When a pipe or drain blockage hits, most people instinctively reach for their favourite old drain cleaning tools – the plunger, the kettle of boiling water, maybe that trusty baking soda and vinegar combo.
To be fair, they all work pretty well on a minor basic blockage. But if you’ve already tried the obvious fixes and your drain’s still sluggish, it might be time to try something else before biting the bullet and calling your local blocked drain plumber.
So let’s run through some of the best not-so-obvious tools to unblock drains – many of which you can find around the house or grab from a hardware store for just a few dollars. They’re especially handy when you want to avoid harsh chemicals or calling in the pros – although sometimes you simply need a fully-licensed plumber to get you flowing again!
A quick word on the classics
Before we dive into the more unique stuff, let’s acknowledge the basics most homeowners have probably already tried when unblocking drains:
Plunger: Still one of the best tools for loosening blockages in sinks, baths, and toilets.
Boiling water: Great for dissolving greasy blockages.
Baking soda and vinegar: A natural and gentle option for clearing minor clogs.
Basic drain snakes: Widely available and easy to use for hair or food-based clogs.
Are these falling short? It’s time to get creative:
9 Lesser-known tools to unblock drains at home
1. Zip-it tool (Barbed plastic strip)
This simple, plastic drain unblocking tool might be one of the cheapest and most effective options for bathroom sinks and showers. It’s a long, flexible strip with backward-facing barbs that latch onto hair and gunk.
Push it down the drain
Twist
Pull – that’s it!
No chemicals are needed, and if it works, you’ll get the result in seconds.
2. Drain bladder (Pressure bulb)
This nifty pipe unblocker tool attaches to your garden hose. Once inserted into the drain, it inflates and uses controlled water pressure to push out blockages deep in the line. They’re especially useful for outdoor or floor drains, and much cheaper than a pro jetting service.
Just be cautious! Excess pressure in older pipes can cause damage, so read the instructions very carefully.
3. Wire coat hanger hack
An oldie, but surprisingly few people think to use one. Straighten out a metal hanger, leaving a small hook at the end. This DIY drain cleaner tool is perfect for pulling hair or food scraps out of shallow blockages in sinks or showers.
Just avoid jamming it too deep or using it in plastic pipes – it’s best for surface-level blockages.
4. Vacuum (Wet/Dry shop vac)
If you have a wet/dry vacuum, it can be an excellent tool to unblock drain clogs.
Set it to suction
Seal it over the drain opening (using a cloth to make a tight seal)
Let it draw the blockage back out.
It’s messy, but sometimes it’s the only way to dislodge stubborn gunk. And whatever you do, don’t use a standard household vacuum – it needs to be wet/dry rated.
5. Drain brush (Flexible pipe brush)
Originally designed as a pipe cleaning tool for bottles or brewers, these flexible brushes are long, thin, and excellent for cleaning narrow drain lines and overflow channels. They’re great for bathroom basins or air conditioner overflow drains too.
Look for ones with a long handle and soft bristles that won’t damage your pipes.
6. DIY salt & borax mix
Here’s what to do:
Mix one part borax
One part salt
And two parts vinegar
Pour it down the drain
Let it sit for 15 minutes
Flush with hot water.
While not a drain unblocker tool in the mechanical sense, it works wonders for lingering build-up and smells. It’s also a gentler and safer alternative to commercial chemical drain cleaners.
7. Garden hose jet method
This one’s a slightly messier take on a pro stormwater drain cleaner. For blocked outdoor drains or gullies:
Feed your garden hose into the drain as far as it will go
Turn on the tap on full.
The water pressure can help break up debris, leaves, or silt. Just be ready for some splashback – use a towel or bucket to keep things under control.
8. Toilet auger
If your plunger’s not cutting it on a blocked toilet, a sink unblocker tool in the same category won’t do the job either. So step it up a bit with a toilet auger – a specially-shaped drain tool shaped to reach around the toilet’s U-bend without scratching porcelain.
It’s a purpose-built drain tool and worth keeping under every household sink.
9. Foaming drain tablets
Not quite a pipe blockage tool, but these tablets react with water to create foamy pressure in the pipes. They’re excellent for maintenance or odour control after clearing a minor clog.
