Water Outages: Causes, Prevention, and What to Do When They Happen

Water is a fundamental necessity in our daily lives, from drinking and cooking to cleaning and hygiene. However, water outages can occur unexpectedly, disrupting homes and businesses alike. Whether it’s a planned maintenance shutdown or an unexpected emergency, understanding the causes and knowing how to respond can help you manage the situation effectively.
At RDF Plumbing, we understand the inconvenience and challenges water outages bring. In this blog, we’ll find the common reasons behind water outages, how to prepare for them, and what you can do to minimise their impact.

Common Causes of Water Outages

Water outages can be caused by several factors, such as:

1. Planned Maintenance and Repairs

Water supply authorities often conduct maintenance work on pipelines, valves, and water treatment plants. These planned interruptions are necessary to keep the system in good condition. You may receive advance notice from your local water provider about these outages.

2. Pipe Leaks and Bursts

Old infrastructure, corrosion, and sudden pressure changes can cause pipes to leak or burst, leading to temporary water supply disruptions. Extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves or freezing temperatures, can also damage pipes.

3. Water Main Breaks

A water main break is a major failure in the underground pipes that transport water to homes and businesses. This can result in sudden and widespread water outages and often requires emergency repairs.

4. Supply Issues and Contamination

Sometimes, water supply issues arise due to contamination concerns, requiring authorities to shut off supply until the water is deemed safe for use. Natural disasters, industrial accidents, or even algae blooms in water reservoirs can contribute to contamination-related outages.

5. Power Outages

Many water supply systems rely on electrically powered pumps. If a power outage occurs in your area, it can impact the ability to deliver water, especially in high-rise buildings or areas dependent on pump stations.

How to Prepare for a Water Outage

While some water outages happen suddenly, others can be anticipated. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a water outage before it happens:

Keep a sufficient supply of bottled water at home. A general rule is to store at least 4 litres per person per day for drinking and hygiene purposes.

If you receive advance notice of a scheduled water outage, fill up your bathtubs, buckets, and jugs with water to use for flushing toilets and cleaning.

In case of a plumbing issue, knowing where your home’s main water shut-off valve is located can prevent unnecessary water loss and damage.

If there is a contamination issue following an outage, having a portable water filter or purification tablets can help ensure safe drinking water.

What to Do During a Water Outage

If you experience a water outage, follow these steps:

1. Check for Notices

Visit your local water authority’s website or social media channels to see if the outage is planned or due to an emergency.

2. Look for Nearby Construction or Repairs

Sometimes, water outages happen due to roadwork, pipe repairs, or hydrant maintenance. Check your surroundings for any signs of ongoing work.

3. Check With Neighbours

If your home is the only one experiencing a water outage, you might have a plumbing issue that requires professional assistance.

4. Avoid Using Appliances That Need Water

Avoid running dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters during an outage to prevent damage or strain on your plumbing system.

5. Keep Faucets Turned Off

If your taps are left open when the water is off, they may cause a sudden surge of water and air pressure when the supply is restored, leading to pipe damage.

How RDF Plumbing Can Help

Water outages can be disruptive, but having a reliable plumbing expert on call can make all the difference. At RDF Plumbing, we specialise in:

• Leak Detection & Repairs: Identifying and fixing hidden leaks that may lead to water outages.
• Emergency Plumbing Services: Quick response for burst pipes and major plumbing failures.
• Water Pressure Solutions: Ensuring your home has a steady and reliable water supply.
• Routine Maintenance & Inspections: Preventing unexpected plumbing issues before they escalate.