Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions | Fullerton Plumbing Pros
Welcome to the Fullerton Plumbing Pros Frequently Asked Questions page. We understand that plumbing issues can be confusing and stressful. Whether you are dealing with a sudden emergency or planning a major renovation, you likely have questions about how the process works and what to expect. We have compiled this comprehensive guide to answer the most common inquiries we receive from residents and business owners in Fullerton.
Our goal is to provide you with clear, helpful information so you can make informed decisions about your home’s plumbing system. We cover everything from emergency response protocols and drain cleaning techniques to water heater maintenance and gas line safety. If you do not see your specific question listed here, please contact us directly. We are always ready to assist you.
General and Emergency Plumbing FAQs
What constitutes a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is generally defined as any situation that causes immediate property damage, poses a health risk, or leaves you without essential services. Common examples include a burst pipe that is flooding your home, a sewer line backup that is forcing waste into your bathtubs, a gas leak, or a complete lack of water service. If you are experiencing any of these issues, you need an emergency plumber immediately. We offer 24 hour plumber services to address these critical situations.
Do you offer services on weekends and holidays?
Yes. Plumbing systems do not follow a standard business calendar, and neither do we. We are available as a weekend plumber and an after hours plumber. We understand that a water heater failure or a clogged toilet on a Saturday night requires immediate attention. You can count on us for 24 7 plumbing help throughout the year.
What areas do you serve?
We are locally focused on Fullerton, California. We serve all neighborhoods within the city limits and extend our services to the immediate surrounding communities. Being a local plumber allows us to respond quickly to calls and maintain a deep understanding of the local infrastructure and water conditions.
What should I do while I wait for the plumber to arrive during an emergency?
If water is actively leaking, your primary goal is to stop the flow. Locate the main water shut off valve for your home. This is often found on an exterior wall or near the street. Turning this off will stop water flow to the entire house. If the issue is a specific fixture, like a toilet or sink, you can turn off the isolation valve located directly behind or under the fixture. If you suspect a gas leak, go outside and call 911 immediately.
Do you provide commercial plumbing services?
Yes. We are an experienced commercial plumber serving businesses, restaurants, office buildings, and property management companies in Fullerton. We handle commercial drain cleaning, grease trap issues, urinal repair, and large scale water heater maintenance.
Drain Cleaning and Sewer Line FAQs
Why is my drain draining slowly?
Slow drains are usually caused by a partial blockage that restricts water flow. In the kitchen, this is often due to grease, food scraps, and soap scum building up on the inner walls of the pipe. In the bathroom, hair and hygiene products are the usual culprits. If left untreated, a slow drain will eventually become a complete clog. We recommend scheduling drain cleaning as soon as you notice the water draining slower than usual.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to clear a clog?
We strongly advise against using liquid chemical drain cleaners. These products generate heat and chemical reactions to burn through clogs. This harsh process can damage your pipes, leading to corrosion and leaks, especially in older homes with metal plumbing. Furthermore, they often fail to remove the entire blockage, offering only a temporary fix. Professional drain cleaning uses mechanical methods to safely and effectively remove the obstruction.
What is hydro jetting and when is it necessary?
Hydro jetting is an advanced drain cleaning method that uses high pressure water to scour the interior of your pipes. Unlike a traditional snake, which punches a hole through a clog, hydro jetting cleans the entire diameter of the pipe. It is necessary for removing stubborn grease buildup, scale, and soft tree root intrusions. It is the most effective way to restore your pipes to a like new condition.
How do I know if I have a main sewer line blockage?
A main sewer line blockage affects all the plumbing in your home. Common signs include multiple fixtures backing up at the same time (e.g., the toilet and the shower), gurgling sounds coming from drains when you use other fixtures, or sewage backing up into the bathtub when you flush the toilet. This is a serious issue that requires immediate professional attention from a sewer drain cleaning expert.
Why do tree roots get into my sewer pipes?
Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture and nutrients found in sewer lines. If you have older clay or cast iron pipes, small cracks or loose joints can allow microscopic root tendrils to enter. Once inside, they grow rapidly, feeding on the wastewater. This can cause massive blockages and even break the pipe. We use video camera inspections to identify root intrusion and determine the best repair method.
How often should I have my drains cleaned?
For most households, an annual plumbing inspection and drain cleaning is sufficient to prevent major backups. However, if you have a large family, older plumbing, or large trees near your sewer line, you may benefit from more frequent maintenance. Regular cleaning helps prevent the emergency of a sudden backup.
Water Heater Repair and Installation FAQs
My water heater is making a popping noise. Is it dangerous?
A popping or rumbling noise from your water heater is usually caused by sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank. Fullerton has hard water, which contains minerals that settle out when heated. This sediment layer traps water underneath it. When the burner turns on, that trapped water boils and bursts through the sediment, creating the noise. While not immediately dangerous, it reduces efficiency and can overheat the tank, leading to leaks. We recommend a tank flush to resolve this.