They’re safe for septic systems and better than harsh drain cleaners that can damage pipes over time.
What about professional tools?
When DIY tools don’t cut it – or if you’re dealing with repeat blockages – it’s time to bring in a fully-licensed plumber to get things flowing and draining again.
Here’s what the pros use:
High-pressure water jetters: The ultimate drain clearing tool, these machines blast away grease, roots, and debris with precision. Perfect for tough or long-standing clogs.
CCTV drain cameras: They help plumbers inspect the inside of your pipes to pinpoint exactly where and what the blockage is. No guesswork, just targeted action.
Electric eel machines: A more powerful, rotating version of a handheld pipe blockage tool. Great for breaking through solid build-up like tree roots or hardened fat.
Root cutting heads: Attachments for jetters or eels designed to cut through invasive roots in stormwater pipes.
Other drain pipe cleaner tools: These include manual reaming tools, traps, and even robotic arms for industrial work.
Professionals also carry protective equipment and drain-safe chemicals that won’t corrode your plumbing – so if you’re unsure, it’s safer to call than to risk damaging your system.
Don’t risk it – Call Static Plumbing when you’re stuck
DIY drain cleaning can be simple and effective – but only when you use the right methods and tools. If you’ve tried the basics and even these lesser-known drain cleaning tools, but the blockage keeps coming back, the issue might be deeper than you think.
Here at Static Plumbing, we’re fully equipped with professional drain cleaner tools, inspection gear, and decades of experience across Brisbane Northside, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast. Whether it’s a slow drain, a blocked toilet, or a stormwater issue, we’ll identify the cause and fix it properly – no guesswork, no shortcuts.
Get in touch today for fast, friendly help with any plumbing or drainage problem. Our friendly plumbers are ready to get your pipes flowing freely again – and we always clean up after ourselves!
Blocked drains are simply something you’re going to have to deal with sooner or later – it’s just a part of living in a house for long enough! But when that panic sets in and the water starts pooling, some people skip the obvious, sideline their common sense, and dive head-first into truly bizarre solutions. In our guide, we’ll run through 9 of the weirdest, funniest, and most inventive attempts to unblock a drain – most of which we definitely don’t recommend!
We’ll also cover what actually works when you’re unblocking drains at home – and how the real pros tackle blocked pipes … for good.
9 Weird ways people have tried to unblock drains (Seriously)
1. The vacuum cleaner hack
One guy connected his household vacuum cleaner to the kitchen sink using duct tape, hoping to suck out a blocked drain. Instead, he sprayed the ceiling with sludge and made everything worse – including his vacuum.
2. Leaf blower logic
Similarly, another odd DIY enthusiast once used a leaf blower to force air down a bathroom drain. The result? A face full of spray-back and one very unsettled dog. Safe to say, this was not an effective way to unblock plumbing.
3. The mentos and coke trick
Inspired by a science experiment, a woman poured Diet Coke and Mentos into her clogged laundry drain. WTF, right? Amazingly, the fizzy explosion actually did loosen some gunk – but mostly it just made a sticky mess that she had to clean up.
4. Fishing line fishing
In another household, dad tried to fish out a hairball with a bent coat hanger tied to fishing line. He pushed it deep enough into the drain for it to get stuck … and then the fishing line broke. It had to be retrieved by a blocked drain plumber, who – believe us – now tells the story at every party.
5. The mobile phone vibrator
Someone online claimed a vigorously vibrating phone, placed near the sink, would ‘shake’ a clog loose. One curious bloke gave it a go. It didn’t work. His wife was unimpressed.
6. Garden hose pressure canon
A guy shoved a running garden hose into a blocked outdoor drain and duct-taped it to seal the opening. After 30 seconds, the tape burst off like a cannon blast, spraying mud across the backyard. The blockage? It was totally unfazed.
7. Firecracker flush
In a notorious rural case, someone thought a small firecracker might blast open a blocked drain. It did! Unfortunately, also blasted open was the pipe itself … and the laundry wall. Not only was the drain unblocked, the room needed rebuilding.
