Frequently Asked Questions

Plumbing

My hot water heater is leaking. Does it need to be replaced?

If your water heater is leaking from the bottom of the tank, there isn't much we can do to repair it.  You will need to replace your tank.  New water heaters are better insulated, more efficient, and safer - especially if you don't have a Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant (FVIR) tank. 

If your water heater is leaking from the relief valve, your water heater is working correctly and does not need to be replaced.  However, high pressure is causing your hot water tank to leak, so we need to get to the root of the problem, which lies somewhere in your home's water lines. 

I am not sure if my water heater is gas or electric. How can I tell?

If there is a vent pipe on the top of your water heater then you have a gas hot water heater.

What causes our water heater to make loud rumbling noises?

A common cause for such noises is sediment in the tank. This can be corrected by draining some water from the tank until it runs clear. Draining the sediment should eliminate noise problems and allows your water heater to operate more efficiently.

Sewer and Drain

Why does my sink or tub drain slowly?

There are many reasons why sinks and tubs drain slowly.  A slow draining sink can be caused by a defective pop-up assembly, hair in the strainer, or a clogged drain line.  Similarly a slow draining tub can be caused by hair, a clogged drain line, or a defective waste and overflow mechanism.  Whatever the reason is behind your slow drains, our plumbers can get to the root of the problem.  

Who is responsible for the sewer line to my house?

The homeowner is responsible for the sewer line from inside the home to where it connects to the municipality's main line.  We can help you with any sewer line service, repairs, or replacements. 

Heating

How do I know if my furnace is forced air or hot water?

If you have warm air ducts that heat your house then you have a forced air furnace. If you have a hot water or steam furnace you will have radiators in your house.

What is a cracked heat exchanger?

A heat exchanger is a chamber or chambers inside your furncace.  A cracked heat exchanger is dangerous because it releases carbon monoxide into your home through your duct work.  Carbon monoxide is an odorless and deadly gas. 

Cooling

My air conditioner is not blowing cool air. Does it need to be replaced?

Your air conditioning (A/C) unit may need to be cleaned or charged. 

Is there any benefit to having my air conditioning checked?

Cleaning and servicing your air conditioning unit at the start and finish of the season helps prolong the life of your A/C unit.  Removing the dirt from the coils, checking the level of the coolant, adding coolant when needed, we can do all of these things during an A/C service call to help you stay cool all summer long.

 

If you have more Plumbing, Sewer, Drain, Heating, or Cooling questions, please give us a call or send us an email.  

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