Living in Para Hills is lovely, with quiet streets, friendly neighbours, and beautiful gardens. But even the nicest homes can run into common plumbing issues. A dripping tap, a blocked drain, or a toilet that won’t flush can quickly become annoying (and expensive) if not handled early.
In this article, we’ll walk through some of the most common plumbing problems Para Hills homeowners face and what you can do about them. Whether you like to fix things yourself or prefer to call a local expert, this guide will help you stay on top of your home’s plumbing.
1. Leaky Taps That Just Won’t Quit
We’ve all heard it, drip, drip, drip. It might seem like a small issue, but over time, a leaking tap can waste a lot of water and money. In fact, even one drip every second can add up to thousands of litres a year.
Why it happens:
Taps often leak because of worn-out washers or O-rings inside the tap handle.
What you can do:
Turn off the water supply under the sink and use a spanner to remove the tap handle. Replace the washer or O-ring with a new one (available at any hardware store). If that sounds too tricky, a licensed plumber can have it fixed in minutes.
2. Blocked Kitchen Sink
Is the water in your sink draining slowly or not at all? Grease, food scraps, and soap can build up over time, causing a blockage.
What you can do:
Start by pouring boiling water down the drain. If that doesn’t help, try a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then flush it with hot water again. If the problem keeps coming back, you may need professional help to clear the pipes properly.
3. Toilet That Won’t Flush Properly
A toilet that doesn’t flush well or keeps running after you flush is a headache no one wants to deal with, especially in busy households.
Why it happens:
Common reasons include a worn-out flapper valve, low water level in the tank, or issues with the float.
What you can do:
Lift the lid of the toilet tank and check inside. You might be able to adjust the float or replace the flapper with a new one. These parts are cheap and easy to swap out. But if water is leaking around the base of the toilet or nothing seems to fix it, it’s best to call in a pro.
4. Low Water Pressure
Struggling to get a strong shower or waiting too long for the sink to fill up? Low water pressure can be frustrating.
Why it happens:
This could be due to a build-up of minerals in your pipes, a faulty tap, or even a hidden leak.
What you can do:
Check if it’s happening in just one tap or all around the house. If it’s only one tap, the aerator might be clogged, you can unscrew it and give it a clean. If the issue is more widespread, you may need a plumber to check your pipes or water pressure regulator.
5. Hot Water Problems
No hot water in the middle of winter? That’s something no one wants to experience.
What to check:
Sometimes, it’s just the pilot light on your hot water system going out. If you have a gas water heater, check the manual to relight it safely. Electric systems may need a reset.
When to call for help:
If your system is leaking, making strange noises, or is very old, it could be time for a repair or replacement.
6. Smelly Drains
If your bathroom or kitchen sink smells bad, it could be a sign of something building up in the pipes.
What you can do:
Try flushing the drain with a mix of vinegar and bicarb soda, followed by hot water. Make sure to regularly clean your drains to stop hair, grease, and food scraps from causing problems.
7. Burst or Leaking Pipes
Leaks hidden behind walls or under floors can cause serious damage if left unnoticed. If you see water stains, hear dripping sounds, or notice damp patches, act fast.
What to do:
Turn off the main water supply to stop the leak. Then, call a professional plumber as soon as possible to inspect and repair the pipe.
Conclusion
While many plumbing issues can be sorted with a little DIY know-how, some problems need expert attention. When you’re not sure what to do, or when a small issue keeps coming back, it’s time to contact the experts.
If you’re looking for reliable and friendly Para Hills plumbing services, don’t wait for things to get worse. Distinct Plumbing is a trusted local team known for solving everyday and emergency plumbing issues quickly and professionally. Whether it’s a blocked drain or a burst pipe, they’ve got the tools and experience to get your home back on track, with no stress.