Living on the Gold Coast comes with its perks—but when it comes to plumbing, the coastal environment can bring a few challenges. Whether it’s a dripping tap, a blocked drain, or a burst pipe, even small issues can turn into costly problems if ignored.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common plumbing problems we attended to on the Gold Coast in 2024—and how you can get on top of them hen they happen to you.
1. Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are one of the most frequent issues we come across. These clogs can be caused by a buildup of grease, food scraps, hair, soap scum, or even tree roots invading your pipes.
Blocked drain signs:
- Water draining slowly from sinks, showers, or tubs
- Bad smells coming from the drain
- Gurgling sounds when water is draining
- Toilets or outside drains backing up
Quick DIY Fixes:
Try the classic baking soda and hot water method, or use a plunger for minor clogs. A drain snake or auger can also help break up tougher blockages.
When to call a Plumber:
If the blockage keeps coming back, it’s time to call in a plumber with hydro-jetting equipment to clear the line completely.
2. Leaking Taps & Pipes
Leaking taps and pipes waste water and can drive up your water bill fast. If left unchecked, they can also cause serious water damage.
Common causes of water leaks:
- Worn-out washers or O-rings
- Corroded pipes
- High water pressure
- Loose fittings
What you can do:
- Turn off the nearest water valve and replace faulty washers or cartridges
- Tighten connections if they seem loose
When to call a Plumber:
If the pipe looks rusted or damaged, you will need to call us and get it professionally replaced.
3. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is a common frustration, especially in older buildings or high-rise apartments.
Possible causes of low water pressure:
- Sediment buildup
- Corroded pipes
- Leaks in the system
- Issues with the local water supply
Tips to fix it:
- Clean or replace showerheads and tap aerators
- Check for visible leaks
- Contact your water supplier if the issue affects your entire area
When to call a Plumber:
In older homes, consider calling a plumber and asking for a quote to upgrade to copper or PEX piping.
4. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can quickly flood your home and cause major damage. It’s one of those plumbing emergencies you never want to deal with—but if you do, here’s what to know.
Common causes of burst pipes:
- Extreme temperature changes
- Rust and corrosion
- High water pressure
- Tree roots damaging underground pipes
What to do right away:
- Shut off your home’s main water supply
- Turn on taps to drain any remaining water
- Use pipe clamps or strong tape for a temporary fix
When to call a Plumber:
Burst pipes should never be a DIY fix. Immediate call a plumber to repair burst pipes.
5. Running Toilets
A toilet that won’t stop running wastes litres of water daily and can quietly inflate your water bill.
Why it happens:
- Worn-out or broken flapper
- Incorrect float level
- Faulty fill valve
Fix it with:
- Replacing the flapper if it’s not sealing properly
- Adjusting the float height
When to call a Plumber:
If you have attempted a DIY fix and your toilet is still running, it’s time to call plumber. The cost of your water bill from a running toilet will be way more than the cost of a plumber to fix the issue!
6. Hot Water System Issues
When your hot water system starts acting up, it can range from annoying to urgent.
Typical signs your hot water system isn’t functioning well:
- No or inconsistent hot water
- Strange noises from the tank
- Leaking around the unit
Solutions:
- Check the power or gas supply
- Flush the tank to clear sediment buildup
When to call a Plumber:
At Capital Plumbing we offer a free annual hot water inspection to our Royalty Club members because more times than not there is no warning, your hot water system just stops working.
If the system is old or unreliable, consider upgrading to a more efficient unit.
7. Blocked Sewer Lines
Sewer line issues are unpleasant—and potentially hazardous to your health and home.
Main culprits that block sewer lines:
- Tree roots
- Grease or foreign objects in the pipes
- Collapsed or cracked sewer lines
What you can try:
Use a plunger or drain snake for minor blockages
When to call a Plumber:
In all honesty it’s unlikely that any DIY fixes will shift a sewer line blockage.
Call a plumber for a camera inspection, we will remove the blockage and prevent further blockages at the same time.
Hydro-jetting can clear stubborn blockages
In severe cases, the damaged pipes may need to be replaced.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing problems are common for Gold Coast residents, but they don’t have to become disasters. Quick action, regular maintenance, and knowing when to call in the experts can save you stress, time, and money.
If a problem seems too big to handle on your own, always reach out to a trusted local plumber. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your home running smoothly.
