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What is considered a plumbing emergency?

plumbing and water damage in house

Is a clogged toilet a maintenance emergency?

What is deemed an emergency in any scenario can vary from person to person. For some of us, it could be running out of coffee and for others, it could the DVR didn’t record that football game. Then there are those that the entire house would have to be engulfed in flames before they felt they had an emergency. In this piece today, we’re going to discuss when the right time to call an emergency plumber

We will review what is and isn’t a time to get emergency plumbing help and when a plumbing emergency repair is needed and when something can wait until the next business day. Why would you wait until the next business day if you can get an emergency plumber today? Because plumbers charge overtime. Anything after 5pm and before 8am, on a holiday, or a weekend is considered an emergency and the hourly rate is often doubled or tripled, plus parts. 

If you’re the one that just flushed it and your waste isn’t backing up and overflowing to the floor, yeah, that may be a clogged toilet emergency. In the world of plumbing, no, it is not a reason to call an emergency plumber. Unless there is only one toilet in the house, this could change the outlook. 

Your toilet is no doubt an important part of your home, it gets used every day. When the only toilet in the house is clogged, most of the time, it will unclog itself. Toilets haves a natural system where there is internal pressure in the tank that work with gravity, so in most of the time, it will take care of its own clog. Do not keep flushing it hoping for better results!  Give some time and before long, you’ll hear the toilet flush itself own through, clearing the bowl. 

If you were to call an emergency plumber service, they will likely walk you through some things to try, such as plunging the toilet. If you do not have a plunger, it is worthwhile to make that investment (under $5) and have it on hand.

However, there are times that a clogged toilet doesn’t unclog itself or keeps getting clog after clog.  This could indicate more than a clogged toilet issue, something like the sewer line could be clogged, or even broken. Emergency plumbers will advise homeowners to have a routine of pouring a mixture of one cup baking soda with two cups of vinegar in the toilet bowl. 

The mixture will break down blockages so that they can flush on through to the sewer pipe. If you don’t have those items on hand, you can use two cups of dish liquid which may loosen the blockage and allow it to flush on through. 

However, if none of these steps are working, you definitely need the services of a professional plumber, hopefully you can wait until business hours to avoid that additional cost for overtime for an emergency plumber. A professional plumber will be equipment with the proper tools that get to the source of the clog and get your toilet flowing again. This may require replacing damaged or old pipes, or other types of repairs, like the sewer line. 

Is a leak an emergency?

There are particular signs that make it clear you need an emergency plumber. Such a sign would be if the plumbing problem can cause damage to your home or has placed you and your family in danger. A good rule of thumb is if you can contain the problem can in a bucket or temporarily thwart the problem until an emergency plumber arrives, like the next day, then you do not have an emergency plumbing issue. Some plumbing emergency examples would be: 

  • Damaged or leaking water pipes
  • Hot water not adhering to the water heater settings
  • Bathroom or kitchen sink overflowing 
  • Water heater leaking
  • Sewage backing up in drains, showers, toilets, or tub
  • Water pipes frozen 
  • Water pipes shaking or vibrating
tightening a hose or fitting

What is not an emergency?

Because we depend on our plumbing to be at our beck and call, it can be too easy to go into panic mode when something isn’t working right. Yes, it can be inconvenient, but calling for an emergency plumber can be costly.  

Before you dial that number for an emergency plumber call out to help, ask yourself this question: Does the benefit of an emergency plumber service outweigh the potential expense, or can it wait until normal business hours? Here are some examples that is not a true emergency plumber worthy issue:

  • Your Inconvenienced: If you can use a wrench yourself to temporarily fix the issue, then wait until normal business hours to make that emergency plumber request.
  • A Risk of Danger: Does this plumbing issue pose a risk of danger to you, your family, or your home? If you have a gas leak, sewage waste is coming into your home, or there is cause for concern of a fire or poisonous carbon monoxide, by all means call an emergency plumber service.  
  • Future Development: A plumbing problem may not be putting you or your family at risk right this minute, but if it isn’t taken care of soon, how quick can it become a health or safety issue? Or if your plumbing system becomes unusable at all, don’t wait days to call a plumber. 

How long do emergency plumbers take?

There is no set time frame for an emergency plumber service call because of all the potential problems that they may need to address. For instance, an emergency plumbing and drain problem could be addressed inside the house within an hour. 

However, if the problem is under the house or in the sewer line, this could require digging, trenching, and maybe jackhammering the foundation. Those type of repairs can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. 

Hopefully, our article has clarified for you what should constitute making an emergency plumber call and when it is something that can wait. Calling a plumber for an emergency when it isn’t deemed an emergency upon their arrival isn’t the same as calling 911. If you feel it is an emergency, it is your home and your bank account, by all means, make that call. For your plumbing emergency needs, call 661-201-6016 today.

What does commercial plumbing mean?

commercial plumbing sinks

Explaining commercial plumbing

Plumbing is plumbing, right? Commercial plumbing, industrial plumbing, residential plumbing, plumbing is plumbing. Bathrooms or kitchens drains are drains and pipes are pipes, right? To a certain extent, yes. They use the same kind of materials for them and they both have the same function and end results. 

However, there are some distinctions between them all. For this article, we will talk about commercial plumbing, starting with What is the difference between commercial and residential plumbing?  While any experienced, quality plumber will know the difference, if you don’t have a plumbing background, you wouldn’t realize these differences:

  • Size Does Matter: When it comes to commercial plumbing, it needs larger drains, larger pipes, more drains, and pipes. A restaurant needs to not only have kitchen plumbing but restroom plumbing for the public and staff too. The public restroom plumbing in a commercial or restaurant will have more usage than residential bathroom plumbing.
  • Several Floors: Typically, residential plumbing will be on one or two floors, some extravagant homes may have three floors that need plumbing. Offices may have several floors, think high-rise towers in downtown, and each floor will need restrooms and possibly break rooms or kitchens. What plumbers know is that gravity is an enormous part of plumbing working properly, and how the water pressure works.
  • Problem diversities: Residential plumbing will have the same basic plumbing problems, with a variation to each. Commercial plumbing, however, can face several issues, sometimes in one day, and the solutions are as varied as the problems.

