Melbourne homeowners often face a variety of plumbing problems, many of which are due to the unique characteristics of our climate, water infrastructure, and housing styles. Whether you live in a charming old home in Carlton or a modern townhouse in St Kilda, knowing the most common plumbing issues can help you stay prepared. Below, we cover the top 5 plumbing problems that we see across Melbourne and provide some practical tips for dealing with them.
1. Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are one of the most frequent complaints we receive in Melbourne. Whether it’s in the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry, blockages can quickly turn into a major inconvenience. There are several reasons why drains get blocked:
- Tree Roots: Many Melbourne suburbs, like Brunswick and Kew, are known for their lush greenery. Unfortunately, the roots of those beautiful trees can invade underground pipes, causing stubborn blockages.
- Grease and Debris: Kitchen drains are prone to grease buildup, which combines with food particles to create clogs. This is particularly common in high-density areas like Richmond, where apartment plumbing systems may be under higher pressure.
How to Prevent Blocked Drains:
- Avoid pouring oil or grease down the drain.
- Use a drain strainer in your sinks to catch food and debris.
- Schedule a professional drain cleaning annually to keep things flowing smoothly.
2. Leaking Taps
Leaking taps may seem like a small issue, but the constant dripping can waste a significant amount of water and drive up your bills. Leaking taps are a common issue in Melbourne, especially in older homes where fixtures may have worn out over time.
- Wear and Tear: In suburbs with older houses, like Fitzroy and Collingwood, leaks are often caused by worn washers or corroded fixtures.
- High Water Pressure: Melbourne’s water supply can sometimes have high pressure, which puts extra stress on taps and valves, eventually leading to leaks.
How to Fix a Leaking Tap:
- Replacing the washer or cartridge usually solves the issue.
- If the leak persists, contact a licensed plumber to identify the root cause and fix it properly.
3. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is another common problem faced by Melbourne homeowners, and it can make simple daily tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating.
- Pipe Blockages: Mineral buildup or sediment in pipes is often the culprit behind low water pressure, especially in areas with older plumbing systems like Footscray.
- Municipal Supply Issues: Sometimes, low water pressure is due to problems with the municipal water supply, which can affect several homes in a neighborhood.
What You Can Do:
- Check that the pressure-reducing valve, if installed, is functioning properly.
- Contact a plumber to inspect for hidden blockages or other issues affecting your water pressure.
4. Burst Pipes
Melbourne’s seasonal changes can be tough on plumbing systems, and temperature fluctuations often lead to burst pipes. This is particularly common in older properties or during sudden cold spells.
- Aging Pipes: In older suburbs like Hawthorn or Ascot Vale, aging pipes are more susceptible to damage. Galvanized pipes, commonly used in older homes, are more prone to rust and can burst unexpectedly.
- Shifting Soil: Melbourne’s clay-rich soil tends to expand and contract with changes in moisture, which puts pressure on buried pipes, causing them to weaken over time.
Steps to Take:
- Turn off the water supply immediately if you notice a burst pipe.
- Call an emergency plumber to conduct repairs and minimize water damage.
5. Hot Water System Issues
A malfunctioning hot water system is one of the most inconvenient plumbing issues, especially during Melbourne’s colder months. We often get calls about insufficient hot water, leaks from the unit, or even strange noises.
- Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can collect at the bottom of your hot water tank, reducing efficiency. This is common in areas with hard water, such as in the outer suburbs like Dandenong.
- Component Failure: Heating elements or thermostats can wear out, leading to inconsistent or no hot water. We frequently see this issue in homes across Northcote and South Melbourne.
Tips for Maintaining Your Hot Water System:
- Schedule regular maintenance to flush out sediment buildup.
- If your system is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model.
Conclusion
Plumbing issues are a part of homeownership, but knowing what to look out for can help you stay ahead of the problem. Whether you’re dealing with a blocked drain in Richmond, low water pressure in Coburg, or a burst pipe in Elwood, it’s always best to consult a licensed plumber to ensure the issue is resolved quickly and effectively.
If you’re facing any of these common plumbing issues in Melbourne, contact us today. Our professional plumbers are ready to help, no matter where you are in the city or surrounding suburbs. Let’s keep your plumbing in top shape together!