Plumbing problems are inevitable for any homeowner. Understanding common issues and their solutions can help you know when to tackle a problem yourself and when to call a professional.

Dripping Taps

The Problem

A single dripping tap can waste thousands of liters of water annually and increase water bills significantly.

Common Causes

  • Worn washers (most common in older taps)
  • Damaged valve seats
  • Mineral buildup from hard water
  • Loose packing nuts

DIY or Professional?

Simple tap repairs with new washers can be DIY projects, but modern tap repairs often require professional replacement of entire cartridges or mechanisms.

Clogged or Slow Drains

The Problem

Standing water in sinks, showers, or toilets indicates drainage issues.

Common Causes

  • Hair accumulation in shower and bathroom drains
  • Grease buildup in kitchen drains
  • Soap scum and detergent residue
  • Mineral deposits
  • Tree roots in sewer lines

Solutions

  • Plunger (works for many clogs)
  • Drain snake for deeper blockages
  • Chemical drain cleaners (use caution - harmful)
  • Professional drain cleaning and hydro-jetting

Running Toilets

The Problem

Water continuously running in the toilet tank wastes significant water and increases bills.

Common Causes

  • Worn flapper valve
  • Float mechanism malfunction
  • Dirty fill valve
  • Cracks in the tank

Solutions

Most running toilet issues can be fixed by replacing the flapper or fill valve - relatively simple DIY repairs or affordable professional repairs.

Leaking Pipes

The Problem

Water leaks waste water, increase bills, and can cause structural damage.

Common Causes

  • Corrosion in old pipes
  • Freezing (in cold areas)
  • High water pressure
  • Loose connections
  • Physical damage

Solutions

  • Temporary pipe clamps or tape for emergency situations
  • Professional repair or pipe replacement
  • Pressure regulator installation to reduce strain

Low Water Pressure

The Problem

Weak water flow makes showering and cleaning difficult.

Common Causes

  • Mineral buildup on aerators
  • Partially closed shut-off valves
  • Leaks reducing pressure
  • Municipal water supply issues
  • Corrosion in old pipes

Solutions

  • Clean aerators (DIY)
  • Check shut-off valve position (DIY)
  • Pressure regulator adjustment
  • Professional pipe cleaning or replacement

Water Heater Issues

Common Problems

  • No hot water
  • Fluctuating water temperature
  • Leaking tanks
  • Strange noises
  • Rusty water

Solutions

Water heater repairs often require professional service. Many issues indicate the need for replacement rather than repair.

When to Call a Professional

Contact Matria for:

  • Persistent drain problems
  • Burst or severely leaking pipes
  • Water heater issues
  • Sewer line problems
  • Major blockages
  • Multiple leaked requiring investigation

For any plumbing problem in Pretoria or Johannesburg, Matria is available 24/7. Call +27 73 761 6835 for professional service.