Is commercial plumbing hard?

People can become as dependent on computers and robots all they can and want, but when it comes to their plumbing needs, that take human interaction.  Humans rely on plumbing technology, and they will for as far as anyone can tell.

With that need, comes the need for experienced, skilled, trained plumbers that can install, repair, and perform maintenance on the plumbing systems. Among the career path of plumbers, there specialties, each just as important as the other. From residential plumbing, industrial plumbing, and commercial plumbing work, the jobs are plentiful.

Is it a hard trade to learn? Not anymore than other manual jobs, but they all have their challenging days, challenging jobs, even in commercial plumbing. Sometimes, even the most experienced plumber will have commercial plumbing questions on a situation and may call upon co-workers and superiors for help. No matter how experienced a plumber may get, especially in commercial plumbing, there will always be something new to learn.

What are the commercial plumbing basics?

The basics of commercial plumbing are like any other type of plumbing: installing and maintaining plumbing systems. However, it is typically on a larger scale than for residential, but commercial plumbing and drainage isn’t as involved as it may be from some industrial plumbing jobs.

An example of industrial plumbing, the waste removal is often more detailed due to environmental concerns. Where commercial plumbing differs from residential is the size of drains and pipes. They must be larger, and there are typically more plumbing pipes in commercial properties than residential properties.

Between commercial plumbing, industrial plumbing, and residential plumber, they all have emergency type work, but commercial plumbing has the most. Businesses cannot have a disruption in their business, especially in the entertainment and restaurant industries. Any of those could be open 24/7 and they need commercial plumbing contractors that can respond promptly and complete the job as needed.

upscale commercial pulbic restroom

A Commercial Plumber Role

The work of commercial plumbing is to confirm that the water supply system and wastewater pipes of a commercial structure are functioning properly. Commercial plumbing isn’t any different from industrial plumbing or residential plumbing when it comes to installing drainage and pipes for a commercial structure. There are trenches to be dug and pipes to be laid, and all have to be connected to the main water and sewage system.

Like the industrial plumbers and residential plumbers, the law requires commercial plumbing to safeguard that the water supply lines are connected to clean water and the wastewater pipes are not draining into the system that will contaminate freshwater supplies for that business or the surrounding areas. For a plumber to get a commercial plumbing license, they must complete a certain amount of training hours and on-the-job apprentice hours first, with some states requiring testing to be completed and passed on commercial plumbing specialty or another plumbing specialty.

After the outdoor plumbing system is in place, the internal plumbing needs must be installed. From bathroom sinks and toilets to break room and kitchen plumbing, sprinkler systems and water fountains. In some commercial buildings, showers may be necessary too.  A commercial plumbing contractor must be experienced with all levels of plumbing needs and commercial plumbing repairs in order to obtain a commercial plumbing license. 

Once a commercial structure is up and occupied, the need for commercial plumbing experts isn’t done. There will always be plumbing issues, and not by fault of the installation job, but day to day use and abuse by the occupants will necessitate the need for an experienced commercial plumber.

Does trenchless sewer repair work?

sewer line damages and dug up for repair

What is a trenchless pipe replacement?

If you’ve had any plumbing issues with sewer or water lines busting in the yard, your plumber probably mentioned a trenchless plumbing repair process.  So, you have an idea of what that is all about, but many homeowners have not heard about it.  Trenchless plumbing technology isn’t anything new, but it has become more commonplace in the past few years. Because it is just getting to be widespread, it is generating a lot of questions too.

A new sewer or main water line isn’t something you plan on having done, but it is something that every homeowner could always hear from a plumber. Whether the replacement pipe is needed because of broken fittings or tree roots busted into the line, repairing or replacing the existing sewer or water line is the only way you’ll have things back to normal.

Once upon a time, this meant they would tear your yard up, the water may be off for a whole day or longer. You’d have a huge mess on your hand, even after the repair or replacement was completed. With trenchless plumbing repair or replacement though, the work is done quicker with less mess and less inconvenience. Which one you need will be something your plumber will discuss with you.

A busted sewer or water line can be replaced by using the pipe bursting process, also referred to as trenchless sewer belly repair. This trenchless method sewer line replacement process entails the use of a machine that breaks the old pipe at the same time it is installing a new pipe. Trenchless plumbing repair is done by the plumber creating two entry holes: one where for the sewer line going into the house; one that connects to the main sewer line. The new pipe is the same diameter which allows the flow from your house to the main sewer line to remain the same.

The other option your plumber may consider is lining the existing pipe with a resin-coated flexible pipe that is blown into the old pipe or pulled through the old pipe. Next, the new flexible pipe is then inflated and the resin hardens, resulting in a new pipe inside the old pie. The drawback to this trenchless plumbing repair option is it lessens the diameter by one-fourth of an inch. This is a small difference, and, in most homes, the impact is minimal to non-existence.

How long does Pipe Lining last?

This method of trenchless plumbing repair isn’t a choice made because it is less expensive. They designed it to keep from having to dig up yards, ruin landscaping, and have a life expectancy of fifty years or more.

Is trenchless sewer repair cheaper?

Write it out on paper, the less expensive option for sewer repair is the traditional method. When you face needing this type of work done, because the trenchless plumbing repair isn’t as commonplace as the traditional method, it isn’t as easy to find an experienced trenchless plumbing company.