How long does a standard water heater last?
A traditional tank water heater typically lasts between 8 and 12 years. Factors like water quality, maintenance frequency, and usage volume affect lifespan. If your unit is over 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, we often suggest a water heater replacement rather than pouring money into an aging system.
What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters heat water on demand rather than storing it in a large tank. The primary benefits include:
- Endless Hot Water: You never run out, no matter how many showers you take.
- Energy Efficiency: You do not pay to keep a tank of water hot when you are not using it.
- Space Savings: The unit mounts on a wall, freeing up floor space.
- Longevity: Tankless units can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
Why do I have rust colored water coming from my hot tap?
Rusty hot water usually indicates that the inside of your water heater tank is corroding. This often happens when the anode rod—a sacrificial metal rod inside the tank designed to attract corrosion—has been fully depleted. If the rust is only in the hot water, your heater likely needs attention. If the tank itself is rusting, replacement is usually necessary to prevent a burst.
What should I do if my water heater is leaking?
If you see water on floor near water heater, first turn off the gas or electricity to the unit. Then, turn off the cold water supply valve located above the heater. This stops the tank from refilling. Contact us immediately.
Pipe Repair, Repiping, and Leak Detection FAQs
How can I tell if I have a hidden leak?
Hidden leaks are tricky because you cannot see the pipe. Look for these signs:
- Unexplained Water Bill Increase: A spike in usage without a change in habits.
- Sound of Running Water: Hearing water flow when all faucets are off.
- Warm Spots on the Floor: This can indicate a hot water slab leak.
- Mold or Mildew: Unexplained growth on walls or baseboards.
- Low Water Pressure: A drop in pressure can signify a break in the line.
If you notice any of these, contact us for leak detection services.
What is a slab leak?
A slab leak is a leak that occurs in the water lines running underneath or inside the concrete foundation (slab) of your home. These are common in Fullerton due to soil shifting and chemical reactions between the copper pipes and the concrete. Slab leaks require specialized equipment to locate and can be repaired by opening the slab or rerouting the pipe.
My house has old galvanized pipes. Should I replace them?
Yes. Galvanized steel pipes were commonly used in older homes but have a limited lifespan. Over time, they rust from the inside out. This internal rust restricts water flow, causes low water pressure, and can lead to lead or rust contamination in your water. We offer whole home repiping services to replace these failing pipes with modern copper or PEX lines.
What is the difference between Copper and PEX piping?
Copper: A rigid metal pipe that has been the standard for decades. It is durable, recyclable, and naturally bacteria resistant. It is generally used for main lines and outdoor plumbing.
PEX (Cross linked Polyethylene): A flexible plastic tubing that is easier and faster to install than copper. It resists scale buildup and does not corrode. It is an excellent choice for repiping because it can be snaked through walls with minimal drywall removal.
We can help you decide which material is best for your specific home and needs.
What causes low water pressure?
Low water pressure can be caused by several factors. It might be a municipal supply issue, a partially closed main valve, or a failed pressure regulator. In older homes, it is often caused by debris and corrosion clogging the inside of galvanized pipes. A plumbing inspection can determine the exact cause and the best solution.
Plumbing Fixture FAQs
Why is my faucet dripping?
A dripping faucet is usually caused by a worn out washer, O-ring, or cartridge inside the faucet handle. Over time, friction and water pressure wear these components down, allowing water to seep through even when the handle is off. While it seems minor, a drip can waste thousands of gallons of water a year. We provide faucet repair to fix this annoyance.
My toilet runs constantly. What is wrong?
A running toilet is often caused by a faulty flapper valve. The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank that lifts when you flush. If it is warped or dirty, water leaks from the tank into the bowl, causing the fill valve to run continuously to refill the tank. It could also be a maladjusted float. We can repair or replace the internal mechanisms to stop the waste.
Can I upgrade to a water saving toilet?
Absolutely. Modern High Efficiency Toilets (HET) use significantly less water per flush than older models, without sacrificing performance. We offer toilet installation for these water saving units, which can help lower your utility usage and conserve our local water resources.
What is hard water and how does it affect my fixtures?
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. In Fullerton, hard water is very common. As water evaporates, it leaves these minerals behind as a white, crusty deposit known as scale. This scale builds up on showerheads and faucets, clogging the nozzles and ruining the finish. Installing a water softener can eliminate these issues.
I hear a banging noise when I turn off my faucet. What is that?
This phenomenon is called “water hammer.” It occurs when fast moving water is suddenly stopped by a closing valve, sending a shockwave through the pipes. This can damage joints and lead to leaks. We can install water hammer arrestors to absorb the shock and silence your pipes.
Garbage Disposal FAQs
Why is my garbage disposal humming but not grinding?
