Keeping your home’s plumbing in top shape is essential to avoid costly repairs and water damage. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a long-time resident in Sydney, having a plumbing checklist can help you stay ahead of potential issues.
From leaky taps to blocked drains, knowing when to call a professional plumber Sydney can save you time, money, and stress.
In this guide, we’ll cover a comprehensive plumbing checklist to keep your Sydney home running smoothly.
1. Inspect for Leaks Regularly
Water leaks can lead to significant damage if left unchecked. Here’s what to look for:
Check Taps & Fixtures
- Dripping taps waste water and increase bills.
- Look for moisture under sinks.
- Inspect showerheads for leaks.
Examine Toilets
- Listen for running water when not in use.
- Add food colouring to the tank—if it seeps into the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.
Inspect Pipework
- Look for damp spots on walls or ceilings.
- Check under the house (if you have a crawl space) for pooling water.
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: If you notice persistent leaks or hidden pipe damage, a professional can diagnose and fix the issue before it worsens.
2. Prevent & Clear Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are a common issue in Sydney homes due to hair, grease, and foreign objects.
Kitchen Drains
- Avoid pouring oil or food scraps down the sink.
- Use a strainer to catch debris.
Bathroom Drains
- Install drain covers to catch hair and soap scum.
- Flush drains monthly with hot water and baking soda/vinegar.
Outside Drains
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters and stormwater drains.
- Check for tree roots invading pipes (common in older Sydney homes).
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: If DIY methods (plunger, drain snake) don’t work, a professional can use high-pressure jet blasting to clear stubborn blockages.
3. Test Water Pressure
Low or high water pressure can indicate plumbing problems.
Signs of Pressure Issues
- Weak shower flow (could be a blocked showerhead or pipe).
- Banging pipes (water hammer effect).
- Sudden pressure drops (possible leak or main supply issue).
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: A licensed plumber can assess pressure regulators, fix leaks, or replace corroded pipes affecting water flow.
4. Maintain Your Hot Water System
Sydney’s hard water can shorten the lifespan of hot water systems.
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment.
- Check for rust or leaks around the unit.
- Test the pressure relief valve.
Signs You Need a Replacement
- Inconsistent hot water.
- Strange noises (booming or rumbling).
- Water discolouration.
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: If your system is over 10 years old or malfunctioning, a professional can recommend repairs or a new energy-efficient model.
5. Check for Corrosion & Pipe Damage
Older Sydney homes may have galvanised or copper pipes that corrode over time.
Warning Signs
- Discoloured water (brown or yellow tint).
- Low water pressure.
- Visible rust or green patina on pipes.
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: Replacing old pipes with modern PVC or PEX can prevent bursts and contamination.
6. Inspect Your Roof & Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause water overflow, leading to roof leaks and foundation damage.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean gutters twice a year (especially before heavy rain).
- Ensure downpipes direct water away from the house.
- Check for roof leaks after storms.
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: If downpipes are blocked or improperly draining, a plumber can install better drainage solutions.
7. Prepare for Extreme Weather
Sydney’s storms and heatwaves can strain plumbing systems.
Preventative Steps
- Insulate pipes to prevent freezing (rare but possible in winter).
- Secure loose pipes to avoid movement during heavy rain.
- Install a backflow valve if flooding is a concern.
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: If a storm causes flooding or pipe damage, an emergency plumber can help with repairs.
8. Know Your Emergency Shut-Off Valves
In case of a major leak or burst pipe, knowing how to shut off water quickly is crucial.
Locate These Valves
- Main water shut-off (usually near the water meter).
- Toilet isolation valve (behind the toilet).
- Hot water system valve.
When to Call a Plumber in Sydney: If you can’t stop a major leak, call an emergency plumber immediately.
9. Schedule Professional Plumbing Inspections
Even with regular DIY checks, an annual inspection by a licensed plumber in Sydney can catch hidden issues.
What a Professional Checks
- Pipe integrity with CCTV drain cameras.
- Water heater efficiency.
- Compliance with Sydney’s plumbing codes.
Final Thoughts
By following this plumbing checklist, you can keep your Sydney home’s plumbing system in excellent condition. While some tasks are DIY-friendly, always rely on a trusted plumber Sydney for complex repairs and installations.