There aren’t any homeowners that look forward to hearing they need sewer or water line replacements. That is one thing that we can guarantee you! The traditional method of digging that was required to make it all better has always been a huge undertaking that left a mess behind. Homeowners wondered if their landscaping and lawn would ever revive.

However, today, trenchless plumbing repair technology can get the job done in less time with less mess. So, if affordable trenchless plumbing is available and can be done quicker with less interruption to your life, why are so many homeowners reluctant to go this route?

The first thing you need to know is that not every sewer or water line repair or replacement can be done by the trenchless plumbing repair process. If there isn’t enough of the old pipe in good enough condition, then the traditional method is the only option. Here are some facts to keep in mind should your home be faced with this issue:

  • The Upfront Costs: No two projects will have the same cost whether they use the traditional or trenchless plumbing repair methods. The traditional method can range as low as $50 per foot up to $250 per foot. The factors that can make a difference in pricing are pipe location and pipe materials as well as other issues. With ten feet of pipe used based on that per square foot rate, the job could cost up to $2,500 for the labor and materials. However, most jobs take more than 10 feet of line.
  • Hidden Costs: There are additional costs when making repairs the traditional method, such as the excavation of the old pipe. This makes the biggest mess and takes the most time and cost as much as $12 per square foot. If there is anything sitting on top of the sewer or water line, it may need to be moved, creating another additional cost. Then there is the cost of repairing the landscaping and lawn after the job is completed.

If trenchless plumbing repair is possible, most of those hidden expenses won’t happen because it needs only two holes. One hole where the plumbing contractors insert the liner and one hole to pull it on through. Even if there is a garden shack or tool shed sitting on top of the line, it won’t be disturbed.

concrete plumbing

Can you line a sewer pipe?

Trenchless plumbing repair is the process of inserting an epoxy or resin-coated tube into the broken pipe, then inflate the tube and allow the epoxy or resin to cure. The result is a new pipe within the old pipe and little to no damage to the yard.  This method works on any pipe, including sewer, that is made of these materials:

  • cast iron
  • clay
  • concrete
  • plastic
  • PVC 

Sewer or water pipe repairs and replacements are not a fun, DIY project around the house. If you have been told by a plumber that you need this type of work, get several estimates for both the traditional method and the trenchless plumbing repair method. Make sure the plumber is experienced, insured, licensed and has recent references. Need expert trenchless plumbing repair in Santa Clarita, CA? Call 661-201-6016 today!

Can a water heater be repaired?

hand turning up heat on water heater

Quality water heater repair

When do you know if you need a water heater repair service? Probably on one of those dreaded mornings you jump into the shower and have nothing but ice-cold water coming out. Or you go out to the garage and step in water about 2 inches deep and realize there is water gushing out of the water heater. 

Those would be when you’d put water heater repair on your “things to do today” list. If you find yourself in either of those situations and you don’t have a plumber you’ve used with success, then you would likely start searching Google for “water heater repair in my area”.

Once the plumber arrives, they will assess the situation and advise you if water heater repair or replace the unit is the best scenario, and provide you a water heater repair estimate or give you a quote on a new water heater unit. Before you make that phone call for water heater repair, try to restart the water heater yourself.

How do you restart a water heater?

Sometimes, when the water won’t get hot, the water heater needs to be restarted, almost like rebooting your computer. If the water is getting too hot, the reset switch will trip and resetting that switch may fix the problem and you can avoid an expensive water heater repair service call:

If you have an electric water heater, check the reset switch. This is a red button found on the upper end of the thermostat once you remove the access panel, push it.  If there is a reset button on the lower thermostat, push it. If this doesn’t get the water heating, then there may be another problem with the unit. Other issues that could cause the water heater not to work are:  

  • The high-limit switch is malfunctioning, causing the water to overheat and trip the switch.
  • Loose wiring in the heating element can cause the switch to trip.
  • The heating element has gone out or is going out can cause the switch to trip.
  • It could be a problem with the circuit breaker that powers the water heater.

Water heater repair by a professional plumber can fix the high-limit switch, loose wiring to the element, or replace the element. If it is the circuit breaker, however, you must call a professional electrician in which the plumber will determine that is necessary.  

How long do hot water heaters usually last?

The average lifespan of a water heater is eight to twelve years. If you follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance steps, you may extend that lifespan to 20 years. It is the recommendation of most plumbers that by your water heater’s 10th birthday, it would be a good idea to consider your next water heater, like going with a tankless style. By planning, you could replace your existing water heater before needing to make an emergency water heater repair service call at the most inconvenient time.

What are the signs your hot water heater is going out? 

If your water heater hasn’t hit that 10th birthday yet, other indicators that the unit may go out are:  

  1. Rust coming from the faucets or you notice rust around the connections and valves of the water usually indicates the tank has rusted inside. If there isn’t any water leaking from the tank or the connections now, there will be soon.  
  2. Regardless of your water heater is electric or gas, they all get a build-up of sediment in the tank’s bottom. As that sediment accumulates, the drain valve becomes clogged. If your water heater is a gas-powered model, you’ll begin hearing popping noises each time the burner ignites.  
  3. Water leaking from the tank, connections, lines, or valves.  Sometimes, a water heater repair service calls, the plumber can repair, tighten or replace connections, water lines, or valves to stop the leaking. If the tank is leaking, it is time to buy a new water heater. 
  4. With an electric water heater, the heating element can go out, which you can replace yourself or call for a professional water heater repair service by a plumber.
Water heater in a basement

What would cause a hot water heater to stop working?

