5 Common Plumbing Problems We Fix in Kiama Homes

If you've ever been startled by a dripping sound at night or dealt with a cold shower first thing in the morning, you're not alone. Homeowners and renters across Kiama often face a set of recurring plumbing problems that can range from mildly inconvenient to seriously disruptive. These issues tend to crop up more frequently in coastal homes, where ageing infrastructure and mineral-rich water can accelerate wear on pipes, taps and appliances.

Fortunately, we deal with these problems every day. As licensed plumbers in Kiama, we help residents solve everything from the silent leak running up their water bill to the blocked drain turning their bathroom into a paddling pool. Below are five of the most common plumbing issues we resolve and how timely professional attention can keep your home safe, functional, and comfortable.

1. Dripping Taps Wasting Water & Money

It might seem like harmless background noise, but a dripping tap is more than just an annoyance—it’s a leak that adds up. Just one tap leaking a drop per second can waste over 8,000 litres of water a year, pushing up your water bill and straining your plumbing and the environment.

Dripping taps often stem from small but significant internal wear, and left unrepaired, the issue can worsen and affect other fixtures in the system. Our plumbing services in Kiama frequently include tap repair or replacement, especially in older homes or holiday rentals that haven’t been upgraded in years.

Common causes of dripping taps:

• Worn washers or O-rings
• Corroded valve seats
• Loose internal fittings
• High water pressure damaging tap seals

Fixing a dripping tap usually involves disassembling the fixture, replacing or reseating components, and ensuring the pressure levels are appropriate for the system. It’s a straightforward job that pays off in water savings and peace of mind.

2. Blocked Drains Causing Unpleasant Disruptions

Blocked drains can build up slowly or strike suddenly—and they’re rarely pleasant. From strange gurgling noises to foul odours and full-blown overflows, blocked drains can halt your daily routine and pose a health risk if not handled promptly.

Blocked kitchen sinks and bathroom drains are among the most common problems we’re called to fix in Kiama homes. While DIY solutions might provide temporary relief, proper diagnosis and clearing by a licensed plumber ensure long-term prevention and safety.

Some of the typical culprits behind blocked drains:

• Hair and soap scum accumulating in shower drains
• Grease and food debris building up in the kitchen pipes
• Tree root intrusion in outdoor or underground pipes
• Foreign objects flushed down toilets

To effectively clear blockages, we use:

• High-pressure water jetting for stubborn or large blockages
• CCTV drain inspection cameras to find the exact source
• Mechanical augers for deep pipe access
• Pipe relining in cases of structural damage

The key is identifying the cause, not just the symptom. Once cleared, we’ll offer guidance on how to avoid future backups, including maintenance routines and proper waste disposal habits.

3. Low Water Pressure Makes Daily Tasks a Struggle

Low water pressure can make everyday activities—like showering or rinsing dishes—feel like a chore. While it’s often attributed to external issues like council mains or temporary restrictions, internal plumbing faults are frequently to blame.

We’ve seen many Kiama homes suffer from persistent low water pressure due to factors ranging from minor sediment build-up to undetected leaks within the walls. By performing a full system check, we can locate the source and restore normal flow.

Common reasons for low water pressure include:

• Internal pipe leaks, especially in older copper systems
• Clogged aerators in taps or showerheads
• Faulty or partially closed isolation valves
• Sediment buildup in hot water units or old pipework
• Malfunctioning pressure-reducing valves

In some cases, we may recommend pipe cleaning or replacement, especially if the system shows signs of rust or mineral deposits. Once repaired, you’ll notice an immediate improvement in pressure—and comfort.

4. Leaking Toilets Driving Up Utility Bills

Unlike a dripping tap, a leaking toilet can go unnoticed for weeks—quietly wasting thousands of litres of water and adding to your bills. One tell-tale sign is water constantly running into the bowl, or the need to jiggle the handle to stop the cistern from filling. These signs point to internal component wear, most commonly affecting the flapper or fill valve.

Leaking toilets are especially common in rental properties and older homes, where components may degrade unnoticed over time. Fixing them early can prevent long-term damage to flooring, cabinetry and substructures.

Typical causes of leaking toilets include:

• Worn flapper valve allowing water to leak from the cistern to the bowl
• Faulty fill valve failing to shut off correctly
• Cracked or loose cistern seals
• Misaligned flush buttons or internal mechanisms

We conduct a thorough inspection and, where needed, replace the faulty parts with reliable, water-saving components. This restores functionality and ensures compliance with modern water efficiency standards.

5. Hot Water System Troubles Affecting Comfort

Few things are more disruptive than turning on the shower only to be greeted by freezing water. Hot water system problems can range from inconsistent temperatures to total failure—and they always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times.

Whether you have an electric, gas or solar system, hot water units require regular maintenance to ensure consistent performance. Many of the service calls we receive in Kiama relate to aging systems that haven’t been inspected in years.

Here are some of the most common hot water issues:

• No hot water due to failed thermostat, element or pilot light
• Water that’s too hot or too cold due to thermostat miscalibration
• Rust-coloured water caused by sediment or corrosion
• Noisy tanks or pipes from built-up scale or internal pressure issues
• Leaks around the unit, often due to valve or tank failure

To address these, we offer:

• Routine servicing of valves, elements, and thermostats
• Temperature checks and recalibration
• Tank flushing to remove scale and sediment
• Complete unit replacement when repairs are no longer cost-effective

Our goal is to ensure that your home’s hot water system is safe, energy-efficient and suited to your household’s needs.

Need Plumbing Help in Kiama?

At SOS Hot Water & Plumbing Services, we understand how disruptive plumbing issues can be—especially when they affect your comfort and convenience. From leaking taps to hot water hiccups, we’re here to help with reliable, licensed plumbing services tailored to homes in Kiama.

Learn more about how we can assist. Give us a call or get in touch via our contact page to book a consultation or service.