ClickCease
Call Us today
0408 012 993

Perth Kitchen Plumbing Problems: Professional Solutions for Common Issues

Kitchen Plumbing

Let’s talk about kitchen plumbing problems. I’ve been fixing Perth kitchens for over 38 years now, and you wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve heard “I wish I’d called earlier” when I show up to fix a blocked sink or leaking tap. The kitchen’s the heart of your home, and when the plumbing plays up, it affects everything from your morning coffee routine to the family dinner cleanup.

Most kitchen plumbing problems start small. That slight gurgle in the sink or the tap that drips occasionally might seem minor, but they’re usually warning signs of bigger issues developing. Let me walk you through what to watch out for and what you can do about it.

That Dreaded Blocked Sink

We all know the signs – water taking forever to drain, that lovely pasta dinner sitting in a pool of water, or worse, the sink backing up when you’re trying to clean up after a family meal. It’s frustrating, but there’s usually a good reason for it.

(more…)

Is Your Perth Home’s Water Pressure Too High? Signs and Solutions

Plumbing

While many Perth homeowners worry about low water pressure, high pressure can actually cause more damage to your plumbing system. With over 38 years of experience in Perth’s plumbing industry, I’ve seen how excessive water pressure can lead to serious problems if left unchecked.

Pro Tip: You can do a simple pressure check by looking at how water comes out of your taps. If water splashes forcefully out of your sink or creates excessive spray, you might have high pressure.

Understanding Water Pressure

Think of your plumbing system like the hoses in your garden. Just as too much pressure can damage a garden hose, excessive pressure in your home’s pipes can cause wear and damage over time.

Normal vs High Pressure:

  • Normal pressure range: 40-60 psi
  • High pressure: Above 70 psi
  • Dangerous levels: Above 80 psi
  • Critical high: Above 100 psi

A Quick Test: Listen when you turn off a tap. If you hear a loud ‘thud’ or banging noise, this water hammer effect often indicates high pressure.

(more…)

7 Most Common Causes of Leaking Taps in Perth Homes (And How to Fix Them)

Leaking Taps
7SL003CL AQUAMIX SWIVEL BASIN MIXER 600x476 1

With nearly 40 years of experience working on Perth’s plumbing systems, I’ve seen how a leaking tap can impact both your water bills and peace of mind. Here at Plumb It Right, we fix leaking taps across Perth daily, from the simplest washer replacement to complete tap system overhauls.

Why Fixing Leaking Taps Matters

According to Water Corporation’s water efficiency guidelines, a dripping tap isn’t just an annoying sound in the night. Water wastage adds up quickly, affecting both your utility bills and our precious water resources. A single dripping tap can waste thousands of litres of water per year, leading to unnecessary costs and environmental impact.

Key impacts of leaking taps:

  • Increased water bills
  • Water wastage
  • Potential water damage to fixtures
  • Higher system maintenance needs
  1. Worn Washers

The most frequent cause of tap leaks comes down to worn washers. These small rubber components bear the brunt of daily use and water pressure. Every time you turn your tap on or off, the washer is compressed, and over time this repeated compression leads to wear.

Perth’s water quality and pressure can significantly impact washer lifespan. High water pressure accelerates wear, while our local water characteristics can affect the rubber’s durability. Hot water systems particularly challenge washers, as heat speeds up the deterioration process.

(more…)

Noisy Pipes in Your Perth Home? Here’s What Those Sounds Mean

Noisy Pipes

I’ve been listening to Perth’s plumbing systems for 38 years, so I’ve heard almost every sound a pipe can produce. At Plumb It Right, we’ve helped countless local homeowners figure out why their pipes are singing, banging, or whistling. More importantly, we’ve helped them restore peace and quiet to their homes.

Understanding Perth’s Unique Plumbing Challenges

Before we dive into specific noises, it’s important to understand how Perth’s environment affects our plumbing. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Perth’s temperature variations can be quite extreme, especially in areas further from the coast.

I’ve noticed these local factors often contribute to noisy pipes:

  • Coastal salt exposure affecting metal pipes
  • Sandy soil movement impacting underground pipes
  • Seasonal temperature swings causing expansion and contraction
  • High water pressure zones in hillside suburbs
  • Hard water in certain Perth regions

Why Your Pipes Make Noise (And When to Worry)

Let me start with something I tell all my clients: your home’s plumbing system shouldn’t be a sound effects studio. While some occasional noises are normal, others can signal problems that need attention.