If your water heater seems to have stopped heating water, some possible problems are:

  • The pilot light – a gas water heater has a pilot light, and these can go out from time to time, fortunately, this is a simple fix that doesn’t require a professional water heater repair service call. Following the instructions in the owner’s manual or on the unit itself and relight it.
  • Leaking gas line – another possible problem with gas water heaters could be a leak in the gas line. This is usually noticed before not getting hot water by the smell of gas in the area of the water heater.  This requires calling a plumber for water heater repair, possibly even calling the gas company if the odor is strong.  
  • The heating element – this is an electric water heater problem and can be replaced by the homeowner if you’re trying to avoid the expenses of a water heater repair service call. Replacing the heating element is much less expensive either way than replacing the entire water heater.
  • Tank sediment buildup – no matter where you live, the water has contaminants and they will build up in the water heater tank, become harden and reduce the water heater’s ability to heat enough water. If the sediment hasn’t built up too long or became too hard, flushing the tank will often fix this, which you can do yourself following the manufacturer’s instructions or you can have a water heater repair service do it. However, if it has been happening for a long period, a new water heater is the only solution.

What is the most common problem with water heaters?

A hot water heater that is leaking is the most common problem among water heaters. The problem can be from a broken drain valve, which a water heater repair service call can get that fixed. Sometimes, the tank has had too much pressure building up will cause the tank to leak, or if the tank has rusted inside. In that case, you need to replace your water heater.  

Your water heater is something your household depends on, more than you may realize until it isn’t working.  Taking the maintenance steps can help keep it going for many years, and if you aren’t comfortable performing those steps, it is worth the expense of a water heater repair service call. For all of your water heater needs in Santa Clarita, CA, dial 661-201-6016 today!

How do you repair a faucet?

faucet repair and replacement

Repairing a Leaky Faucet

Not only is a dripping faucet annoying, “drip, drip, drip” in the middle of the night. What makes it worse, if you think about it, it is dripping all day too, and all that dripping is costing you money. So, do you how to do a faucet repair yourself? Or do you need to call a plumber to repair faucet in shower, or the repair faucet in tub? Most of the time, a leaky faucet repair or replace the faucet is not that difficult. However, if you aren’t familiar with tools around the house, it could be challenging. Knowing the steps on how faucet repair follow, then calling a professional may be the best solution for you. Dial 661-201-6016 to connect with On Call Plumbing about faucet repair in Santa Clarita, CA today.

Why is my faucet dripping?

Faucets are an essential part of every home and it is important to keep them in working condition. A leaking faucet disturbs sleep, increases the water bill, and can lead to a catastrophe if not addresses. 

The average cause for a leaky faucet is caused by corrosion from the mineral deposits on the internal parts like the O-rings, valves, or washers. A homeowner with a handful of the right tools and a general idea and knowledge can do most of the time about plumbing. 

  • THE O RING: The faucet handle is held in play by a stem screw that has an O-ring attached to it. A dripping faucet can often be from his area when that O-ring wears out over time because it doesn’t seal up when the handle is turned off. The faucet repair for this problem is simply to replace the O-ring will fix this. 
  • THE VALVE SEAT: A valve seat connects the faucet and spout at the compression mechanism. Here, water-sediment accumulates, causing it to corrode which doesn’t let it seal and the leaking begins. A regular cleaning of this can give it a longer lifespan and require less frequent faucet repair. 
  • THE WASHER: This is the most common cause of a dripping faucet. Each time you use the faucet, the washer and valve seat are forced together, creating a constant friction. That repeated friction causes the washer to wear out, and the faucet leaks. The faucet repair for this is simply replacing the worn-out washer. 
  • IMPROPER INSTALLATION: Often, when the faucet repair is replacing the washer, if it is installed improperly or the wrong washer size is used, the faucet will either not quit leaking or will start again soon. 
faucet repair

How do I stop a leaky faucet?

A dripping faucet is a common household plumbing problem and is also the easiest faucet repair and the most neglected, next doing a regular roof inspection for your premium roofing, which if neglected, bigger problems can happen. The water supply is under pressure when it enters your home. When the faucet is off, a watertight seal is required to keep the incoming water back.  A homeowner can do a faucet repair with the following steps:

  • Step One: Cut the water supply off and remove the faucet handle at the main body unscrewing the screw located on the backside of the handle of on top under a metal or plastic disc.
  • Step Two: Look at the faucet assembly and remove the packing nut, take care not to scuff the metal. Twist the stem out the same direction you turn the faucet on.
  • Step Three: Remove screw that is holding the washer and replace it with new washer.

What are the parts of a faucet?

If you need to do a faucet repair, it is helpful to know the parts of the faucet: 

  • Gasket or O-Ring: These make the joints watertight and come in metal or rubber. 
  • Flanges: Also called an escutcheon and are installed behind the faucet to cover the hole where the pipe comes up. 
  • Adaptors and Aerators: These parts are attached to the faucet and alter the water flow to be more environmentally friendly. 
  • Controls, Handles, and Levers: These turn the faucet on and off. 
  • Stems: This part is attached to the sink and water flows from the end. 
  • Washers: Washers attach the aerator and faucet stem. 

Can a handyman replace a faucet?

Yes, most handymen can do faucet repairs, not all plumbing repairs require a licensed plumber. An experienced handyman will know if a job is beyond his capacity and may refer your job to a licensed plumber. 

How do you fix a spray in bathroom faucet?

