7 Signs of Your Pipes Going Bad: When to Call the Plumbers

Any homeowner or commercial property manager can benefit from having a go-to plumber that they can count on. Establishing a working relationship with a reliable plumbing Dunedin contractor can bring peace of mind in case plumbing issues arise unexpectedly at home or in the workplace. A reliable service provider like Mains Plumbers can work with you to ensure that the problem is addressed promptly and effectively, preventing further complications and more costly repairs down the road.

Before you call on a local plumber to fix the cause of the issue, though, it’s useful to have an idea about common plumbing problems and how to recognise them. This way, you know exactly when to call a plumbing expert.

Most symptoms of bad pipes and various plumbing issues are universal, meaning they can happen at home or at work. Here are a few things that you should keep an eye on so you can call your trusty plumbers:

Damp Spots on Walls or Floors

A common issue in residential and commercial properties alike, leaky pipes are often announced by the presence of visible water leaks or damp spots on walls, ceilings, and floors. There are plenty of possible reasons why pipes leak, such as deteriorating pipe joints, corrosion, or high water pressure. If left unchecked, leaky pipes can lead to water damage, mould growth, and even structural issues within the property. Also, this kind of plumbing issue is more likely to happen in parts of the home or facility where water usage is high, such as in toilets, bathrooms, or kitchens.

To mitigate the issue while waiting for a plumber, you can turn off the water supply to the affected area and place a bucket or similar container under the leak to catch any dripping water.

Water Stains

Water stains or discolouration on walls, ceilings, or floors are often indicative of hidden water leaks within the plumbing system. These stains may appear as yellowish-brown patches or rings and can worsen over time if left unaddressed. In commercial properties, water stains can detract from the aesthetic appeal of the space and signal underlying structural damage.

It’s a must to investigate the source of water stains promptly to prevent the source of the leak from deteriorating further. Using a dehumidifier or fans to dry out affected areas can help prevent mould growth and slow down water damage while a plumber is working on the issue.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is often indicative of underlying plumbing issues such as clogged pipes, sediment buildup, or a faulty water pressure regulator. You’ll know that the property you are in has low water pressure when there’s reduced water flow from faucets, showers, or sprinkler systems. In commercial buildings with multiple water fixtures, low water pressure can affect productivity and customer satisfaction—which is something you definitely don’t want to happen if you’re a business owner.



It’s a good idea to check for simple potential causes of low water pressure before calling for a plumber. For instance, there may be a closed shut-off valve that you haven’t noticed or mineral deposits in faucet aerators. If the issue seems to be more complex than these, it’s best to get in touch with a plumber for a deeper assessment of the issue. In the meantime, reducing water usage and avoiding activities that require high water pressure can help mitigate the issue temporarily.

Slow Water Drainage

Clogged drains are a common plumbing problem in many households and commercial spaces. This issue is often caused by the accumulation of hair, grease, food particles, or other foreign objects in the drain pipes. Among the signs that you are dealing with clogged pipes are slow drainage, gurgling noises, or foul odours emanating from drains. To alleviate the clog temporarily, you can try using a plunger or a drain snake to remove the blockage. However, for stubborn clogs or recurrent issues, it's best to seek professional plumbing assistance to thoroughly and effectively resolve the problem.

Strange Odours

There are plenty of possible reasons why strange odours can emanate from drains or sewage lines. This pungent sign can be indicative of sewage backups, gas leaks, or bacterial growth within the pipes. Apart from being unpleasant, these odours can pose health risks if not addressed promptly. In commercial facilities such as restaurants or hotels, foul odours can negatively impact customer experience and reputation.

If your home or place of business has such a problem, refrain from using harsh chemicals or masking agents to cover up the odour. Instead, contact a plumber to investigate and remedy the underlying cause. In the meantime, proper ventilation and sealing off affected areas can help minimise the spread of the unpleasant smell throughout the property.

Water Heater Issues

Common water heater issues include insufficient or complete hot water, inconsistent temperature, and strange noises. These usually indicate problems with the heating element or thermostat; there may also be sediment buildup within the tank or in the pipes leading to the tank. These issues can disrupt daily routines and affect the comfort and convenience of the people using the space.

While waiting for a plumber to inspect and repair the water heater, you can check for simple causes such as a tripped circuit breaker or a pilot light that has gone out. Additionally, reducing hot water usage and scheduling regular maintenance for the water heater can help prevent future issues.

Rotten Egg Smell

Gas leaks are serious plumbing emergencies that require immediate attention due to the fire and health hazards they pose. The tell-tale signs of gas leaks include the smell of rotten eggs, hissing sounds near gas lines, or dead vegetation around gas pipes.

Gas leaks can occur in both residential and commercial properties and may be caused by damaged pipes, faulty appliances, or improper installation. If you suspect a gas leak in your property, evacuate the premises immediately and contact your gas supplier or local emergency services for assistance. While waiting for professional assistance, you can shut off the gas supply at the main valve and open windows and doors to ventilate the area and lower the risk of ignition or exposure to harmful gases.

On top of addressing plumbing problems, a professional plumber can carry out regular maintenance and inspections that can prevent potential problems before they escalate. This preventative measure can save time, money, and energy in the long run. By partnering with a dependable plumbing services provider, you can have peace of mind knowing that all your property’s plumbing needs and issues can be addressed as soon as possible.