Emergency Services

  Flushing toilet If water constantly flows into the toilet bowl, it could be a sign of a faulty flap valve, improper float height or damaged or worn tank components. Fortunately, none of these problems are very worrying and can usually be solved by yourself with a little effort.  Start by inspecting all components for damage; if it is only a float problem, you should be able to simply adjust its height so that the water stops flowing. Clogged toilet Clogs and blockages are usually due to the overuse of toilet paper or the flushing of non-degradable objects. Since these objects do not decompose, they get stuck in the pipes and cause stubborn clogging. Alternatively, toilet blockages can also be caused by tree roots invading the pipes along the line and clogging or damaging them. Toilet leaks Toilet leaks can be caused by a number of problems, depending on the location of the leak . Typically, a leak is caused by a faulty wax seal, a crack in the bowl or loose connections; all ...

 Isolate the water supply by closing the water supply valve. This is usually located at the water meter that feeds the home or business. Do-it-yourself check for a burst water pipe This is a quick do-it-yourself check that can help determine the presence of a burst pipe. Once the water is turned off, read the meter and note it down. During the test, do not use any plumbing and shut off the water supply to the toilet. Wait 1 hour and then turn on the water in your property again. The meter reading should not have shifted and should be the same as when it was noted. If it has shifted, it means that a pipe has burst. Try to locate the burst water pipe Carry out a visual inspection of all exterior and interior taps, showerheads and toilets for leaks. Check all visible pipes under the house or in the ceiling Check outdoor areas where pipes are located for water stagnation. Sometimes water from a burst pipe can end up in the rainwater system without leaving signs of a leak, so check the ...

 Are you wondering what causes pipe leaks? If you think you have a water leak or simply want to make sure your plumbing is safe and up to standard, here is some basic information on what can contribute to pipe leaks in or around your home. These easy-to-understand tips will help you keep your home safe and dry, avoid coming home to nasty surprises and avoid the costly repair bills that can be caused by water leaks that go unnoticed. Signs of a burst or leaking pipe: Has your water bill increased significantly compared to previous bills for the same period? Do you hear dripping or buzzing in the walls? Have you noticed damp or mould on carpets, water stains on plastered walls or ceilings, or puddles of water? Is the hot water not as hot as usual? If so, it is possible that there is a leak or a burst pipe. What to do if you suspect you have a broken or leaking pipe: The first thing to do if you suspect you have a broken or leaking pipe is to isolate the water supply by closing the wa...

 Shutting off the water supply Before starting any plumbing repair (in this case, repairing the dripping shower head), it is essential to shut off the water supply to the damaged component. The water shutoff valves built under the sink can be accessed. If the shut-off valve cannot be located, it is best to shut off the water supply to the house. Remove the shower head from the pipe Using a spanner, remove the shower head from the shower arm. You can do this by carefully turning the spanner anti-clockwise to loosen the nuts that hold the shower head in place. When performing this operation, it is essential to note that too aggressive an action can damage the threads and nuts of the pipe. Therefore, the spanner should be used with caution. Dismantling the shower head Once the shower head has been removed, it is time to disassemble it. The operation depends on the type of shower head you have. We recommend using a screwdriver or pliers to remove the screws and fasteners that hold the...

 Types of lights that flicker normally When in doubt and if only one light flickers, always replace the bulbs as a first line of troubleshooting. Some lights flicker normally, depending on certain conditions. For example, a dimmer light may flicker on the low setting if the wrong type of bulbs has been installed. Lights can also flicker if fluorescent lights are used. Fluorescent bulbs use an inductive ballast to control the current flowing through the bulb. Switching to LED lights may solve the problem. Loose bulbs and plugs If the right type of bulbs have been installed, but only one light flickers, it may be a simple problem of loose bulbs or plugs. Screw the bulb in firmly to make sure it is firmly grounded in the socket. You can also check the plug that goes into the socket to make sure that the connection is secure. If the plug does not fit securely into the socket, you may need to install a new socket. Faulty light switches If a ceiling light or a lamp connected to a socket ...

