FAQ

Most homeowner's insurance will cover sudden and accidental water damage, like a pipe that unexpectedly bursts, but it usually doesn't cover damage from neglected maintenance or gradual leaks. Reading your policy carefully and asking your agent about water backup coverage is worth the time before something goes wrong.

Your main shutoff valve is usually located near the water meter, which is normally found in the basement, crawl space, garage, or along an exterior wall on the side of the house facing the street. Knowing exactly where it is before an emergency saves valuable time.

Those sounds come from sediment that's settled at the bottom of the tank and is being disturbed as the water heats up around it. Flushing the tank annually helps prevent buildup, but if the noise is loud or the unit is older, it may be worth having a plumber assess whether repair or replacement makes more sense.

Having a plumber inspect your system once a year is a good general rule, especially if your home is older or you've had recurring issues. Routine maintenance catches small problems before they become expensive repairs and gives you peace of mind about the overall health of your system.

A small waterproof camera is fed through your drain or sewer line to give the plumber a live view of what's happening inside the pipe. It's one of the most accurate ways to diagnose a recurring clog, locate a crack, or check the overall condition of older pipes.

Yes, tree roots actively seek out moisture and can infiltrate even small cracks in sewer pipes, growing into the line and eventually causing significant blockages or structural damage. Older clay or cast iron pipes are especially vulnerable, and regular camera inspections can catch root intrusion early.

Hydro jetting uses a high-pressure stream of water to blast out buildup, grease, and debris from the inside of your pipes. It's especially useful for commercial properties or homes with heavily scaled or repeatedly clogging drain lines that a standard snake can't fully clear.

Watch out for a sudden spike in your utility bill, soft or discolored spots on walls or ceilings, the sound of running water when nothing is in use, or damp areas around the foundation. An experienced plumber can use leak detection equipment to locate the problem without unnecessary damage to your home.

Sewer smells inside a home often point to a dried-out P-trap, a cracked or damaged wax ring under a toilet, or a venting issue in the drain system. Running water in rarely used fixtures usually solves a dry P-trap, but persistent odors should be inspected by a plumber to rule out a more serious issue.

A running toilet usually means the flapper valve inside the tank isn't sealing correctly, which allows water to trickle constantly from the tank into the bowl. It's a fairly simple fix, but leaving it alone can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month and drive up your utility bill.

Traditional tank water heaters generally last between eight and twelve years with regular maintenance, while tankless units can last upward of twenty years. If your water heater is making strange noises, producing rusty water, or struggling to keep up with demand, it may be time to have it evaluated.

Chemical drain cleaners can clear a slow drain temporarily, but they're hard on pipes and can cause corrosion, especially in older homes. For stubborn or recurring clogs, hydro jetting or professional snaking is more effective and far less damaging to your plumbing system.

Most clogs build up from grease, hair, soap residue, and food particles accumulating inside the pipe over time. Some clogs sit close to the drain opening and can be cleared with a plunger, but deeper or recurring clogs often need professional attention to clear fully and safely.

Low water pressure can come from a partially closed shutoff valve, mineral buildup in your pipes, a failing pressure regulator, or a leak somewhere in the system. A plumber can run a pressure test and trace the source quickly.

Shut off the main water supply to your home immediately, then turn on the cold water taps to drain the remaining water from your pipes. Call a plumber as soon as possible, and if there's standing water near any electrical panels or outlets, keep everyone clear of that area until it's been assessed.

If the repair involves your main water line, sewer line, water heater, or anything behind the walls, it's worth calling a professional. DIY fixes on complex systems can mask bigger problems or cause damage that costs far more to repair down the road.

If you're dealing with a burst pipe, sewage backing up into your home, a gas leak, or flooding you can't stop, that's an emergency. When in doubt, shut off your water at the main valve and call a plumber right away rather than waiting to see if the problem resolves on its own.

Plumbers install, repair, and maintain the pipes, fixtures, and systems that move water in and out of your home or business. That covers everything from leaky faucets and clogged drains to water heater replacements and full pipe repiping projects.

Plumbers install, repair, and maintain the pipes, fixtures, and systems that move water in and out of your home or business. That covers everything from leaky faucets and clogged drains to water heater replacements and full pipe repiping projects.