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Low Water Pressure! What Do I Do?

sink

There’s nothing worse than turning on a tap, shower or hose and getting nothing but a dribble. The strong burst of water that usually sprays from your water outlet is nothing compared to what it was. When your water flow has lost its volume and force, the likelihood of a problem laying deep within the pipes is pretty high.

No matter how big or small the plumbing problem may be, Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas are your first point of call. With local, friendly service, Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas have been servicing the South West for over 3 decades and have the knowledge, equipment and expertise to assist you with all your water pressure issues.

The most common culprits when it comes to a drop in water pressure include:

  • Damaged Pipes or Water Meter
  • Hidden leaks
  • Mineral Build up

Damaged Pipes or Water Meter

If your drop in water pressure is sudden, it’s very likely that the issue is a damaged pipe or water meter. If you live in an older home, tree roots are often found invading water pipes and newer homes can suffer unintentional damage from construction equipment in developing neighbourhoods.

Water meter damage is unlikely but worth a look. Damage or blockage within the meter itself can cause a drop in pressure, but best off inspected by an expert.

Hidden Leaks

Burst Pipe

A serious problem that can lead to a myriad of other issues within the walls of your home is the internal burst or leaking pipe. Not only is it causing the drop in water pressure, it’s damaging the walls, electrics and supporting structures of your home. You can check for a leak yourself – record the number on your water meter, go out or do not use the water for a few hours and then check the number on the meter again.

If it has gone up significantly when no water has been used in the house, you know you have a leak – and this problem is one for the professionals. Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas have equipment that quickly find where the problem lies and let you know what cause of action is needed.

Mineral Build up

A less serious problem but one that can turn into something nasty is mineral build up. In areas where the water is particularly ‘hard’, calcium and other chemicals that float around in the water can lodge in the pipe and cause a blockage. Home remedies and shop-bought products can be tipped down the drains to attempt to dislodge and/or dissolve the blockage, however if these don’t work, there may be extensive mineral or rust build up further down the pipes.

Who Can Help Me Get My Water Pressure Back?

Regardless of the reason for your drop in water pressure, Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas are your local experts to call. With no penalty rates or call out fees and availability 24/7 for emergencies throughout the South West, Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas are your affordable and reliable choice for all of your hot water, plumbing or gas needs, call 9791 1608 today.

What Are the Signs of a Failing Septic System?

Leech Drain - Septic System

When septic systems start to fail, they can cause a health hazard; a risk of contamination with bacteria to the environment, humans and animals. As a system backup can start in the pipes and make its way back up the pipe if it is not cleared, groundwater can also cause issues if your septic system is not healthy.

Some Reasons for Septic Systems Not To Work Properly Are:

  • Pipes From the House
  • Inlet Baffle
  • Leech Drain
  • Tree Roots

Pipes From the House

Drains may start draining slower than usual or stop draining all together; toilets can stop flushing properly and sinks backup. A professional plumber will be able to source the problem and unblock for you. Best prevention is to only flush human waste and toilet paper in toilets. Having yearly inspections will ensure the pipework is kept clear.

Inlet Baffle

Septic tank done

Inlet baffles are located at the tank. They can get clogged with toilet paper and other debris. Contacting your local plumber, they will be able to clear them for you.

Leech Drain

If your leech drain fails, you may notice an odour smell near the tank or leech drain itself may have a wet soggy patch around it. Septic may start backing up into the home which should be actioned as soon as possible for hygienic purposes.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are a major culprit when it comes to septic systems blockages. The trees love the water and the nutrients provided by your system and will come from a far to access it. If you have any big trees near your pipework or leech drain; tree roots maybe causing the blockage. A professional plumber will have a cutting machine to clear the roots from your system.

Having Issues with Your Septic System?

Septic problems can esulate quickly so as soon as you think you have an issue contact the trusted name in the plumbing industry, Mainline Plumbing Cheap Hot Water and Gas at Bunbury on 9791 1608 or Busselton/Dunsborough on 9759 1317.

What to Do in A Plumbing Emergency?

Leaks

When you own a home or business, at some point attention to certain areas can become apparent, especially if maintenance has not been kept up or warning signs have been ignored.

It is no fun at all for anyone if there is flooding in toilets, burst pipework or leaks showing through wall cavities. Cabinetry, flooring may need to be replaced or wall cavities accessed to find the source to the problem.

Preparation is always the key but sometimes we are not so lucky and are caught short and could be left in a puddle of mess.

Got a Puddle to Attend to

  • Water Supply Shutdown
  • Water Heaters
  • Contact Your Plumber
  • Attend to Leaks

Water Supply Shutdown

Quickly turnoff the closest water source to the problem. If it’s the toilet the tap down the side of the cistern. When there is a flooding coming from certain areas it is best to turn off the water mains usually found at the front of the home.