8. The boiling vinegar flood
A DIY blogger recommended pouring boiling vinegar down the sink. One man misunderstood and boiled several litres, pouring it all in one go. The house absolutely reeked for days, and the blocked drains remained blocked.
9. The hydrochloric acid horror
Yes, someone tried using hydrochloric acid to clean drains. We’re not kidding. It didn’t just fail to dissolve the clog – it corroded the pipe and forced a total replacement. So if you’re wondering can you use hydrochloric acid to clean drains? The answer is: please don’t. Please?
How to really unblock a drain at home
Not keen on explosive chemical science or boiling vinegar stench? Here are safe, effective methods for DIY drain unblocking:
Boiling water: For greasy or soapy clogs, this old-school method can sometimes do the trick.
Baking soda and vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda, followed by half a cup of vinegar into the drain. Let it fizz for 15 to 30 minutes, then flush with hot water. It’s a classic combo for a reason.
Plunger: A well-sealed plunger can generate enough pressure to dislodge minor blockages. Great for sink and shower drains.
Drain snake: Also called a plumber’s auger, this flexible tool helps reach deeper into pipes to grab or break up a clog. Handy for hair, food, or toilet paper backups.
Enzyme-based drain cleaner: These products eat away organic matter without damaging your pipes. They take longer, but they’re ideal for slow drains and routine maintenance.
Knowing how to clear a blocked drain before it becomes a full-blown emergency can save you time and money.
How do plumbers unblock drains?
When DIY methods fail or the problem lies deeper in the plumbing, it’s time to call in the pros. So, how do plumbers unblock drains?
CCTV camera inspection: Plumbers insert a small camera into the pipe to locate the exact point and nature of the blockage. No guesswork – just precise diagnostics.
Hydro jetting: Using high-pressure water, this method scours the inside of your pipes and clears everything from grease to tree roots. It’s the gold standard in professional drain unblocking.
Electric drain machines (motorised augers): These tools cut through blockages with rotating cables – perfect for more stubborn cases like compacted waste or invasive roots.
Pipe replacement or relining: If a drain is badly damaged or collapsed, plumbers may recommend replacing the section entirely or relining it from the inside with a special resin. It sounds drastic, but it’s often the best long-term fix for chronically blocked drains.
Blocked drains aren’t just inconvenient – they can indicate deeper issues with your plumbing system. If you’ve tried everything to unblock drains yourself and nothing’s working, it’s best to stop experimenting and call an expert.
Give Static Plumbing a try
From Coke bombs to coat hanger fishing, people have come up with some wacky ways to unblock a drain. While a blocked drain can often be fixed with DIY methods like plunging or baking soda and vinegar, persistent or recurring issues need a professional touch. Drain unblocking isn’t about guesswork – it’s about solving the root cause, not just the symptom.
At Static Plumbing, we provide reliable, mess-free solutions to blocked drains across Brisbane Northside, Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast. Whether it’s tree roots, collapsed pipes, or years of buildup, our experienced team uses the right tools and know-how to clear it properly – without the chaos.
Skip the firecrackers and call Static Plumbing. We’ve seen it all – and we know how to fix it the right way, the first time.
Dripping taps are one of those little annoyances that can quickly drive you mad. That constant DRIP … DRIP … DRIP isn’t just irritating – it’s also wasting a lot of water and increasing your bill right in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis. Thankfully, a worn-out tap washer is often the culprit – and yes, it’s something many homeowners can fix themselves. In our exclusive guide, we’ll walk you through how to change a tap washer safely, what to watch out for, and when to stop and call a fully-licensed plumber.
Why tap washers wear out
Every time you turn a tap on or off, the washer inside it presses down against the valve seat to stop water flow. Over time, this rubber or nylon component wears out, hardens, or becomes brittle. The result?:
A leak
A squeaky handle
A tap that won’t turn off properly
Water leaks around the handle
A tap that feels loose or wobbly
Inconsistent water flow or reduced pressure
A stiff or hard-to-turn handle.
All of this is particularly common with hot water tap washer replacements – as heat accelerates that inevitable wear and tear.
Can you replace it yourself?
In most cases, yes – in Queensland, changing a tap washer inside your own home is allowed by law for basic maintenance purposes.
