Your Top Plumbing Questions Answered: A Guide for Homeowners

Plumbing problems can pop up when you least expect them. One day your taps are fine and the next day there's water dripping everywhere.

Many Wellington homeowners tend to ask us the same plumbing questions. So we put together this guide with clear answers to help you feel more prepared.

Here at Garcia Plumbing & Gas we believe good plumbing advice should be easy to understand. So let's dive in.

1. Why does my tap keep dripping?

A dripping tap is one of the most common plumbing headaches. Lots of people ignore it because it seems like a small issue. But a single drip can waste thousands of liters every year.

The usual cause is a worn washer or cartridge inside the tap. Sometimes the parts get old or brittle.

You can replace a washer yourself if you have the right tools. Just remember to shut off the water supply first. If you're not sure what you're doing or your tap is old then the best route is to replace the whole tap.

This can end up saving you water and money in the long run.

2. Why is my water pressure so low?

Low water pressure can make showers miserable and washing dishes take forever. Many older homes have pipes that get clogged with mineral build-up. Sometimes there's a leak that you can't see on your own.

First things first, check that your mains tap is fully open. Look for leaks under sinks or around your house.

If you still have poor pressure then give us a call. We can check your pipes and find out what needs to be done to get your water pressure back to 100%.

3. Why does my toilet keep running?

If your toilet keeps running after you flush then you're wasting water every single day. Most of the time the flapper valve inside the tank is not sealing properly. Or the float might be stuck.

You can lift the lid off the tank and take a look. Sometimes it's a simple jiggle of the flush handle. But if you're constantly fighting with it then it's best to replace worn parts.

It's a quick job that can save you big time on your next water bill.

4. How can I stop my drains from blocking?

Blocked drains are one of the top reasons people call in a plumber. For the kitchen sink it's common for grease and food scraps to build up over time. In the bathroom clumps of hair and soap scum are the usual culprits.

Use drain strainers wherever you can. Never pour oil or fat down the sink. Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing them. Once a month it's also a good idea to pour boiling water down the drain to clear any build-up.

If you have slow drains no matter what you do then there's likely a larger blockage deeper in the pipes. That's when it's smart to get a professional in to clear things safely.

5. Are chemical drain cleaners safe?

The first thing many people do is grab a bottle of drain cleaner when they see a clog. Chemical solutions like this work sometimes but they can also damage pipes if you use them too much. Older pipes especially can get eaten away by harsh reactions.

Depending on the brand these cleaners can be bad for the environment and hard on your septic system. For tough blockages you want a plumber who can use proper tools like a drain snake or jetter. This clears the pipes without the damage.

6. Why does my hot water run out so fast?

Picture this. You're taking a nice hot shower and suddenly the water runs cold. If you're running out of hot water quicker than before then your hot water cylinder or heater may have an issue.

The likely causes are sediment that has built up inside the cylinder or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Check the thermostat settings first. It should be around 60 degrees Celsius to be optimal. If you have an older hot water system then you might need an upgrade.

An expert crew like Garcia Plumbing & Gas can inspect it and let you know your best options.

7. How do I know if I have a hidden leak?

Sometimes leaks hide inside walls or under floors. A sudden jump in your water bill is a big clue. Another sign is damp patches or mould that keeps coming back.

Turn off all taps and appliances that use water. Then check your water meter. If it's still ticking over you likely have a leak. Finding hidden leaks early can prevent major irreversible damage to your home.

8. Should I get my plumbing checked regularly?

Yes. Too often Wellington homeowners wait until there's an emergency before reaching out for help. But getting regular plumbing check-ups can catch small issues before they turn into full-blown catastrophes.

An annual inspection means a thorough look at pipes, taps, drains, and more. It gives you peace of mind that everything is working as it should be when it comes to the plumbing inside your home.

Need a Hand? Garcia Plumbing & Gas is Here to Help

Plumbing is one of those things you don't think about until something goes wrong. But when it does you want to make sure you have a team that you can count on to help get things back on track.

Our crew at Garcia Plumbing & Gas is proud to help Wellington homeowners like you with quality advice and fast service. So if you have a plumbing problem that needs fixing we're ready to come by and help.

Contact us today and let's protect the plumbing inside your home and keep it in top condition.