(more…)

Signs You Need to Replace Your Home’s Plumbing

Plumbing

With nearly four decades spent in the plumbing industry, I’ve seen just about everything. I’ve learned that knowing when to replace your plumbing system can prevent costly emergencies and property damage. Understanding Western Australian plumbing regulations helps protect your investment and ensure safe water delivery for your home.

Understanding Your Plumbing System

Modern plumbing systems combine multiple components that must work together effectively. According to Water Corporation standards, proper maintenance ensures safe water delivery and system longevity.

Basic system components include:

  • Water supply lines – The primary pipes delivering fresh water throughout your home. These critical components face constant pressure and require regular inspection for leaks or deterioration.
  • Drainage systems – Networks of pipes removing waste water from your home. These systems rely on proper slope and venting for effective operation. Regular inspection prevents blockages and backups.
  • Vent stacks – Essential pipes that regulate air pressure in drainage systems. Without proper venting, drains can slow or create gurgling sounds, indicating potential problems.
  • Fixture connections – Points where pipes connect to taps, toilets, and appliances. These connections often experience the first signs of wear and require regular inspection.

Material Lifespan and Characteristics

Different plumbing materials age at varying rates and show distinct warning signs. Understanding these differences helps identify potential problems early. All materials must meet Australian plumbing standards for safety and reliability.

(more…)

Why Your Shower Drain Smells (and How to Fix It)

Plumbing

Hi, I’m John from Plumb It Right, and if there’s one call I get regularly, it’s about smelly shower drains. A foul-smelling drain can turn an otherwise relaxing shower into a rather unpleasant experience, but don’t worry—I’m here to help you understand why it happens and how to fix it. From soap scum buildup to issues with your P-trap, I’ll cover the most common causes and practical fixes to get your bathroom smelling fresh again.

  1. What Causes the Smell in Your Shower Drain?

First, talk about why your shower drain might emit an odour. A smelly drain is usually due to one of the following causes:

  • Soap scum and hair buildup: Over time, soap, hair, and dead skin can accumulate in your pipes, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that produces a rotten smell.
  • Biofilm: This is a layer of bacteria that forms when organic matter sticks to surfaces inside the drain. Biofilm is sticky, complex to remove, and one of the leading causes of drain odours.
  • Dry P-trap: The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe designed to hold water and block sewer gases from coming back up. It can no longer perform this function if it dries out, letting unpleasant smells escape.
  • Mould or mildew growth: In bathrooms, the combination of warmth and humidity can encourage mould or mildew to grow, adding to the odour issue.
  • Sewer line issues: In some cases, the odour might be due to a more serious plumbing issue, like a crack in your sewer line. This is less common but important to consider.
  1. How to Determine the Cause of the Smell

Knowing the exact cause of the smell is the first step in fixing it. Here are some ways to pinpoint the problem:

  • Sniff test: Get close to the drain and check if the smell is strongest there or elsewhere. If it’s coming from the drain, it’s likely due to buildup, biofilm, or a dry P-trap.
  • Check for water in the P-trap: Run water down the drain for a minute, then wait a bit to see if the smell dissipates. If it does, you may have a dry P-trap issue.
  • Inspect the area for mould or mildew: If the smell is mustier, it might be related to mould or mildew. Check around the drain, shower walls, and other bathroom areas for visible signs of mould.

(more…)

Why Is My Hot Water System Not Working? A Perth Homeowner’s Guide

Hot Water Systems

My journey as a plumber over the past 38 years has given me unique insights I’d love to pass on. Understanding hot water system safety requirements helps protect your family and property. Let me share my professional knowledge about why hot water systems stop working and what you can do about it.

Initial Safety Checks

Before any hot water system investigation can begin, safety must be the primary consideration. These initial checks help identify potentially dangerous situations that require immediate professional attention.

For Gas Systems:

  • Check for any gas smell – A gas odour indicates a potentially dangerous leak requiring immediate professional attention. Evacuate the area immediately and contact a licensed gas fitter.
  • Listen for unusual sounds – Rumbling, whistling, or clicking noises can indicate serious operational issues. These sounds often signal internal component failures needing urgent assessment.
  • Look for visible damage – Check for rust, corrosion, or physical damage to the unit and surrounding pipes. Any visible deterioration requires professional evaluation.

