FAQs

Q: Why Hire A Licensed Plumber?

A: In order to receive a plumbing license, the plumber must pass an examination and demonstrate technical proficiency and knowledge in all things related to plumbing and code standards. When you hire a licensed plumber, you’ll know you’re having your work performed by a knowledgeable and experienced plumber with the skills, equipment, and know-how to provide you with proper, safe, durable results – not some amateur that could end up doing more harm than good. With his or her license on the line, you can expect a licensed plumber to do the work properly, as he can be held accountable for any accidents or damages related to improperly performed work.

Q: What Exactly Is Plumbing Code?

A: Each city, county, and state has a set of plumbing rules and regulations (most commonly the Universal Plumbing Code or UPC). This plumbing code specifies exactly how plumbing should be done in order to prevent the spread of disease and damage to home and property. The UPC is updated regularly to reflect changes in technology and advancements in plumbing knowledge, but a licensed local plumber will be familiar with any changes in code. If you’re unsure about your plumbing system, have a licensed local plumber inspect your system. He or she will let you know if everything is up to date and code compliant.

Q: How Can I Prevent My Pipes From Freezing?

A: The best way to prevent pipe freeze is to keep a little water trickling from the connected faucet and to keep the temperatures in your home above 55 degrees F.

Q: I Almost Constantly Hear Water Running – Why?

A: If you hear water running even when you aren’t using anything, you’ve got a leak that needs to be dealt with. Take a look at your sump pump, your faucets, and your toilets first – checking for any water around these fixtures. If you don’t see anything obvious, it’s possible that the leak is in a pipe in the walls or below your home.

Q: My Water Bill Is Unusually High – Why?

A: If your water bill is unusually high, you’ll want to check several things. First, check to see if your water meter dials are moving when you know no water is being used. If they aren’t, your meter may be broken or giving false readings. If the dials are moving, you’ll need to check for a leak in your system. Some of the most common areas for leaks include faucets, sinks, and toilets.

Q: I Think My Toilet May Be Leaking, How Can I Test It?

A: If you think your toilet may be leaking, put a few drops of food coloring in the tank of the toilet and check back a half hour later. If the dye has moved to the bowl of the toilet, the toilet is in need of repairs.

Q: How Do I Know If It’s Time To Replace My Garbage Disposal?

A: If your garbage disposal is louder than it once was or consistently leaks, clogs, or stops working, it’s time to look for a replacement.

Q: Why Doesn’t My Dishwasher Completely Drain?

A: To prevent the heater from burning up, a little bit of water is kept in the dishwasher after each cycle. If you’re noticing a lot of water in the dishwasher, however, it may be that the drain or air gap is clogged.

Q: If I Don’t Use My Drain, Will It Dry Up?

A: If a drain goes unused for a prolonged period of time, it will dry out. The best way to prevent this from happening is to run some water through otherwise unused drains periodically.

Q: My Faucet “Clunks” When I Turn It On Or Off – Why?

A: Most likely, a loose washer is responsible for the “clunking” sound in your faucet. To resolve the issue, take it apart and find the old washer. If you can’t locate the washer, turn the water back on. This will help flush it out.

Q: How Can I Prevent My Well From Freezing?

A: To prevent your well from freezing, you’ll want to have a well-insulated enclosure and a heat source built well below the frost line. A 100-watt incandescent light bulb can be used as a heat source. Be sure to check the well house or box for holes or missing insulation, making repairs as needed. You’ll also want to use heat tape on the pump. You may also opt to install a space heater that will kick in when temperatures drop below 45 degrees.

Q: How Can I Prepare My Plumbing For My Winter Away From Home?

A: Turn off the main water valves and disconnect your water meter. Next, open all of the faucets, including the outside hose bibs. Flush all toilets and plunge all sinks and toilets to remove water from the traps. Next, collect any drainage from the shut-off valve and put RV antifreeze in any drain traps.

Q: What Can I Do To Keep My Plumbing System In Great Shape?

A: There are a few things you can do to keep your plumbing system in great condition:

One, install a valve that limits the water pressure; two, install a thermal expansion tank; and three, keep your drains free of grease, chemicals, and garbage.

Q: What Do I Do If My Water Line Is Clogged?

A: First, you’ll want to determine if it’s an isolated problem or a problem with your entire home. If there only seems to be one problem faucet, remove the aerator and try to dislodge any debris you find. If it seems to be a problem with your entire home, call your water supply company. In both scenarios, make sure your shut-off valves are open.

Q: Why Does My Water Heater Take Longer To Heat Than It Used To?

A: Over time, mineral particles can settle along your water heater, creating a barrier that slows the water-heating process. If your water heater takes longer to heat water than it used to, flushing your water heater tank may help. If not, the issue could be with your gas control valve.

If you have any questions that weren’t answered here, please feel free to give us a call! We’re here to help!

 

When you hear folks talking about us, you’ll probably hear them mention our extensive service area. We’re proud to offer our services to so many great customers!

Review Our Services!

Facebook Logo blue circle with white lower cased f in it  Yellow Pages Logo black circle with white lower case y and p underlined in it

We Accept Credit Cards

credit cards icon images of mastercard, visa, and discover cards shown side by side

Certifications/Associations

American Backflow Prevention Association Logo blue circle icon framing image of the earth
M with water image underneath it that reads Master Plumbers Gasfitters Drainlayers in white letters