Common Plumbing Issues in North Sydney and How to Fix Them

Plumbing is one of those things you don’t think about much – until it stops working. A blocked drain, low water pressure, or even the simple drip of a tap can quickly turn into a major headache if left unchecked. 

In North Sydney, where older homes are common, plumbing issues can crop up more frequently, often due to aging infrastructure. While some plumbing problems can be fixed with a bit of elbow grease, others are best left to a professional plumber.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the most common plumbing issues North Sydney homeowners face and how to tackle them. And if DIY isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there’s always a local plumber North Sydney ready to help.

Dripping Taps: Small Leak, Big Waste

We’ve all experienced it – that annoying drip, drip, drip of a tap that won’t shut off properly. Not only is it irritating, but a dripping tap can also waste up to 20,000 litres of water each year if left unfixed! Over time, this can add a hefty sum to your water bill.

Common Causes:

• Worn washers or O-rings: Over time, washers inside taps can wear out, causing water to leak.
• Loose parts: Sometimes, components inside the tap may loosen, leading to drips.
• Corrosion: Older taps may corrode internally, resulting in leaks.

How to Fix It:

1. Turn off the water supply to prevent flooding while you work.
2. Take apart the tap carefully, taking note of how each part fits together (taking a photo can help).
3. Replace the faulty part (typically the washer, O-ring, or cartridge), which you can find at your local hardware store.
4. Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on to test.

If after all this, the tap still drips, it’s a good idea to call in a professional plumber in North Sydney to ensure everything is done correctly.

Blocked Drains: Dealing with Blocks and Stubborn Build-ups

Blocked drains are incredibly common and can be caused by everything from hair and soap build-up in the bathroom to grease and food debris in the kitchen. 

A slow-draining sink or shower can quickly escalate into a complete blockage, potentially causing water damage or foul odours.

Common Causes

• Hair and soap scum: These are the usual suspects in bathroom sinks and shower drains.
• Food scraps and grease: In kitchen sinks, food particles and grease can accumulate in the pipes.
• Foreign objects: Sometimes, foreign objects such as small toys, paper, or even tree roots in external pipes can block drains.

How to Fix It

1. Try a plunger: This basic tool can often loosen minor blocks. Create a seal and pump the plunger up and down vigorously to dislodge the blockage.
2. Use a plumber’s snake: For more stubborn blocks, a plumber's snake can be fed into the drain to remove debris that’s deeper in the pipe.
3. Use a natural solution: Pour a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar into the drain to help break up grease and grime.

If the blockage keeps coming back or the drain smells persistently, it might indicate a bigger issue, and it’s best to call a plumber in North Sydney.

Low Water Pressure: Restoring Your Flow

Nothing ruins a shower like weak water pressure. If you’re suddenly dealing with a dribble instead of a steady stream, there are a few things to check before you call a plumber. Low water pressure can stem from several issues, ranging from minor blockages to serious problems with your plumbing system.

Common Causes

• Blocked aerators: Mineral deposits from hard water can block the small screens inside tap aerators and showerheads.
• Leaky pipes: A hidden leak in your plumbing can result in reduced water pressure.
• Old pipes: In older North Sydney homes, aging pipes can corrode from the inside, reducing water flow.

How to Fix It

• Clean the aerators: Unscrew the aerator from the tap and clean out any debris or mineral build-up.
• Check for leaks: Inspect under sinks and along exposed pipes for any signs of leaks. If you find one, it’s time to call a plumber in North Sydney.
• Replace old pipes: Corroded or outdated pipes might need to be replaced by a professional to restore full water pressure.

If cleaning aerators and checking for leaks doesn’t solve the issue, low pressure could be a symptom of a bigger problem, and it’s wise to get a plumber in to investigate.

Running Toilets: The Phantom Flush

A running toilet might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste hundreds of litres of water per day and drive up your water bill. The issue is usually caused by worn-out parts inside the tank that need to be replaced.

Common Causes

• Faulty flapper valve: If the flapper inside the tank doesn’t seal properly, water will constantly flow into the bowl.
• Float issues: If the float is set too high, the tank will keep filling beyond capacity.
• Problems with the fill valve: If the fill valve is broken or not functioning correctly, water won’t shut off properly.

How to Fix It

1. Check the flapper: If it’s damaged, replace it with a new one from the hardware store.
2. Adjust the float: Ensure the float is set to the right level so the tank doesn’t overfill.
3. Replace the fill valve: If the other fixes don’t work, you might need to replace the fill valve.

If you’re not sure how to handle toilet repairs, a plumber in North Sydney can get it sorted quickly.

Water Hammer: Bang Goes the Pipe!

A water hammer is that annoying banging sound you hear when you shut off a tap suddenly. It’s caused by a sudden halt in water flow, which sends a shockwave through your pipes. If left unchecked, it can cause serious damage to your plumbing system.

Common Causes:

• High water pressure: Water pressure that’s too high can cause pipes to vibrate.
• Loose pipes: Pipes that aren’t secured properly can move when water flow is abruptly stopped.

How to Fix It:

• Install water hammer arrestors: These devices act like shock absorbers for your pipes, preventing the loud banging noise.
• Secure loose pipes: Check under sinks and in your crawl space to ensure pipes are properly secured.

For more persistent or severe cases, it’s best to call a plumber North Sydney to inspect and address the issue before it leads to broken pipes.

Wrapping Up

While some plumbing problems can be handled with a little DIY, others may need a professional’s touch. 

If you’re experiencing issues that won’t go away or are unsure about tackling the problem yourself, it’s always a good idea to get in touch with a plumber North Sydney. 

Sewer Surgeon is here to help with expert solutions to all your plumbing woes. Contact us today for reliable, professional assistance to keep your home running smoothly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have my plumbing inspected?

For peace of mind, it’s advisable to have your plumbing system inspected at least once a year by a plumber in North Sydney.

Are chemical drain cleaners safe for pipes?

While effective, they can damage pipes over time. It’s better to opt for natural methods or call a plumber in North Sydney for a proper solution.

What should I do if my water heater isn’t working?

Water heater issues are best handled by professionals. Call a plumber in North Sydney to assess and repair the problem.

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