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Common Reasons a Gas Heater Keeps Shutting Off A gas heater that turns on and then shuts off before the home reaches temperature is one of the most common heater complaints we hear at ATC Plumbing. Here are the most likely causes, starting with the simplest. 1. Dirty or Blocked Filter Most ducted gas heaters have a return air filter that catches dust and debris. When this filter becomes clogged, airflow is restricted — the heat exchanger overheats and the unit shuts itself off as a safety measure. Check your filter first. If it's visibly dirty, remove it, clean or replace it, and see if the problem resolves. Filters should be cleaned every 3–6 months. 2. Thermostat Issues A faulty thermostat can cause the heater to read the room temperature incorrectly and shut off prematurely. Try replacing the batteries in the thermostat first. If it's a wired thermostat, it may need recalibration or replacement — a job for a licensed technician. 3. Flame Failure or Ignition Fault If the pilot light or ignition system is faulty, the heater may light briefly then shut down when it can't confirm a stable flame. This is usually indicated by a fault code on the display. This is a licensed gas fitter job — do not attempt to repair ignition components yourself. 4. The Heater Needs a Service If your heater is shutting off and hasn't been serviced in the last 2 years, it likely just needs a clean, tune, and inspection. Accumulated dust and carbon deposits affect combustion efficiency and can trigger safety shutoffs. Still shutting off after checking the filter? Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 — we service gas heaters across Melbourne's south-east.

Is Your Pool Actually Leaking? Melbourne pools lose water to evaporation, splash-out, and backwashing — particularly in summer. Before assuming a leak, do the bucket test to confirm water loss is above normal evaporation rates. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the first step so it's partially submerged. Mark the water level inside the bucket and the pool water level outside. Leave it 24 hours without running the pump. If the pool has lost noticeably more water than the bucket, you have a leak. Normal evaporation in Melbourne is typically 2–3mm per day in summer. Consistent losses above 5–6mm per day suggest a leak. Where Pool Leaks Typically Occur Pool leaks most commonly occur at penetrations and fittings — light fittings, return jets, skimmer boxes, and main drains are all common failure points. Cracks in the pool shell or delamination of the pool surface are another source. The most difficult leaks to locate are in the underground pipework connecting the pool to the pump and filter equipment, as these pipes can be anywhere beneath the pool surrounds or garden. How ATC Plumbing Finds Pool Leaks ATC Plumbing uses pressure testing and acoustic leak detection to locate pool leaks without unnecessary excavation. Pressure testing isolates individual pipe runs to identify which section is losing pressure. Acoustic detection then pinpoints the exact location by listening for the sound signature of water escaping through the ground. This approach identifies the leak location within centimetres — minimising the excavation required for repair. Dye Testing for Fittings and Shell Leaks For suspected leaks at fittings, lights, and surface cracks, dye testing is used. A small amount of dye is released near the suspected leak point — if there's a breach, the dye is drawn toward it by water pressure. This identifies whether individual fittings need resealing or the shell requires patching. Suspect a pool leak? Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758. We service Melbourne's south-east including Oakleigh, Brighton, Cheltenham, Moorabbin, and surrounding areas.

