FAQ

  • General Plumbing Questions

    • What is a plumbing cleanout?

      A plumbing cleanout (drain cleanout / sewer cleanout) provides a point of access to your home sewer systems where we can insert a drain cleaning machine to clear clogs or debris, or a camera to inspect the system.

      The plumbing codes of most localities require the installation of cleanouts. They’re usually located on the main drain pipe, in a basement or crawl space, just outside of the house (plumbing cleanout), and/or at the property line (property line cleanout).

    • What is Hydro-Jetting?

      Hydro Jetter is a machine that pressurizes the water, producing a powerful stream that clears dirt/mud, debris, years of build-up of grease and minerals in the drain while it moves forward. Hydro Jetting is different from a snaking/cable drain cleaning machine.

    • When do I need hydro jetting?

      Hydro Jetting is usually used when a snaking / cable drain cleaning machine cannot remove clogs. Hydro Jetting can also clean several hundred feet of drain pipe which a snaking / cable drain cleaning machine is often unable to penetrate.

      Your storm drain also needs to be clear of dirt, mud, vegetation debris before it clogs your pipe and causes your yard to flood. Hydro Jetting can even solve bacterial problems which often cause bad odour from pipes.

      Our Hydro Jetting Service is the best in the industry and is able to clean pipes up to 24″ in diameter, whether in a Residential or Commercial setting. Hydro Jetting requires heavier equipment and has to be performed by a professional. Our skilled plumbing technicians will come to your house and inspect your pipe to give you the best solution.

    • When do I need my house Repipe?

      There are several plumbing problems caused by old/faulty pipes. A full copper repiping work will prevent many costly plumbing issues.

      Low Water Pressure

      Low water pressure is a sign that the pipes have developed interior corrosion and build-ups that restricts water flow.

      Scalded in the Shower when Toilet Flushes

      Corroded pipes or leaky pipes inhibit the water flow, draining cold water from the shower when toilet/sink has been used, which leaves more hot water in the shower.

      Leaky Pipes

      Corrosion and build-up in pipes restrict water flow, even as entry water pressure remains constant. As a result, pressure builds-up in the pipe and breaks the most corroded or weak areas of the pipe.

      Noisy Pipes

      Pipes can be noisy for many reasons: in older pipes, the anchors can come loose, or air could leak out of a pipe which has a build-up. Popping/Rattling noises inside water pipes can be caused by build-up that creates a rough coating on the inside of the pipes. This results in the formation of air bubbles that burst or pop once the water heats up.

      Rusty / Dirty Water

      Smelly Water

      Rusty/Dirty, Smelly water is a sign of corroded plumbing pipes. This rusty/dirty, smelly water that serves your family’s drinking water, shower and washing machine will affect your health and stain your clothes.

    • Why are my drains constantly getting blockages?

      Drain blockage can be caused by many reasons. Your child may flush a toy down the toilet, kitchen drain grease builds up, food in the pipe, shower drain soap scum build-ups, hair, and other foreign objects, are some of the causes.

      Main sewer pipe with build-ups, mud, debris and often roots problem (roots surrounding the pipes grow into the pipes) can causes constant blockage. Corroded pipes, rooted pipes can collapse or/and offset the pipes and a snake/cable machine process cannot fix these problems.

      We will take a step-by-step inspection of your pipe and find the best solution to your problem.

    • Replace my Water Heater? Or Repair it?

      For the gas/propane conventional storage-tank water heater: First, check if your water heater pilot light is on. If not, follow the safety/lighting directions on your water heater to turn on the pilot light.

      Still no hot water? Call us at (408) 709-7241.

      Replacement

      The average lifespan of a conventional storage tank water heater is 10-years. If your water heater has reached end of life, then replacement is a better option for you. When you see a leak from your water heater, there may be an internal issue and this can rarely be fixed. New models are up to 20% more energy- efficient and save you money.

      Repair

      If your water heater is only a few years old, then repair is a better option. Please give us a call on (408) 709-7241. We’ll send our knowledgeable technician to inspect your water heater and choose the best option.

    • What should I do if I smell gas?

      Emergency: If you smell natural gas or suspect another emergency situation, leave the area immediately, call 911 and then call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.

      Gas leak is a serious plumbing emergency need and must be inspected by professional. When you suspect a gas leak, follow the safety steps and contact us on (408) 709-7241 for emergency service. We will come to your house as quickly as possible, inspect your gas line and provide you repair options.