Local plumbing experts are raising the alarm on a widespread but often overlooked issue: hidden water leaks and inefficient plumbing systems, which are quietly draining the wallets of Adelaide homeowners. Recent findings from Adelaide-based plumbing service Same Day Trades estimate that small, undetected leaks and outdated fixtures are costing some households as much as $1,200 annually.

Water is one of Adelaide’s most precious resources, and with the cost of living on the rise, local plumbers are urging homeowners to act now to prevent further financial loss. In a city where water restrictions and sustainability are top priorities, water waste is a problem that could be easily avoided with routine plumbing inspections.

“We’ve found that in around 60% of Adelaide homes we inspect, there’s some level of water waste occurring, whether through leaks, inefficient fixtures, or poor maintenance,” said Sam, Lead Technician at Same Day Trades. “Most homeowners are unaware that a simple dripping tap or a hidden pipe leak can waste tens of thousands of litres of water over the course of a year.”

Adelaide’s Water Waste Problem: The Hidden Costs

Data from SA Water suggests that even a single dripping tap can waste more than 20,000 liters of water annually. That’s enough to fill a small swimming pool – and it adds up.

Based on current SA Water rates, a household with undetected leaks could be losing more than $300 a year just from small plumbing issues. For larger leaks or inefficient water systems, this figure can skyrocket, particularly in older homes where plumbing infrastructure has not been updated for water efficiency.

“In many cases, it’s the older Adelaide homes that are most at risk. We’ve worked on houses that are using inefficient water systems designed decades ago. Updating those systems not only saves money but is a big step toward water conservation,” explains Sam.

Water Efficiency in Adelaide: A Growing Concern

With South Australia known for its dry climate and periodic water restrictions, reducing water wastage is becoming more important for Adelaide residents. Recent government initiatives, such as water-saving rebates, have encouraged homeowners to upgrade to more efficient systems, but many homes remain vulnerable to water wastage due to neglected plumbing systems.

“We’re lucky to live in a city that takes water conservation seriously, but it’s surprising how many people don’t realise that they’re wasting water every day through hidden plumbing issues,” Sam continues. “Leaks, worn-out seals, old pipes – these are all problems that can be fixed relatively easily and save homeowners a fortune over time.”

How Adelaide Homeowners Can Take Action

To address the issue of hidden water waste, Same Day Trades is offering a comprehensive water efficiency audit for Adelaide homeowners. The audit includes a thorough inspection of all plumbing systems, identification of leaks, and recommendations for upgrading outdated fixtures to meet modern water efficiency standards.

“A single inspection can save a homeowner hundreds of dollars a year,” says Sam. “We urge Adelaide residents to be proactive about this. Water rates are only going to increase, and ignoring the problem will just lead to higher bills in the future.”

In addition to inspections, Same Day Trades is partnering with local suppliers to offer discounted water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow shower heads and water-saving taps, helping Adelaide homeowners make simple changes that can lead to significant savings.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Plumbing in Adelaide

As Adelaide continues to grow and the demand for water rises, experts believe that routine plumbing inspections will become a crucial step in ensuring homes remain water-efficient. The combination of aging infrastructure and high water costs has created a perfect storm for hidden water wastage.

“Adelaide residents need to be aware of how much they could be saving” Sam concludes. “Taking action now can prevent a huge financial and environmental cost down the track.”

For more information on water-saving plumbing solutions or to schedule an inspection, visit www.samedaytrades.com.au 

26 Sep 2024