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What are the Most Common Plumbing Problems?

Small leaks in your home plumbing may seem harmless at first but, if ignored, they can add up to heaps of extra water charges. Water leaks can also damage floorboards and wall cavities, weakening the foundations of your home and creating a breeding ground for hazardous mould.

Unfortunately, water leaks in Auckland are not that uncommon, so it’s always good to be vigilant and watch out for any possible symptoms of a leak. The good news is that early detection isn’t usually complicated. Here are some of our tips for finding water leaks in your home.

Water dripping from tap

Monitor your water bill

We don’t all set aside time to scour our home for leaks every month, so for many people, the first sign of trouble turns up on the water bill. Have you received a bill that seems out of step with your regular water consumption? A hefty bill with no apparent change in your water use habits may indicate a leak in your plumbing system.

Review your water meter

One of the most reliable ways to tell if there’s a leak in your plumbing system is to check your water meter. Before doing so, make sure you turn off all the water in your home and ensure every faucet, shower, or dishwasher is not running.

If the meter continues to rotate after turning off all plumbed appliances, you may be experiencing a fast-moving leak. If the meter remains unchanged, wait two hours and check it again. A slower change could indicate a slower leak.

Check your water pressure

Run your water and check if the water pressure is lower than normal. A lighter flow could indicate that there’s a problem with your pipes. This could be a small crack that’s slowly getting bigger, or wastage blocking your water line. Whatever the reason, it’s best to consult with a professional to have your pipes cleared and repaired as soon as possible.

Watch out for signs of mould

Mould and mildew thrive in wet or damp places with little free-flowing air, and leaking pipes in wall cavities provide the perfect conditions for mould to grow. If you notice any signs of mould or foul, musty odours, you may be dealing with a broken pipe and leaking water.

See water damage to cupboards

If you notice laminate seals start protruding at the back of your cupboards and have wet patches lurking at the back, a leaking water pipe may be the culprit. It’s best to find the source of moisture to ensure that the problem doesn’t get worse.

Inspect the flooring

The condition of the concrete of your home or building is a great indicator of a broken water pipe. If you notice a sudden crack in slabs, or uneven flooring coupled with sounds of running, dripping, or bubbling water when all taps are turned off, you may want a professional plumber to double-check your pipes for leaks.

Suspect water leaks? Call Pipeline Plumbing & Drainage

If you suspect a leak anywhere in your plumbing system, don’t ignore it! The best thing to do is to call Pipeline Plumbing & Drainage. As trusted plumbers in Auckland Central, we have a 24/7 on-call team to attend to your emergency plumbing needs throughout Auckland. Call us today!