Water Heaters

To protect your water heaters, it is best to switch off to stop the re heating as this can cause heat build up and could destroy the unit. If you have a gas hot water system, switch the gas off first.

Contact Your Plumber

burst pipework

When you call the plumber, you can be guided on how best to deal with the emergency until a professional arrives.

Attend to Leaks

If you can see where a leak is coming from place buckets, containers or rags to soak up the leak. Another option could be to open up drains and spigots as this will help to release the water build up that is still in pipes after the mains have been switched off.

When You Have A Plumbing Emergency

No matter what the emergency is, Mainline Plumbing Cheap Hot water and Gas are available to you 24/7 to attend to your plumbing needs. Contact the team today at Bunbury 9791 1608 or Dunsborough on 9759 1317.

4 Ways to Know If Your Pipes Are Worn Out

Pipe repair

Depending on the age of the home and how maintenance has been done in the past will be relative to any future problems you may come across when it comes to the pipe works overall condition.

It is good practice to check certain areas in the home and fix and replace items before they become bigger problems when they are at the end of their life.

Typical areas to check would be kitchens, bathrooms, laundry, basements, crawl spaces and generally anywhere pipework may be. If this is not in your expertise contacting a professional plumber to do these maintenance checks is definitely worth it.

What Are the Signs to Look Out For?

  • Leaks
  • Corroded pipes
  • Discoloured water
  • Stains

Leaks

Leaks can present themselves in different ways in housing, e.g. from visible pipework to behind walls where pipework may be hidden, this is where you might see mould or mildew forming on walls or on floors, if mould is smelt in a room but not seen these are all potential problems of leaking pipes.

Water pipe repair

Corroded Pipes

Flaking metal on pipes or substantial look of damage to pipes could be a sign of corrosion. This can be the cause of high acid water content, that eats away at the pipes. When copper pipes are not used for a certain amount of time this too can lead to corrosion.

Discoloured Water

If rust coloured water starts coming out of your taps it is exactly that from rust. It is important for a plumber to be contacted at this point as rust causes hard water and this is not good for washing clothes, bathing or drinking.

Stains

Stains can show up as a discolouration to walls and ceilings, walls can even show evidence of a bubbling effect in the paintwork this is a sign to contact a plumber sooner rather than later to prevent the cavity of walls and ceilings getting further damage.

When You Need A Professional Plumber to Look at Your Pipes

Mainline Plumbing Cheap Hot water and Gas are available to you 24/7 for emergency and general plumbing maintenance. Located in two convenient places at Bunbury 9791 1608 or Busselton / Dunsborough 9759 1317.

What Causes Noisy Water Pipes

Faucet

There are various reasons for instance, clogged, hot or cold pipes, washers in taps, fast water pressure.

Whatever the noise might be, should be investigated by a professional plumber to ensure your piping is back to working the way it should. Prevention is always better than the cure so getting onto the issue sooner than later will keep the pipes flowing correctly.

Typical Noises Pipes Can Make

  • Loose Pipes
  • Main Shut Off Valve
  • Toilets and Cisterns
  • Water Hammer
  • Washers in Taps

Loose Pipes

Pipe work sometimes just needs adjusting, as water flushes through quite quickly and in large volumes this moves the pipes which can cause shake that can be noisy.

Main Shut Off Valve

If you hear a squealing sound coming from your water pipes when turning them on or off, this could be the cause of a main shut off valve or the water pressure regulator. For this to be fixed the mains for the street will need to be switched off to replace or repair or the reducers manifold may need to be fixed.

Toilet

Toilets and Cisterns

When banging and clanging is heard coming from your toilet after flushing and refilling, the ballcock assembly that helps the toilet to refill could be worn.

Water Hammer

Water rushing through pipes and faucets are at a certain speed and force so when the faucet is turned off this causes an abrupt holt to the water flow. There is a chamber of air that acts as a cushion for pipe work of the hot and cold taps and as hammering happens over the years a part called a riser starts to wear and the cushioning effect is lost.

Washers in Taps

When a washers need replacing the noise of whistling can be heard. If squealing is heard from a washing machine area the valves will need replacing.

Who Is the Expert to Fix My Noisy Pipes?

Mainline Plumbing Cheap Hot water and Gas are the trusted name in the plumbing industry available 24/7. Located in Bunbury 9791 1608 or Busselton / Dunsborough 9759 1317.

How Can I Find Out Where My Sewer Lines Are?

Sewerage conversionThere are a few different reasons to why you may need to know where sewer connections can be found. It is good knowledge to be informed about the locations for any future works that might need doing.

When you have moved into a new home or town you might not be aware of where the sewer connections might be located. Contacting your local Water Corporation or visiting the website and going into “My Water” to search for your address or you can login to Buildernet and lodge an EPlan request to obtain water mains and sewer junctions at the property for a small purchase price.