But, you MUST NOT:
Modify plumbing lines
Connect new tapware
Or work on anything involving mains pressure systems, unless you have that plumbing license.
Unsure? Just ask! Because getting it wrong can cause flooding, water hammer, or damage that ends up costing more than a straightforward and affordable service call.
The tools you’ll need
Before you get started, get these together:
Adjustable spanner or wrench
Flat-head screwdriver
Cloth or towel
Replacement water tap washer
Plumber’s grease (optional)
Tap reseating tool (if the valve seat is damaged).
Make sure you buy the right washer tap type and size – as these vary between brands and tap styles. It’s a good idea to take the old one to the hardware or plumbing supplies store if you can.
Step-by-step: How to change a tap washer
Follow these steps very carefully to avoid damaging your tap or pipework.
1. Turn off the water
Start by turning off the water supply to the tap. Use your mains water valve or the isolation valve under the sink if available. Then open the tap to release any remaining pressure and water.
2. Plug the drain
Place a towel or plug over the drain to prevent small parts from falling in!
3. Remove the tap handle
Use a screwdriver to gently pry off the cap or cover, exposing the screw. Remove it and lift off the handle.
4. Unscrew the tap bonnet
Using a wrench, unscrew the metal bonnet to expose the tap body. Be careful not to scratch nearby surfaces!
5. Remove the spindle
Once exposed, remove the spindle assembly. Inside the bottom end, you’ll see the old washer.
6. Replace the washer
Take out the old washer and insert the new one. If the seat inside the tap is corroded, use a reseating tool to grind it smooth before inserting the new washer.
7. Reassemble the tap
Grease the spindle lightly (if you’ve got that plumber’s grease handy) – then simply reverse the steps above to reassemble the tap. Just make sure everything is fully tightened – but not over-tightened!
8. Turn the water back on
Slowly turn the water back on and test the tap. The drip should be gone – and your sanity should be restored!
Common tap washer replacement problems
It all sounds simple – but you may be surprised just how common tap washer replacement problems are. Here’s what to look out for:
Tap still leaking?: The valve seat may be damaged or pitted.
Washer too loose or tight?: Using the wrong size washer can stop the tap from sealing properly.
Tap won’t turn off at all?: You may have reassembled it incorrectly or cross-threaded the spindle.
Water hammer?: If your pipes now bang, air could be trapped – or you’ve overtightened.
These are all signs that it’s time to stop, bite the bullet, and call a friendly plumber – before things escalate.
Tips for replacing tap washers successfully
Always replace like-for-like, so if your old washer is brass, get the same kind.
Check the O-rings too, because they can crack and leak independently of the main washer.
Do one tap at a time so you don’t get parts mixed up.
If the tap feels stiff after reassembly, don’t force it – something may not be aligned.
Be extra cautious with hot water tap washer fittings, as they can be pressurised or worn from years of use.
Knowing how to change a tap washer Australia-style means understanding both the right tools and the limits of legal DIY. Don’t forget that safety and compliance matter just as much as getting that leak fixed.
Preventing future leaks
Once you’ve mastered replacing a tap washer, the next step is making sure it lasts for as long as possible. So:
Don’t overtighten taps – this crushes the washer unnecessarily.
Turn taps off firmly but gently.
Keep an eye out for drips after installing new washers.
Have a licensed plumber service your taps every few years for long-term peace of mind.
If you’re replacing multiple washers across your home, consider upgrading to ceramic disc tapware – it’s more durable and requires less force to operate.
When to call a plumber
Sometimes, no matter how many times you try, replacing tap washers still isn’t a straightforward job – even if you’re pretty handy! Here’s when to bring in a licensed plumber:
Tap still leaking after new washer
Damaged valve seat
Handle spinning loosely
Unusual noises or water pressure problems
Older taps that may need full replacement.
Here At Static Plumbing, we offer fast, affordable tap washer replacement across Brisbane Northside, Moreton Bay, the Sunshine Coast and beyond. Whether it’s a simple fix or part of a broader plumbing issue, we’ll handle it all properly from start to finish – no mess, no guesswork.
Need help replacing a tap washer?
