Emergency Plumbing

Can I unblock a drain myself?

If the drain is not shared and the blockage is minor, it is possible to resolve it with some home remedies.

  • Baking soda and Vinegar
  • Warm water and Soap

Should I pour boiling water down a blocked drain?

While it is possible that this can solve your problem, it is not recommended. Hot or boiling water can potentially damage or melt plastic bonding between pipes. In the case of PVC pipes, they may be directly damaged or melted too.

What causes burst pipes?

There are several common reasons why pipes burst, but usually blockages are the main culprit. Pressure built up inside a pipe due to a blockage will eventually cause the pipe to burst. Freezing can also cause pipes to rupture from the water within expanding.

What should I do first if I have a burst pipe?

The damaged section of pipe will have to be replaced. If you are not already well-versed in pipe repair, call in a professional plumber to handle it. In the meantime, turn off the water supply to stop further leakage.

Which pipes are most likely to burst?

Exposed pipes, old pipes and pipes affected by corrosion are most prone to bursting. This is why it is important to maintain healthy pipes. In cold weather, pipes situated in unheated areas are at more risk.

Blocked Drains

What is Water Jetting?

Water jet cleaning is a process utilising streams of high-pressure water to dislodge built up debris and deposits that are often found in pipes and plumbing systems. This technique is very effective at addressing persistent plumbing issues that cleaning agents and more conventional efforts fail at dealing with.

When do you need Water Jetting services?

Water jetting is a cost-effective option for property owners who are seeking to solve water pressure issues without purchasing and installing new pipes and fixtures. It is much less intrusive than ripping up walls or floorboards to get at faulty pipes.

What are common Drain and Sewer Line Issues?

Obstructions, blockage and deposits that limit the flow rate of your sewage line can be significant issues that have the potential to cause a great deal of harm to your property and its plumbing. Ignoring the problem or failing to address it in a timely fashion can result in backed up plumbing, a rupture developing in your sewage line or other issues that may require greater efforts and expense in order to address.

What should I do when I have a blocked drain?

Rapid Plumbing Group are the right professionals for you. We provide maintenance and repair solutions for property owners who are faced with plumbing problems, from restoring and improving the water pressure available to your property, to ensuring that your sewer line is not at risk of creating larger problems. Our professional water jetting services can make a considerable difference. Do business with the best!

Hot Water Services

What does a hot water heater inspection involve?

When we service a hot water system, we inspect and service everything from the ground up. Our comprehensive services include

  • Corrosion inspection
  • Leak detection
  • Gas connection inspection
  • Complete flush

What are some common problems with hot water systems?

Hot water systems are essential to our daily lives, but are also delicate machines. Common ways they may break down include:

  • Failing anode rod no longer dissolving rust in the tank
  • Bacterial infection causing foul smell in water

What do I do when my hot water heater stops working?

It’s time to call in a certified plumber to take a look and make the right repairs. Rapid Plumbing Group’s staff are well-trained and highly professional. We work 24/7 and are efficient at any job, so you can be sure that we’ll get your hot water systems up and running in no time at all.

Taps & Toilets

Should I repair or replace my tap?

This often depends on the age and condition of the tap - if it is an older model that has worn down over time, replacement may be the more cost effective option. On the other hand, a newer tap with a simple issue such as a worn washer can often be repaired easily and quickly.

Do I need a professional to fix my toilet leak?

Toilets may seem sturdy, but rough handling while repairing one can spell disaster. Professional plumbers know how to provide solutions to leaky toilets while taking care of them, so that they may last in your home for a long time.

Why should I fix a leaky tap right away?

Leaky taps do not seem very serious, but they are worth looking into as soon as possible. Over time if not taken care of it can lead to a real waste of water and money. The constant moisture can also lead to growth of mould or mildew which can jeopardise your health. Don’t risk it! Call Rapid Plumbing today!

Rainwater Tanks & Pumps

How is rainwater used at home?

Rainwater is ideal for water needs that do not require drinkable water. Once the collected water is filtered to clean it, it can be pumped into your water supply, repurposing in homes in order to supply water for toilets, washing machines, and even baths and showers.

Do I need a professional to fix my toilet leak?

Usually, special gutters are installed onto the roof of a property to drain rainwater into a rainwater tank, running through a filter before entering to get rid of larger debris like leaves. If using gravity is not an option, there are rainwater systems that use pumps to move rainwater to the tank instead.

What are the pros of a rainwater system?

  • High versatility: water can used for many household applications
  • Lowers water bill: you no longer need as much imported water
  • Low maintenance cost: maintenance is simple and does not need to be done frequently
  • Insurance during droughts: take full advantage of precious rainwater during drought seasons

Gas Plumbing

How often do gas appliances need maintenance?

This depends on the appliance, such as how often it sees use, but once every two years is an average benchmark.

Should I use natural gas or LPG?

Natural gas is more efficient and cleaner than LPG. However, not every location has natural gas lines nearby, which leaves LPG as the only choice. If you are unsure you can visit the Australian Gas Network website https://www.australiangasnetworks.com.au/ or contact a distributor.

What are the signs of a gas leak?

A gas leak has many noticeable signs to warn you of the danger:

  • A rotten smell
  • Hissing sounds
  • Air bubbles outside your house
  • Higher gas usage than normal
  • Dying plants
  • Health problems caused by gas poisoning

If you notice any of these signs, call Rapid Plumbing at once for help.

General Plumbing

What does a plumbing inspection involve?

Inspections vary depending on the size and complexity of the system. Typically, an inspection includes evaluating the condition of pipes, fixtures, and other components; checking for leaks; testing the water pressure; and verifying that everything meets code requirements.

Can I install appliances myself?