For Electric Systems:

  • Check switchboard for tripped circuits – A tripped circuit breaker may indicate electrical problems. Repeated tripping especially needs immediate professional inspection.
  • Look for signs of water near electrical connections – Water near electrical components creates serious safety hazards. Any moisture needs immediate professional attention.
  • Check for burn marks around electrical components – Discoloration or scorching suggests dangerous electrical issues. These signs indicate urgent safety risks requiring immediate repair.

(more…)

Perth Water Pressure Too Low? Here’s Why & How to Fix It

Plumbing

Low water pressure can turn your morning shower into a frustrating start to the day. After 38 years of fixing pressure problems across Perth, I’ve seen how even small issues can affect your whole home’s water supply. Let me share what you need to know about water pressure problems and their solutions.

Pro Tip: Before calling a plumber, check if your neighbors are experiencing similar pressure issues. This quick check helps determine if it’s a local supply problem or specific to your home.

Understanding your home’s water pressure doesn’t need to be complicated. Think of your plumbing system like your garden hose – kinks, blockages, or a partially closed tap all reduce water flow. Your home’s plumbing works the same way, just on a larger scale.

Most Perth homes should have water pressure between 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch) for optimal performance. If your pressure drops below 35 psi, you’ll notice problems with everyday tasks like:

  • Weak showers
  • Slow-filling toilets
  • Poor dishwasher performance
  • Struggling washing machines

A Quick Test: Turn on your outside tap fully. If you get strong flow there but weak pressure inside, you likely have an internal plumbing issue. If both are weak, the problem might be with your water supply.

(more…)

Emergency Gas Leak? What Perth Homeowners Should Do Right Now

Leak Detection

With over 38 years of experience handling gas emergencies across Perth, I’ll guide you through the crucial steps to keep your family safe during a gas leak emergency. Time is critical – let’s focus on what you need to do right now.

Immediate Safety Steps

If you suspect a gas leak, stay calm and follow these essential safety steps immediately. Each action helps protect your family and property from serious harm.

First Priority Actions:

  • Open all doors and windows immediately – Create maximum ventilation as quickly as possible. Start with the rooms closest to where you smell gas and work outward. Remove any objects blocking windows or doors to ensure full airflow. This helps disperse gas accumulation and reduces explosion risk
  • Get everyone out of the house straight away – Don’t waste time gathering belongings or making phone calls. Head to your predetermined family meeting point, which should be well away from the property, ideally at least 100 meters. Account for all family members, including pets if it’s safe to get them
  • Never turn electrical switches on or off – Even the tiny spark from a light switch can ignite gas. Leave all electrical equipment exactly as it is, including appliances, lights, and fans. If something’s running, leave it running. If it’s off, leave it off
  • Keep your mobile phone switched off until you’re outside – The electrical signals from phones can create sparks. Wait until you’re well clear of the building before making any calls. This includes avoiding doorbells, intercoms, and garage door openers
  • Avoid any ignition sources – This means no cigarettes, lighters, matches, or naked flames of any kind. Even static electricity from synthetic clothing can be dangerous in a gas-rich environment. If possible, avoid walking on carpets or synthetic flooring when leaving

(more…)

Do You Need a Licensed Plumber in Perth? What Work Can You Legally DIY

Plumbing

With over 38 years of experience serving Perth’s homes, I’ve learned that understanding plumbing regulations protects both your property and your family’s safety. As a licensed plumber, I’m often asked about what homeowners can legally do themselves versus when they need professional help.

Legal Requirements in Perth

Understanding Western Australian plumbing regulations is essential for every homeowner. Poor plumbing work can lead to contaminated water supplies, dangerous gas leaks, and significant property damage. These aren’t just guidelines – they’re legal requirements that carry serious penalties for non-compliance.

Work requiring a licensed plumber:

  • Water supply connections – Any work involving your home’s water supply lines, including installing new taps or modifying existing pipework. This work requires licensing because incorrect installation can contaminate drinking water or cause major leaks.
  • Drainage system modifications – This includes any changes to your home’s waste water systems, from adding new drainage points to repairing existing pipes. Licensed work ensures proper waste removal and prevents environmental contamination.
  • Hot water system installation/repair – All work on hot water systems must be done by licensed professionals due to the combination of high pressure, high temperatures, and potential gas connections creating significant safety risks.
  • Gas fitting work – Any work involving gas lines or appliances requires special licensing. The risks of gas leaks and explosions make this one of the most strictly regulated areas of plumbing.
  • Sewerage connections – Work on sewer lines requires professional licensing to prevent health hazards and ensure proper connection to municipal systems.

(more…)