 Cut off the water supply The first step to take when a pipe bursts is to shut off the main water supply. If you are not sure where the valve is located, you can check the plumbing diagram of your house or ask a plumber for assistance. Locating the burst pipe Once the water supply has stopped, you need to locate the burst pipe. If you can see water gushing out, the location of the burst pipe is obvious. If not, you will have to look for other signs, such as wet spots on the wall, ceiling or floor, or hear the sound of flowing water. If you cannot locate the burst pipe, call a plumber for assistance. Start cleaning the water Next, start cleaning the water to avoid further damage. If the water damage is extensive, you may need to use towels, buckets or a mop and bucket to clean. If water has penetrated the walls or ceiling, you may need to drill holes to let the water drain away. Be sure to keep the area dry to avoid mould growth. Start the repair process After cleaning up the water...

 Light switches seem to be one of those few household appliances that last forever and are generally only replaced when style dictates. However, eternity is a long time and, even if they are durable, light switches inevitably have to be replaced . The good news is that there are fairly clear signs that a switch is failing, which allow you to tell when it needs to be replaced. It is important to be able to recognise these signs, because a faulty light switch is a fire hazard, as well as being frustrating to use! What are the causes of a faulty light switch? The toggle levers of light switches physically create and break electrical connections by moving contacts back and forth. Over time, these moving parts are subject to wear due to friction, which can cause an electrical arc.  What are the signs that a light switch is about to fail? Flickering lights If the lights start flickering and cannot be remedied with a new bulb, a faulty light switch may be the cause. This problem can ...

 A plumbing disaster occurs on all fronts. Not only is it annoying and disruptive to the family, but it often damages property. Then, to make matters worse, a plumber has to be called in. Plumbers are expensive anyway, but of course no plumbing emergency ever occurs during normal working hours. You can be sure that your plumbing nightmare will begin when the emergency surcharges are highest. Wouldn't it be nice to avoid all the hassle and costs? Well, it is possible. By learning some simple do-it-yourself plumbing repairs , you can save time, money and headaches. You can fix the plumbing problem before the walls are destroyed, or the carpets flooded and, of course, you no longer have to call a plumber in the middle of the night. Here are some simple tricks to solve your plumbing problems yourself. Draining the entire plumbing system: sounds like a professional job, doesn't it? Actually, you can easily do it yourself if you need to empty the system due to a water hammer problem ...

 Obsolete wiring Older homes may not be equipped to handle the electrical load of modern appliances, resulting in an increased risk of electrical fires. Obsolete wiring materials, such as knob or aluminium cables, can deteriorate over time and become a fire hazard. If you live in an old house, it is important to have a professional assess the wiring and upgrade the electrical system if necessary. Overloaded circuits All circuits have a rated load measured in amperes. Exceeding this value causes the wiring to overheat, with the risk of electrical fires. Signs of an overloaded circuit include flickering lights, hot or buzzing sockets and frequent tripping of circuit breakers. If you notice any of these signs, unplug some devices and consult an electrician to redistribute the electrical load safely. Defective or damaged cabling Damaged wiring can result from various factors, such as ageing, rodent damage or physical wear and tear. Signs include frayed wires, discolouration around soc...

 Preventing water damage in the bathroom Frequent use of water in the bathroom makes it extremely vulnerable to moisture accumulation and potential water damage. By inspecting it regularly, water damage can be reduced. The following inspections are easy to perform and should be done once every three months to keep the bathroom in good condition and to prevent potential water damage in the bathtub, shower, pipe joints and plumbing, sinks, cabinets and toilet. Do not neglect to carry out these inspections and be thorough in performing them. Keep in mind that these simple inspections can save you a lot of money by providing early indications of water damage: Bathtub and shower The shower and bathtub require special care and maintenance. Check the tiles and replace them if they are cracked. Make sure there is no missing grout between the tiles. Inspect and replace cracked caulking where the walls meet the floor or bathtub. Clogged drains and pipes prevent the tub from drying out and m...

 What causes water hammer First of all, it is essential to know what you are dealing with. Water hammer occurs when a water valve is suddenly closed, causing a shock wave that knocks pipes against walls or each other. This can happen in washing machines, dishwashers, bathrooms and sinks. Is water hammer just a residential plumbing problem? No, water hammer is not limited to residential plumbing. Large installations, such as factories, municipal waterworks and power plants, are also susceptible to water hammer. In these contexts, the potential for damage can be significant and requires specialised water hammer mitigation strategies. Are some homes more prone to water hammer? Some homes are more susceptible to water hammer, particularly older homes with outdated plumbing systems that may not include modern water hammer prevention devices such as air chambers or drains. Homes with high water pressure are also more susceptible, as higher pressure can lead to a higher water hammer impac...

