The average household uses 300 gallons of water a day. That might seem manageable until one of your pipes bursts or your toilet overflows.

Plumbing problems that aren't addressed can cost you thousands of dollars in damage, repairs and replacements. Be aware of these signs that it's time to call a plumber:

Before the plumber arrives, clear the area around your sinks, tub and toilet and move any pets out of the way. This will help your plumber work more quickly and efficiently.

1. Leaky Pipes

Whether it’s the rhythmic drip-drip-drip of a leaky faucet or the surprise spike in your water bill, you need to act fast. Water leaks not only waste precious resources, they can also damage the structural integrity of your home.

The good news is that most plumbers can pinpoint the source of a leak without cutting open walls or ceilings. This is because they use sophisticated tools and techniques to find the source of a leak.

Leaky pipes can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day, and it’s important to call a plumber right away to save money and prevent further damage. In addition to causing costly water loss, a leaky pipe may contribute to mold, mildew and other health hazards. Leaky pipes can even lead to rotting in your home’s foundation. The best way to catch a leak is to regularly check high risk areas around sinks, toilets and water use appliances. A professional plumber can use a water meter to help you determine where your leak is coming from.

2. Clogged Drains

A blocked drain in Melbourne is one of the home’s worst nightmare, leading to wastewater and sewage back-up into toilets, showers, sinks, and bathtubs. It’s a problem that can be avoided with preventative strategies and regular drain cleanings.

Most drain clogs form as food, hair, grease, or gunk sticks to pipe walls over time. Grease, fat, and oil are the biggest culprits, resulting in a thick, sticky substance that can harden and block water flow. Soap scum also contributes to clogs by adhering to pipe walls. Other common clogs include cotton swabs, children’s toys, and sanitary products.

Keeping an eye out for signs of a clog can save you a lot of hassle and money. Slow drainage, gurgling sounds, and foul smells are all indicators that it’s time to call a plumber. To try to tackle a clog before it gets too bad, straighten a coat hanger and leave a hook at the end. Push the hook into the drain and wiggle it around to see if it grabs onto any clogs.

3. Frozen Water Heater

Frozen pipes are not only a nuisance, but they could cause costly damage. Water

expands as it freezes, which can put tremendous pressure on your home’s plumbing. If your water heater is frozen, you should contact a plumber to prevent it from bursting.

You can determine if your water heater is frozen by turning on every faucet in your house and feeling each one for warmth. If you notice the water temperature is extremely low, the lines that run in and out of your water heater are probably frozen. You can thaw these lines by applying heat directly to the areas of the pipe that are frozen.

A plumber will quickly thaw your pipes and repair any leaks before they burst. They can also insulate your pipes to avoid freezing in the future. If you’re in need of a new water heater, a plumber can help you decide what size and type would be best for your home.

4. Broken Faucets

A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing problems, but it is also very expensive. Even a single drip per second can cost you $20 or more in water bill costs every year. Plus, if left unattended, the constant flow of water can cause damage to cabinets, countertops, and other parts of your home.

Before attempting to repair a broken faucet yourself, make sure you shut off your water supply. You should find a valve under each sink that you can turn to stop the flow of water. Next, remove the handle cap and unscrew the dome assembly and metal handle adapter. Replace the washers, o-rings, and other parts. You can find replacement parts at most hardware stores.

If the leak is coming from the faucet base, you may need to install a new cartridge. You can also try cleaning the old cartridge with mineral-removal products and lubricating the stem with plumber’s grease.