Hot Water System Replacement Costs — Melbourne 2026 These are honest ballpark ranges based on typical residential installations in Melbourne's south-east. Every job is different — the system type you choose, your existing pipework, access difficulty, and whether you're switching fuel types all affect the final price. ATC Plumbing always provides a firm quote before starting any work. Gas Storage Hot Water Systems Supply and installation of a quality gas storage hot water system typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 for a standard residential replacement at the same location with the same fuel type and no pipework changes. This covers a unit from a recognised brand such as Rheem, Rinnai, or Dux at the right capacity for your household. Continuous Flow (Instantaneous) Gas Systems Continuous flow systems range from approximately $1,500 to $2,500 installed. The unit cost is generally higher than storage systems, but there's no tank to corrode and no standby heat loss — so running costs are lower. Installation is often simpler when replacing a wall-mounted storage system in the same location. Electric Storage Systems Standard electric storage replacement typically costs $900 to $1,600 installed. Worth noting: in Victoria, off-peak electric storage systems are subject to restrictions under the gas substitution roadmap. Discuss your long-term energy direction before choosing an electric storage option. Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Heat pump systems cost more upfront — typically $2,500 to $4,000+ installed — but Victorian government rebates can offset $1,000 or more of this cost. Running costs are significantly lower than gas or standard electric systems, with most households seeing payback within 3–6 years through reduced energy bills. What Affects the Final Price? Key factors include the system type and capacity, whether you're changing fuel type (e.g. gas to electric, which requires new electrical work), pipework changes required, and access difficulty. ATC Plumbing provides same-day hot water replacements in most cases across Melbourne's south-east. Call 1300 282 758. Related reading: how to get a fair plumbing quote

Why Size Matters — And Why Bigger Isn't Always Better An undersized hot water system means running out of hot water mid-shower. An oversized one means paying to heat water you never use. Getting the size right when replacing a system is one of the most important decisions — and it's more nuanced than just matching the old tank's capacity, especially if your household has changed. Sizing for Gas Storage Hot Water Systems As a general guide for Melbourne households: 1–2 people need a 125–160 litre tank; 3–4 people a 170–250 litre tank; 5+ people a 250–315 litre tank. These assume the system heats continuously or on a timer. If your system only heats once per day (e.g. overnight), err toward the larger size for your household to ensure adequate recovery. Sizing for Continuous Flow Gas Systems Continuous flow systems are rated by flow rate in litres per minute (L/min). For Melbourne, where cold water inlet temperatures can drop to 10°C in winter, you need a unit capable of delivering your target temperature at your peak simultaneous usage. A family of 4 with one bathroom typically needs a 16–20 L/min unit. Two simultaneous showers requires 20–26 L/min. Undersizing a continuous flow system means the water won't reach temperature when multiple outlets run at once. Sizing for Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Heat pump systems heat more slowly than gas storage, so they need a larger tank. A household of 4 should look at 270–315 litres minimum. In Melbourne's colder months, heat pump efficiency drops — sizing up slightly ensures adequate recovery overnight. Victoria's heat pump rebate program can significantly offset the higher upfront cost. Don't Just Replace Like-for-Like If your household has grown, shrunk, or changed habits since your last system was installed, it's worth reassessing the size. ATC Plumbing will recommend the right size for your household and discuss all fuel type options honestly. Call 1300 282 758 for same-day hot water advice or replacement across Melbourne's south-east. Related reading: opening your hot water relief (PTR) valve

How Long Will My Hot Water System Last? The lifespan of a hot water system varies significantly depending on the type, water quality, usage, and maintenance history. Here are honest estimates for Melbourne homes. Gas Storage Hot Water Systems — 8 to 12 Years The tank is the vulnerable component. Internal corrosion caused by anode depletion is the most common failure mode. Sacrificial anodes protect the tank lining from corrosion — when they're depleted, corrosion accelerates rapidly. Anodes should be inspected every 5 years. Replacing a depleted anode costs a fraction of replacing the whole system and can add years to tank life. Continuous Flow Gas Systems — 15 to 20 Years Without a storage tank, there's no corrosion risk. The main wear components are the heat exchanger, burner, and flow sensor. Continuous flow systems generally outlast storage systems significantly — 15+ years is typical with basic maintenance. Electric Storage Systems — 8 to 12 Years Similar lifespan to gas storage with the same anode-related failure patterns. Electric elements can be replaced relatively easily if the tank is still in good condition, potentially extending system life. Heat Pump Systems — 10 to 15 Years The compressor is the key component — similar to a reverse-cycle air conditioner. Heat pump systems typically last 10–15 years. The tank component may outlast the heat pump unit itself. Signs Your System Is Near End of Life Watch for: rusty or discoloured water from the hot tap, pooling water or moisture around the unit, the pressure relief valve frequently lifting or weeping, inconsistent water temperatures, or a unit that's more than 10 years old and starting to show any of these signs. If your system is over 10 years old and struggling, get an assessment before it fails completely. ATC Plumbing provides same-day hot water service across Melbourne's south-east — call 1300 282 758. Related reading: opening your hot water relief (PTR) valve

