Updated 30/07/2025
Plumbing problems seem to strike at the worst possible moments – but then again, there’s never a good time for a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet!
Some plumbing issues are indeed caused by unexpected events that you couldn’t have foreseen. However, when a big plumbing problem suddenly arises, subtle signs have likely been present for months – maybe even years! Dripping taps or rattling pipes can seem like minor issues, but they can be your early warning that a bigger and more expensive problem awaits future you. Addressing minor issues promptly is often the cheapest and least disruptive path to take.
Sydney homeowners should also maintain their plumbing systems to ensure the property is equipped to deal with storm season. Small plumbing problems have a way of revealing themselves during a storm event – and often with expensive consequences!
Signs of Sydney plumbing problems
The good news is that many plumbing issues can be caught early if you know what to look/listen out for. Here are some of the most common signs of Sydney plumbing problems and what you can do about them.
A sudden increase in water bills
A dramatic spike in your water bill when your usage hasn’t changed could indicate that there’s a leak in your plumbing system. If you can’t link it to a dripping tap or a toilet that’s running all the time, there may be a slow leaking pipe hidden somewhere in the foundation of your home.
Solution
Small leaks add up to a whole lot of wasted water, so don’t ignore them. Your Sydney plumber can diagnose and repair the issue.
Running toilet
A hissing cistern is normal after flushing, but a constantly running toilet is definitely not. It’s an annoying sound, especially in the middle of the night, but it’s also a huge waste of water. Even a small trickle can use an additional 200L a day. In one year, that’s 73,000L of wasted water you’ll pay for.
Toilets that are leaking from the base present much bigger problems, including damaged floors.
Solution
A flapper valve issue can cause your toilet to run constantly. Taking off the cistern lid and jiggling the top flapper valve may help if it is caught or stuck. If this doesn’t help, the valve or other components may need replacing. There are plenty of DIY videos available for this job, but if you’re not handy – or prefer to keep your hands out of the toilet – call in your plumber!
Low water pressure
If you’ve noticed your shower pressure is weaker than usual or the kitchen sink takes longer to fill, it’s important to investigate what’s impacting your water pressure. Low water pressure can be caused by a range of issues, including clogged or leaking pipes, faulty fixtures, or a problem with the water supply.
Solution
Check with your local water provider first. If there are no reported issues from their end, call in your plumber to diagnose the cause. Resolving leaks and clogs ASAP is the best way to avoid bigger issues like burst pipes and water damage.
Frequent clogs
Clogged toilets and sinks are not unusual – but they’re typically one-off events with an identifiable culprit, e.g. non-flushable objects, build-up of fats/food in the pipes. Frequent clogs could indicate a bigger problem somewhere deeper inside the plumbing system. For instance, tree roots can infiltrate your pipes, blocking the flow of wastewater away from your home.
Solution
DIY solutions for unblocking your drain can work if the clog is small and superficial. However, frequent clogs require the attention of a licensed plumber. A CCTV drain inspection provides a clear look inside the pipes to accurately diagnose the problem.
Slow drainage
Just like frequent clogs, slow draining sinks, baths and showers could be a warning sign of an obstruction somewhere in your plumbing.
Solution
Ensure your pipes are free of debris, sediment, oil and grease build-up, or thirsty tree roots wreaking havoc on the pipework running underneath your property. Call your Sydney plumber for a CCTV drain inspection and diagnosis. We have specialist equipment to clear even the most stubborn drain blockage, including high-pressure water jetters and augers (a motorised drain snake).
Foul odours
Drains that smell funky are usually indicative of a plumbing problem. A pipe blocked with a build-up of gunk could be to blame, as could a problem with the P-trap. Additionally, sewer line issues can cause unpleasant odours to linger around the drains in your home.
Solution
Tempted to try DIY drain unblocking? At best, the fix is temporary; at worst, the blockage ends up further down the pipe, where it’s even harder to clear. CCTV drain cameras and powerful drain-clearing equipment may be required to accurately diagnose and resolve blocked drains – so call in your Sydney plumber for a thorough assessment and long-lasting solution.
An unexplained puddle
A puddle in your yard after a rain event is usually a sign of backyard drainage problems. But standing water in your yard that appears when the skies are clear could be due to a broken sewer pipe, and you need this fixed pronto. A lawn with a patch of grass that is much greener than the rest could also signal a leaking or broken pipe.
Solution
Once again, small leaks may not raise alarm bells now, but the hidden cost can add up very quickly. A licensed plumber can assess the problem and provide solutions that will save precious water – and precious money. Innovative solutions like pipe relining may be appropriate, as opposed to digging up your backyard to replace old and damaged pipes.
