Water leaks are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face, and they can happen in unexpected places. Even minor leaks can lead to significant water wastage and costly repairs if not addressed promptly, from dripping taps to leaking toilets and hot water systems.
At Contemporary Plumbing, we’re not just another service provider. We’re a team of passionate professionals dedicated to helping Canberra homeowners stay on top of their plumbing needs. With years of experience providing high-quality plumbing services in Canberra, we know how important it is to detect leaks early and act quickly—especially when it comes to your hot water system.
Here’s everything you need to know about spotting leaks and what to do when your hot water system starts leaking.
Detecting Water Leaks in Your Home
Water leaks might seem minor at first glance, but they can waste thousands of litres of water each year, leading to unnecessarily high water bills and potential damage to your home. At Contemporary Plumbing, we’ve seen it all, from the occasional dripping tap to sneaky hidden leaks that only make themselves known through costly consequences. Here’s how to identify and tackle the most common types of leaks in your home, potentially saving you significant costs in the long run.
Leaky Taps
A dripping tap might not seem urgent, but it can waste as much as 20,000 litres of water a year. That’s a lot of water going straight down the drain! The most common causes of tap leaks are:
- Worn-out washers: These rubber or ceramic components seal the tap and prevent water from escaping. Over time, they can degrade, crack, or simply lose their effectiveness.
- Damaged seals: If the O-rings or cartridges within the tap are faulty, they can also lead to drips.
- Loose or damaged parts: Constant use can cause components like the spindle or handles to wear down.
You might notice water pooling around the base of your taps, hear a persistent dripping sound, or find rust or water stains near your fixtures. Fixing these issues promptly not only saves water but also prevents further wear on your tapware.
If you’re unsure how to fix the leak, don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll ensure your taps are back in working order without wasting another drop.
Toilets That Keep Running
A running toilet isn’t just annoying—it’s a big water waster that can add hundreds of dollars to your water bill if left unresolved. More importantly, it can lead to potential damage to your home. Common culprits include:
- Faulty flapper valve: The rubber stopper at the bottom of the tank may not seal properly, allowing water to continuously flow into the bowl.
- Worn-out fill valve: If the fill valve doesn’t shut off after refilling the tank, it can lead to constant water flow.
- Misaligned or broken float arm: This mechanism controls the water level in the tank. If it’s out of alignment, the tank may overfill and spill into the overflow tube.
You can usually hear a running toilet or see water trickling into the bowl long after flushing. Fixing this problem quickly saves water and ensures your toilet functions efficiently.
At Contemporary Plumbing, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing toilet leaks to keep your home running smoothly.
Hidden Leaks
Hidden leaks are often the most troublesome because they’re hard to detect until the damage becomes severe. These leaks can occur in:
- Walls or ceilings: Signs include damp patches, discolouration, or peeling paint.
- Floors: Look for warped floorboards, wet patches, or tiles that feel loose.
- Pipes beneath sinks or inside cupboards: Check for moisture, rust, or mildew odours.
One of the easiest ways to detect a hidden leak is to monitor your water usage. If your water bill suddenly spikes without an obvious reason, or your water meter continues running even when no water is being used, it’s a clear sign of trouble.
Hidden leaks can also lead to mould and mildew, which pose health risks and require expensive remediation. If you suspect a leak, call us to pinpoint the issue with our professional leak detection equipment and expertise.
Detecting and fixing water leaks promptly not only conserves water but also protects your property from long-term damage. If you’re dealing with any of these issues or you’re unsure where a leak might be hiding, trust Contemporary Plumbing to handle it with care and expertise. Reach out to us today for all your plumbing needs in Canberra!
What to Do When Your Hot Water System Is Leaking
A leaking hot water system can be a cause for concern, but it’s a problem that can be handled with immediate attention. It not only impacts your hot water supply but can also lead to costly damage if not handled quickly. Here’s what you can do to ensure the safety of your hot water system in case of a leak.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the isolation valve on your hot water system and turn it off to stop the flow of water. If you can’t find it, turn off the main water supply to your property.
2. Shut Down the Power Source
For electric hot water systems, turn off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas systems, switch off the gas supply. This step is crucial for your safety and prevents further damage to the system.
3. Check for Visible Damage
Inspect your hot water system for visible signs of damage, like cracks in the tank or leaks from valves and connections. This information can help when you call a plumber.
4. Call a Professional Plumber
Repairing or replacing a hot water system is not a DIY job. At Contemporary Plumbing, we specialise in hot water systems in Canberra and can quickly assess the issue. Whether it’s a faulty valve, a corroded tank, or a problem with the pressure relief valve, we’ll provide a solution tailored to your needs.
Preventing Future Leaks
Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding water leaks. Schedule routine inspections for your plumbing system, including your hot water unit. Our team can help identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.
When you need reliable help with plumbing in Canberra, you can count on us at Contemporary Plumbing. From fixing dripping taps to resolving issues with hot water systems in Canberra, we’re here to keep your home running smoothly. Remember, when it comes to plumbing issues, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.
Get in touch today, and let us take care of your plumbing needs!
P: 02 6292 8175