A dripping tap might seem small, but left too long it can lead to higher bills, water damage, and immense frustration. So whether you’re stuck mid-job or just want a professional tap repair or replacement, we can help.
Struggling to change tap washers at your place? Reach out to Static Plumbing today for expert help with leaking taps, tap upgrades, washer replacements and so much more – all done right the very first time.
A blocked downpipe might seem like no big deal – until the next time it rains! Suddenly, you’ll have:
Overflowing gutters
Water pouring down your walls
A huge mess on your hands.
That’s because downpipes play an absolutely vital role in directing rainwater safely away from your roof and foundation – and when they’re blocked, the whole system backs up.
Fortunately, there are ways to deal with the problem yourself – safely and effectively – without calling in a plumber right away.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to unblock downpipes using simple tools and safe methods. We’ll also cover how to prevent future clogs with regular downpipe cleaning – and let you know when it’s definitely time to call in a professional.
Signs your downpipe is blocked
Not sure if your downpipe is blocked? Here are the most common signs:
Gutters overflowing during rain
Water spilling over the edge of the roof
Water stains or damage around the eaves
Damp patches at the base of walls
No water coming out the bottom of the downpipe when it rains.
These all strongly suggest a blocked gutter downpipe – usually caused by leaves, twigs, sediment, or even the odd tennis ball!
How to unblock a downpipe safely
Once you’ve confirmed the blockage, it’s time to act. Here’s how to clear a blocked downpipe without damaging your gutters or pipes:
1. Start at the top
Begin by removing any visible debris from the gutter connected to the blocked pipe. If you’ve got gutter guards, lift them up and check underneath.
2. Flush with a hose
Place a garden hose into the top of the downpipe and turn it on full. Often, the pressure is enough to unblock downpipe debris and flush it through. If the water backs up, you’ve confirmed the clog is deeper inside.
3. Use a plumber’s snake
Feed a plumber’s snake or drain auger into the pipe to break up the blockage. This useful tool, cheap and usually available from good hardware stores, is great for unblocking downpipes without needing to dismantle anything.
4. Try a bladder or drain jet
Attach a drain bladder (also available at many hardware stores) to your hose and insert it into the pipe. As water flows, the bladder expands and blasts water at high pressure. It’s an effective downpipe cleaner for more stubborn blockages.
5. Work from the bottom up
If the top-down method fails, you can also unblock downpipe from ground level by removing the bottom elbow joint – if it’s accessible – and feeding your hose or snake upward.
If you’re unsure how to safely dismantle or access the lower parts, skip to the tips section below – or simply call a plumber!
How to clean downpipes regularly
Prevention is always better than repair. Once you’ve cleared the blockage you’ve currently got on your hands, here’s how to clean downpipes properly to avoid problems recurring in the future:
1. Schedule regular inspections
Check your gutters and downpipes every 3-6 months or so – especially before and after storm season. Spotting early build-up can prevent clogs.
2. Clear the gutters first
Cleaning downpipes always starts with clean gutters! Remove any leaf litter, branches, or moss sitting in the channels in any way you like – as long as it’s all gone!
3. Flush the pipe
Use a hose to rinse water through the downpipe and ensure it flows freely. If it backs up, it’s time to go deeper.
4. Consider gutter guards
Installing quality gutter guards can reduce the amount of debris entering your system, but don’t forget that they’re not maintenance-free. You’ll still need to check them at least a couple of times a year.
Tools for cleaning & unblocking
While many people look for a “magic” downpipe cleaner, the best tools are often manual and straightforward:
Plumber’s snake or drain auger
Garden hose with spray nozzle
Drain jet attachment or drain bladder
Gutter scoop or trowel
Protective gloves and safety glasses.
Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners – they can damage PVC pipes and are often ineffective on organic blockages like leaves or sludge.
DIY VS professional help
So, you’ve tried to learn how to clear downpipes all by yourself … and you’re still getting nowhere. But don’t stress! It’s just time to bring in a licensed drain plumber for a fast and affordable visit.
Professional downpipe clearing can involve:
High-pressure jetting
CCTV pipe inspections
Disassembly and repair of damaged joints
Clearing blockages further down the stormwater line.
