08 May Ask A Master Plumber: Top 10 Questions We Get Asked
For more than 25 years, I’ve had the pleasure of helping Brisbane and Southeast Queensland homeowners with all things plumbing. From emergency callouts to routine maintenance, our team fields heaps of plumbing questions every week, and let me tell you, there are some classics that come up time and time again.
So, whether you’re wondering why your shower pressure’s weaker than your morning coffee or trying to solve the mystery of that funky smell from the kitchen sink, this one’s for you. Here are the top 10 plumbing questions Brisbane homeowners ask us.
“How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?”
This one’s right at the top of the plumbing FAQ Queensland list, and for good reason. Hidden leaks are sneaky, silent, and often expensive.
First sign? A surprise on your water bill. If your usage hasn’t changed but your bill’s jumped, that’s a red flag. Other clues:
- Damp patches on walls or floors
- Mould growth in weird spots
- The sound of running water when everything’s off
- A water meter that ticks over while your taps are off
You can do a basic DIY test by turning off all your water and watching the meter for a couple of hours. If it moves, you’ve got a leak. But don’t stress, our professional leak detection gear can pinpoint the exact source. Brisbane plumber advice: don’t leave it too long. Small leaks become big problems fast.
“What’s causing my low water pressure?”
Low water pressure is one of those common plumbing problems Brisbane homes love to throw at us. It can make even the fanciest rainfall shower feel like a drizzle.
Common causes include:
- Mineral buildup in pipes
- Partially closed shutoff valves
- Faulty pressure regulators
- Leaks
- Local council supply issues
Check if it’s just one tap or the whole house. If it’s isolated, check the tap fittings and pipes. If it’s everywhere, check your main valve and give us a ring if the pressure’s still not up to scratch. In some cases, pressure-boosting systems might be required.
“Is a dripping tap really worth fixing?”
Absolutely. A slow drip can waste over 9,000 litres of water a year. That’s money down the drain, literally.
Dripping taps also:
- Stain fixtures
- Cause mineral deposits
- Lead to corrosion
- Signal worn washers or valves
It’s usually a quick fix with the right tools, we can take care of it for you, just give us a call or send us a message on 0404 823 184.
“Why does my drain smell bad even when it’s not clogged?”
This question comes up a lot – especially in Brisbane’s warmer months.
The usual suspects:
- Biofilm: gunk that builds up in your pipes (gross but fixable)
- Dry P-traps: water in the U-bend has evaporated
- Venting issues: blocked vents forcing sewer gas back indoors
Try boiling water with bicarb first. If it still smells awful, we’ve got the high tech gear to clear it for good.
“How often should water heaters be serviced?”
We recommend every 12 to 18 months. Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, saves energy, and stops you from getting that cold shower surprise at 5am.
DIY checks include:
- Testing the pressure relief valve
- Flushing sediment every few months
- Watching for leaks or rust
- Checking the anode rod every couple of years
Most systems last 8–12 years, but if yours is noisy, rusty, or leaking, it might be time for an upgrade. We offer full plumbing solutions for gas, electric, heat pumps and solar hot water.
“Can tree roots really damage my sewer line?”
You bet they can. Tree roots love moisture and nutrients, and your sewer pipes are basically a five-star buffet.
Signs to watch for:
- Gurgling toilets
- Slow draining across multiple fixtures
- Lush grass patches over your pipes
We use hydrojetting and CCTV drain inspection to confirm and clear root intrusion, we can also advise if the pipes might need relining. Prevention’s best, though – know where your pipes are before planting anything with aggressive root systems.
“Is my water heater the right size for my home?”
If your hot water runs out before you rinse the shampoo out of your hair, we’ve got a problem Houston.
Size recommendations:
- 1–2 people: 115–150L
- 3–4 people: 190–225L
- 5+: 225–300L
Also consider peak usage and appliance types. A properly sized unit saves money, boosts comfort, and helps avoid overworked systems. For further information on which hot water system suits you best, check out this article Choosing the Right Hot Water System
“What should never go down my drains?”
If it’s not water, you probably shouldn’t be flushing it and let me say it louder for the people in the back: your toilet is not a bin.
Here’s what we see all the time in Queensland plumbing advice calls:
Bathroom drains:
- Hair
- Dental floss
- “Flushable” wipes (spoiler: they’re not really flushable)
- Personal hygiene items
- Kitchen
- Oils, fat and grease
- Coffee grounds
- Pasta, rice, flour
General no-go items:
- Paint, chemicals
- Cat litter
- Excessive cleaning products
Rich’s Tips: If you have to think about it – then just DON’T put it down the drain or in the toilet.
“How do I know if my toilet needs replacing?”
Toilets can last 25+ years, but like the rest of us, they age.
Time to replace your toilet if:
- You’re constantly fixing it
- It runs non-stop
- There are cracks or wobbles
- It guzzles water like it’s 1985
Modern toilets use less water and flush better. We can help you choose and install one that suits your bathroom and your budget.
“What maintenance can I do myself vs. calling a professional?”
We love a bit of DIY spirit, and there’s plenty homeowners can do safely:
DIY tasks:
- Clean out drains and water saving aerators
- Replace tap washers
- Insulate outdoor pipes
Call us for:
- Anything gas-related [this is non-negotiable for your safety!]
- Water heater work
- Main sewer or stormwater issues
- Projects needing permits
Need a maintenance guide? Request our free Brisbane Home Plumbing Checklist PDF or give us a ring. The AGPCo will have your plumbing needs sorted in no time.
Need Personalised Help?
At Alexander Gas and Plumbing Co, we don’t just answer your Brisbane home plumbing questions – we fix the root [pun intended!] of the issue and make sure it stays fixed. We service homes and businesses across Brisbane and all through South East Queensland.
If you’ve got questions, or just want to stop that tap driving you mad, give us a call on 0404 823 184 or visit alexandergasandplumbing.com.au
Thanks for reading and I hope I have been able to answer some of those pesky questions that keep you up at night!
Remember: when in doubt, give Rich a shout!
With over 30 years in the plumbing industry he provides a level headed and experience approach to all client related work.He is genuine person with a keen interest in family, friends and helping others.
He holds Queensland Plumbing Licence 28840, Gas Licence L31 902, QBCC License 12 654 79, and Building Assets and Services Contractor licence 860 066.
Rich believes in educating clients about their plumbing systems and providing honest advice about when professional help is needed.
He founded Alexander Gas and Plumbing Co in 2013 to provide personal, trustworthy service to Brisbane families and businesses.
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