What Are the Best Steps Finding My Sewer?

  • Check with previous owners
  • Find out where the septic tank is
  • Check with your local council or water corporation

Check with Previous Owners

If you have purchased a home from previous home owners, documentation of plans may show where the sewer lines are but if not, this could be a question to ask along with what kind of sewerage systems the property uses.

Find Out Where the Septic Tank Is

Septic tank doneSome housing will show easily enough where the lines lead to the sewerage tank and it should lead in a straight line from the house to the location of the tank. Gain access to the tank by using a wooden stake and scratch around the area to search where the line might be. The depth could be anywhere from 12-14 inches under the ground surface.

Check with Your Local Council or Water Corporation

Contacting your local council for plans on septic can be helpful as they have zoning for areas and they will keep sewer lines and property maps for their location of underground facilities when needed.

If You Would Like to Know More About Sewer Conversions or Sewer Piping, Contact the Professionals in the Plumbing Industry, Mainline Plumbing Cheap Hot Water and Gas can make your search that much easier. Contact Bunbury on 9791 1608 or Busselton/Dunsborough 9759 1317.

6 most common plumbing problems

Dripping TapThere are different sorts of plumbing requirements that will require assistance from minor taps dripping to gushing water out of burst pipes. It is a good practice to get small maintenance items fixed as soon as possible and ensure pipes and taps are not put under too much pressure causing more damage that could lead into leaks into walls cavities, floors and cupboards.

Signs of possible plumbing issues

  • Dripping Taps
  • Sinks not Draining
  • Blocked Toilet
  • Leaking Pipes
  • Sewer System Backed Up

Dripping Taps

This is one of the common plumbing issues that most people come across. Even though it might not seem too bad or look like it needs urgent attention the wastage of water over a period of time can certainly add up.

Sinks not draining

drainGenerally, sinks can get blocked in kitchens from food wastes and oil, bathrooms of the shower and bath drains with soap and hair. Placing a guard over drains in bathroom areas can certainly help to eliminate this problem.

Blocked Toilet

Toilets making gurgling noises when flushing and water rising slowly are generally a good indicator that something is blocking the flow through pipes and into sewerage systems.

Leaking Pipes

When leaking pipes happen, they can cause all sorts of damage to cupboards, furniture and floors that can eventually make it up walls. This is then subjected to dampness and mould.

Sewer System Backed up

Toilet ProblemsWhen the sewer starts to have problems there is no way to ignore the problem from the nasty stench that starts to flow through the breeze. Fixing the issue is finding where the location of the source is coming from. Blockages in sewer systems could be caused flushing the wrong contents eg. non disposable wipes.  Tree roots can also push through the pvc piping and cause a break or collapse.

Low Water Pressure

If you notice that the flow of your water isn’t as strong as it has been in the past, it could be from pipes leaking from corrosion or are worn and broken, commonly seen from older style of homes.

Need Assistance with A Plumbing Situation?

Home plumbing and maintenance is another fantastic service Mainline Plumbing Cheap Hot water and Gas can assist you with giving a 24/7 emergency service. Contact the Team today at Bunbury on 9791 1608 or Busselton/Dunsborough 9759 1317.

Who Can Fix the Leak Under My Sink?

sinkIf you have found a leak under your sink, it is best to clear out any stock in the cupboard and see if you can locate the area where the water is coming from. Whether it is slow or a faster flowing leak it is best to protect your cupboard space sooner than later.

When dealing with the leak it is important to find it and stop it at the source and if you are not able to repair the area yourself you can contact a professional plumber who can fix the problem for you.

Repairing the leak could be as simple as retightening a hose or a connection. If your not sure where exactly the leak is coming from, dry the pipes and hoses with some paper towel and then going over the pipes again with dry a towel will usually show the areas.

Several Areas You Could Experience a Leak Are:

  • Supply or Valve
  • Drain
  • Rim or Tap Base

Supply or Valve

Most sinks have a connection from the sink to the water supply and sometimes leaks can appear at the shut off valves.

drainDrain

To test your drain for leaking, fill sink with water and then when releasing the plug, inspect all pipes and hoses connecting to the drain.

Rim or Tap Base

The rim is the part of the basin that rests on the counter top and if water is leaking from there and onto the counter tops you will want to protect your counter for further damage occurring. Check underneath the counter and see if there are any possible leaks coming from pipe work and protect where possible and ring a professional plumber for further assistance.

Small plumbing issues can become issues if not attended to swiftly if in doubt contact a professional plumber is they will be able to not only source the problem but will ensure the area is fixed correctly so the area will be protected for future purposes.

Who to Contact For All Your Leaks and Plumbing Needs With Your Sinks?

Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas of course, we have 2 locations in Bunbury and Dunsborough.

When you have an emergency or would like assistance with your plumbing contact the team at Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas today at Bunbury 9791 1608 or Busselton / Dunsborough 9759 1317 available 24/7 the trusted name in plumbing.

Where Do I Find A One Stop Plumbing Hot Water And Gas Shop In Dunsborough?

Plumbing by Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas BunburyMainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas are your local plumbers, providing the South West with reliable, friendly and highly skilled plumbing service for almost 40 years, assisting with all types of plumbing, gas and hot water problems, maintenance and repair looking after you and your family’s health.

No job is too big or too small; your safety and comfort is important to us. Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas Dunsborough are open 7 days a week – 24 hours a day. We offering the same professional service in Dunsborough and surrounds as we do in Bunbury, we can help you whether you are in an emergency situation or need simply need a routine inspection to prevent major issues from occurring later on. Get all your small plumbing issues fixed before they turn into major problems.

The 3 main plumbing services we provide are:

  • Hot water
  • Plumbing
  • Gas

Hot water

Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas have a prompt service on all hot water issues so if you have a broken thermostat, sediment build up or if simply age has taken it’s toll on your system, we can replace or serviced it without you having to be left without the comforts of streaming hot water.

Dripping TapPlumbing

When pipes are blocked with dirty water, bacteria can form and lay dormant. This can leech germs back down the pipes into your sinks and tubs where you are washing your dishes, having a shower or doing your clothes; making everything quite smelly and potentially unhealthy.

Other plumbing issues you could encounter can be:

Noisy Taps which can be an irritation in the home although this is a sign that will need to be inspected so more damage doesn’t occur to taps and pipes.

Dripping Taps not only waste water, they can lead up to higher water costs and causes calcium build up and stains in basins.

Gas

Gas StoveRegular maintenance of all gas appliances and supply systems are vital for the safety of your family to ensure you are not exposed to the toxic and dangerous levels of the chemical substance can cause from faulty appliances.

Did you know if you do any alteration or extensions to your house and need to move or install gas appliances like hot water services, heaters or a stove you will need a licenced gas fitter to help you, by law?

Home Plumbing Maintenance and Inspection is another area that Mainline Plumbing can help you. Inspections can save you big repair bills when the problem is picked up before it becomes a large problem.

Contact Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas for all your plumbing needs 24/7 at Dunsborough 9759 1317.

Save Money and Stress with Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas

Gas stoveMost people accept their water and gas bills as necessary evils that are essential for the running of your home and comfort of your family, but when it comes to household appliances and fixtures, you can control the energy expenditure and cost. Plumbing and gas are usually forgotten functions in most households until something goes wrong or a utility bill is unusually high, but there are proactive ways to reduce the risk of damage to your pipes and the cost to your hip pocket.

Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas are your local specialists when it comes to plumbing. Servicing the South West for over 35 years, Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas can assist you with all of your plumbing queries and issues that may arise and are focused on providing a superior service to all of our customers.

Some areas you can save money in your home include:

  • Plumbing Maintenance
  • Water Consumption and Conservation
  • Regular Inspections By A Professional

Plumbing Maintenance

Save yourself big repair bills by getting your small plumbing and gas issues fixed now. You may not even notice you have potentially expensive damage occurring, so getting a professional to regularly check and maintain is essential. Checking pipes for possible blockages and cracks, walls for the start of water damage and your mains valve for any damage or excessive usage can ensure you spot any future issues and enable you to arrange a qualified tradesman to fix before they become more expensive and inconvenient!

Water Consumption and Conservation

Dripping TapWater consumption is an area that all families can regulate in their homes. Some simple steps to take include:

  • Getting everybody to take shorter showers, wash dishes in less water and generally conserve water supplies
  • Use the correct flush button and checking that the toilet isn’t constantly running
  • Wash clothes on cold cycles
  • Checking taps, hoses, shower heads and water outlets for leaks
  • Changing to low-pressure, water-wise shower heads
  • Ensure garden retic is working efficiently and at the right time

Regular Inspections By A Professional

Prevention will always be better than cure, and in the case of your home’s plumbing, gas and hot water, this is definitely the case. Obtaining the services of a qualified, registered professional to inspect your pipes, lines and outlets as a preventative measure will identify issues long before they become costly damage.

Who Can Help Me With Money Saving Plumbing Tips?

To ensure you don’t suffer the inconvenience and cost of faulty plumbing and water emergencies, Mainline Plumbing and Cheap Hot Water and Gas are only too happy to assist with preventative maintenance and assistance throughout the South West. Your safety, budget and comfort is important to us. Call us today
on 9791 1608 (Bunbury) or 9759 1317 (Dunsborough) for all your plumbing, gas and hot water needs today.