Updated May 2026 — Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd, Oakleigh South. When you're dealing with a burst pipe at midnight or a sewer backup on a Sunday morning, one of the first things you want to know is: how long until someone gets here? The answer depends on several real factors — and understanding them helps you set accurate expectations and make better decisions about whether to call immediately or wait. What Realistic Emergency Response Times Actually Look Like For ATC Plumbing attending emergencies across Melbourne's south-east and Bayside from our base in Oakleigh South, realistic response times are typically within 60 minutes and often within 30 minutes for suburbs close to our base — Bentleigh, Moorabbin, Cheltenham, Highett, Carnegie, Caulfield, and surrounding suburbs. For outer areas of our service zone, allow 45–75 minutes depending on traffic and time of day. These are genuine figures based on actual job attendance — not marketing claims. After-hours response times in the middle of the night are often faster than peak-hour daytime calls because there's no traffic. What Affects Emergency Response Time Distance — a plumber based 5km from you will always reach you faster than one based 30km away who lists your suburb on their website. Ask where they're based before you book. Whether they're genuinely available — a plumber who answers the phone directly and can dispatch immediately is faster than a call centre that needs to find a subcontractor available in your area. Time of day — late night and early morning callouts often have faster road times than business-hours emergencies during peak traffic. Whether another job is currently in progress — an honest plumber will tell you if they're on a job and give you a realistic updated ETA rather than a vague 'as soon as possible.' What to Do While Waiting for the Plumber For burst pipes or major leaks: turn off your water at the meter immediately. The meter is typically at the front of your property near the footpath. Turning it off stops the flow and prevents further water damage while you wait. If you don't know where your meter is, the plumber can talk you through locating it over the phone. For sewer backups: stop using all water in the home. Don't flush toilets, run taps, or use any appliances that drain. Every litre you add increases the overflow volume. For gas smells: leave the building immediately, don't operate any switches or appliances, and call the gas emergency line (1800 GAS LEAK / 1800 427 532) as well as a licensed gas fitter. Don't re-enter until the property has been cleared. What Happens in the First 15 Minutes On-Site A well-equipped plumber arriving at an emergency will: make the property safe first (isolate the source of the problem), assess the situation, provide you with a clear explanation of what's happening and a fixed-price quote for the repair, then proceed with your approval. Fast arrival → accurate diagnosis → permanent fix. The first visit should resolve the problem, not just manage it until a follow-up. Common Questions About Emergency Plumber Response Times Can a plumber give me a guaranteed arrival time? An honest plumber gives you a realistic estimate, not a guarantee — road conditions, job complexity, and other factors can shift timing. What they should be able to tell you is where they're coming from and a genuine expected arrival window. 'Within the hour' from a plumber in Oakleigh South attending a job in Cheltenham is realistic. 'Within the hour' from a call centre that hasn't yet identified who's attending is not. Should I turn off my water before the plumber arrives? For any active leak or burst: yes, always. Turning off the meter stops further damage immediately. Your property insurance may also require evidence of reasonable steps to mitigate damage. The plumber can restore the water once the repair is complete. How quickly can ATC Plumbing reach Bayside and south-east Melbourne suburbs? Based in Oakleigh South, we typically reach suburbs within a 15km radius — Bentleigh, Moorabbin, Cheltenham, Highett, Carnegie, Caulfield, Brighton, Mentone, Parkdale — within 30–45 minutes. Outer suburbs within our service area allow up to 60–75 minutes. We'll give you an honest estimate when you call. Is it worth calling a plumber at 3am or should I wait until morning? Call immediately if water is actively flowing and cannot be isolated at the meter, sewage is backing up into the home, or there's a gas smell. If you can isolate the problem at the meter and there's no ongoing damage — a broken tap washer, a dripping joint — it's reasonable to wait until morning. When in doubt, call and describe the situation. We'll give you an honest answer about whether it needs immediate attendance. Written and reviewed by Christopher Unwin — founder, Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd, Oakleigh South. BPC Licence #50694, Type A gas, 22 years' experience. National Council member, Master Plumbers Australia & New Zealand. Related reading: choosing a trustworthy emergency plumber · what to expect during an emergency call-out · plumbing for elderly and vulnerable residents

