Frequently Asked Questions
Browse or search standard plumbing questions to troubleshoot issues and understand service practices.
Q: Can I clear a tree root intrusion in my sewer line with chemicals?
A: Chemical treatments are only temporary deterrents and will not remove thick, structural tree roots. Furthermore, tree roots can crack or collapse the sewer pipe, allowing soil to block the flow. You should call a professional plumber to perform hydro jetting or run a mechanical auger, and inspect the pipe's integrity using a sewer camera.
Q: How often should I have my main sewer line cleared?
A: Main sewer line cleanouts typically need to be performed every 1 to 2 years if you experience recurring tree root intrusion or have older clay pipes. For homes without major root problems, cleanouts are only necessary when clogs occur.
Q: Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners to clear clogs?
A: No, using harsh chemical drain cleaners is not recommended. These chemicals can corrode plumbing pipes (especially older galvanized iron or copper pipes), generate heat that can warp PVC lines, and are hazardous to skin and eyes. Using a plunger or a drain snake is much safer and more effective.
Q: What is hydro jetting and when is it used?
A: Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water streams to blast away grease, scale, tree roots, and sediment from the interior of sewer pipes. It is used for heavy-duty commercial clogs or clearing recurring main line obstructions.
Q: Why does my sink drain slowly even after plunging?
A: A slow drain after plunging usually indicates a deep clog downstream in the trap or drain pipe (such as grease, hair, or soap scum buildup). You may need to remove the P-trap manually to clear it, or use a plumbing snake.
Q: Why does my toilet bubble when I run the washing machine?
A: This indicates a severe blockage in your main sewer line or main drain vent. When waste water cannot exit the home, air is forced backward through other fixtures like toilets. This is a critical issue that will soon result in raw sewage backups. Call a professional plumber immediately to clear the main sewer line.
Q: How do I deal with an overflowing toilet?
A: Reach behind the toilet tank and turn the water supply valve (stop valve) clockwise to shut off water to the toilet. If the valve is stuck or missing, lift the tank lid, push down on the flapper valve to seal the flush opening, and prop up the float cup or arm to stop water from filling the tank.
Q: How do I shut off the main water supply in a plumbing emergency?
A: Locate your main water shutoff valve (usually found near the street boundary in a meter box, or where the main water line enters the home, often near the water heater or garage). Turn the valve clockwise to stop the water flow. Turning off the water heater breaker is also recommended if the main supply is shut off.
Q: What should I do if a pipe bursts in my house?
A: First, immediately turn off the main water shut-off valve to stop the flooding. Next, open your faucets to drain the remaining water from the pipes. Turn off electricity if the water is near electrical outlets or appliances, then call a licensed emergency plumber.
Q: What should I do if I smell gas in my home?
A: Leave the house immediately and move to a safe distance. Do not use any electrical switches, light matches, or make phone calls from inside the property. Call 911 or your local gas utility provider from outside, then contact a licensed gas plumber to detect and repair the leak.
Q: What should I do if my main sewer drain is backing up into my bathtub?
A: If sewage is backing up into low-lying fixtures, your main sewer line is completely blocked. Do not run any water or flush any toilets, as this will worsen the flooding. Turn off your main water line to prevent accidental usage, and call an emergency plumber immediately to clear the line and prevent hazardous waste contamination.
Q: How do I clean mineral deposits from my showerhead?
A: Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, submerge the showerhead in it, and tie the bag in place with a rubber band. Let it soak for a few hours, remove the bag, and scrub away loosened mineral deposits with an old toothbrush.
Q: How do I prevent my outdoor pipes from freezing in winter?
A: Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, shut off the indoor control valves for outdoor faucets, blow out irrigation lines, and cover outdoor hose bibbs with insulated foam covers. During extreme cold, let indoor faucets drip slightly.
Q: How often should I inspect my sump pump?
A: Sump pumps should be tested at least once a year, preferably in early spring before heavy rains. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to verify the float switch triggers the pump and drains the water successfully.
Q: What items should I avoid putting down my garbage disposal?
A: Avoid fibrous materials (celery, onion skins, corn husks), grease or cooking oils, starchy foods (pasta, rice, potato peels), coffee grounds, eggshells, and hard items like bones or pits. These can jam the blades or clog the drain lines.
Q: Why is my sump pump running continuously during a dry spell?
A: A sump pump that runs without rain can indicate a stuck float switch, a broken check valve causing discharged water to flow back into the pit, or a shifting underground water table. Since continuous operation will quickly burn out the motor and leave you unprotected, call a plumber to inspect the pump and install a new check valve.
Q: How do I find out if my toilet has a silent leak?
A: Place a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank and wait 20-30 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, water is leaking past the flapper valve, requiring a replacement.
Q: How do I repair a leaking underground water service line?
A: Underground water lines require utility locating, excavation, and specialized high-pressure fittings. Furthermore, permits and municipal inspections are typically required to verify code compliance. You should shut off the main meter valve and call a licensed plumber to excavate and repair the line professionally.
Q: What are the signs of a hidden water leak?
A: Signs include an unexplained drop in water pressure, an unexpected spike in your water bill, damp spots on walls or ceilings, musty odors, mold growth, or the sound of running water when all faucets are shut off.
Q: What causes a green or blue stain around my copper pipes and faucets?
A: Green or blue staining indicates your water has high acidity or corrosion is eating away at the copper pipes from the inside out. Over time, this leads to pinhole leaks throughout your entire home. You should call a professional plumber to inspect the piping, perform water quality tests, and recommend water treatment or repiping.