Most Common Perth Winter Plumbing Problems

Perth winters may be mild compared to other parts of Australia, but it doesn’t mean our home plumbing is immune to the effects of colder weather. Here at Enterprise Plumbing & Gas, we’ve been keeping Perth and Eastern Wheatbelt homes running smoothly for nearly 30 years. By being aware of these common issues and taking some preventative measures, you can avoid a plumbing disaster (and the discomfort of a cold shower) this winter.

Here’s a breakdown of the top plumbing problems Perth face in winter, along with tips to keep your pipes singing.

Blocked Drains or Overflowing Drains

Cold weather can cause grease and soap scum to solidify out of sight, leading to blockages in drains, pipes, sinks and more. This is especially common in kitchen sinks where fatty substances like cooking oil can build up.

Heavy winter rains can overwhelm your drains, leading to inconvenient overflows. Blocked drains due to leaves, debris, and even those sneaky tree roots can cause rainwater to back up into your home.

Conquer it: Clear your gutters regularly to prevent leaves and debris from entering the drainage system. Consider installing drain guards to trap hair and other materials before they cause blockages. If you experience an overflow, don’t hesitate to call Enterprise Plumbing & Gas – our drain cleaning experts will have your system flowing freely in no time.

Blocked Kitchen Sink

Perth loves its winter BBQs, but unfortunately, pouring grease down the drain isn’t the best way to show your love for a sausage sizzle on a brisk night. As the temperature dips, grease solidifies, clinging to your pipes and forming nasty blockages, especially in your kitchen sink.

Conquer it: Dispose of grease responsibly. Let it cool in a container and then toss it in the bin. For existing blockages, try a natural solution like baking soda and vinegar. But for stubborn clogs, call in the cavalry – a qualified plumber from Enterprise Plumbing & Gas!

No Hot Water or The Hot Water Heater Hiccup

There’s nothing more misery-inducing than stepping into a cold shower on a crisp morning. If your hot water heater decides to take a winter vacation, it can leave you shivering. Cold weather can place extra strain on your hot water system, leading to malfunctions.

Conquer it: Regular maintenance is key! Schedule an annual service for your hot water heater to ensure it’s operating efficiently. If you notice any issues with your hot water, like strange noises or lukewarm showers, call Enterprise Plumbing & Gas for a prompt diagnosis and repair.

Burst Pipes

If water freezes inside your pipes, it can cause them to expand and burst. This can lead to significant water damage to your home and belongings.

Conquer it: If you can, seal up any drafts or holes near pipe fixtures to keep the cold air out. One of the most effective things you can do, however, is running a ‘slow drip’. Leave one of your taps slowly dripping to keep water flowing through your plumbing system, meaning you’ll be less likely to have any freezing mishaps.

Leaking Taps

Leaks can waste water and money, and they can also worsen in winter due to the stress placed on pipes by fluctuating temperatures. Inspect your taps and plumbing regularly to quickly spot any signs of leaks.

Conquer it: Try to identify where the leak is coming from. Some common causes of leaky taps could be worn out o-rings and seals, or damaged washers so if you fancy getting your tool kit out and doing some DIY, try replacing these first. If you’ve made some replacements or DIY isn’t your thing, call Enterprise Plumbing & Gas – they’re here to help.

Clogged and Leaking Toilets

No one enjoys a surprise leak or blockage, especially when it’s coming from your toilet. Winter’s fluctuating temperatures can put stress on your pipes, worsening existing problems or creating new ones. A leaky loo not only wastes water but can also lead to mould growth and property damage.

Conquer it: Be proactive! Regularly inspect your toilet for leaks, and address any minor issues promptly. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine (and a hefty plumbing bill). For stubborn leaks, don’t hesitate to call Enterprise Plumbing & Gas – we’ll get your loo back in tip-top shape.

Washing Machine Leaks

Winter brings more laundry days with those cosy jumpers, but it can also bring woe to your washing machine. Cold weather can affect the efficiency of your washing machine’s hoses, making them more susceptible to cracking and leaking.

Conquer it: Inspect your washing machine hoses regularly for signs of wear and tear. Consider replacing them every few years as a preventative measure. If you suspect a leak, turn off the water supply to your washing machine immediately and call Enterprise Plumbing & Gas.

Extra Hacks to Avoid Perth Plumbing Problems in Winter

• Insulating pipes for winter:

Pipes in unheated areas like garages and crawl spaces are more susceptible to freezing. You can insulate them with pipe sleeves or foam pipe insulation.

• Run a slow drip:

A slow drip of hot and cold water can help prevent pipes from freezing, but be sure to check local water restrictions first.

• Avoid pouring grease down the drain:

Grease can solidify and cause blockages, especially when it cools in winter. Instead, dispose of grease in a container and dispose of it in the bin.

• Address leaks promptly:

Don’t ignore a small leak – it can quickly worsen and cause more damage. Get any leaks fixed by a qualified plumber as soon as possible.

Leave Your Winter Plumbing Woes to Perth’s Plumbing Pros

Remember, prevention is always better than cure! By following these simple tips, you can avoid common winter plumbing problems and keep your Perth home comfortable all season long. But if a plumbing problem does strike, don’t panic – Enterprise Plumbing & Gas is here to help. Our friendly and qualified plumbers in Perth are available 24/7 to tackle any plumbing issue, big or small.

Request a free quote today, or call us to discuss your plumbing and gas needs.