Sydney is a dream for many with its harbour views, dynamic culture, and temperate climate. But even in this perfect city, homeowners have to deal with the mundane but important issue of plumbing problems. Imagine this: it’s a Saturday morning, and you’re looking forward to a relaxing weekend when suddenly your sink won’t drain or worse, your toilet is overflowing. Knowing the most common plumbing problems in Sydney homes and how to fix them will save you time, money, and prevent potential hazards from escalating.
Here are the most common plumbing issues in Sydney.
Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are the most common plumbing problem in Sydney homes. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, shower drain, or toilet, blockages can be a real pain. They’re often caused by a buildup of grease, hair, soap scum and foreign objects.
How to Fix Blocked Drains
First, try a plunger. It’s a simple tool, but it often works. Place it over the drain, create a seal, and pump hard. If that doesn’t work, use equal parts baking soda and vinegar to help dissolve minor blockages. Pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, wait 15 minutes, and then flush with hot water.
Use a plumber’s snake or jet for more stubborn blockages. Insert the snake into the drain and twist until you feel resistance. That’s when you hit the blockage, which you can break or pull out.
If these don’t work, it’s time to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to fix severe blockages without damaging your pipes.
Leaky Taps
Drip, drip, drip. A leaky tap is not only annoying but also costs you more and wastes water. In fact, a single tap dripping one drop of water every second can waste up to 7,000 litres of water a year!
How to Fix Leaky Taps
Leaky taps are usually caused by worn-out washers or O-rings. Turn off the tap’s water supply. Remove the tap handle with a spanner and replace the washer or O-ring with a new one. Reassemble the tap, turn the water supply back on, and check for leaks.
If the leak persists, the issue might be with the tap seat. This requires special tools to fix, so it is best to call a plumber.
Running Toilets
A running toilet is a big water waste. According to Sydney Water, a running toilet can waste up to 260 litres of water a day. This problem is often caused by a faulty valve, which doesn’t seal properly, allowing the water to perpetually flow from the tank to the bowl.
How to Fix Running Toilets
To fix this, remove the toilet tank lid and inspect the valve. If it’s worn or damaged, replace it with a new one. These are cheap and available at any hardware store. Sometimes, the issue might be with the fill valve or float, which can also be replaced or adjusted.
If these don’t work, it could be a more serious issue with the toilet’s internals. In that case, get professional help.
Low Water Pressure
There’s nothing more annoying than a weak shower after a long day. Low water pressure in Sydney homes can be caused by mineral deposits in the pipes, issues with the water supply, or a faulty pressure regulator.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure
Start by checking if the low pressure is just one fixture or the whole house. If it’s just one fixture, the aerator might be clogged. Remove and soak it in vinegar to dissolve the mineral deposits, then rinse and reattach.
If the whole house has low water pressure, check your pressure regulator (if you have one) to see if it’s working. If it’s faulty, you’ll need a plumber to replace it. Also, check for leaks in your plumbing system, as these can greatly reduce water pressure.
Sometimes, the issue might be with the municipal water supply. Contact Sydney Water to see if there are any works or issues in your area.
Hot Water System Failures
Hot water system failures are common in Sydney, especially in older homes. Issues can include no hot water, fluctuating temperatures, or strange noises coming from the system.
How to Fix Hot Water System Failures
For electric hot water, check the thermostat and reset it if necessary. Also, check that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. For gas hot water, check the pilot light and relight it if it’s out. Sediment buildup in the tank can cause problems; draining the tank annually will help prevent this.
If it continues to be a problem, it may be a more serious issue, such as a faulty heating element or thermostat. These can be tricky and dangerous to fix, so call a plumber.
Conclusion
Know the common plumbing problems in Sydney homes and how to fix them, and you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle and unexpected costs. From blocked drains and leaky taps to running toilets, low water pressure, and hot water system failures, being prepared can save you stress.
Are these plumbing solutions not working for you? Call a professional plumber from Aerocycle!
Ready to tackle plumbing issues in your Sydney home? Take control today and fix common problems like blocked drains and leaky taps with our DIY tips. For more serious emergencies or when you need professional help, call Aerocycle. Our plumbers offer full services from emergency repairs to routine maintenance, so your home’s plumbing is always in top condition. Visit Aerocycle’s plumbing page now and book your service. Act now and keep your home running smoothly with Aerocycle!