All fittings installed to AS/NZS 3500 standards, with proper waterproofing and protection from external damage.
Results
The client now has a quiet, efficient, and fully automatic pump system. Household supply will prioritise rainwater, reducing mains water use, and automatically switch to mains when the tank runs low.
The irrigation issue was also explained clearly — it was never connected to the rainwater system, but now the client understands what’s required to bring it across if they choose to in future.
Brayden and Alex were praised for their attention to detail, clean installation, and expert advice throughout the job.
Tips
Check your irrigation connection: If your pump isn’t triggering, the irrigation may be drawing straight from mains.
Keep pumps protected: A shaded or enclosed installation helps extend pump life.
Service every 2–3 years: Preventative checks keep rainwater systems performing reliably.
Location Notes
This installation was completed in O’Connor ACT, where many homes rely on rainwater harvesting. With Canberra’s climate, efficient tank-to-home systems are a smart way to cut mains water use and costs.
Need a reliable plumber in Canberra’s Inner North? Check our service area: Plumber Belconnen.
Gallery
“Brayden and Alex were thorough, on time, and left us with a rainwater system we can rely on.”
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