frequently asked questions
General Plumbing Questions
Do you charge a call-out fee?
Yes, we charge a service call fee to cover the cost of our plumber traveling to your home or business. Our pricing is transparent, and we display our call-out fee on our website’s pricing page
Can you provide a quote over the phone?
For some services, we can provide a fixed price quote over the phone. However, for larger jobs, we recommend a site visit to provide an accurate quote and avoid any surprises
What are the most common plumbing problems?
The most common plumbing problems include blocked drains, water leaks, and issues with flushing toilets
Drain and Pipe Issues
How often should I have my drains cleaned?
It’s generally recommended to have your drains cleaned every 2 to 3 years. This is also a good opportunity to inspect your pipes for damage and leaks
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?
We don’t recommend using chemical drain cleaners as they are potentially dangerous, extremely toxic, and can damage your plumbing pipes. Instead, try more environmentally friendly options like baking soda or vinegar for minor clogs
What causes a clogged drain?
Drains can become clogged due to various reasons, including hair buildup, excess toilet paper, tree roots, and broken pipes
Do you charge a call-out fee?
Yes, we charge a service call fee to cover the cost of our plumber traveling to your home or business. Our pricing is transparent, and we display our call-out fee on our website’s pricing page
Can you provide a quote over the phone?
For some services, we can provide a fixed price quote over the phone. However, for larger jobs, we recommend a site visit to provide an accurate quote and avoid any surprises
What are the most common plumbing problems?
The most common plumbing problems include blocked drains, water leaks, and issues with flushing toilets
How often should I have my drains cleaned?
It’s generally recommended to have your drains cleaned every 2 to 3 years. This is also a good opportunity to inspect your pipes for damage and leaks
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?
We don’t recommend using chemical drain cleaners as they are potentially dangerous, extremely toxic, and can damage your plumbing pipes. Instead, try more environmentally friendly options like baking soda or vinegar for minor clogs
What causes a clogged drain?
Drains can become clogged due to various reasons, including hair buildup, excess toilet paper, tree roots, and broken pipes
How long do water heaters typically last?
With proper maintenance, water heaters can last anywhere from 5 to 13 years
Why is my water heater making noise?
Noisy water heaters are often due to sediment buildup inside the tank. If this is the case, the tank should be drained or possibly replaced
Why does my toilet keep running?
A running toilet is often caused by the flapper not creating a water-tight seal around the flush-valve opening, or the fill-valve not shutting off completely
Why does my toilet leak from the base?
A leak at the base of the toilet is usually due to a worn-out wax ring or loose t-bolts. Tightening the bolts or replacing the wax ring can often solve this issue
Why do I have low water pressure?
Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, including leaks, blockages, or issues with your municipal water supply. If you experience sudden low pressure, it could be a sign of a plumbing problem that needs attention
Why is my water cloudy?
Cloudy water is often due to air bubbles in the pipes. If the cloudiness doesn’t clear after letting the water stand for a few minutes, it may indicate a more serious issue with your water supply
What should I do if I have a burst pipe?
If you have a burst pipe, immediately shut off the main water valve to your home. Then, turn off the electricity to the affected area to avoid any risk of electrical shock, and call a 24-hour emergency plumber
How can I prevent water damage?
The best way to prevent water damage is to regularly inspect your plumbing for leaks and schedule routine maintenance. Address any issues as soon as you notice them by calling a professional plumber
How often should I have my plumbing system inspected?
We recommend a professional plumbing inspection once a year to catch potential issues early and ensure your system is running efficiently.
What can I do to prevent frozen pipes?
To prevent frozen pipes, insulate exposed pipes, keep your home heated, and let faucets drip slightly during extremely cold weather. Also, seal any cracks or openings where cold air might enter.
How can I reduce my water bill?
You can reduce your water bill by fixing leaks promptly, installing low-flow fixtures, using water-efficient appliances, and being mindful of water usage habits.
Are there any rebates available for water-saving fixtures?
Many local water authorities offer rebates for installing water-efficient fixtures. Check with your local water department for current programs.
Do you install tankless water heaters?
Yes, we install tankless water heaters. These units can provide significant energy savings and endless hot water supply when sized correctly for your home.
Can you install a water filtration system for my entire house?
Absolutely! We offer whole-house water filtration system installations. These systems can improve water taste, reduce contaminants, and protect your plumbing fixtures.
Do you offer video camera inspections of pipes?
Yes, we use state-of-the-art video camera technology to inspect pipes and locate issues without the need for extensive excavation.
Can you repair or replace sewer lines?
We offer both traditional sewer line repair and replacement services, as well as trenchless options that minimize disruption to your property.
What constitutes a plumbing emergency?
Plumbing emergencies include burst pipes, severe leaks, sewer backups, and no water supply. If you’re unsure, it’s best to call us to assess the situation.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency?
We offer 24/7 emergency services and aim to respond within 1-2 hours for urgent situations.
How can I prepare my plumbing for winter?
To prepare for winter, insulate pipes, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, seal leaks that let cold air in, and have your heating system checked.
What should I do to my plumbing when going on vacation?
Before a vacation, turn off the main water supply, drain the pipes, and set your water heater to “vacation” mode if it has one. For longer absences, consider having a professional winterize your plumbing.
What type of pipes do you use for replacements?
We typically use copper, PEX, or PVC pipes depending on the specific application and local building codes. We’ll discuss the best options for your situation during the consultation.
Are lead pipes a concern in older homes?
Yes, lead pipes can be a health hazard. If your home was built before 1986, we recommend having your plumbing inspected for lead pipes and replacing them if found.
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Yes, we offer a comprehensive warranty on all our work. The specific terms vary depending on the service provided, but we stand behind our quality and craftsmanship.
What brands of fixtures and appliances do you recommend?
We work with a variety of high-quality brands and can recommend options based on your specific needs and budget. Some trusted brands we often use include Moen, Kohler, and American Standard.
