A Guide to Common Bathroom Problems
Tue Apr 18 2017 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Introduction (what goes wrong most often)
Bathrooms combine plumbing, heating and ventilation — so faults can overlap. The most common UK issues are low water pressure, temperature swings, slow drains, smells from traps, drips from taps/shower valves, and extractor fans that don’t clear steam.
What this involves (quick diagnosis by symptom)
- Low pressure at shower: Check isolation valves, clean heads/filters, confirm hot cylinder/boiler performance; consider pump/pressure‑boosting where permitted.
- Temperature swings: Likely thermostatic mixer cartridge; see our shower valve guide for servicing.
- Slow drains: Hair/soap blockage in traps; remove and clean trap, then flush with hot water — avoid harsh chemicals on old seals.
- Smells: Dry traps (unused bathrooms) or failed seals; run water weekly and reseat/replace trap washers. Check toilet pan connector seal.
- Dripping taps: Replace ceramic cartridges or washers; isolate locally first.
- Condensation/mould: Upgrade extractor fan (timer/humidity), run for 15–20 minutes after showers, improve trickle ventilation.
What can affect price (access, age, parts)
- Concealed pipework/valves behind tiling takes longer to reach.
- Ageing chrome and seized fixings increase labour.
- Fans with poor wiring or no overrun may need rewiring to meet current guidance.
Guide costs (typical):
- Tap cartridge/washer: £60–£120 labour + parts
- Trap clean/replace: £60–£140
- Thermostatic shower cartridge: £80–£180 + cartridge (£50–£150)
- Extractor fan upgrade: £120–£280 + fan
How long it takes & budgeting tips
- Simple fixes (trap clean, tap cartridge): 30–60 minutes
- Fan upgrade: 60–120 minutes
- Shower cartridge: 60–120 minutes depending on access
Bundle small jobs in one visit to save on call‑out. Photograph problem areas to get accurate quotes.
DIY vs hire a pro (what’s safe to try)
DIY: Cleaning traps, replacing tap cartridges, descaling heads/hoses, running extractors longer. Hire a pro for concealed valve servicing, persistent smells, rewiring fans, or pipework alterations.
Next steps (action list)
- Match symptoms above, try the simple checks first.
- Note make/model of taps/showers and measure fan size before sourcing parts.
- If access is tricky or parts are seized, book a qualified plumber/electrician.