Brown or yellow water coming from your tap
If the water coming from your taps is discoloured, this could be a sign of corroded pipes. In simple terms, there’s rust in the water – yuck! If you noticed the problem only occurs when you run the hot water, your hot water system may be to blame. A rusty hot water tank needs prompt attention.
Solution
Rusty water looks and tastes gross, and corroding plumbing infrastructure will only get worse if you ignore it. To resolve the problem, get an expert diagnosis from a licensed plumber. The solution will depend on the cause and severity of the problem.
Discoloured walls or ceiling
Discoloured spots, water stains and bubbling paint on your ceilings or walls may be caused by a leaking pipe. But the aesthetics are the least of your problems. Hidden behind walls or in the ceiling, even a slow leaking pipe can cause significant damage if ignored. Mould and mildew can flourish, which poses a serious health risk. Additionally, prolonged water leaks can cause structural damage to your home.
Solution
A slow-leaking pipe may require a simple repair. However, if you ignore the initial signs, that slow leak can rot timber, ruin paintwork, and allow mould spores to run rampant. Get this plumbing issue seen to ASAP.
Knocking or rattling pipes
If turning the tap on comes with a noisy soundtrack of banging or rattling, this could be due to ‘water hammer.’ Changes in water flow or pressure are responsible for water hammer, and what you’re hearing is the pipes violently vibrating inside the wall. Over time, this can weaken the joints, valves and fixtures, leading to damage and leaks.
Solution
Fixing this plumbing problem may involve adding air chambers, adjusting the water pressure, securing loose pipes, and installing water hammer arrestors. A licensed plumber is required for these installations.
Leaking taps
The drip, drip, drip of a leaking tap can send you around the bend – and yet, it’s one of the plumbing problems we most commonly put off having fixed. But a tiny drip left unchecked can add up to a huge amount of wasted water – and you’re paying for every drop! If you’re really unlucky, it can lead to significant water damage when a plug is accidentally left in a sink with a persistently leaking tap.
Solution
Google will tell you that fixing a leaking tap is an easy plumbing DIY. However, if it’s not done properly, you could end up paying for it! Engage a residential plumber and get the job done correctly the first time.
Preparing Your Sydney Plumbing for Storm Season
Sydney storm season is unpredictable – but your plumbing doesn’t have to be! Here are six things to consider to ensure your plumbing system is functional and ready for whatever the Sydney skies throw at it!
Keep your gutters clean
This is so simple, yet so easy to forget! Your gutters are there to do one important job when the rain comes, and it can be a pretty epic disaster if they’re blocked with leaves and the water can’t drain away. Prepare for Sydney’s storm season by clearing all leaf litter and debris from your gutters so they can do their important job.
If your property sits beneath prolific leaf-dropping trees, consider gutterproofing for added protection.
Repair leaks
Small leaks in your downpipes, gutters or even your roof can lead to HUGE headaches later. Make sure you fix these leaks when they’re small!
Test your downpipes with your garden hose
Yep, you heard correctly! Your garden hose isn’t just there to water the garden or keep the kids cool during a hot Sydney summer. You can also use it to test that your downpipes are working properly. Run water from the top of the downpipe and note any drainage issues. Does the water move easily through the pipes, or could something be blocking its path? Is water leaking anywhere along the length of the pipe? Call your plumber to resolve these issues and get your roofwater drainage sorted BEFORE the next storm.
Check your rainwater tank
If your Sydney home has a rainwater tank, it’s important to check that the pipes are clear. Blocked rainwater tank pipes can result in water overwhelming your gutters.
Ensure your backyard drainage is functional
Your home’s backyard drainage is crucial for directing rainwater away from the property. If you’ve noticed that water tends to pool during a storm event, it’s worth having your drainage system assessed by a plumber. Simple changes or installations can significantly improve the functionality of your backyard drainage, avoiding soil erosion, waterlogged lawns, and damage to retaining walls and other outdoor structures.
Your plumber can assist with:
Assess the backflow hazard
If stormwater flows down your pipes in the wrong direction, your drinking water could be contaminated, posing a risk to your household and the wider community. It’s important to understand your backflow prevention responsibilities and ensure you have the correct backflow prevention device fitted on your property.
Engage an accredited backflow plumber to assess the hazard rating of your property, and if required, install a suitable backflow device.
Sort Your Sydney Plumbing Problems Today!
Count on Gladesville Plumbing for friendly advice and expert service. Just call Joe on (02) 9817 4777 or make an enquiry here.
