Frequently Asked Questions & Common Issues

Yes, our emergency services are available 24/7. We understand that plumbing and gas issues can occur at any time, often without warning. Whether it's a burst pipe, a gas leak, or another urgent situation, you can count on us to respond quickly and efficiently, day or night. Our team is always on standby to ensure that any emergency is addressed promptly and effectively, minimizing damage and inconvenience.

We handle a wide range of plumbing repairs, including fixing leaky faucets, repairing or replacing damaged pipes, unclogging drains, and addressing issues with toilets, sinks, and showers. Our team is experienced in both minor repairs and more complex plumbing problems. We use high-quality materials and the latest techniques to ensure that all repairs are durable and long-lasting, providing you with peace of mind.

Regular plumbing maintenance is essential to prevent unexpected issues and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. We recommend scheduling a professional plumbing inspection and maintenance at least once a year. During this visit, we will check for potential problems such as leaks, corrosion, and blockages, and perform any necessary maintenance. Regular check-ups can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.

If you're experiencing issues such as inconsistent heating, strange odors, or higher-than-usual gas bills, you may need a gas installation or repair. Signs that you might need a new installation include upgrading your appliances or installing new heating systems. For repairs, look out for warning signs like hissing sounds, a rotten egg smell (which indicates a gas leak), or appliances that aren't working properly. It's crucial to address these issues promptly for safety reasons.

If you discover a serious leak, the first step is to shut off the water to your house. You can turn the valve in the Toby Box off, usually located by the footpath at the front of your house, or turn off your water pump. For advice and repair, call Holmes Plumbing & Gas. A slow leak over time can cause serious damage to your home, so it's important not to ignore it. Don’t hope it'll go away by itself – get it sorted. Call us.

If your hot water cylinder is leaking, the issue could be with the cylinder, valving, and/or pipework. If water is dripping from the overflow pipe, call the Holmes Plumbing team. A slow drip can waste a surprising amount of water if you don’t act promptly. If water is dripping from the base of the cylinder or from the pipe entries, it’s important to have it inspected to determine if the unit is repairable or needs to be replaced.

First, check if the hot water cylinder is turned on; the switch may have been knocked off. Check the fuse board to ensure the circuit breaker is on. Sometimes power companies shut down ripple relays – check if this is the case. If you’re experiencing electricity issues, check with your power lines company (like Vector in most of Auckland) to see if there are known issues affecting your hot water cylinder. If the problem persists, call the Holmes Plumbing Team.

If your water temperature is not at the desired level, it may be due to an electrical fault with the thermostat. Another common issue is a malfunctioning tempering valve, which mixes hot and cold water to regulate temperature. If the thermostat or valve is faulty, it can cause water to be too hot or too cold. For a thorough diagnosis and solution, contact Holmes Plumbing & Gas.

An unusually high water bill can indicate a leak or a faulty water meter. Most often, the issue is a leak, either in the pipe from the meter to the house (the “water main”) or within the house itself. Holmes Plumbing & Gas can help identify the nature of the problem. Common culprits include leaking toilets, taps, or water cylinders. We offer services to locate and repair these leaks and can also discuss options if multiple leaks are found or if the pipe is too deep.

If your water pressure is lower than usual, and you're on tank water, check that your filters are clear. For those on mains supply, ensure that the isolation valve is fully open at the mains. If these simple fixes don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to call the experts at Holmes Plumbing & Gas. We can diagnose the problem and offer solutions tailored to your needs and budget.

A blocked toilet or sink can often be addressed with a plunger, but it’s important not to use too much force, as this can damage the pipework. We do not recommend using acids to clear blockages, as they can harm your plumbing system and create a hazard for technicians. If you’re unable to clear the blockage, it’s best to call the professionals at Holmes Plumbing & Gas. We have the tools and expertise to resolve the issue safely and effectively.

If your waste disposal unit is not working, first check if it has power. Some models have a reset switch on the base—try resetting the unit. Check for blockages, such as utensils or debris, and remove them if found. If your unit has an air switch, ensure the air hose is attached and clear. If water is leaking or backing up into the sink, the waste line may be blocked. For further assistance, call the Holmes Plumbing Team.

If you smell gas, isolate the supply immediately. For Natural Gas, there will be an isolation valve on or after the meter—turn it off. If the smell persists, it could indicate a leak outside your property; contact your gas provider, such as Genesis or Vector. For LPG systems, turn the gas off at the bottle or the auto changeover regulator. Ventilate the area if safe to do so and avoid using your phone near the gas. If you suspect a leak on your property, call Holmes Plumbing & Gas immediately.

For gas water heaters, including Infinity or gas storage units, a lack of hot water can result from no gas, water, or electricity. Check if the gas supply is on—if using Natural Gas, the isolation valve at the meter should be open; for LPG, ensure there is gas in the bottle. Gas water heaters often require electricity to ignite, so check that your house has power and that the circuit breaker is on. If the unit is not getting water or if none of these steps resolve the issue, it may be time for a service. Call the Holmes Plumbing Team.

If your LPG bottles are full but no gas is coming through, ensure the bottle valve is open. Check the auto changeover regulator and make sure the shut-off valve is also open. If you continue to experience issues, it could indicate a problem with the regulator or the connection. In this case, call Holmes Plumbing & Gas for assistance.

If your gas hob isn’t igniting, first check that the burners are correctly seated. For LPG systems, ensure there is gas in the bottle; if not, replace the gas bottle. Verify that the igniter is sparking and that the electrical connection is plugged in and turned on under the bench. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, call Holmes Plumbing & Gas for further diagnosis and repair.