Knowing how to clear a blocked downpipe is a useful skill – but don’t hesitate to call in help if it becomes risky or repetitive.
Quick tips for long-term prevention
Trim nearby trees to reduce leaf litter
Flush your gutters every few months
Install downpipe filters to catch debris at the top
Avoid DIY gadgets that push blockages deeper into the system
Don’t ignore small overflows – they often lead to much bigger issues.
Even if your blockage seems sorted now, it pays to keep your system clear. Left too long, blocked downpipes can damage your roof structures, attract pests that are hard to get rid of, and increase the risk of internal water leaks.
Don’t regret ignoring the problem!
Now you know exactly how to clear downpipes – and when it’s time to call in backup. Most minor clogs can be fixed with a hose and a bit of effort, but more stubborn blockages (especially in older homes) often need professional gear.
So don’t forget, blocked stormwater drains are one of the most common causes of water damage in Aussie homes – and a blocked downpipe is often the first warning sign. Don’t ever ignore it!
Need help unblocking downpipes?
Here at Static Plumbing, we help homeowners just like you deal with stubborn blocked downpipes, overflowing gutters, and stormwater issues before they cause serious damage. Whether it’s a quick downpipe cleaning, a full flush-out, or a pipe repair, we’ll get it flowing properly again.
Downpipe blocked? Contact Static Plumbing today for expert advice and fast, reliable, affordable help with downpipe problems
Gas – it’s a convenient, reliable, and – almost always! – a safe part of many Aussie homes. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with any risks at all. For example, imagine if you confirm a gas leak – what to do next?
Sudden, rotten egg-like smell that wasn’t there before?
Hearing faint hissing or whistling near gas appliances?
Gas cooktop flames orange instead of blue?
Anyone feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous?
Plants around your meter or in the house suddenly dying?
Are you already detecting a strange smell in your kitchen or near your gas meter, or somewhere else and thinking ‘Wait a minute … is that gas?’ You’re definitely not alone. However, it can be quite hard to tell whether it’s something to worry about or it’s just a harmless odour.
The truth is, when it comes to gas, it’s always better to be cautious.
In our blog, we’ll cover how to tell if you’ve got a gas leak, and – more importantly and urgently – what to do if you confirm it. This includes:
Steps for staying safe
Calling the right professionals
And some tips for prevention.
Already sure you’re dealing with a gas leak? Well, stop reading this right now and skip to our step-by-step ‘What to do’ section. Why? Because you’re already in the midst of a serious emergency, and every tick of the clock really matters now. For the rest of you, feel free to read on!:
How to confirm a gas leak emergency
Not sure whether that odd smell is a leak or just last night’s dinner, here are a few ways to confirm it’s really a problem:
1. The smell test
Gas is naturally odourless, but suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it that distinctive rotten egg smell. If you detect this in or around your home – especially near gas appliances – take it extremely seriously.
2. Hissing sounds
A leaking gas pipe or appliance may emit a faint hissing or whistling sound, even when turned off. This can be especially noticeable near joints or regulators.
3. Dying plants
Indoor plants suddenly wilting? Grass turning brown around the gas meter? Gas can displace oxygen in the soil or air, suffocating nearby vegetation.
4. Bubbles in soapy water
If you suspect a gas leak in a pipe or connection, and it’s safe to be near it, try brushing the area with soapy water. If it bubbles, it’s a leak.
5. Symptoms of gas exposure
Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous indoors? These can be signs of low-level gas exposure, especially when symptoms ease after leaving the house.
If any of the above sound familiar – don’t wait another second. Even small leaks can be extraordinarily dangerous.
What to do if you have a gas leak
A confirmed or strongly-suspected gas leak is a genuine emergency – and perhaps the biggest one of your life so far! Here’s what to do immediately and in exactly the right order:
1. Turn off the gas supply
Locate your gas meter and shut off the main valve. This cuts the gas supply to your home, reducing the risk of explosion or fire. If you’re not sure where this is, check your meter box or contact your provider.
2. Avoid flames and sparks
DO NOT:
Light a match
Turn on a stove
Flick light switches
Or use any electrical appliances.
