Wellington Plumber: 5 Most Common Plumbing Problems & How to Fix Them – Laser Plumbing Wellington East

At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we provide expert plumbing solutions for all types of residential and commercial plumbing issues. Here are the top five most common plumbing problems and what you can do about them.

1. Clogged Drains & Blocked Pipes

Blocked drains are a frequent issue caused by a buildup of grease, soap scum, hair, food debris, and foreign objects. A clogged drain can result in slow drainage, foul odours, and even water backups.

How to Fix It:

Use a plunger to dislodge minor blockages.
Try a drain snake or baking soda and vinegar for mild clogs.
If the blockage persists, call a professional plumber for drain unblocking.

Tip: Avoid pouring grease or food scraps down the sink to prevent future clogs.

2. Leaky Faucets & Dripping Taps

A leaking faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste hundreds of litres of water each month, increasing your water bill. The most common cause is a worn-out washer, O-ring, or valve seat.

How to Fix It:

Replace the washer or O-ring if damaged.
If the faucet is still leaking, a professional plumber can repair or replace it.

Tip: Fixing a leaky tap early can save money on water bills and prevent further plumbing damage.

3. Low Water Pressure

If your water pressure suddenly drops, it could be due to clogged pipes, leaks, faulty water pumps, or sediment buildup in your plumbing system. Low water pressure can make simple tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating.

How to Fix It:

Check for leaky pipes and get them repaired.
Clean or replace the aerators in faucets.
If the issue persists, schedule a plumbing inspection to find the root cause.

Tip: Regular pipe maintenance can help prevent water pressure issues before they become a major problem.

4. Running Toilet

A constantly running toilet is not only annoying but can also waste thousands of litres of water per year, driving up your utility bills. The most common causes include a faulty flapper valve, a broken fill valve, or an improperly adjusted float.

How to Fix It:

Check the flapper valve and replace it if worn out.
Adjust the float height to ensure proper water levels.
If the toilet continues running, a plumber can diagnose and fix the issue.

Tip: Don’t ignore a running toilet—it can cost you hundreds of dollars annually in wasted water.

5. Frozen Pipes (Winter Plumbing Problem)

During cold Wellington winters, pipes can freeze and burst, causing major water damage to your home. Frozen pipes prevent water from flowing and increase the risk of leaks or pipe bursts.

How to Fix It:

Keep your home warm and insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.
If a pipe is frozen, slowly thaw it using a hairdryer or warm towels.
Never use an open flame to thaw pipes, as it can cause damage or a fire hazard.

Tip: If you experience burst pipes, turn off your main water supply and call an emergency plumber immediately.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some plumbing issues have DIY fixes, others require expert attention to prevent further damage. A professional plumber can:

Accurately diagnose plumbing problems.
Fix leaks, clogs, and faulty fixtures efficiently.
Conduct plumbing inspections to detect hidden issues.
Provide preventative maintenance to extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, and Kapiti Coast. Whether you need drain unblocking, leak repairs, or plumbing inspections, we’ve got you covered.

Laser Plumbing Wellington East

4A Wakefield Street

Alicetown Wellington 5010

New Zealand

(04) 569 2396

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