Our Commitment to Melbourne Homeowners At ATC Plumbing — Around The Clock Plumbing — we believe that how we do the job matters just as much as the job itself. This is our customer care charter: a plain-English statement of what you can expect every time you call us. We Quote Before We Start No surprises. Before we begin any work, we provide a clear, upfront quote. You know exactly what you're paying before we pick up a tool. If something unexpected is discovered during the job that affects the price, we stop and discuss it with you before proceeding. You're always in control. We Turn Up On Time We respect your time. We provide estimated arrival windows and we communicate if anything changes. For emergency call-outs, we give you an honest ETA and we meet it. If we're running late for any reason, we call ahead — not after. We Use Licensed Tradespeople on Every Job Every job performed by ATC Plumbing is carried out by or under the direct supervision of a VBA-licensed plumber holding BPC Licence #50694. All gas work is performed by Type A licensed gas fitters. We never use unlicensed labour on any job, regardless of its size. We Clean Up After Ourselves We treat your home with respect. We use drop sheets, booties where appropriate, and we leave the work area cleaner than we found it. Plumbing work is disruptive enough without leaving a mess behind. We Explain What We Found and What We Did We don't just fix things and leave. We explain what caused the problem, what we did to fix it, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again. If we find something else during the job that needs attention, we point it out and let you decide what to do — no pressure. We Are Available 24/7 for Genuine Emergencies Burst pipes, gas leaks, and no hot water don't wait for business hours. ATC Plumbing answers the phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for genuine plumbing emergencies. When you call our emergency line, you speak to a real person — not an answering machine. We Stand Behind Our Work All work performed by ATC Plumbing is guaranteed. If something we've fixed fails due to our workmanship, we come back and fix it. No arguments, no charge. This is our commitment to you and to our reputation in the community. ATC Plumbing — Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd, BPC Licence #50694. Call 1300 282 758 to book or make an enquiry. Related reading: See our licences and accreditations, our transparent 2026 plumbing pricing, and our independent plumbing inspection services. Book at https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/book-online. Related reading: plumbing for elderly and vulnerable residents

Updated May 2026 — Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd, Oakleigh South. Property managers, landlords, bodies corporate and strata committees have documentation requirements that go beyond what a standard plumber's invoice provides. Compliance certificates, VCAT-grade inspection reports, body corporate maintenance records, and gas safety compliance documents all require a licensed plumber who understands what's needed and can produce it correctly. This guide covers the documentation types, when they're required, and what a licensed plumber must provide to make them valid. Compliance Certificates: What They Are and When You Need One A Compliance Certificate (formerly Certificate of Compliance — Plumbing) is issued by a licensed plumber after completing notifiable plumbing work under the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2014. It confirms the work was performed by a licensed plumber and complies with the relevant Australian Standards and Victorian regulations. It is lodged with the relevant water authority and a copy must be provided to the property owner. Notifiable work includes: installation or replacement of hot water systems, installation of backflow prevention devices, installation of new sanitary plumbing fixtures, and certain gas appliance installations. Not all plumbing work is notifiable — a blocked drain clear is not — but any significant installation that changes the property's plumbing configuration typically is. Property managers should confirm with their plumber whether the work performed requires a Compliance Certificate before the job is complete. Gas Safety Compliance for Rental Properties Victorian tenancy law requires landlords to ensure gas heaters in rental properties are serviced every two years by a licensed Type A gas fitter, with a record of the service kept and available to the tenant on request. This is not optional — it is a legal obligation under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and the associated Minimum Standards regulations that came into force from March 2021. ATC Plumbing provides written service records after every gas heater inspection — including the date of service, the licence details of the attending gas fitter (BPC #50694, Type A, Christopher Unwin), the heater make, model and age, the tests performed including heat exchanger integrity test results, and any recommendations