Nova-Flo® will automatically
shut off the taps if you don't

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FAQs

Why do baths and basins overflow?

Basically, we tend to pour more water into our baths and basins than the existing overflow pipe work can dispose of when we leave the taps running. This causes the water level to rise above the overflow outlet and pour over the edge.

Remember that people have different bathing habits and may be used to a wet room bathroom where there is a large drain in the middle of the floor to dispose of any overflowing water. Should they flood their bath they may not be aware of the damage being caused!

Will Nova-Flo® fit all baths?

Bath and tap designs do vary although the plumbing leading to and from them in the UK is generally to a standard in terms of pipe dimensions; 15mm and 22mm pipes. Nova-Flo® ought to fit easily to 90% of bath and tap installations.

We recommend using the range of John Guest Speedfit plumbing connections if any installation issues regarding pipe arrangements arise.

Feel free to contact us if you are unsure as to whether Nova-Flo® will fit your type of bath or basin and taps.

Can Nova-Flo® be used with a basin?

A Nova-Flo® unit can be fitted to basins with a seperate overflow (many basins have an integral moulded in overflow which can't be used). External overflows are common with stainless steel, some resin basins and some ceramic basins. Modifications may be necessary to the trap and waste to make them compatible.

Does a plumber have to be called out to install Nova-Flo®?

Strictly speaking, yes. Any plumbing arrangement ought to be installed by a qualified plumber, although installation is so simple that it could be installed by any competent person familiar with home plumbing.

The most important procedure is to cut the existing pipes squarely with an appropriate tube cutter in order for them to slide smoothly and completely into the push-in connectors. If a hacksaw is used, the pipe ends are likely to be jagged and off square and will damage the seals within the push-in fittings. To be certain that the job is done correctly we would always recommend hiring a plumber to install Nova-Flo®.

How much will it cost for a plumber to install Nova-Flo®?

This depends upon a number of things, such as your individual plumber's general costs and call out fees, etc. The existing plumbing arrangement you have behind your bath or basin may also affect costs.

The actual time it takes to install Nova-Flo® behind a typical bath or basin is about the same as to install the pipe work without Nova-Flo®. In many cases, it will actually take less time. We estimate under 1 hour.

How do I reset Nova-Flo®?

Ensure there's no more water going down the overflow, then simply turn off the taps and then turn them on again. It really is that simple.

My bath plug is the 'pop up' type operated by a knob over the overflow outlet; can Nova-Flo® be fitted with this arrangement?

Yes, the existing overflow pipe is much the same behind the bath as on a traditional arrangement. Installation is the same.

How does Nova-Flo® compare to the competition?

Nova-Flo® is the only entirely mechanical bath and basin anti-overflow system available that doesn't waste water.

Replacement bath and basin plugs can be bought which mechanically prevent an overflow by wasting all the excess water down the drain. When it is discovered that the taps have been left on you may have no hot water left to have a bath and may have wasted a huge amount of water and energy. They don't work if a flannel or cloth happens to cover them and they are quite bulky so you might knock them out of place during a soak.

There are some electrical systems to turn off the water, although these tend to suffer the following issues:

• Mixing water and electricity...
• If there was a power cut or a fuse were to blow they may lock the water in the off position.
• They rely on electrical fluid valves which often fur up but more often than that, the motors within the valve can burn out rendering them useless.
• Installation requires fitting by both a plumber and an electrician which can be costly.
• Yearly or occasional service inspections at your expense.
• They have an unsightly reset switch - if it is not on display you may have trouble finding it.
• There are often visible floor sensors.
• High initial costs - far higher than Nova-Flo®.
• Many designs are triggered by water being on the floor and reaching a sensor once a flood is in full flow.

If you haven't found the information you are looking for, please contact us.