Even the tiniest spark can ignite the gas leaking into the air.
3. Ventilate the area
Open all windows and doors to help clear the gas from your home. DON’T use fans or anything electric – just let natural airflow do the work.
4. Get everyone out
Evacuate all people and pets immediately, and move away from the house to a safe distance. Don’t re-enter until a licensed professional has cleared it as definitely safe.
5. Call for help
Once you’re at a safe distance, call your gas provider’s emergency line or a licensed plumber/gasfitter.
* IF THERE’S FIRE, CALL 000!
If you’re in Queensland and the issue involves a meter or main supply, your gas provider may need to attend before any gas leak repair can begin.
Tips: What you can do without a gasfitter
Gas fitting is legally regulated in Queensland. What does that mean? It means that just about all repair work must be carried out by a fully-licensed gasfitter.
However, there are a few small steps homeowners can take:
If you’re handy, you can check (but not alter) visible connections on BBQs or portable heaters for looseness.
If you’ve spotted a worn hose on a standalone appliance, you can replace the hose – just make sure you’re using a certified part.
Install gas alarms, which are devices alert you to leaks before they become dangerous. Some models detect carbon monoxide too.
For indoor appliances, make sure vents and flues aren’t blocked by dust or storage items.
But remember, anything involving permanent connections, indoor piping, appliance servicing, or installation is strictly off-limits unless you’re licensed. There are plenty of guides out there claiming to show you how to fix a gas leak, but unless you’re trained and certified, it’s not worth the risk – or the legal consequences.
Common causes of gas leaks
Understanding what causes leaks can help you prevent them. Some of the most common culprits include:
Old or cracked rubber hoses
Loose connections or fittings
Corroded pipes
Improper installation of appliances
Unserviced heaters or cooktops.
It’s also worth noting that gas leaks don’t always come from inside the home – underground supply lines or outdoor appliances can leak too.
When to call a professional
Any time you’re unsure, smell gas, or hear suspicious sounds from your system, it’s always safest to call in a licensed gasfitter. They can isolate the issue, carry out a gas leak fix, and test the system for safety and compliance.
Here at Static Plumbing, we offer professional diagnosis, leak detection, and gas leak repair all across Brisbane Northside, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast. We’ll also check your full gas setup to prevent future leaks before they become a hazard.
Gas leak in the house? What to do next
There’s no such thing as a harmless gas leak – even a faint smell should be taken extremely seriously. So whether you’re smelling something odd or have already turned off the mains, the next step is to get a professional on-site – STAT!
At Static Plumbing, we’re fully-qualified, licensed, experienced – and ready to respond to any and all gas issues all across the region and beyond.
We’ll locate the source of the gas leakage, fix the problem, and make sure your home is safe – all with clear advice and no shortcuts. Reach out to Static Plumbing today for fast, expert, affordable help with gas leaks and more.
There’s nothing like a pathetic weak trickle from the showerhead to ruin your morning. Whether you’re trying to quickly wash last night’s dinner dishes or trying to enjoy a decent rinse, low hot water pressure is one of those annoying household issues that just won’t fix itself. It may creep in slowly, or sometimes it can crop up overnight – but once you notice it, you can’t un-notice it!
AND LET’S BE REAL – most people aren’t plumbing experts. So when hot water pressure drops, we either ignore it, fiddle with the taps, or hope it goes away on its own.
BUT HERE’S THE THING – hot water pressure problems aren’t always caused by the obvious stuff. Sure, blocked pipes and dodgy valves are common culprits. But if you’ve already looked at the usual fixes and still find your hot water pressure low, it might be time to explore some of the less obvious reasons we’ve seen over the years.
The usual suspects (And fixes!)
Before we dive into the lesser-known solutions, let’s quickly run through the most common reasons for no hot water pressure – and what normally helps:
Blocked aerators or showerheads: Soak in vinegar or replace entirely.
Partially closed valves: Check the main isolation and tempering valves.
Aged or faulty hot water unit: Might need a repair or full replacement.
Sediment buildup in the tank: Drain and flush system (if it’s safe to do so).
Undersized system for your household: Consider upgrading for demand.