or faults found. This record satisfies the tenancy regulation requirement and is suitable for property management file keeping. VCAT-Grade Plumbing Inspection Reports When a plumbing dispute reaches VCAT — whether a landlord-tenant dispute, an owner-builder matter, or a body corporate claim — the tribunal requires documentation that meets a higher standard than a standard job invoice. A VCAT-grade plumbing report needs to be prepared by a licensed plumber, identify the plumber's licence details, describe the property and the plumbing system inspected, detail findings with specific reference to the relevant Australian Standards or regulations, and include clear recommendations. In March 2026 we prepared a VCAT-grade body corporate plumbing inspection report for a strata property in Bentleigh. The report documented the condition of common-area plumbing infrastructure, identified non-compliant works, and provided recommendations with regulatory references sufficient for the body corporate to present as evidence in a VCAT dispute. This type of report requires an independent inspection — we don't prepare VCAT reports for work we've carried out ourselves. Body Corporate and Strata Documentation Bodies corporate managing multi-lot developments have ongoing obligations to maintain common property plumbing — including shared drain lines, roof drainage, hot water systems serving multiple lots, and fire services. ATC Plumbing provides written job reports for all strata maintenance work, formatted to meet the record-keeping requirements of strata managers including MBCM, Ace Body Corp, Civium, and Strata Consultants — all existing clients. Reports include: date, licence details, property and lot identification, work performed, materials used, and any further recommendations. Fast arrival → accurate diagnosis → permanent fix applies to strata work just as to residential: we don't clear a common drain and leave without telling the strata manager whether a recurring problem is likely. Written documentation of the finding and the recommendation is part of the service. What Unlicensed Plumbing Work Means for Documentation A Compliance Certificate can only be issued by a licensed plumber. A VCAT report has no standing if it comes from an unlicensed person. A gas safety record is only valid if the service was performed by a licensed Type A gas fitter. If work on your property was performed by an unlicensed person — even competently — none of the above documentation can be produced retrospectively. For property managers and bodies corporate, this creates an audit and liability gap that can only be resolved by having the work inspected and certified by a licensed plumber. Common Questions About Plumbing Compliance Documentation Does every plumbing job require a Compliance Certificate? No — only notifiable work requires a Compliance Certificate. Maintenance and repair work (unblocking drains, replacing tap washers, repairing leaking joints) is not typically notifiable. Installation of new fixtures, hot water systems, and gas appliances generally is. Confirm with your plumber before the job. How often does a rental property's gas heater need to be serviced? Every two years as a minimum under Victorian tenancy law, by a licensed Type A gas fitter, with a written record kept. Annually is recommended for heaters over 10 years old or those used as primary heating. Can ATC Plumbing prepare a plumbing report for a VCAT dispute? Yes — we prepare independent plumbing inspection reports suitable for VCAT proceedings. These are prepared as independent inspections and clearly identify the attending licensed plumber, licence details, findings, regulatory references, and recommendations. We do not prepare VCAT reports for work we have carried out ourselves. Do you work with strata managers and property managers across Melbourne? Yes — existing strata clients include MBCM, Ace Body Corp, Civium, and Strata Consultants. We provide written reports formatted to strata management record-keeping requirements, are available for scheduled maintenance programs, and respond to emergency callouts 24/7. Written and reviewed by Christopher Unwin — founder, Around The Clock Plumbing Pty Ltd, Oakleigh South. BPC Licence #50694, Type A gas, 22 years' experience. National Council member, Master Plumbers Australia & New Zealand. Related reading: landlord plumbing compliance in Victoria · apartment and multi-storey plumbing · plumbing for property managers

What Is Water Hammer? Water hammer is the banging, thudding, or clanging sound you hear when a tap is turned off quickly or a washing machine valve closes suddenly. It's caused by the momentum of fast-moving water being abruptly stopped — the kinetic energy has to go somewhere, and it travels back through the pipe as a pressure wave, causing the pipes to bang against framing, joists, or each other. It's one of the most common plumbing complaints we get at ATC Plumbing, and the good news is it's almost always fixable. Is Water Hammer Dangerous? Occasional water hammer is annoying but not immediately dangerous. However, if left unaddressed over a long period, the repeated pressure spikes can stress pipe joints, fittings, and valves — potentially causing leaks at weak points. In older Melbourne homes with copper or galvanised steel pipes and push-fit or compression fittings, repeated water hammer is worth addressing sooner rather than later. What Causes Water Hammer? The most common cause is high water