A bathroom faucet spout is equipped with aerators that direct the flow of water. Mineral deposits and sediment collect inside the aerator and weaken the water flow. This causes the faucet to spray water around the edges and onto the vanity. This is a simple faucet repair with the following steps: 

1.   Wrap the faucet aerator with a rag then unscrew it with pliers using moderate pressure.

2.   Scrub the aerator on all sides using an old toothbrush to remove loose debris and scaling.

3.   Put the aerator in a bowl of white vinegar and let it sit overnight.

4.      Replace the aerator, screwing by hand, careful not to over-tighten. 

working on faucet repair

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

The faucets in your home are crucial to your daily lifestyle, and it can also be a huge contributor to your water bill if you don’t do the needed faucet repair. If the job is more than you’re plumbing skills can do, it is worth the expense of a professional plumber. Connect with On Call Plumbing at 661-201-6016 about faucet repair for a Santa Clarita, CA property.

What Does Repipe Mean?

A repipe will involve complicates processes.

What Does Repipe Mean?

This is a great question because many customers want to know more about this intricate process. While many customers believe that a repipe involves replacing both drain and water lines, a plumber might suggest a repipe with regard to a pressurized leak. A repipe will usually include a repipe of all the water lines in a home to each plumbing fixture. It will also include new hose connections, new valves under sinks and toilets, new supply lines, and a new main shutoff to the home and water heater.

How Much Does it Cost to Repipe a House?

The cost of repiping will depend on the scope of the job and the material of the pipe. The cost to repipe a house with copper pipe varies between eight thousand dollars and sixteen thousand dollars. This averages out to approximately three to eight dollars per linear foot. For replacing galvanized drain, waste, and vent pipes with corresponding copper pipes, it can average out to around thirteen to fifteen dollars per linear foot.

What is Included in a Repipe?

Would you like to find out more about how a repipe occurs? Please review the following bullet-pointed list to find out more about this important process.

  • All water lines in the home that connect to a plumbing fixture will be replaced.
  • New hose connections will be installed.
  • All new valves will be installed under sinks and toilets.
  • New supply lines will be installed.
  • Your home or property will receive a new main shutoff to the home and to the water heater.
  • A new laundry box with valves and ice maker box will be included.

How Long Does it Take to Repipe a Whole House?

A whole-home repipe will generally take between two days to an entire week to finish. Of course, this estimate does not factor in if the job is extensive. Usually, a qualified, licensed and insured plumbing company will discuss the overall parameters of the job with the homeowners. A reputable plumbing company will also keep the homeowners informed of any plumbing estimate changes.

Does Insurance Cover Repiping?

Repiping services are a necessary part of home improvement. But are they covered by insurance? It’s a great question. And the answer is that it depends. Whether or not your homeowner’s insurance will have a provision for repiping depends upon your specific policy details, and if the plumbing issue has happened because of neglect or lack of maintenance. Generally speaking, homeowners insurance does not cover things that result from lack of maintenance. 

Can I Repipe My Own House

With a little courage and experience, anything is possible. That is, except for undertaking any plumbing problem without at least five years of training and experience as a certified licensed plumber. Only after three years of experience will a plumber begin to see a true increase in their ability to plumb. The true answer to whether or not you can repipe your own house is ‘no.’ Unless you are a certified, licensed and insured plumber with a decade of experience, it’s not a worthy undertaking. Your prospects are much better if you contact a master plumber. However, there are a number of different projects that you can undertake to improve the value of your home. One of these is new windows in Irvine, CA. New windows improve the energy efficiency of your home and increase your curb appeal.

How to Repipe a Mobile Home with Pex

There are a number of considerations to undertake if you are considering repiping a mobile home with PEX material. For instance, repiping a mobile home with PEX material generally costs between two to four thousand dollars depending on the size of the mobile home and the model. There are a number of different materials that are standard for mobile homes. These materials include CPVC, PEX, and PolyPipe. In metal varieties, copper, stainless steel and galvanized steel are popular. As previously mentioned, it is always best to leave plumbing installations to plumbers. Plumbers have the wherewithal, the insurance, and the certifications to back up any assertions they have. Additionally, the comfort and security of your home is best left in the hands of the professionals.

How to Repipe a Slab House

If your pipes have been laid out in a concrete slab, it will be important for you to figure out how best to reroute those lines. A professional, licensed plumber will show you the ins and out of this procedure. This is, after all, a very complex plumbing problem. The plumber will need to assess where the pipes are routed and diagram a plan of action.

A repipe can improve the function of your plumbing.

How to Repipe a Kitchen Sink

As previously mentioned, hiring a professional plumber is always advised before undergoing any plumbing project on your own. In terms of difficulty, repiping a kitchen sink is an intermediate level. The curved pipes, which are called P-traps, connect to the sink drain and waste lines by compression fittings. These can often be unscrewed without a tool. In order to understand the process better, please make sure to call your local licensed plumbing authority. He or she will be happy to delve into the process and advise you on your best course of action.

Our company can help you with your whole home repipe. Our staff at On Call Plumbing are ready to take your phone call at 661-201-6016. Discover more about what a great repipe in Santa Clarita, CA can do for your property!

What is Sewer Service?

Fixing Toilet to Reduce Sewer Service Charges

Finding and Dealing with Plumbing Problems

Whether it is spring or summer, fall or winter, as a homeowner, there are a few things you can be sure of. The weather will change, you’ll need new decorations, and you’ll get a utility bill in the mail every single month. Residential properties are billed for their utilities on a monthly basis and this includes electricity, water, sewer, and more. Often, your water bill is listed with a sewer charge, which just indicates the amount of water your home has used that month. If you are noticing that bill increasing, you may have a serious problem on your hands. To learn more about sewer service in Santa Clarita, CA, contact On Call Plumbing at 661-201-6016

Cut on Water Usage to Lower Sewer Service

Working on Service for Sewer and Water Lines

Leading to your home and even on your property, there are several lines of plumbing that bring and remove water and waste, respectively. If you are using city lines, you will be billed for that service, as many homeowners are very aware of. Many look at their utility bills and wonder, what is sewer service? A sewer service charge is the calculated total of water used by a single property, on a monthly basis. You can either look at your current bills to see what the most recent charges are. If you are unsure of what everything means, there is no harm in looking up online some of the answers. You may even be able to find things like ‘What is sewer service diagrams’ that can offer helpful depictions of how the water comes and goes from your property as well as how the charges are calculated. You can also contact a local plumber to learn more about sewer service in Santa Clarita, CA as well. Whichever is the easiest route for you to find answers.

