FAQs

The easiest way to check for a water leak is by following these steps:

1. Go outside to your water meter.

2. Lift the lid and then the little plastic cover.

3. Take a picture of the water meter readings.

4. Wait for about 10 minutes without using any water inside your house and ensuring no water-utilising appliances are running.

5. Take another photo of the water meter readings.

6. Compare the numbers between the two photos. Typically, the end digit, often marked in red, will have moved if there's a leak. If there's a noticeable change, it indicates a potential leak in your plumbing system.

If you're experiencing a lack of hot water, consider the following steps:

1. Check if someone has used up all the hot water by having a long shower or filling a large bath.

2. Inspect your hot water unit outside for any leaks, as water damage can cause the unit to switch off.

3. If there are no visible leaks, carefully pull the valve on the side of the hot water unit. Be cautious, as water may come out near your feet. This valve is typically located at the top and has a small lever on it. If cold water comes out, the issue is likely electrical. If hot water comes out, it's plumbing-related.

Your water meter is usually located at the front corner of your property, either on the left or right side. If you can't find it there, it may be situated outside your property line. Knowing the location of your water meter is crucial in case of a plumbing emergency, as you'll need to quickly shut off the water. These valves can be old and difficult to turn, so it's wise to have a spanner or shifter on hand for assistance.

While you technically can leave your washing machine taps on, there's always a risk of the hoses bursting and flooding your house. It's advisable to upgrade your washing machine hoses to stainless steel braided lines to reduce the likelihood of a burst pipe. However, as a precautionary measure, it's good practice to always turn off your washing machine taps when they're not in use, especially if they're easily accessible.

If you suddenly have no water or low water pressure, it's a common issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Check if Unity Water has turned off the water on the street to fix a burst water main in your area. You can visit their website or call them to inquire about any maintenance work in your vicinity.

2. If there's no indication of maintenance by Unity Water and you still have no water, contact your plumber for assistance. They can help diagnose and address any plumbing issues causing the lack of water or low pressure.