Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

Ever woken up to the sound of a dripping tap that just won’t quit, noticed your shower pressure drop to a frustrating trickle, or had that sinking feeling when the toilet keeps running long after you’ve flushed? You’re not alone plumbing problems are something every Australian homeowner faces at some point. The good news is that many everyday issues can be prevented or managed with simple household plumbing maintenance tips, helping you save money, reduce water waste, and enjoy greater peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common plumbing headaches, explain what causes them, show you which fixes you can handle yourself, and help you recognise when it’s time to call in a licensed professional so you can confidently maintain your home’s plumbing system.

Blocked Drains: The Most Common Plumbing Nightmare

What Causes Blocked Drains in Australian Homes?

Blocked drains top the list of plumbing complaints across Australia. Hair is a major culprit, especially in bathroom drains. It combines with soap scum to create stubborn clogs that build up over time. In the kitchen, food scraps, grease, and oil are the usual suspects. They solidify in your pipes and gradually restrict water flow.

Tree roots are another common cause, particularly in older Australian homes. Roots naturally seek out moisture and can infiltrate tiny cracks in your pipes. Foreign objects accidentally flushed down toilets think baby wipes, cotton buds, and sanitary products also cause significant blockages.

How Do You Unblock a Drain Yourself?

Start with a plunger. It works brilliantly for minor blockages. Make sure you create a tight seal and use firm, consistent pressure. For kitchen sinks, try pouring boiling water down the drain first to loosen grease deposits.

Signs Your Blocked Drain Needs Professional Attention

If water drains slowly from multiple fixtures, you likely have a main line blockage. Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets indicate trapped air from a serious clog. Foul odours that persist after cleaning suggest a deeper problem. When DIY methods fail repeatedly, it's time to call a plumber with professional drain-clearing equipment.

Leaking Taps and How to Stop the Drip

Why Is My Tap Dripping?

That annoying drip usually comes down to worn washers or O-rings. These small rubber components create watertight seals inside your tap. Over time, they deteriorate from constant use and mineral deposits in the water. Ceramic disc taps can also develop issues when the discs become scratched or damaged.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Leaking Tap

First, turn off the water supply at the isolation valve beneath the sink or at the mains. Open the tap to release any remaining pressure. Remove the tap handle you'll usually find a screw beneath a decorative cap. Extract the valve assembly using an adjustable spanner.

How Much Water Does a Dripping Tap Waste?

Here's a sobering thought: a tap dripping once per second wastes over 12,000 litres annually. That's not just bad for the environment it hits your water bill hard. Fixing a leaky tap is one of the simplest ways to save money and conserve water.

Running Toilets and Cistern Issues

Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

A constantly running toilet typically points to a faulty flapper valve or fill valve. The flapper sits at the bottom of the cistern and creates a seal when closed. If it's warped, cracked, or has mineral buildup, water continuously leaks into the bowl.

The fill valve controls water entering the cistern. When it malfunctions, water keeps flowing past the overflow tube. You might also have an incorrectly adjusted float that's set too high.

How to Fix a Running Toilet Without a Plumber

Check the flapper first. Add a few drops of food colouring to the cistern. If colour appears in the bowl without flushing, your flapper needs replacing. This is a straightforward swap just unhook the old one and clip on the new.

Adjust the float by turning the screw on top of the fill valve or bending the float arm slightly downward. The water level should sit about 2-3 centimetres below the overflow tube. If problems persist, the entire fill valve might need replacing still a manageable DIY job with basic tools.

Low Water Pressure Problems

What Causes Low Water Pressure in the House?

Several factors affect water pressure. Partially closed stop valves are a simple fix check both your main valve and any under-sink valves. Blocked or corroded pipes restrict flow, particularly in older homes with galvanised steel plumbing.

Faulty pressure regulators can cause sudden pressure drops. Leaks elsewhere in your system also reduce pressure at fixtures. Sometimes, the issue lies with your water supplier, so check with neighbours before assuming it's your plumbing.

How Can I Increase My Water Pressure at Home?

Start by cleaning aerators on taps and showerheads. Mineral deposits accumulate over time and restrict flow. Soak them in white vinegar overnight, then scrub with an old toothbrush.

Make sure all valves are fully open. If your home has a pressure regulator, you might be able to adjust it yourself though proceed carefully and make small adjustments. Installing a pressure booster pump is an option for persistently low pressure, but this job requires professional installation.

Is Low Water Pressure a Sign of a Bigger Problem?

Sometimes, yes. If pressure drops suddenly or affects only hot water, you could have a leak, pipe corrosion, or water heater issues. Persistently low pressure throughout the house might indicate serious pipe deterioration. Get a plumber to assess if simple fixes don't improve things.

Burst and Leaking Pipes

What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

Act fast. Turn off the main water supply immediately know where your stopcock is before emergencies happen. Open taps to drain remaining water and reduce pressure. Switch off electricity if water is near electrical fittings.

Contain the water with buckets, towels, and mops. Move furniture and valuables away from the affected area. Document damage with photos for insurance purposes.

How to Detect Hidden Water Leaks

Unexplained increases in water bills often signal hidden leaks. Check your water meter, avoid using water for two hours, then check again. Any movement indicates a leak somewhere in your system.

Look for damp patches on walls, ceilings, or floors. Musty odours and mould growth are telltale signs. Warm spots on floors might indicate a hot water pipe leak beneath.

Emergency Steps Before the Plumber Arrives

Apply a temporary patch using rubber sheeting and a pipe clamp for minor leaks. Plumber's tape can provide short-term relief for pinhole leaks. A bucket underneath catches water and prevents further damage. These are temporary measures professional repairs remain essential.

Hot Water System Troubles

Why Is My Hot Water Not Working?

No hot water could mean a tripped circuit breaker, pilot light issue, or failed heating element. Check your electrical panel first for electric systems. Gas systems might have a pilot light that's gone out follow manufacturer instructions for relighting safely.

Thermostat problems can cause lukewarm water or inconsistent temperatures. Sediment buildup in the tank reduces efficiency and capacity over time.

Common Hot Water System Problems and Solutions

Strange noises often indicate sediment accumulation. Annual flushing helps prevent this. Rusty water suggests tank corrosion usually meaning replacement time is approaching. Leaks around the base indicate tank failure.

For tankless systems, mineral scale buildup affects performance. Regular descaling maintains efficiency. Error codes on modern units help diagnose specific issues.

When to Call a Licensed Plumber

Plumbing Jobs You Should Never DIY

Gas fitting is strictly licensed work never attempt this yourself. Main sewer line repairs require professional equipment and expertise. Any work involving your home's main water supply connection needs a licensed plumber.

Hot water system installation must meet Australian standards and often requires permits. Significant pipe replacements and bathroom renovations involving plumbing relocation are best left to professionals.