Ways to Reduce Sewer Charges

The main question to answer is “How do you reduce sewer charges?” While it can feel impossible to get those costs down, there are in fact several things you can do that will provide significant impact. 

  • Bathroom: A great place to start with lowering sewer charges is in the bathroom. You can have a low-flow shower head, helping to reduce the amount of water used in the shower. We also suggest simply taking shorter showers, using less water in the bathtub, and more. 
  • Kitchen: Rather than running the sink the entire time while washing dishes, fill the sink up and only use that water. Run the dishwasher only when it is full and install an instant-water heater directly on the kitchen sink to reduce the amount of time needed to make it hot. 
  • Outdoor Watering: One of the best ways to save money on water outdoors is to have a plumber install a rain sensor. This will indicate to your automatic watering system not to water the lawn if it is raining. Believe it or not, this action alone can save you between $10 and $60 each bill. 
  • Leak Checks: Leaking toilets are the number one culprit for increased sewer and water bills. Check your toilet is okay by dropping in a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If you notice the coloring in the bowl after about 30-minutes, you have a leak. That needs to be fixed as soon as possible to start saving you money. 

One of the few exceptions might be if you need busted, rusted and broken pipe repair, you might not notice an immediate drop in your utility bills. They might still reflect the amount of water used before the repairs, depending on when they were scheduled and when the month starts for your property.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is my sewer service so high?
    • Generally, the reason your sewer service bills may be higher has to do with an increase of water consumption. This could be because of a leak or because more household members using water. 
  • How is sewer service charge calculated?
    • Basically, the charge is based on the amount of water actually used each month for a property. The city gets to that answer by multiplying the cubic feet of water used by the established sewer rate. 
  • How much should my water and sewer bill be? 
    • The total amount will depend on how often you and your household members are using water in the house. On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $70/month for water whereas households that use less water pay around $35/month.
  • What is submetered sewer service?
    • This is applicable to property owners that may have multiple properties on the same water and sewer line. Submetered sewer services would be calculated with a formula to determine how much each unit uses from the same source. 
  • Can sewer service be shut off?
    • If you miss a payment or do not pay your utilities all together, and you use city water, then the city can turn your water off. There is also usually a way to turn off water flow to your home temporarily if there is a leak or problem with the plumbing.
Sprinklers Can Waste Water and Increase Sewer Service Bills

Connect With Us Today for More Information

When you need more information about sewer service in Santa Clarita, CA, look no further than On Call Plumbing. We can help you make sense of everything as well as with any plumbing issues you may be having. Give us a call at 661-201-6016 to schedule an appointment or consultation today. 

What Is Emergency Plumbing?

Pipe Leak With Towel Over It Bin Under It

Know When To Get An Emergency Plumbing Service

Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time and anywhere and can often cause a disruption to the property where the issues reside. Essentially there are two lines of pipes that will enter and leave your property, main water will bring in water from treatment facilities while main plumbing lines will flush wastewater out of your property and into greater city sewage lines. Problems from the outside can occur to affect these pipes and your indoor plumbing productivity. What more, natural age and use can encourage build-up which can form clogs. When other appliances or factors stack on top of one another a plumbing emergency can occur. These factors can be hidden by the untrained eye until an emergency plumbing service is needed. In order to properly gauge the number of damages with a plumbing emergency, it’s best to have a plumbing inspection conducted by a certified plumber. When you’re in need of an emergency plumbing service contact your local plumbing company. As of such, here is some helpful information that may be convenient for you in the future.

How do I know if my plumbing is bad?

There are outward signs that can point to plumbing issues, some so severe that you may need an emergency plumbing service. Other issues may be the culmination of small signs such as lower water pressure than normal or slow draining sinks. There are some signs that can point to bad plumbing such as higher or lower than normal water bills which can point to leaks or clogs that are blocking water from entering the property. Other signs can be seeing discolored water which can point to pipe corrosion or build up in your water heater. With aged pipes or water heaters, you’ll typically see these signs emerge along with regular appearances of clogs or leaks in multiple locations of the property. The regularity of these issues will typically alert a plumber that piping materials or water units need replacements with newer and more improved materials.

What are the most common plumbing problems?

Common plumbing problems that may befall your property can range from your kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, pipes and more! The most common issues can be thought to be clogs and leaks. Clogs can be formed through the build up of soap scum or with things going down the drain that form a block in the water flow of the pipe. With kitchen sinks, you may see jammed garbage disposals from sticky items such as oils or coffee grounds sticking to the inner lining of the pipes. Other times you may have fruit pits or other items jamming the blades. Other plumbing issues can concern leaks, this can be due to pipe punctures, corrosion, cracks or loosened connections. Typically the location of a leak can point to different issues such as worn faucets, plumbers putty or other aged connections. Emergency plumbing and drain issues can be common from slow draining sinks to lower water pressure. These can signify build-ups, faulty water heaters, clogs or leaks within the pipe system. Shower or bath drains can also be susceptible to standing water when clogs are deep within the pipeline.

How do you unclog a drain naturally?

You can unclog a drain naturally with baking soda, vinegar, and hot water. First, you will pour boiling water down the drain, then you’ll add half a cup of baking soda. Let that rest for a few minutes and then pour a mixture of one cup of hot water and one cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with the plugin order to keep the reaction below the drain surface and let that sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Once the time has passes flush the drain one more time with a pot of boiling hot water. Basically, the initially hot water and baking soda will loosen the grime on the drain, then the chemical reaction with the vinegar will separate it from the drain. The final hot water step will rinse the remainder of contaminants down the drain.

