FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common Plumbing Issues
Q1. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON PLUMBING ISSUES IN THE SCENIC RIM AREA?
The most common plumbing problems that occur in the Scenic Rim area include: blocked drains, leaking pipes, water heater problems, and blocked toilets.
Q2. HOW MUCH DOES IT TYPICALLY COST TO HIRE A PLUMBER?
The cost of hiring a plumber in the Scenic Rim area varies depending on the complexity of the job, and also the plumbers experience. On average, you can expect to pay between $100-$160 per hour for a licenced plumber.
Q3. CAN I FIX A BLOCKED DRAIN MYSELF?
While it is possible to fix a blocked or clogged drain yourself, it is not always recommended. DIY methods can sometimes worsen the problem or cause further damage to your plumbing system. It is usually better to hire a professional plumber to ensure that the job is done correctly.
Q4. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE MY WATER HEATER SERVICED?
It is recommended that you have your water heater serviced at least once a year to ensure that it is functioning correctly and also to catch any potential problems early on.
Q5. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE A BURST PIPE?
If you have a burst pipe, turn off your water supply immediately to prevent any further damage. Then, call a licensed plumber to attend and fix the problem.
Q6. HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A LEAKING TOILET?
If you hear a continuous hissing sound coming from your toilet or notice that your water bill has increased significantly, it is quite possible that you have a leaking toilet. You should call a licensed plumber to assess the situation.
Q7. CAN I INSTALL A NEW TOILET MYSELF?
While it is possible to install a new toilet yourself, it is highly recommended you hire a professional plumber to ensure that job is done correctly and safely.
Q8. HOW CAN I PREVENT BLOCKED/CLOGGED DRAINS?
To prevent blocked/clogged drains, avoid putting grease, oil and other solid materials down your drains. Additionally, use a drain strainer to catch any hair and other debris that could cause a blockage.
Q9. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY WATER PRESSURE IS TOO LOW?
If your water pressure is low, it could be due to a blockage in your pipes, or a problem with your water supply. Call a licensed plumber to diagnose the issue and recommend a solution.
Q10. HOW CAN I EXTEND THE LIFESPAN OF MY PLUMBING SYSTEM?
Be sure to properly maintain your pipes and fixtures by having them serviced regularly. Additionally, avoid flushing non-degradable materials down your toilet and be careful with what you put down your drains.
Common Gas Issues
Q1. HOW DO I DETECT A GAS LEAK IN MY HOME?
If you smell gas in your home, hear a hissing noise near a gas line or appliance, or notice dead vegetation around gas pipelines outside, you may have a gas leak. It is important to immediately evacuate your house, avoid using electronic devices or lighting matches, and call your gas provider or emergency services.
Q2. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET MY GAS APPLIANCES SERVICED?
To ensure your gas appliances are functioning safely and efficiently, it is recommended to have them serviced by a licensed gas fitter every 1-2 years, depending on their age, usage and condition.
Q3. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY GAS COOKTOP ISN’T IGNITING?
If your gas stove burner won’t ignite, make sure the burner cap and base are properly aligned, the gas supply is turned on, and the ignitor is clean and dry. If none of these things help, you may need to replace the igniter or have a gas fitter inspect your stove.
Q4. CAN I USE A GAS HEATER IN A POORLY VENTILATED ROOM?
No. It can produce harmful levels of carbon monoxide, which is a colourless, odourless gas that can cause serious health problems and even death. Make sure your gas heater is installed and used in a properly ventilated area.
Q5. WHY IS MY GAS HEATER NOT PRODUCING HOT WATER?
If your gas water heater isn’t producing hot water, it could be due to a faulty thermostat, pilot light, thermocouple, or burner. You will require a licensed gas fitter to inspect and repair your water heater.
Q6. CAN I CONVERT A GAS STOVE FROM NATURAL GAS TO LPG?
Yes, it is possible to convert a gas stove from natural gas to LPG (liquid petroleum gas), but it must be done by a licensed gas fitter. This typically involves replacing or modifying the burners, regulators and jets.
Q7. HOW DO I TURN OFF THE GAS SUPPLY TO MY HOUSE?
Locate the main gas valve (usually near the gas meter or regulator), and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas flow. Make sure everyone in your house knows where the gas valve is and how to turn it off in case of an emergency.
Q8. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SMELL GAS OUTSIDE MY HOUSE?
Avoid creating any sparks or flames, leave the area immediately, and call your gas provider or emergency services. Gas leaks outside the house can also be dangerous and require immediate attention.
Q9. CAN I USE A GAS BBQ INSIDE MY GARAGE OR UNDER COVERED PATIO?
No, it can produce carbon monoxide and pose a fire hazard. Make sure you use your gas BBQ in a well ventilated area.
Q10. HOW DO I KNOW IF MY GAS METER IS FAULTY?
If you suspect your gas meter is faulty, you may notice unusually high gas bills, a hissing sound near the meter, or a damaged or corroded meter. You should contact your gas provider and have a professional technician inspect your meter.
Common Septic Tank & HSTP System Issues
Q1. WHAT IS A SEPTIC SYSTEM?
A septic system is underground waste water treatment system, commonly used in rural areas where the centralized sewage treatment is not available. It consists of a septic tank and a drain field that work together to treat and dispose of household waste water.
Q2. WHAT IS A HSTP SYSTEM?
A HSTP stands for Home Sewage Treatment Plant, which is a small-scale waste water treatment system that can be used in rural and remote areas where centralized sewage treatment is not feasible.
Q3. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE MY SEPTIC SYSTEM PUMPED?
Septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank and the number of occupants in the home. Regular pumping helps prevent solids from accumulating in the tank and potentially clogging the drain field.
Q5. WHAT ARE SOME SIGNS MY SEPTIC SYSTEM MAY BE FAILING?
Slow drains, gurgling sounds in the plumbing, sewage backups, and foul odours are the septic tank or drain field are all signs your septic system may be failing. If you notice any of these signs it is important to have your system inspected by a licensed professional.
Q6. WHAT ARE SOME SIGNS MY HSTP SYSTEM MAY BE FAILING?
Signs of a failing HSTP system include alarms going off, foul odours, and sewage backups. If you notice any of these signs it is important to have your system inspected by a licensed professional.
Q7. CAN I USE A GARBAGE DISPOSAL WITH MY SEPTIC SYSTEM?
Garbage disposals should be used sparingly with septic systems. They can contribute to increased solids in the tank and potentially clog the drain field. It is best to avoid using a garbage disposal or limit its use as much as possible.
Q8. CAN I USE BLEACH OR OTHER HARSH CHEMICALS WITH MY SEPTIC SYSTEM?
Harsh chemicals should be avoided with septic systems, as they can kill the beneficial bacteria that are needed to break down waste in the tank. It is best to use mild, septic safe cleaners and avoid pouring chemicals down the drain.
Q9. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY SEPTIC SYSTEM FREEEZERS?
If your septic system freezers it is important to stop using water in the house immediately. Contact a licensed professional to assess the situation and help thaw out the system.
Q10. HOW CAN I PREVENT SEPTIC SYSTEM ISSUES?
It is important to have your system regularly inspected and serviced by a licensed professional, avoid using harsh chemicals or overusing water in the house, and practice proper waste disposal habits (such as not flushing non-degradable items down the toilet).