Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions

Here at Plumbline Plumbing, we do everything in our power to make sure you have everything you need to keep your plumbing system in the best shape possible at all times, and sometimes that just means answering questions. While we do get questions covering a broad range of different plumbing topics, there are some that local homeowners tend to ask more often than others. In an effort to help our customers better receive the answers they need to their questions, our team of professional Paradise, Magalia, & Chico plumbers have taken the time to compile this short list of some of our most frequently asked questions all in one place for your convenience.

Q. Why Do My Drains Get Clogged?

A. Most times when a drain clogs, it is because something was put down there that had no business being there, especially in the case of kitchen sinks and toilets. However, for many drains, including the ones in your bathroom, clogs tend to form as a result of oils and other residues from soaps, shampoos, and the like that build up over time. The best way to avoid clogs is to be conscious of what you are putting down your drains and make sure they are treated fairly regularly with drain cleaners like those from Biosmart.

Q. How Can I Prevent Leaking Pipes?

A. One of the best ways to prevent leaking pipes is just by taking the time every now and then to have them inspected and be on the lookout for any signs of rust or lime deposits, as these can indicate weak points in your piping. Taking this little bit of time of look for these early warning signs, or to have a professional do so and correct them can save you big time compared to what it would cost if those pipes were to spring a serious leak down the line.

Q. Should I Hire A Plumber To Clear My Clogged Drain?

A. Absolutely. While smaller clogs are fairly easy to take care of on your own with standard cleaners, you are generally only solving the issue temporarily, and not taking care of the underlying problem that caused the clog to begin with. With a professional plumber on the job, however, you can rest assured that we will get to the root of the issue causing your clog, not only clearing it away entirely, but also working to clear away the build up in your pipes that likely contributed to the clog forming in the first place.

Q. My Water Pressure Is Lower Than Normal. Why Is That Happening?

A. When you experience a sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home, it might be a sign that your pipes have sprung a leak somewhere, and if that is the case, you are going to want to have a professional plumber come out and find the source of the drop. A leaking water pipe can do massive damage to your home over time, but with a professional plumber on the job, you can rest assured that the issues will be caught and corrected before it has a chance to do serious damage throughout your home.

Q. What's The Difference Between A Standard Water Heater & A Tankless Water Heater?

A. Typically, standard water heaters are the most popular option among homeowners across the country, but this is partly because tankless water heaters are a fairly new thing. Standard water heaters consist of a large storage tank, ranging anywhere between 20 to 80 gallons, and are typically fueled by electricity, natural gas, propane, or oil. Conventional systems typically store water in this tank and heat it to ensure it is ready when needed. The downfall is that even if you aren't using the hot water, the unit is still using energy to heat it. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, don't actually use a storage tank. Utilizing a gas burner or an electric heating element, they produce a steady stream of hot water only when there is a demand for it throughout your home. While these systems are generally a bit more expensive to install than a traditional water heater, they tend to use less energy overall, saving you money in the long run.