Plumber Cleaning A Pipe Drain With A Spiral Auger

Emergency Plumbing Issues

  • Burst Pipe
  • Freeze/Thaw
  • Leaks
  • Clogs
  • Corrosion
  • Rust
  • Build-Up
  • Root Invasion
  • Breaks

How much is emergency plumbing?

Since an emergency plumbing service requires immediate assistance emergency plumbing cost will typically be more than a standard scheduled appointment. In general, they can charge a call fee of $50-$100 with hourly rates such as $50-$75 an hour more than their regular rate. 

Contact A Professional

When you find your property in the middle of a plumbing emergency be sure to contact an emergency plumbing service for your emergency plumbing repair. Your emergency plumbing issues will be handled with the utmost care with attention to detail and modern techniques. Emergency plumbing parts can be ordered and carried over depending on your emergency so you can get replacements where necessary in a speedy and concise manner. Just like your indoor air quality needs to be checked routinely, be sure to have a professional inspect your plumbing system annually to see if any areas need attention before issues arise.

If you’re in need of an emergency plumbing service in Santa Clarita, CA call 661-201-6016 with On Call Plumbing!

Do I Need a Water Filtration System?

Water Filtration System to Be Installed After Water Testing

What is the Best Water Filtration System?

Quality does not necessarily correspond to cost. Homeowners are encouraged to do research and homework in order to ensure that they are getting a good water filtration system that will fulfill their needs, both with regard to cost, and necessity. Before deciding upon a single water filter, it will be important for homeowners to discern the water quality of the local water supply. This will have a large impact on deciding how much filtration is necessary, and for what elements the filtration will be used for. The most efficient way to determine the exact levels of pollution in your water supply is to send it to a state-certified lab in your area. Once the results are determined, homeowners can then surmise whether or not a pitcher water filter, a countertop filter, or an under sink filter (or more) is worth the investment.

Water Filtration System for Home

For homeowners who are blessed, or alternatively, cursed, with an extremely sensitive olfactory sense, one of the finest gifts that can be given is a water filtration system for the home. If metal or chlorine can be discerned from a freshly poured glass of water, such an investment will make sense for the homeowner. Many whole house filters are built to filter out sediments with sizes up to 0.35 micron. Some are made to remove chlorine, iron, and heavy metals. Depending on the water needs of the household, some systems include a water softener, UV light purifier, and other special gadgets that make sure that the water is completely purified.

How Much Is A Whole House Water Filtration System?

The national average for a water treatment system, or water filtration system, is $1,773. The typical range for water filtration systems across the United States is $830 to $2,716. The low end of water filtration systems is $175, and the high end for a water filtration system is $4,500. The usual reason for such cost variances ends up being how large, or spacious the house is, and how extreme the water treatment needs to be. Both of these independent variables will drive up or down the overall price for the water treatment system.

Water Filtration System vs Water Softener

With regard to which system is better, water filtration systems or water softeners, the true question that needs to be asked is what is the desired outcome of the water quality? Underground water is the most common source of water for municipal systems. This water is recognized to have a high percentage of minerals compared to surface water. It is also important to understand that the higher mineral content of underground water makes this kind of water hard in most circumstances. Water softeners are directed to focus on eradicating minerals from water while water filtration operates by addressing the broader spectrum of water quality issues.

Are Home Water Filtration Systems Worth It?

The utmost thing that homeowners should know about purchasing a home water filtration system is that most of the problematic contaminants can be removed right before they reach the home pipeline. Another good fact to note is that if the filter is certified by the NSF, the National Sanitation Foundation, it’s an excellent sign that water purity will be the outcome. Installing a whole house filtration system is far more time-consuming and ambitious than installing a countertop filter. Due to the fact that replacing the filter for the whole home can be a burdensome process, make sure that the filter selected does not need to be replaced every couple of weeks or months. Every six months is a better setting for the whole house filter.

Water Filtration System Benefits

There are many different reasons why a water filtration system will produce benefits for the homeowners. Please consult the following list to determine which common elements are removed with filtered water.

  • Arsenic. Tap water can contain dangerous levels of arsenic, which is a powerful carcinogenic and has been linked to an increased risk of the development of several different kinds of cancer. Arsenic is poisonous and not safe for consumption.
  • Aluminum. Municipal water that has not been filtered can lead to an increasing amount of aluminum ingestion. Aluminum ingestion has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, hyperactivity, increased learning disabilities in children, and more. 
  • Disinfection Byproducts. DBPs are extremely harmful elements that are produced by disinfecting water with chlorine, which is also a powerful carcinogenic.
  • Fluoride. While fluoride is usually associated with improving oral health, it can actually cause a wide range of health problems such as a weaker immune system and cellular damage that quickens the aging process.

One of the excellent ways a homeowner can upgrade their home water system is through installing a tankless water heater. A tankless water heater can deliver water on demand for homeowners, making hot showers and washing dishes a breeze.

What Does A Water Filtration System Do?

Water filters utilize two main ways to remove dirt from water. The physical filtration of a water filter is known as straining the water to remove larger particles and impurities. Another method of filtering is chemical filtration, which involved passing water through an active material that removes impurities chemically as they pass through the filter. There are four types of water filters. The first is activated carbon, which is based on charcoal, which is a very porous form of carbon. Charcoal is like a cross between the graphite “lead” in a pencil, and a sponge. Another form of water filtration is reverse osmosis. Reverse osmosis is the process of forcing contaminated water through a membrane so that the water passes through but all the contaminants are left behind. The other two types of water filtration are ion exchange, which softens water by removing limescale,  and distillation, which involves boiling and kills off many different types of bacteria. 