If you’ve run through those and you’re still asking yourself ‘Why is my hot water pressure low’, don’t stress quite yet – because you’re not alone. Let’s look at some of the issues homeowners often don’t think about:
Less obvious reasons your hot water pressure is low
Here are the 8 lesser-known – but entirely real – reasons you could be losing pressure, and what you might be able to do about them:
1. You’ve got a failing tempering valve
Tempering valves mix hot and cold water to ensure a safe delivery temperature – but they also affect pressure. If yours is faulty, worn out, or set too restrictively, it could explain hot water low pressure issues without affecting the temperature much.
WHAT TO DO: Have a fully-licensed hot water plumber inspect or replace the valve. It’s NOT a DIY job – and it’s often overlooked during installations.
2. The inlet filter is clogged
Inside many electric and gas hot water systems is a tiny inlet filter. Its job? To catch sediment before it flows into your unit. Over time, especially in older properties, it clogs up – and boom!: loss of hot water pressure.
WHAT TO DO: A plumber can remove, clean or replace it as part of a routine service call.
3. It’s the flexi-hose under your sink
Hot water pressure low but cold fine? One straightforward cause may not be the hot water system at all – but a simple bent or blocked flexi hose. If your hot water pressure is fine everywhere except the kitchen or bathroom, a kinked or deteriorating flexible connector could be the problem.
WHAT TO DO: Have the hose replaced – it’s cheap and fast for a professional, but not something you can ignore.
4. The tap washer or cartridge is partially blocked
Modern mixer taps use cartridges, and older taps use washers. But either of them can collect sediment or start to degrade, affecting flow – sometimes only on the hot side.
WHAT TO DO: Replacing tap internals or full mixers often solves the issue in isolated areas.
5. Your plumbing layout is fighting against you
In some homes – particularly older builds or those with retrofitted bathrooms like so many across Brisbane – the pipework may not be ideally designed. Long, narrow pipe runs or shared flow paths between hot water fixtures can reduce pressure.
WHAT TO DO: A plumber can assess whether re-routing or upsizing parts of your hot water line could improve pressure system-wide.
6. You’ve got a gravity-fed system
If your hot water has no pressure, but it’s a consistent issue across the whole house, you might be working with a gravity-fed setup. These systems are common in older Queensland homes and typically provide poor hot water flow – especially to higher fixtures like upstairs showers.
WHAT TO DO: Upgrade to a mains pressure system or install a pressure-boosting valve.
7. You’re using off-peak power at the wrong times
Some electric hot water systems in Brisbane are wired to off-peak tariffs, meaning they only heat water at certain times. If usage is high, or the system is undersized, the available hot water can become tepid – which you might confuse with a pressure drop.
WHAT TO DO: Check your billing and meter setup – and consider switching to continuous power or a larger tank.
8. Your pipes are internally corroded
Old galvanised or steel pipes corrode from the inside out, narrowing the flow path and creating high resistance for hot water. This often answers the question of why has my hot water pressure dropped – especially in heritage homes.
If you’re tired of guessing how to fix low hot water pressure, calling in a plumber is your next smart move. Here’s what a licensed pro like the guys at Static Plumbing will typically check:
Water pressure at the source and fixtures
Integrity and age of your hot water system
Signs of sediment, corrosion, or blockage
Valve performance and settings
Tapware condition and plumbing layout
Inlet filters and flow restrictors.
In many cases, we can resolve the issue with a service or minor replacement. In more complex cases, we’ll guide you through system upgrade options or long-term fixes.
Call Static Plumbing – Brisbane and Sunshine Coast’s local hot water pros
At Static Plumbing, we handle every kind of hot water pressure issue across Brisbane Northside, Sunshine Coast, and Moreton Bay – from a quick check to full system replacements and beyond. We’re locals, fully licensed, and always focused on long-term results, not short-term fixes.
Whether you’ve got no hot water pressure or your taps just don’t have the force they used to, we’ll get to the bottom of it fast. Contact Static Plumbing today and let’s get your hot water pressure sorted – no fuss, no guesswork, no massive bill – just professional, guaranteed, affordable service you can count on.
Our top-rated plumbers are ready to help you with upfront pricing and guaranteed workmanship.