pressure. Melbourne's mains water pressure can vary significantly across suburbs, and some properties receive pressure that is higher than the recommended range for residential plumbing. When water is flowing fast under high pressure and a valve closes quickly — like a washing machine solenoid or a quarter-turn tap — the impact is severe enough to shake the pipes. Other causes include loose pipe brackets that allow pipes to move freely when pressure changes, worn or failed water hammer arrestors (devices specifically designed to absorb these pressure spikes), and air chambers in the plumbing that have become waterlogged over time. How to Fix Water Hammer The fix depends on the cause. If the issue is high water pressure, a pressure limiting valve (PLV) installed at the meter will regulate incoming pressure to a safe level — usually around 500 kPa. This is the most common and most effective fix for water hammer across Melbourne's residential properties. If the pipes are simply loose, a plumber can secure them properly with additional brackets and fixings, eliminating the movement that causes the banging sound. If the water hammer is localised to a specific appliance like a washing machine, a water hammer arrestor installed at that connection point is usually the quickest solution. Can I Fix Water Hammer Myself? Checking and tightening accessible pipe clips is something handy homeowners can do. But installing or replacing a pressure limiting valve, or fitting water hammer arrestors at concealed locations, requires a licensed plumber in Victoria. Water pressure work is notifiable plumbing work — it must be performed by a licenced plumber and a Certificate of Compliance issued. ATC Plumbing — Water Hammer Diagnosis and Repair ATC Plumbing diagnoses and fixes water hammer across Melbourne's south-east. We check your incoming water pressure, inspect pipe support, and recommend the most cost-effective fix for your specific situation. Most water hammer issues can be resolved in a single visit. Call 1300 282 758 or see our emergency plumbing service for urgent issues. Related reading: https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/plumbing-emergencies-101-5-urgent-issues-and-how-to-respond (plumbing emergencies guide), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/preventative-plumbing-maintenance-save-money-and-avoid-emergencies (preventative maintenance), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/hidden-water-leaks-5-signs-you-need-leak-detection (signs of hidden water leaks). Related reading: plumbing in heritage and older homes

Why You Need to Know How to Turn Off Your Water Meter When a pipe bursts, a fitting fails, or a tap won't stop running, the first thing you need to do is stop the water. Every minute water is flowing freely through a failed pipe or fitting is water damaging your walls, floors, ceilings, and belongings. Knowing where your meter is and how to turn it off can be the difference between a manageable repair and a major restoration job. This is one of the most important things a Melbourne homeowner can know — and it takes about two minutes to go and find your meter right now. Where Is Your Water Meter? In Melbourne, water meters are almost always located near the front boundary of the property — typically set into the ground under a small rectangular plastic or concrete lid near the footpath or front fence line. The lid is usually marked "WATER" or has a water drop symbol on it. In apartments and units, your individual meter may be in a shared meter box — usually in a common area, car park, or utility room. If you're not sure where yours is, ask your building manager or check your water bill which sometimes includes a meter location description. How to Turn Off the Water Meter Step 1 — Find the lid and lift it. The lid should lift with your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver. There may be a small amount of water or debris inside the pit. Step 2 — Locate the stopcock or ball valve. You'll see a pipe with either a tap (stopcock) or a lever handle (ball valve). This is the main isolation valve for your property. Step 3 — Turn it off. For a stopcock (round handle), turn it clockwise — right to tighten, just like a tap. For a ball valve (lever handle), turn the lever 90 degrees so it sits perpendicular (crossways) to the pipe. When the lever is parallel to the pipe, water is on. When it's perpendicular, water is off. Step 4 — Check it's worked. Open a tap inside the house. The flow should stop within a few seconds. If water continues to run, the valve may not be fully closed or may be faulty. Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 immediately. What If the Valve Is Stiff or Stuck? Meter isolation valves that haven't been touched in years can be stiff or seized. Do not force it with a spanner or excessive pressure — you can damage the valve or the pipe. If you can't turn it, call ATC Plumbing immediately. We carry valve replacement equipment on every van and can isolate your supply quickly. After You've Turned It Off — Call ATC Plumbing Once the water is off, the emergency is contained. Take a breath, then call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for plumbing emergencies across Melbourne's south-east. We'll give you an honest ETA and a clear quote before starting any work. While you're waiting: open all taps to drain the system and relieve pressure, put towels down to limit water damage, and take photos for your insurance claim if the damage is significant. Related reading: https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/plumbing-emergencies-101-5-urgent-issues-and-how-to-respond (5 plumbing emergencies and how to respond), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/case-study-burst-water-main-in-murrumbeena-2am-emergency-call-out (burst water main case study), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/hidden-water-leaks-5-signs-you-need-leak-detection (signs of hidden water leaks), https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/post/diy-vs-professional-plumbing-5-jobs-you-should-leave-to-an-expert (jobs to leave to the professionals). 