What Water Filtration System Do I Need?

The type of water filter that a homeowner will need will ultimately depend upon the homeowner’s lifestyle, budget, and quality of water. If all of the household water will need to be filtered, then a whole house water filter will be necessary. This said, whole house water filters tend to be expensive, which will not necessarily be possible for all homeowners. If cost is an issue, then a faucet filter would be a good choice. Faucet-mounted filters can improve the water quality more economically, and still assist the homeowner with good drinking water. It is integral to acknowledge the clean air and water that must pervade a home. If you are experiencing poor air circulation in your home, air conditioning service can assist. Particularly in the heat of summer, a strong air conditioning unit can greatly assist with keeping temperatures down. 

Water Filtration System in Action for Water Poured into Glass of Water

Why Do I Need A Water Filtration System?

Just like air, water can contain dirt, minerals, chemicals, and other impurities that make water odorous and poor-tasting. Some of these tiny contaminants can endanger the health of the inhabitants of the home, particularly when they involve microscopic organisms and bacteria that can cause serious illnesses. While the United States is reputed to have strong water disinfection and filtration system, it is important to nonetheless be vigilant when it comes to one’s own water supply.

If you think you need a water filtration system in Santa Clarita, CA, call On Call Plumbing at 661-201-6016 to speak with our staff about making an appointment today!

Is It Worth Getting a Tankless Water Heater?

Tankless Water Heater With a Blue Background

Hunting for Savings

Homeowners spend quite a lot of time considering their energy efficiency these days. While some focus on conservative habits to save money, others look to appliance upgrades as their primary means of cutting utility costs. One common question that keeps coming up in our conversations is “Which is better: a hot water heater or tankless?”

Today, we’re going to delve into the pros and cons of tankless water heater appliances, how they work, and which models rank best among homeowners. By the end, you should have a clear picture of their capabilities, and know if they could be right for you. Let’s get started!

How a Tankless Water Heater Works

Rather than drawing from a storage unit, tankless water heaters operate by passing water from the cold line into a gas burner or electric heating element. The hot water then passes to your chosen appliance. The process works instantaneously, which is why these devices are often referred to as on-demand water heaters.

Because of their smaller size, these tankless heaters can be used for outside hot water appliances, such as a hot tub. You may also use them to supplement appliances inside the house that require higher volumes of hot water. Homeowners love the smaller size, because they’re so much easier to store.

Key Benefits

Tankless Water Heater Benefits

Traditional tank models offer a high volume of water, but it also consumes energy constantly to keep that stored water hot. Even if you only use hot water three times a day, your gas burner or electric heating element is active 24/7 to maintain the ideal temperature. Tankless models only heat water as you need it, so it conserves a great deal of energy every day.

As you’ve likely been told by appliance manufacturers and your air conditioning service, savings for high efficiency devices play out over time. You’ll definitely pay higher upfront costs, but you’ll realize savings every year. Those benefits will also last longer, given the average tankless water heaters extended lifetime.

Last but not least, there’s no tank (hence the “tankless”). No tank means significantly smaller storage space requirements for the water heater. In fact, it can be mounted on a wall, inside or outside your home. It does need to be installed within a certain distance of your appliances, which a professional plumber can determine for you.

Longevity

How Long Should a Tankless Water Heater Last?

According to the US Department of Energy, “Most tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of more than 20 years.” That lifespan can be further extended with timely part replacement, which can be completed easily with the help of your local plumber. Considering the average tank model only lasts 15 years (sometimes less), that’s quite an advantage for your investment.

Home Value

Does a Tankless Water Heater Increase Home Value

According to research conducted by Zillow across millions of home listings, homes with tankless water heaters sold better than their counterparts with regular tank storage. On average, homes equipped with on demand models sold an average of 43 days sooner than originally predicted. They also sold for 4% more. Be sure to check out their research for a deeper understanding of their findings.

Downsides

What is the Downside of a Tankless Water Heater?

Of course, there are downsides to every product. When it comes to tankless water heater appliances, people generally point to upfront cost and capacity as the major drawbacks. Because of their longer lifespan and energy efficiency, on-demand models may cost thousands more than their tank storage counterparts.

Since they have no tank to draw from, tankless models provide a lower production rate (two to five gallons per minute). This makes it difficult to support multiple high-demand hot water activities at once without purchasing a second unit.

Finally, electric models of tankless experience smaller efficiency advantages than their natural gas counterparts. You can expect a minimum of 93 percent efficiency regardless of whether you choose an electric tankless water heater or water heater with storage. You’ll still earn savings with the switch, just not as much.

Finding the Ideal Model

Let’s briefly review the benefits of a tankless water heater.

  • Lower storage requirements
  • Significant energy savings
  • Longer average lifespan
  • Simplified maintenance and part replacement
  • Potential government rebates

These benefits are great, but we’re still left with a couple key questions. Which tankless water heater is best? Is a gas or electric tankless water heater more efficient?

If you’re searching for highly rated brands, some of the most notable include Rheem, Eco Smart, and Atmor. Talk with your plumber about finding a brand that fits your specific requirements. As far as the gas vs electric debate, electric models are almost always the most efficient.

However, homeowners switching from a tank gas water heater to a tankless experience a much larger improvement in energy costs. They have a much higher flow rate.

A Tankless Water Heater on a Blue Wall

Learn More About Tankless Heaters!

Want more details about Santa Clarita, CA tankless water heater appliances? Our team at On Call Plumbing would love to answer all your questions and help you find your ideal heater type and model. We also provide professional water heater repair for whatever model your home relies on. Call us today at 661-201-6016!