Ten most common plumbing problems

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As the saying goes, some things never change, and that goes for plumbing. Everyone has to deal with unavoidable pesky plumbing issues. It is an unavoidable issue at times, even when downsizing in retirement.

Regardless of where you're living, you'll still encounter plenty of plumbing woes. Here are the ten most common plumbing problems you sadly cannot leave behind, even in retirement.

It's fair to say you have definitely lost count of the number of dripping taps encountered over the years. Leaking taps are caused by worn-out washers and O-rings or damaged mixer tap cartridges.

Thankfully, a trip to the hardware store often provides a quick fix, although sometimes it's certainly worth considering whether it's time to upgrade your tapware.

The best way to avoid blocked drains is with prevention. Otherwise, you'll end up with some foul-smelling clogs or poor drainage that could impact your plumbing long term.

Do your best to avoid food scraps, fats or oils, hair, and other foreign objects from going down the drain.

Some blocked toilets can be caused by something as simple as too much toilet paper and waste. When it's fairly simple, a plunger could certainly be the solution. However, serious blockages caused by tree roots or damaged pipes definitely require professional investigation from emergency plumbers.

The shock of a cold shower can be invigorating! It can also be unwanted.

A hot water system that's not delivering strong, steamy hot water is a nightmare. Often the unit seems to break down at the worst possible moment.

Regular maintenance from a plumber will ensure issues like a faulty thermostat, worn-out tempering valve, or a hot water leak can be caught sooner rather than later.

A dripping cistern or toilet is often innocuous. It can be so subtle that it's missed unless you pay close attention.

Common causes of a leaking toilet include worn-out seals or cracks in the actual toilet suite.

If you're dealing with low water pressure, you are likely looking at the tip of an iceberg.

Clogged pipes, leaking pipes, or closed valves are just some of the reasons why you are dealing with low water pressure.

Low water pressure can also be isolated to the hot water system too.

While you might not think of a leaking roof as a plumbing problem, it is! Roof plumbers can look after roof repairs, including gutters and downpipes.

Always keep an eye out for water damage, including damp spots on the walls, mould, or moss growing on exterior walls.

Although a burst pipe is the end result, there are plenty of signs to be aware of.

From changes in water pressure and higher than usual water bills to flooding and structural damage, burst pipes are typically a major issue.

Act fast if you suspect any issues.

Hydraulic shock occurs when a valve suddenly shuts off in the pipes. This is commonly called a 'water hammer' as it sounds just like hammering inside your plumbing.

Loose pipework and high water pressure are two common causes.

Restless nights are worsened by a constantly running toilet. The whistling of a cistern that never fully fills or the ongoing trickle of water into the bowl is always frustrating.

There's no need to put up with it when a quick call to your local plumber could lead to quiet nights at home.