Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing
Dallas-Fort Worth homeowners frequently ask us these important questions about residential plumbing. Our expert plumbers help you understand your home's plumbing system and make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance.
FAQ
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Plumbing costs vary based on the service needed. Repairs range from simple to major, but in either situation we provide transparent, upfront pricing before beginning any work so you know exactly what to expect. We carriry most inventory for same-day repairs.
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Common signs of slab leaks include unexplained increases in your water bill, the sound of running water when all fixtures are off, warm spots on floors, cracks in walls or floors, low water pressure, moisture under carpets or flooring, and mildew or excessive moisture. These are all signs to call for plumbing service immediately.
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Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years with proper maintenance. Tankless water heaters can last 15+ years. Factors affecting lifespan include water quality, maintenance frequency, usage patterns, and installation quality. If your water heater is approaching 10 years old and experiencing problems, replacement could be more cost-effective than repairs, and this is something we will discuss with your prior to beginning work.
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Sudden increases in water bills usually indicate leaks. Common culprits include running toilets (which can waste hundreds of gallons daily), dripping faucets, leaking water heaters, slab leaks, and leaking irrigation systems. Check your water meter when no water is being used—if it's still moving, you have a leak. We provide professional leak detection to find hidden leaks quickly.
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We don't recommend chemical drain cleaners. They can damage pipes, especially older pipes and PVC, harm septic systems, create dangerous fumes, and provide only temporary relief. Chemical cleaners also make professional drain cleaning more dangerous for plumbers. Professional mechanical drain cleaning (snaking or hydro jetting) is safer and more effective for clearing clogs.
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Low water pressure can result from multiple issues including partially closed shut-off valves, clogged aerators on faucets, sediment buildup in pipes, corroded pipes restricting flow, leaks in your plumbing system, pressure regulator problems, or municipal supply issues. We diagnose the specific cause and provide appropriate solutions to restore proper water pressure throughout your home.
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Recurring clogs indicate underlying problems. Kitchen drains often clog from grease and food buildup. Bathroom drains clog from hair, soap scum, and personal care products. Main line clogs can result from tree root intrusion, pipe deterioration, or improper slope. We use video camera inspection to identify the cause of recurring clogs and recommend permanent solutions.
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Consider replacement if your water heater is over 10 years old, requires frequent repairs, has rust-colored water, makes loud rumbling noises, has visible corrosion, or is leaking from the tank. If repair costs approach 50% of replacement cost, replacement usually makes more sense. We provide honest assessments to help you make the best decision for your situation.
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Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water (up to 4000 PSI) to clean pipes thoroughly. It's more effective than traditional snaking for removing grease, scale, tree roots, and heavy buildup. Hydro jetting scours pipe walls clean, providing longer-lasting results than cable snaking. It's especially useful for main sewer lines and commercial applications.
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Most Dallas-Fort Worth homes benefit from professional drain cleaning every 2 years as preventive maintenance. Homes with large families, mature trees near sewer lines, or recurring drain problems may need more frequent service. Regular maintenance prevents emergency clogs and extends the life of your plumbing system.
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Tank water heaters store and continuously heat 30-80 (or more depending on size of tank) gallons of water, providing reliable hot water at lower initial cost. Tankless water heaters heat water on-demand, providing unlimited hot water, 20-30% energy savings, longer lifespan (15+ years), and space-saving compact design. Tankless units typically cost more up front, but save money over time through energy efficiency.
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Running toilets typically have faulty flappers that don't seal properly, allowing water to continuously flow from tank to bowl. Other causes include problems with the fill valve, float adjustment issues, or chain length problems. A running toilet can waste 200+ gallons daily and significantly increase your water bill. Most running toilet repairs are simple and inexpensive.
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During Dallas-Fort Worth cold snaps, protect pipes by insulating exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls, opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation, letting faucets drip slightly during extreme cold, disconnecting and draining garden hoses, and keeping your thermostat consistent (don't lower it significantly at night). If pipes freeze, call us immediately—don't attempt to thaw them with open flames.
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First, determine where the leak is coming from. Leaks from the temperature/pressure relief valve or drain valve may be repairable. Leaks from the tank itself indicate corrosion and require replacement. Turn off the power (electric) or gas supply (gas models), shut off the water supply to the water heater, and call us for professional assessment and repair.
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Every Dallas-Fort Worth homeowner should know their main water shut-off location. It's typically where the water line enters your home, often in the garage or near the water heater. The main shut-off may also be at the street near your water meter. Turn the valve clockwise to close it. In water related emergencies, shutting off the main water supply prevents extensive water damage.
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Brown or rusty water from cold taps usually indicates main water supply issues or corroded water lines. Brown or rusty water from only hot taps suggests water heater problems like corroded rods or tank corrosion. Cloudy or milky water is typically harmless air in pipes. If discoloration persists, we can test your water and identify the source.
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Sewage backups result from clogs in your main sewer line, often caused by tree root intrusion, grease buildup, flushing inappropriate items, collapsed or deteriorated pipes, or municipal sewer problems. Backups are serious issues requiring immediate professional attention. We use camera inspection to diagnose the cause and provide appropriate solutions including cleaning, repair, or replacement.
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Replace your toilet if it has cracks in the porcelain tank or bowl, requires frequent repairs, rocks or is unstable despite tightening, is over 15 years old and inefficient, or has persistent leaking from the base. Modern toilets use less water (1.6 gallons or less per flush) compared to older models (3.5-7 gallons), reducing water bills significantly.
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Tankless water heaters require annual descaling to remove mineral buildup, especially important in Dallas-Fort Worth's hard water areas. Maintenance also includes cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting burners and heat exchangers, checking venting systems, and testing electrical connections. Regular maintenance prevents failures and maintains efficiency. We offer tankless water heater maintenance services.
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Home warranties can provide value, but review coverage carefully. Many warranties have service fees, coverage limitations, and restrictions on pre-existing conditions. Some exclude certain repairs or limit contractor choice. Our 1-year warranty on all work and 5-year warranty on slab leak repairs often provides better protection than standard home warranties. Consider your home's age, plumbing system condition, and the warranty's actual coverage before purchasing.
Still Have Questions?
If you don't see your question answered here, contact us directly. Our experienced plumbers are happy to answer your plumbing questions and provide expert advice for your Dallas-Fort Worth home.
Whether you need emergency repairs, routine maintenance, or expert advice, we're here to help. Contact us to schedule service throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex including Keller, Southlake, Grapevine, Fort Worth, and Roanoke.
All our work is backed by comprehensive warranties: 1-year parts and labor warranty on all services, and 5-year parts and labor warranty on slab leak detection and tunnel repairs.