 The essential plumbing checks every homeowner needs to know Being prepared is the key to success, especially when it comes to plumbing. Repairs can be costly, which underlines the importance of informing yourself and your family members about the basics of plumbing. Even toddlers as young as five years old can understand some essential plumbing tips!  Familiarise yourself with emergency water shut-offs In critical plumbing situations, alertness and quick reaction are crucial. It is essential that all members of the household know the exact location of the main water switch. This knowledge can prove invaluable in avoiding potential disasters. Learning to read the water meter Knowing the water meter is a valuable skill. At times when the house is unoccupied and water is not being used, take a moment to inspect the meter. If the meter dials show movement, it is likely an indication of an unnoticed water leak. Such leaks, which often come from taps and toilets, can contribute sig...

  What is a plumbing inspection? What exactly is a plumbing inspection ? In short, it is a detailed examination of every part of the plumbing by a professional plumber. From sinks to water pipes to fire hydrants: if water flows through them, it is inspected. This also applies to water heaters and toilets, which are not only inspected but also thoroughly inspected to make sure that both can function without errors. Detecting small plumbing problems that could soon become serious One benefit of an annual plumbing inspection is the identification of hidden problems that would have been overlooked by the normal homeowner. What may seem like a small leak can actually turn into a broken pipe that causes thousands of dollars of damage and many headaches. Most people agree that it is much easier to fix and manage a small problem than a huge one: do the same for your plumbing and get the hiccups out of the way. It is always better to be safe than sorry. A slow drain can become a problem Ano...

 Outdoor spaces have become an extension of the home for many families. It is therefore natural that people expect many of the same conveniences outdoors that they enjoy indoors. One example is safe and immediate access to electricity. From installing a television on the back deck, to adding string lights to the three-season porch, installing an outdoor kitchen on the patio, or providing easy access to power tools for landscaping, outdoor power outlets can offer tremendous convenience. This guide outlines the benefits of outdoor power outlets and some important considerations for their placement and installation . Advantages of outdoor power sockets Outdoor power sockets offer a number of advantages, but above all they eliminate the hassle and danger associated with having to run an extension cord from inside the house or garage to the outside. Extension cords can pose a fire and tripping hazard, which is doubly dangerous for those carrying power tools or garden shears. Depending ...

 Age Firstly, age is the most significant sign of a dying water heater. Typically, a standard water heater can last about 10 years. Then it will start to get tired. You will notice this if you constantly schedule repairs and servicing. You may be lucky enough to squeeze a few more years out of an ageing system, but exceeding the 10-year mark is very impressive. Strange noises A water heater is not completely silent, but at the same time most water heaters do not make strange noises. When a water heater gets old or breaks down, it may start to make grumbling and groaning noises. These noises result from sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank. When the water is heated, the sediment starts to harden and reform. Fluttering or rumbling noises are due to the displacement of sediment. Rusty water Any sign of rust in the hot water is far from ideal. It is a clear and unmistakable sign that a new water heater is needed. Usually, rust in the water means that the tank itself is starting...

Drain lines transport water and waste from our homes to the sewer pipes . When there is a problem, it can cause big problems. A clog can slow down drains or even prevent them from working, and when this happens, stagnation can occur. Beware of fatty foods Grease can cause serious problems when it ends up in a drain and is often the cause of clogging. Even if grease that ends up in the drain does not cause an immediate clog, it can get caught in the pipes later on and create problems. Pouring grease down the drain is not the only way to create problems. Sauces and fatty foods can aggravate the problem. Even if you have a rubbish disposal, do not pour fatty foods or sauces down the drain. These include butter, salad dressings, meat trimmings and creamy sauces.  Do not let hair go down the drain Hair can create clogs in drains and pipes and is often difficult to remove with a plunger. Always use a fine-mesh hair catcher to prevent hair from going down the drain and keep your drains cl...

 Unravelling the mystery of tap leaks Before moving on to repairs, let's examine the typical causes of these frustrating tap leaks .  The case of the worn washer: Often the deteriorated washer is the culprit for tap leaks. Subjected to constant pressure and use, washers can lose their shape or break, allowing water to seep in. The valve seat corrosion conundrum: Acting as an intermediary between the tap and the spout, the valve seat can suffer corrosion due to mineral deposits in the water, causing leaks at the base of the spout. Installation errors: incorrectly installed washers can be just as problematic as worn ones, highlighting the importance of precision in hydraulic operations. DIY solutions to the dripping dilemma Dealing with the problem of a dripping faucet may seem daunting, but many leaks can be repaired with a few do-it-yourself steps. Here are the main actions you can take to stop the dripping and restore the functionality of your tap: Repair with new washers and...

