Top 7 Common Plumbing Issues And What To Do

What are the biggest plumbing issues when owning a home and how do you avoid them? The first step in managing residential plumbing issues is to identify the cause of the problem. Once you have isolated the cause, then it is necessary to quickly take the appropriate steps to get it sorted before further damage can occur.

While some plumbing problems go hand in hand with ageing fixtures and everyday wear and tear, others can be caused by how well the plumbing is maintained and used. Here are some of the most common problems you will run into along with some information about why they occur, what can be done to fix them and when to call a plumber.

1. Leaks!

Leaking pipes are usually the result of expansion and contraction in the pipes causing either the pipes themselves, or their joins, to burst. Leaking pipes are a major cause for concern both internally (if they result in water coming through the walls or roof), and externally or underground (where damage can occur to the foundations). 

When you first discover an internal leak it is most likely you will notice damp areas, a musty smell or staining indicating there is a leak somewhere out of sight. For external leaks it is more likely you will notice wet spongy areas on the ground or areas that are extra leafy or green when everywhere else is dry and browned off. As a first response it is a good idea to try to prevent further damage by turning off the water supply to the area. Then give your local plumber a call right away to organise repairs. 

2. Running Or Blocked Toilets

A constantly running toilet can waste anywhere from 50 to 200 litres or more per day. That’s a lot of water to waste and especially troublesome when you get the water bill! The cause of running toilets varies but often involve internal components of the toilet tank and seals requiring the skills of a plumber in most cases. 

A blocked toilet on the other hand is a completely different problem, this is likely a result of a blocked sewage drain pipe or tree roots crushing the pipes somewhere between the toilet and the sewerage mains outlet/septic tank. The first action is to have a go at it with a good old fashioned plunger, if unsuccessful this type of plumbing issue is definitely one where you don't mind calling for the professionals - it's time to give your plumber a call!

3. Inconsistent Or Weak Water Pressure

Poor water pressure can make everyday tasks like having a shower, running a bath, washing the dishes or watering the garden a huge chore. Waiting around for the bath or sink to fill, hot water that dribbles out or a shower that barely wets you might be something you can put up with temporarily but after a while it will need to be looked at.

Fluctuating or low water pressure can sometimes be a result how you water system is set up or water supply method, but it can also be caused by leaks, corrosion, calcified pipes or simply old plumbing that needs to be replaced. For this one, calling a plumber is a must - they will be able to assess what is causing the low water pressure and how best to address it.

4. Blocked Drains

Drainage problems in your sink, bathtub or shower are usually caused by the build-up of debris such as food, hair, grease and scum. In the first instance where the drainage problem is localised, chemical drain cleaners purchased from your local hardware store or supermarket are a good option or you could try baking soda and vinegar for a DIY approach.

If unsuccessful you will need to call a plumber as the drainage issue might be more serious with possible issues further down the pipes. Plumbers have specialised equipment that allows them to detect and clear the blockage with minimal disturbance to the infrastructure. If the blockage is not cleared in a timely manner it will likely worsen over time and end up with major plumbing works required to fix it.

Note: Drain clearing chemicals are caustic and can cause permanent damage to your drainage pipes if used too often.

5. No Hot Water

Not having any hot water is a very unwelcome surprise - especially if you are in the midst of your morning shower! For most New Zealand homes this usually means problems with the hot water cylinder which could include heating element failure, build-up of sediment in the cylinder, corrosion of the cylinder walls, and/or problems with the electrical connections and thermostat.

Hot water cylinders are complex plumbing and electrical appliances therefore hiring a professional is required for any repairs or replacements. It pays to note that if your cylinder is older than 10 to 15 years it is likely a full replacement will be recommended due to internal corrosion. 

6. Dripping Taps

Perhaps the most common plumbing issue most people encounter is the dripping tap (faucet). A leaky tap may not seem like a big deal but if left unattended it can end up costing you even more money and time. Over the course of a month or year a single dripping tap can leak away hundreds of litres of water.

In most instances your dripping tap is likely to be caused by a worn out, dislodged or damaged O-Ring. These are an easy inexpensive fix for your local plumber. In other cases, the drip might be caused by corrosion within the faucet, improper installation or your tap may have reached the end of its useful life.

7. Leaking Shower

For obvious reasons your shower needs to be waterproof. A leaking shower can cause you a lot of problems if it goes unnoticed or isn’t taken care of. Shower leaks can occur for several reasons, but most commonly they are due to sealant issues or if the lining has cracked. For tile showers there can also be issues with the waterproof membrane underneath the tiles.

The areas where the taps and shower fixtures penetrate the lining of the shower are also weak points where leaks may occur. It is necessary to keep an eye on all of these things and to watch out for wet spots in the walls and flooring surrounding the shower. Always call a plumber for suspected shower leakage as the whole shower may need to be removed.

3 Handy Tips To Avoid Plumbing Problems

While knowing what to do when you encounter plumbing problems is great, as with most things prevention is the best approach! By following these simple tips, you can avoid some of the common plumbing issues mentioned above and keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape.

1. Regular Maintenance. Scheduling regular inspections and maintenance of your plumbing system will enable you to identify potential issues before they reach any significance. This might include monitoring water pressure, checking for leaks, and testing hot water temperatures.

2. Careful Use. Making sure your plumbing system is used properly and responsibly will go a long way to ensuring its longevity. This means avoiding flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, not pouring grease and oil down the drain, regularly clearing and cleaning drains of debris and not washing food down the drain.

3. Carrying Out Timely Repairs. Addressing minor plumbing issues and maintenance will prevent issues from escalating into more significant problems over the longer term.

Although many plumbing problems may seem fairly straightforward, it is always best to call the professionals to ensure there aren't any more significant issues hidden under the surface. Plumbers have the right equipment and skills to get the job done right, first time.