Frequently Asked Questions

Expert plumbing solutions for every home issue!

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How often should I get my water heater serviced?

You should have your water heater serviced once per year to ensure it operates efficiently and reliably. Regular maintenance helps prevent potential issues such as sediment buildup, which can reduce the efficiency of your heater and shorten its lifespan. During a service visit, a professional will inspect the unit, flush out any sediment, check the anode rod, and ensure all components are functioning correctly. This proactive approach can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

How does the service fee work?

The service fee will be waived if you choose to proceed with the recommended work. If you decide not to proceed with the repairs or maintenance, a dispatch fee of $124 will apply. This fee covers the cost of sending a technician to your location and assessing the issue. Waiving the service fee when you proceed with the work helps ensure that you only pay for the actual repair or maintenance services needed.

Why might I still have an issue after a plumber has removed a clog?

Even after a plumber has removed a clog, you may still experience issues due to several factors. If non-flushable items like wipes or excessive toilet paper were flushed, they could contribute to recurring clogs. Additionally, if there is a belly (a sagging section) in your line or if hard water buildup is present, the problem might persist. In such cases, further investigation or treatments like hydrojetting may be necessary to fully resolve the issue.

What paperwork do I need for backflow testing and why?

For backflow testing, you need a document from the City of Santa Monica requesting the test. This paperwork is essential because it authorizes the backflow prevention test and ensures compliance with local regulations. The plumber will complete and submit this form to the city, demonstrating that the test has been performed and that your backflow prevention system is functioning properly.

When do I need hydrojetting?

Hydro jetting is recommended when traditional methods like cabling the lines are no longer effective. In areas with hard water, such as Los Angeles, mineral buildup can cause blockages that cabling alone might not clear. Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water streams to clean and remove stubborn clogs and buildup from your pipes, restoring proper flow and preventing future issues.

Do we snake or cable the lines?

We use cables, not snakes, to clear lines. Cables are more effective for penetrating and removing clogs in pipes. While snaking is a common term, it often refers to a different technique that might not be as thorough as using a cable. Our approach ensures a more reliable and efficient solution to your plumbing issues.

Why do plumbers want to do a full performance and safety assessment?

We carry out full performance and safety assessments on home and plumbing systems, as problems often have separate causes. Plumbing issues often have root causes, which can cause other parts of the system to break or fail. Finding and fixing the root cause allows us to solve plumbing issues correctly. 

Why is high water pressure bad for my home?

High water pressure can cause significant damage to your home's plumbing system over time. In areas like Los Angeles and Santa Monica, where water pressure from the city can be particularly high, it can lead to pipe leaks, joint failures, and premature wear on appliances like water heaters and washing machines. By regulating water pressure, you can prevent these issues and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Why does my water heater need an expansion tank?

California code requires an expansion tank for water heaters to protect your plumbing system from excess pressure. It absorbs the extra volume of water created when water is heated and expands, preventing pressure-related damage to your pipes and water heater.

Why do you need vent pipes on drains?

Vent pipes on drains are essential because they allow air to enter the plumbing system, which helps maintain proper pressure and ensures that wastewater flows smoothly. Without vent pipes, drains can become slow, and sewer gases can back up into your home, creating unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.

Why are earthquake valves on gas lines important?

Earthquake valves on gas lines are crucial for safety in seismic areas like California. These valves automatically shut off the gas supply during an earthquake, preventing gas leaks that could lead to fires or explosions and protecting your home and family from potential disasters.

Why do plumbing lines need shut-offs?

Shut-offs on plumbing lines are necessary to isolate specific sections of your plumbing system for repairs or emergencies. They allow you to turn off the water in one area without disrupting the entire home's water supply, making maintenance easier and minimizing potential water damage in case of a leak.