How often should I check my plumbing in Melbourne?

An annual visual check of key plumbing components is recommended for Melbourne homeowners: hot water system condition and age, flexi hose condition under sinks and behind toilets, tap and fixture leaks, toilet flush performance, and drain speed. A full plumbing inspection by a licensed plumber every 5 years is advisable for properties over 20 years old.

How do I check if I have a hidden water leak?

The water meter test is the most reliable check: turn off all water outlets, note the meter reading, wait 30-60 minutes, check again. Any increase in the reading indicates water is moving in the system - i.e., a leak. Even a small movement matters.

When should flexi hoses be replaced in Melbourne?

Flexi hoses should be replaced at 10 years from installation regardless of condition, or immediately if the braided stainless covering is discoloured, fraying, or showing corrosion at the fittings. Most flexi hose failures occur without visible warning - proactive replacement is the only reliable prevention.

Annual Plumbing Maintenance Checklist for Melbourne Homeowners

Most plumbing problems in Melbourne don’t happen suddenly — they develop gradually and give warning signs if you know what to look for. An annual check of your home’s plumbing takes less than an hour and can prevent the kind of problems that cost thousands to fix.

Hot Water System

✓ Note the manufacture date (label on the unit) — if it’s over 10 years old, factor in replacement planning
✓ Check the temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve is not weeping continuously — if it is, the valve or system pressure needs attention
✓ Check for corrosion at the base of the tank or at fittings
✓ Run the hot tap — water should be hot within a reasonable time and not rust-coloured

Flexi Hoses (Critical)

✓ Check under every sink (kitchen, bathroom, laundry), behind every toilet, and under dishwashers and washing machines
✓ Look for braided stainless hoses that are discoloured, kinked, or have visible corrosion at the fittings
✓ Note the installation date if visible on the hose — replace any hose over 10 years old
✓ If the hose braiding is unravelling or rust-coloured, replace immediately

Taps and Fixtures

✓ Check all taps for dripping — even a slow drip wastes 3,000+ litres per year
✓ Check under-sink cabinets for signs of moisture (swollen particleboard, staining, mould smell)
✓ Test all isolation valves by turning them off and on — if they won’t move, they need replacement before they seize permanently

Toilets

✓ Do the dye test: add food colouring to the cistern, wait 10 minutes without flushing — if colour appears in the bowl, the flapper valve is leaking
✓ Check that the toilet flushes fully and refills within 30–60 seconds
✓ Check for water movement around the base of the pan — could indicate a failed wax seal or pan connector

Drains

✓ Run all drains and check for slow drainage
✓ Clean hair catchers in shower and bath drains
✓ Check external drain grates are clear of leaf debris
✓ If you have large trees within 10m of your sewer line and the property is over 20 years old, book a CCTV sewer inspection every 3–5 years

Water Meter Test

Turn off all water in the house. Note the meter reading. Wait 30 minutes. Check again. Any movement indicates a hidden leak.

Gas Appliances

✓ Service gas heaters and ducted heating every 2 years (legally required in rentals; strongly recommended for all)
✓ Check gas connections to cooktops and appliances for any smell of sulfur
✓ Ensure your gas meter is accessible and not buried under vegetation

Sedcon Plumbing offers plumbing maintenance visits across Melbourne — we’ll work through this checklist with you and fix anything found on the same visit. Call 0468 013 012 | VBA Lic. 120392