Plumbing can be complicated, even when you own the entire building. If you’re living in an apartment you have the added complexity of shared drains and sewer pipes. It only takes one resident to cause plumbing issues for everyone.
That’s why, despite the straightforward nature of apartment plumbing, when you have an issue it’s best to call the local reputable plumbing services Sydney. It can save you a lot of hassle.
Of course, it’s useful to know what the most common problems are and any initial steps you should take. For example, knowing where your water shut off valve is, this can stop the flow of water flooding your apartment.
1. Clogged Toilets
A clogged toilet is never a nice sensation but it is something that every homeowner or tenant is likely to encounter. When water backs up in your toilet you have a clog. This is not the time to decide if the clog is an issue with your toilet or the building plumbing. If you leave it and the flush is pulled again you may have wastewater across your floor, that’s a health hazard.
Clogs are usually due to an accumulation of paper and waste products. You should be able to shift a localized issue with a plunger. Make sure it seals around the waste pipe in your toilet and then slowly, but firmly, move the plunger up and down.
Maintaining the seal creates a vacuum which forces the clog to move.
2. Dripping Taps
This can be an issue in any home. It is annoying and wastes water. You may be surprised at how much a dripping faucet can cost you.
The good news is that this type of issue is usually very easy to fix. You’ll need to shut off the water supply and then unscrew the top of the faucet. This will give you access to the washer inside. Replace this and put your tap back together, that should solve the issue!
3. Frozen Pipes
Many people don’t consider frozen pipes when talking about apartment plumbing. However, when the temperature drops the water in your pipes can freeze. It doesn’t matter if you maintain a reasonable temperature in your home, the frozen pipes can be almost anywhere in the building and your water supply will be affected.
Of course, it’s not just that your water source will be temporarily interrupted. Ice in the pipes leads to additional pressure on the pipes and joints, potentially causing them to rupture.
You’ll only discover this issue when the pipes defrost.
4. Low Water Pressure
The water enters an apartment block from the mains at a set pressure. This should be enough to maintain a reasonable pressure throughout the building. But, if the aerators are clogged and lots of apartments are using water at the same time, you’ll notice a significant drop in water pressure.
Cleaning or replacing the aerators can help. If it doesn’t you’ll want to get your plumber to fit a pump to boost the pressure.
