Fixing leaks, preventing drips: Pipes and sinks

Leaking and dripping water can not only be annoying, it can lead to mould and mildew build up, something everyone would like to avoid. Such problems needn't be daunting, however, being much easier to fix than you might think. Oz Plumbers' guide to leaks and drips might just save you from hitting the panic button.

Step one: Locating a leak

There are a few main causes of leaks in pipes and sinks, and a few warning signs of areas that might be vulnerable to them. First off, check for any loose nuts. If water is dripping around this area, tighten the offending nut using a shifting spanner.

If a nut is not the problem, look at washers. Worn washers or washers that are the wrong size can mean that water is not being sealed in properly when the tap is turned off. With some new washers, a shifting spanner and a screwdriver, you can easily replace washers and save water. Also, washers installed in hot water taps are more likely to wear out faster than cold water washers - so check these first.

Don't forget that pipes can also get old and damaged; if the pipes are rusty or worn, you may need to replace the pipe altogether. Ensuring first that water is switched off at the mains, remove the old pipe with a shifting spanner and install the replacement pipe. Make sure you use plumber's grease and plumbers tape to seal the new pipe. If you're not confident replacing the pipe yourself, ask an experienced friend or enlist the services of a certified, qualified plumbing expert.

Plumbers tape and grease might also help if the pipe leaks but does not necessarily need replacing. Again, turn off the mains, unscrew the section that is leaking, apply grease and then screw back into place. Finally, seal with plumber's tape. Being watchful about this for all major sections of pipe in your home can vastly reduce vulnerability to leaks.

Step two: Major cases - when to call a plumbing professional

If you're not sure where your leak is coming from, calling in a plumber might just save the day - before major damage occurs (if it hasn't already). A fast-dripping tap can waste up to 80 litres of water a day, while a leaking hot water tap can cost as much as $300 a year in energy costs. In addition, leaking taps stain and damage sinks, leading to extra charges if they need replacing.

When it comes to replacing washers, some taps are more complex than others. Ceramic washers, usually found in "washerless" taps, are probably best left to the professionals; washerless taps come in a variety of types, all with different washers. It's also worth noting that ceramic taps usually run into problems if there's no filter on the water supply pipe.

If replacing washers doesn't work, you might need to replace the tap head. Speak with a hardware shop professional before doing this as it might be a more complicated job, depending on the type of tap - it could even be a task for a professional plumber. This advice applies to locating leaks in general - it's better to be safe than sorry. If you suspect a problem but don't feel confident tackling the problem alone, seek the assistance of a qualified plumbing expert in order to guarantee that a drip doesn't become a flood.