Frequently Asked Questions

You may need a sump pump if your basement or crawl space experiences moisture or flooding issues. Signs include dampness, mold, mildew, or water pooling after heavy rains or snowmelt. Sump pumps help prevent water damage by redirecting excess water away from your home's foundation.

Some environmentally-friendly plumbing solutions you can implement in your home include:

• Installing low-flow fixtures, such as showerheads, faucets, and toilets, to reduce water consumption.
• Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, like tankless water heaters, which consume less energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Utilizing greywater systems to repurpose water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for irrigation or toilet flushing.
• Insulating pipes to minimize heat loss and reduce energy usage.
• Regularly maintaining your plumbing system to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance.

Installing energy-efficient plumbing fixtures offers several advantages, including reduced water and energy usage, lower utility bills, decreased environmental impact, and increased home value. By using less water and energy, these fixtures help conserve resources while maintaining optimal performance. Additionally, many energy-efficient plumbing fixtures are designed to be durable and low-maintenance, providing long-term savings and convenience for homeowners.

To save water and reduce your water bills, consider these practical tips:

• Install water-efficient fixtures like low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets.
• Fix leaks promptly, as even small drips can waste significant amounts of water over time.
• Use a dishwasher and washing machine only when you have full loads.
• Collect rainwater for outdoor watering, and water plants in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
• Be mindful of your water usage habits, such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes.

Some signs of a hidden water leak include unexplained increases in your water bill, damp or discolored spots on walls or ceilings, a musty odor, mold or mildew growth, and a constantly running water meter even when no water is being used. If you suspect a hidden water leak, it's important to contact a professional plumber to accurately locate and fix the issue before it causes further damage.

To prevent clogged drains, avoid pouring grease, oil, or food particles down the sink. Install a drain strainer to catch debris, and regularly clean it. For bathroom drains, use a hair catcher to prevent hair buildup. You can also flush your drains periodically with hot water or a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water to break down accumulated debris and maintain smooth water flow. For best results, it’s a good idea for property owners to invest in periodic drain cleaning and hydro jetting services to remove any buildup and keep your pipes flowing well.

Yes, a plumber can help you with water quality issues in your home. Plumbers specialize in diagnosing and resolving problems related to your water supply, including taste, odor, discoloration, and hardness. They can recommend and install appropriate water treatment systems, such as filters or water softeners, to improve the quality of your water supply.

Installing a water softener in your home offers several benefits, including:

• Improved water quality by removing minerals like calcium and magnesium, which cause hard water.
• Enhanced cleaning efficiency of soaps and detergents, resulting in cleaner laundry, dishes, and surfaces.
• Reduced scale buildup in pipes and appliances, prolonging their lifespan and maintaining efficiency.
• Prevention of dry skin and hair issues caused by hard water.

Lessened soap scum and mineral deposits on fixtures, reducing cleaning time and effort.

Regular plumbing maintenance can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs, extending the lifespan of your plumbing system, and increasing its efficiency. Scheduling routine inspections can help you avoid emergency repairs that often come with hefty price tags. Additionally, well-maintained plumbing systems require fewer replacements, reducing long-term expenses. Efficient plumbing systems conserve water, leading to lower utility bills. That means investing in routine plumbing maintenance services helps protects both your property and your wallet.

Some signs of a hidden water leak include unexplained increases in your water bill, damp or discolored spots on walls or ceilings, a musty odor, mold or mildew growth, and a constantly running water meter even when no water is being used. If you suspect a hidden water leak, it's important to contact a professional plumber to accurately locate and fix the issue before it causes further damage.

To prevent clogged drains, avoid pouring grease, oil, or food particles down the sink. Install a drain strainer to catch debris, and regularly clean it. For bathroom drains, use a hair catcher to prevent hair buildup. You can also flush your drains periodically with hot water or a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water to break down accumulated debris and maintain smooth water flow. For best results, it’s a good idea for property owners to invest in periodic drain cleaning and hydro jetting services to remove any buildup and keep your pipes flowing well.

To protect your system against pipe freezing amid wintry conditions, implement these preventive measures:

• Shield visible pipes in areas without heating with insulation.
• Seal any gaps or cracks in your home's exterior walls to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes.
• Allow faucets to drip slightly, maintaining a continuous water flow to minimize freezing.
• Keep the cabinet doors under your sinks open to circulate warm air around pipes.
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and close the indoor valves supplying those lines.

If you suspect frozen pipes, contact a professional plumber to safely address the issue and avoid potential damage.

Low water pressure in your home can be caused by clogged pipes, a partially closed main shut-off valve, pressure regulator issues, or supply issues from your local water provider. To address weak water flow, begin by examining the primary shut-off valve to confirm that it is entirely open. You can also clean the aerators on your faucets to remove any debris. If the problem persists, consider contacting a professional plumber to diagnose and address any potential issues with your pipes, pressure regulator, or other plumbing components.

A sudden increase in your water bills can be attributed to various factors such as undetected leaks in your plumbing system, a constantly running toilet, a faulty water meter, or a change in water consumption due to new appliances or additional household members. To pinpoint the cause, inspect for visible leaks, listen for running water when all fixtures are off, and monitor your water meter for any unusual readings. If the issue persists, consider contacting a professional plumber for a thorough assessment.

To properly shut off the water supply in case of an emergency, first locate the main shut-off valve for your home, which is typically found near the water meter or where the main water line enters your house. Turn the valve clockwise to close it and stop the water flow. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the location and operation of your main shut-off valve before an emergency occurs, and to inform all household members of its location as well.

You may need to replace your water heater if it was installed 10-12 years ago, has a reduced hot water supply, provides inconsistent water temperatures, you have rusty or discolored water, hear strange noises, or see water leaking around the unit. If you experience any of these issues, consult a professional plumber to assess the situation and recommend whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

It's recommended to have your plumbing system inspected every one to two years. However, if your home is older or you've experienced recurring plumbing issues, annual inspections might be more suitable. Regular plumbing maintenance can help identify potential problems early, prevent costly repairs, and prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system.