Not only can appliances be complicated to install, but they are also usually quite bulky and heavy, impractical for the average person to handle. Let Rapid Plumbing’s professionals handle installations for you.

What causes leaky taps?

Usually, the cause is the deterioration of rubber seals within the taps. These seals can be worn down if limescale (mineral build-up from hard water) builds up, or just over time.

General Plumbing

What does a plumbing inspection involve?

Inspections vary depending on the size and complexity of the system. Typically, an inspection includes evaluating the condition of pipes, fixtures, and other components; checking for leaks; testing the water pressure; and verifying that everything meets code requirements.

Can I install appliances myself?

Not only can appliances be complicated to install, but they are also usually quite bulky and heavy, impractical for the average person to handle. Let Rapid Plumbing’s professionals handle installations for you.

What causes leaky taps?

Usually, the cause is the deterioration of rubber seals within the taps. These seals can be worn down if limescale (mineral build-up from hard water) builds up, or just over time.

Commercial Plumbing

How long does a water heater last?

Typically, a water heater that was installed competently should last at least 10 years.

How often should a plumbing inspection be conducted?

When nothing is wrong, a routine inspection on an annual basis at minimum is recommended. If your plumbing system is showing any signs of trouble, best to call Rapid Plumbing on 1800 172 743 as soon as possible!

What are the signs of a gas leak?

A gas leak has many noticeable signs to warn you of the danger:

  • A rotten smell
  • Hissing sounds
  • Air bubbles outside your house
  • Higher gas usage than normal
  • Dying plants
  • Health problems caused by gas poisoning

If you notice any of these signs, call Rapid Plumbing at once for help.

Water Filters

Do water filters actually work?

While no water filter can get rid of 100% of impurities, they are proven to do well at trapping debris and contaminants from your drinking water.

Which brand of water filter should I choose?

Each brand of filter on the market has different features and applications; there is no objective best, only one that suits your needs and wants the most. If you need some advice,
Rapid Plumbing is only a call away and has vast experience with many brands of filters.

Where are water filters installed?

Water filters can be either whole-house filters or point-of-use filters. The former are installed at the point where water enters your home so that every appliance uses the filtered water. The latter is installed at the kitchen sink or other specific faucet. If desired, they can be used together for even cleaner water.

Backflow Prevention & RPZ Valves

Is RPZ the best type of backflow prevention?

Compared to the more common Double Check Valve, RPZ is much more reliable and effective at preventing backflow as it is capable of handling more than one type of backflow.

Where should a RPZ valve be installed?

RPZ valves should be installed above ground. They are usually attached horizontally, but can be modified to be installed vertically.

How do I maintain a RPZ valve?

RPZ valves are relatively complex assemblies and should be maintained by plumbers. Schedule routine inspections with a professional from Rapid Plumbing to keep your RPZ valves working at tip-top shape.

Septic Systems

How do I maintain a septic system?

It’s important to pump your septic tank once every three to five years at least. The pump itself and other electrical or mechanical components should be inspected more regularly, and by experts at Rapid Plumbing.

Do I need a professional to fix my toilet leak?

A septic tank that is close to full starts to smell nasty. You may also have sewage back-up and overflowing toilets. All these problems are expensive to fix if left alone, and can also jeopardise your health with unsanitary living conditions. If it gets to that point, take action and phone Rapid Plumbing for assistance.

What is an easy way to clean my septic system?

Properly cleaning your septic system regularly is recommended, but there are some little things you can do to keep the system healthy periodically. Pouring baking soda and vinegar down a drain can help clean up your septic system a bit. Pouring yeast down a drain can help introduce some good bacteria to the tank, which will help by breaking down waste.

Roofing & Guttering

What is the most common cause of roof leaks?

Typical roof leak causes include:

  • Old roof tiles
  • Broken shingles
  • Blocked gutters
  • Chimney damage

Ignoring these will eventually lead to leaks and property damage, and should be addressed quickly.

Is it better to replace or repair gutters?

Repairing is generally the smarter option, but if parts of your gutters are falling off, then it is wise to replace the whole system.

Should a downpipe be underground?

Downpipes are typically buried a bit underground to hide it, but depending on the land your property sits on, this might not be feasible. Ask Rapid Plumbing’s expert plumbers.

Renovation Plumber

Should I get tiling or plumbing done first for bathrooms?

Unless there are special circumstances, tiling should be done before plumbing. Rapid Plumbing Group is happy to work with any tiler you hire to organise the project, and finish up the last touches on tiling if necessary.

What does a plumber do in kitchen renovation?

Rapid Plumbing Group’s plumbers will first check existing pipes to see if they need changing or improving. In some cases, we may advise replacing the system altogether if it is too old, in disrepair, or extremely inefficient in design.

Do I need a Water Efficiency Certificate?

A Water Efficiency Certificate in NSW is not legally required, but if you are considering renting out the property, then it is a very good idea to get one to protect your rights. Rapid Plumbing Group can make sure that your plumbing is up to standards for the certificate.

Leak Detection

How do I find where a leak is coming from?

It can be difficult to find the source of a leak just by looking around. Give Rapid Plumbing a call, and a professional plumber will come on-site to conduct tests using professional equipment and pinpoint the issue.

Are small gas leaks still dangerous?

They can be! It is normal for a small amount of gas to linger after using the stove, but if there is even a tiny uncontrolled leak, an errant spark could start a fire. Breathing in the gas for longer periods of time can also have adverse health effects. Take caution and contact Rapid Plumbing as soon as possible so that we can send an expert to stop the leak.

Where is a shower most likely to leak?

Shower head and shower tray leaks are common, but there could be further issues such as problems with the water supply or grout. Call Rapid Plumbing to have a plumber take a closer look.