24/7 emergency service at https://www.atcplumbing.com.au/services/emergency-plumbing. Related reading: plumbing for first-time homeowners · opening your hot water relief (PTR) valve

5 Signs You Have a Hidden Water Leak Hidden water leaks can cause significant structural damage and mould growth before you're even aware they exist. Here are the five most common warning signs. 1. Unexplained Increase in Your Water Bill If your water bill has jumped without any change in your household's usage patterns, water is going somewhere it shouldn't be. Compare bills quarter-on-quarter — a consistent upward trend without obvious explanation is a strong indicator of an underground or concealed leak. Even small leaks waste hundreds of litres per day. 2. Wet or Soggy Patches in the Garden A patch of lawn or garden that's consistently wetter than surrounding areas — particularly in dry weather when you haven't been watering — suggests an underground supply pipe leak beneath it. Lush green patches in an otherwise dry garden are another indicator. Tree roots often accelerate toward these areas, causing secondary damage. 3. Sound of Running Water If you can hear water running inside walls, under floors, or underground when all taps and appliances are off, there's likely an active leak somewhere in your pipe system. Conduct the meter test to confirm: turn off all water outlets and watch the meter — if it's still moving, you have a leak. 4. Staining, Mould, or Dampness Inside Walls Water stains on walls or ceilings, damp or musty smells in rooms with no obvious source, or mould growth in areas that shouldn't be wet are all signs of a concealed leak — often from supply pipes inside walls or roof plumbing. These leaks need to be found and fixed quickly to prevent structural damage and mould remediation costs. 5. Low Water Pressure Throughout the House A gradual reduction in water pressure across multiple outlets can indicate a leak in the main supply line — water that should be reaching your taps is escaping through a breach in the pipe. If pressure has dropped noticeably, have a plumber assess your supply line. Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 for professional leak detection across Melbourne's south-east. Related reading: water leak detection in older homes

5 Plumbing Jobs You Should Always Leave to a Licensed Professional In Victoria, unlicensed plumbing work is illegal — not just inadvisable. Under the Building Act 1993 and the Plumbing Regulations 2018, most plumbing work must be carried out by or under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber. Here are the jobs that always need a licensed tradesperson, and why. 1. Any Gas Work Gas appliance installation, gas line work, gas heater servicing, and gas leak repair must all be carried out by a licensed gas fitter. This isn't a grey area — unlicensed gas work is illegal, voids your home insurance, and can be fatal. In Victoria, gas fitters must hold Type A accreditation for appliance work. ATC Plumbing's gas fitters hold this accreditation under BPC Licence #50694. 2. Hot Water System Installation and Replacement Installing, replacing, or relocating a hot water system requires a licensed plumber. This includes connection to gas or electrical supplies, setting the correct temperature (legally required to be at least 60°C in the tank to prevent legionella), and installing the pressure relief valve correctly. Incorrect installation can cause scalding, explosions, or void your manufacturer warranty. 3. Drainage Work Connecting to the Sewer Any work on pipes that connect to the municipal sewer system requires a licensed plumber and, in most cases, a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). This includes drain relocation, new drain installation, and sewer connection work. Unlicensed drainage work can create public health risks and result in significant fines. 4. Pipe Work Inside Walls or Underground Pipe work concealed inside walls or underground becomes permanently inaccessible once completed. It must be done right the first time, to the correct standards, with the correct materials. Unlicensed work in these locations is particularly risky because defects may not be apparent for years — by which time they've caused significant damage. 5. New Fixture Installations Requiring Rough-In Changes Replacing a tap or a shower rose yourself is generally fine. But if the job requires changing pipe positions, adding new supply or waste connections, or relocating a fixture, that's licensed plumber territory. The DIY boundary is: like-for-like replacements using existing connections. Anything that changes the configuration of the pipe system requires a licence. Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 if you're unsure. Related reading: plumbing for first-time homeowners