How to Prevent Plumbing Disasters at Home: Your Guide as a Wellington Homeowner

Let’s be honest - your home’s plumbing system is one of those things you don’t reeeeeally think about - until something goes wrong. And when something goes wrong with your plumbing - whether it’s a burst pipe, a blocked drain, or a leaking hot water cylinder - it can quickly turn into a bloody expensive headache. 

The good news? Many plumbing disasters can be avoided with a little maintenance and some forward planning. We’re here to share a few of our top tips for Wellington homeowners.

Regular plumbing maintenance checklist

Preventative care is the best way to avoid unexpected (and costly) plumbing problems. Put in a little time and a little money early on - and hopefully, you can avoid spending thousands in the future. 

✅ Check for leaks regularly – Small drips under sinks or around taps can indicate a bigger issue. Catching them early prevents water damage. If you’ve spotted a leak but you’re leaving it ‘til later - we’d highly recommend getting in touch to get it sorted (before things start flooding).

✅ Monitor water pressure – If your shower suddenly feels weaker or stronger, it could mean a pressure issue. Don’t ignore it - get it checked out ASAP to make sure things are working as they should. 

 ✅ Clear drains before they clog – Slow-draining sinks or showers might mean a blockage is forming. Get in touch with a plumber - and remember, always avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the drain. 

 ✅ Inspect spouting and downpipes – Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow into your home’s foundations, leading to serious moisture problems. Get spouting problems sussed before it messes with the structural integrity of your home. 

 ✅ Test your toilet for leaks – A constantly running toilet wastes a huge amount of water. If you hear it running when it hasn’t been flushed, it might need a quick repair. The good news is that usually, a running toilet is a pretty easy fix. 

Easy habits to keep your plumbing in good shape

Most plumbing disasters don’t happen overnight - they build up over time. A few small changes to your daily routine can save you from future stress and big repair bills:

💧 Be mindful of what goes down the drain – Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper (yes, that includes ‘flushable’ wipes - stick to flushing the three P’s.). In the kitchen, scrape plates into the bin instead of rinsing food scraps down the sink.

💧 Know where your water main shut-off is – In a plumbing emergency, turning off the water fast can prevent major flooding. Take a moment to find your shut-off valve so you're not scrambling when it really matters.

💧 Give your hot water cylinder some love – If it’s over 10 years old, it might not be running as efficiently as it should. Keep an eye on your power bill—if it's creeping up, it could be a sign your system is struggling.

What to do if you notice a plumbing issue

Catching a problem early can mean the difference between a quick fix and a major repair. If you spot something unusual, here’s what to do:

🔹 Dripping taps or leaks? Best bet is to call a plumber before it worsens.
🔹 Slow drains? Invest in a plunger! No luck? It may be a deeper blockage. Give a plumber a buzz to get it sorted.
🔹 Water pressure suddenly too high or too low? Check if it’s a household-wide issue - if it is, a plumber can assess whether there’s a bigger problem.
🔹 Signs of water damage on walls or ceilings? A hidden leak could be causing structural damage - this needs urgent attention.

When to call a plumber

Even with regular maintenance, some plumbing issues need a professional to lend a hand - get in touch with a Wellington maintenance plumber if you notice:

🔹 Persistent dripping taps (this could be a water pressure issue, not just a washer replacement).
🔹 Gurgling noises from your drains (a sign of a deeper blockage).
🔹 Water stains on walls or ceilings (indicating a hidden leak).
🔹 No hot water or fluctuating water temperatures.

Need a maintenance plumber in Wellington? We’ve got you sussed. Give us a call on 021712071.