Updated 2024 by Salmon Plumbing.
Yes, there is a call out fee for most Plumbers in Brisbane. If there isn’t, don’t you worry, you’ll be paying for it, and for all your neighbours’ missed call out fees when you book in the job! Let’s talk about what you’re paying for with a call out fee, and how to get the most value from it!
Make the most from the cost outlay
We understand: that calling a plumber can be an expensive exercise, and no one wants to spend more money than they have to. But a timely appointment with a plumber can not only fix your immediate problem, but can also save you thousands of dollars in the future. That’s because the plumber is already at your home or business, so by planning ahead you can get them to look at other things that might not be causing concern now, but may need some minor maintenance to help prevent major problems in the future.
How much is a plumber call-out fee in Brisbane?
A business hours plumber call-out fee in Brisbane is generally between $175 and $295. While some will advertise a much cheaper call out fee, you may not be getting the full story! Most Brisbane plumbers charge a set call-out fee depending on your location and the day and time you call. For example, a Brisbane emergency plumber who gets called at 3 a.m. or on a Sunday afternoon will likely have a higher call-out fee than during business hours. But, once the initial problem is sorted, you can prevent future problems by getting your plumber to do a few extra jobs around the house. Getting some routine maintenance done will prevent future call out fees, so think of it as two (or more) for the price of one!
Why are some plumber call-out fees higher?
We’re plumbers in North Brisbane. We’re big enough to have fully equipped trucks on the road 24/7 but small enough to keep our costs down. So our call out fee is the same competitive price, no matter where you are in Greater Brisbane. Calling in a local bloke might have a cheaper call out fee but they’ll charge you time to go buy any parts you need – which MORE THAN cancels out any savings. If you choose a large plumbing chain or a franchise operation they have a lot of expenses to cover that we don’t, so you might be looking at a steep call-out fee and steeper hourly rates. Be wary of free plumber quotes, they often recoup that cost in other ways.
How to get the most value from calling out a plumber
Let’s say you’ve got a blocked drain. You’ll pay a call out fee and an hourly rate to unblock that sucker – and, yes, it’s an unexpected expense, but there’s nothing more valuable than NOT having a toilet overflow. When you call our beautiful and talented team they’ll help you understand the costings to expect for the job. You could avoid a future emergency plumber call-out fee simply by letting them know you’d like some basic maintenance done at the time.
Water Leaks and Tap Washers
Changing washers is a pretty simple business with most tapware, but if there’s a professional in the house, it’s worth getting them to have a look at what might need replacing and getting it done. Not only will it be faster, but you’ll likely also be able to get a quote to repair any slightly more expensive parts like ceramic discs inside the tapware. This can be one of the easiest ways to save on water bills, as leaking taps cost plenty in wasted water.
Gutter and Downpipes
Gutters and downpipes can back up with debris, and then all it takes is a heavier than normal rain event for water to end up in all sorts of places you don’t want. While your plumber is there, ask them to do a visual inspection of the property to check the gutters and downpipes. They’ll know the places that are likely to be “choke points” for problems, and are also experienced at spotting where signs of damage have already occurred.
Hot Water System
The hot water system is one of the most heavily used and most important parts of many household plumbing systems, so it pays to have it checked regularly. An experienced eye checking over the system can spot plenty of problems like hidden rust, and your plumber can also do a quick test to make sure the system is heating water to the required temperatures.
Water that is not heated to the correct temperature in the tank can quickly become an attractive place for bacteria to grow, and a Legionella problem is the last thing you want in your hot water system.
Your plumber can also double check the operation of all valves and ensure no unexpected surprises are waiting for you in the immediate future. Some minor maintenance can also help extend the life of your Hot Water Service. And if you need to get it replaced, Salmon Plumbing can replace your old hot water heater with a Rheem Heat Pump water heater, saving you between $250* and $350* on your new hot water unit. Get in quick before the offer ends soon. Check out our current Rheem Heat Pump Deals and Government Heat Pump Hot Water Rebates available.
Water Tanks
Droughts over the last few decades in all parts of Australia have meant that water tanks have become as common in Australian backyards as BBQs. But these are often out of sight and out of mind. Having your plumber inspect the mesh at the opening of the tank as well as the pump connections is always a good idea to make sure that wildlife isn’t getting in. Stopping water pooling from leaks or mosquitoes from getting into your tank is also the best way to continue enjoying your outdoor area by denying the mozzies a space to breed.
Flexible Hoses
The flexible hoses around all manner of plumbing equipment are made of a large number of metal threads which means that with age they might fray, rust, or leak. Getting these checked and replaced can go a long way towards preventing any future flooding emergencies!
Like most things nowadays, there are also some cheaper, imported, flexible hoses available on the market today – your plumber can identify these and replace with high-quality alternatives that also come with a manufacturer’s warranty for piece of mind.
So, take the chance to make the most of your plumber’s call out fee next time you have them visit your premises. Have them check over one or more of the areas we’ve mentioned in this article. A friendly, professional Brisbane plumbing service, like us, will be happy to take a look for you and advise what needs to be done to keep your home or office in top shape.
Caught by surprise by a plumbing emergency? Ask us about our finance options as an interest free plumber Brisbane residents can rely on to help you deal with the unexpected and keep things running smoothly on the home front.
*Rheem Hot Water deails available until 31 July 2024. Terms & Conditions Apply.
