When a Rivett homeowner was left with bath taps that wouldn’t turn off, they called their local plumber Weston Creek locals rely on for a proper fix, and they got more than they expected. Not only were the taps repaired the same day, but a hidden issue with high water pressure was discovered and rectified before it caused further damage.
Problem
Our customer in Rivett, ACT, had been struggling with bath taps that refused to turn off properly. A previous plumber had declared the issue “unfixable,” leaving the property owner frustrated and the water running. Beyond being inconvenient, continuously leaking or jammed taps waste a huge amount of water and can accelerate wear on fittings, seals, and appliances.
Left unchecked, the problem could have caused flooding or unnecessary strain on the property’s plumbing system. The homeowner just needed the water to stop while waiting for a full bathroom renovation scheduled in the coming weeks, a short-term solution that would hold up safely and compliantly until the upgrade.
Assessment
When Andre from Water Tight Canberra arrived on site, he carried out a full inspection of the bath fittings and surrounding pipework. Using standard pressure testing equipment, Andre confirmed the taps were stuck due to a cracked breach at the back of the wall, allowing water to push past the seat.
A full property inspection also revealed high incoming water pressure, well above the recommended 500 kPa limit under AS/NZS 3500 plumbing standards. Excessive mains pressure can cause tap and mixer failures, burst hoses, and premature hot water system wear.
By combining the leaking tap repair with a CCTV-supported pressure test and meter check, Andre could diagnose the underlying cause rather than just patch the symptom, the Water Tight Canberra difference.
What We Did
Andre began by isolating the water supply and removing both bath tap spindles. He found a significant crack in the brass breach behind the wall. Instead of recommending a full wall opening, which wasn’t practical before the upcoming renovation, he used a re-seating tool to shave the damaged area clean and installed new dome washers to seal the face properly.
The repair immediately stopped the leak.
Next, attention turned to the property’s water pressure. Andre installed a Zurn 500 kPa pressure-reducing valve (PRV) directly on the boundary water meter. The ground around the meter was carefully excavated, the line altered to suit the new 20 mm brass PRV assembly, and a compliant backfill reinstated.
After installation, the system was thoroughly pressure-tested and confirmed to be operating within safe limits. All fixtures were checked for leaks, and the site was left clean and tidy, exactly how we found it.
The job was completed same day, with zero disruption to the homeowner’s routine.
Materials & Standards
All components used, including the Zurn LF PRV and B-Press fittings, meet WaterMark certification and comply with AS/NZS 3500 Plumbing and Drainage.
The new pressure reduction valve ensures the property’s plumbing network, including the future bathroom renovation, will remain protected from excessive wear. Water Tight Canberra’s installations are backed by manufacturer warranties and our strict internal quality assurance standards.
Results
Before our visit, the bath taps could not be turned off at all, and water pressure throughout the home was dangerously high.
After our repair and PRV installation:
- The taps shut off cleanly with no leaks.
- Mains pressure was stabilised to a compliant 500 kPa.
- The plumbing system is now safeguarded from premature wear and water hammer.
The customer was thrilled with the quick turnaround and same-day result:
“Came on time – completed on the day and to a great result! Many thanks to Andre for fixing this up.” – 5-Star Google Review
Tips
High water pressure is one of the most common causes of plumbing failures in Canberra homes. To prevent issues like tap leaks and burst flexi hoses, have your water pressure tested every two years or sooner if you notice excessive water hammer or dripping taps.
Location Notes – Rivett, ACT
Rivett properties often feature older brass pipework and ageing breach fittings that don’t always meet modern standards. Combined with high ACT mains pressure, these conditions can cause recurring tap and valve failures.
For reliable, local service, Water Tight Canberra are your trusted expert in tap repairs and water pressure management across Weston Creek. Contact the team at Water Tight Canberra today on (02) 6195 9991.
Gallery
“Came on time – completed on the day and to a great result! Many thanks to Andre for fixing this up.”