 Toilet clogging is one of the less glamorous aspects of home maintenance, but it is a common problem that every homeowner has to face sooner or later. Clogs can range from minor annoyances that are quickly resolved with a toilet plunger, to more serious clogs that disrupt daily life and require professional intervention. When the flush comes to a head: What are the causes of toilet clogs? Toilet clogs can be caused by various problems. The most common culprits are items that should never be flushed down the toilet, such as wipes, paper towels and feminine hygiene products. These items do not decompose in water like toilet paper, causing clogs that can be difficult to clear. In addition, excessive use of toilet paper can overload older plumbing systems, creating clogs that are difficult to clear without professional tools. Sometimes, unexpected objects also enter the system, especially in homes with small children, where toys and other small objects may end up being thrown in accid...

 Both fuses and circuit breakers are used to ensure the safety of electrical circuits in a home. Although fuses and circuit breakers have similar characteristics, there are differences in functionality, resetting capabilities, response time and protection. Understanding the differences is important for all homeowners, especially if they are considering an electrical upgrade.  Difference in functionality : both fuses and circuit breakers protect electrical components from exceeding their current limit. Fuses are much simpler in design and contain sacrificial components. When the current from a fuse generates heat, it begins to melt, resulting in a blown fuse. A circuit breaker can detect an electrical overcurrent that causes the circuit breaker to trip. Circuit breakers are more complex and designed as an electromechanical mechanism.   Difference when resetting : The main difference when resetting a circuit breaker is that you can switch it back on manually yourself....

 Dripping tap In many cases, a leaking tap is a plumbing problem that almost any homeowner can fix. In most cases, only a washer or gasket needs to be replaced. For some models, you can unscrew the part from which the water is leaking, clean it of debris, replace the washer with one of the same size and screw it back on. In other cases, you may need to remove the tap handle itself and replace the cartridge or tap stem that regulates the water flow. Leaking pipes A leaking pipe not only wastes water and costs money, but may also be a sign of a larger problem in the plumbing system. If it's a leaky pipe in a wall or ceiling, the small discolouration you can live with for a while will quickly become an eyesore with a hefty repair bill. If you own an older home, you most likely have old galvanised pipes that are prone to corrosion and leaks. Call a plumber.   Rattling pipes Rattling pipes are particularly common in older houses. In most cases, the pipe is not properly secure...

 Blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers Fuses and circuit breakers are both used to interrupt the flow of electricity when it is overloaded by a power surge. However, they differ in design and behavior when they cut off the power supply. A blown fuse occurs when the metal in the fuse melts and prevents the flow of electricity in a room or area of the house. Blown fuses are replaced. Circuit breakers use switching mechanisms that trip from the on position to the off position to prevent electrical surges. In most cases, the circuit breaker is simply reinserted to restore power. However, switches wear out over time or can be damaged by a particularly powerful surge and need to be replaced. Some unusual event, such as a lightning strike or other unusual surge, can cause a fuse to blow or a circuit breaker to trip. This is not a cause for concern, and replacing the fuse or resetting the circuit breaker brings everything back to normal. However, if a fuse repeatedly blows or a circuit b...

 Using dish soap to clean drains When dirt and grime clog drains , there are household materials you can use to clean them. In fact, you probably have one right next to your sink! Dish soap is a gentle way to remove dirt and grime from inside the drain. By adding boiling water and pouring the soap down the drain, the grease clog slowly begins to bubble up. This will allow the stagnant water to go down and unclog the drain. Perform a drain cleaning with baking soda If you think there are more serious problems than dishwashing detergent can solve, baking soda and boiling water can perform a much deeper cleaning. Baking soda is a natural cleaner that, mixed with vinegar, can clean drains and make them work properly. To clean drains with baking soda, fill a kettle with water and heat it to boiling. Add the baking soda and vinegar to the drain while the water heats up. Then cap the drain for 10 minutes. The plug will allow the baking soda and vinegar to remove the dirt and debris that c...