A humming sound usually indicates that the motor is receiving power, but the flywheel is jammed. This is often caused by a hard object like a bone or fruit pit getting stuck between the blades and the shredder ring. Turn off the unit immediately to prevent the motor from burning out. We offer jammed garbage disposal repair to safely remove the obstruction.
What should I not put down my garbage disposal?
To prevent jams and clogs, avoid putting the following items down the disposal:
- Grease, oil, or fat (these solidify in pipes).
- Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and onion skins.
- Starchy foods like pasta, rice, and potato peels.
- Coffee grounds and eggshells.
- Non food items like glass, plastic, or metal.
My dishwasher is not draining. Could it be the disposal?
Yes. The dishwasher usually drains into the garbage disposal. If the disposal is clogged or if the knockout plug was not removed during installation, the dishwasher water cannot drain. We can check the connection and clear any blockages to resolve dishwasher draining issues.
How do I clean my garbage disposal?
To keep your disposal smelling fresh, grind up ice cubes and lemon peels. The ice helps knock debris off the blades, and the lemon provides a fresh scent. Always run cold water when using the disposal to keep any fats in solid form so they can pass through the system.
Gas Line and Safety FAQs
What are the signs of a gas leak?
Natural gas is odorless, but a chemical called mercaptan is added to give it a distinctive “rotten egg” or sulfur smell. Signs of a leak include:
- Smelling sulfur or rotten eggs.
- Hearing a hissing or whistling sound near a gas line or appliance.
- Seeing dead or dying vegetation directly over a buried gas line.
- Seeing bubbles in standing water over a gas line.
CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: GAS LEAKS
If you suspect a gas leak, you must prioritize safety above all else. Go outside and call 911 immediately. Do not use your cell phone inside the house. Do not turn any light switches on or off, as a spark could ignite the gas. Do not attempt to locate the leak yourself. Once the emergency responders have deemed the area safe, you can contact us for gas leak repair.
Can you install a gas line for my new BBQ grill?
Yes. We provide gas line installation for outdoor living spaces. We can run a dedicated gas line to your patio for built in grills, fire pits, or pool heaters. This eliminates the need for propane tanks and ensures a continuous fuel supply.
Do you install earthquake shut off valves?
Yes. An automatic seismic shut off valve detects strong earthquake activity and automatically cuts off the gas supply to your home. This prevents gas leaks and potential fires in the aftermath of an earthquake. We highly recommend these for all homes in Fullerton.
Service Process FAQs
Do you offer preventative maintenance?
Yes. We believe that prevention is the best medicine. We offer home plumbing inspection services and routine maintenance for drains and water heaters. Regular maintenance helps identify small issues before they turn into expensive emergencies.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by contacting us directly. We offer flexible scheduling options to fit your busy life. Whether you need a routine repair or emergency service, our team is ready to assist you.
Do you help with kitchen and bathroom remodeling?
Yes. We handle the plumbing aspects of renovations. This includes moving water and drain lines, installing new fixtures, and ensuring everything is up to code. We work alongside homeowners and contractors to bring your design vision to life.
Why should I choose a local plumber over a national chain?
Choosing a local plumber like Fullerton Plumbing Pros ensures that you receive personalized service from neighbors who care about the community. We are familiar with the specific plumbing challenges of the area. We are dedicated to building a reputation for reliability and quality right here in Fullerton.
Troubleshooting Tips FAQs
What can I do about low water pressure in just one faucet?
If the low pressure is isolated to a single fixture, the problem is likely in the aerator or the cartridge of that specific faucet. Unscrew the aerator at the tip of the spout and clean out any sediment. If that does not work, the faucet may need a new cartridge or supply line check.
My toilet clogged and the plunger isn’t working. What now?
If a plunger fails, you may have a blockage deeper in the trapway or the drain line. Do not use chemical drain cleaners. You can try using a closet auger (a specialized snake for toilets) if you are comfortable doing so. If that fails, or if you are unsure, contact us for professional toilet clog repair to avoid scratching the porcelain or damaging the wax seal.
Why does my shower turn cold when someone flushes the toilet?
This is often caused by a pressure imbalance in older plumbing systems. When the toilet fills, it draws cold water, reducing the pressure of the cold water going to the shower. This leaves you with mostly hot water, which can be scalding. Installing a pressure balance shower valve can prevent this sudden temperature change.
Is it safe to use “flushable” wipes?
Despite the name, we strongly advise against flushing wipes. They do not disintegrate like toilet paper. They can snag on rough spots in your pipes or get caught in tree roots, leading to massive clogs in your sewer line. The only things you should flush are human waste and toilet paper.
How do I locate my main water shut off valve?
The main shut off valve is typically located on the perimeter of the house, often on the side facing the street. It usually looks like a wheel handle or a lever. In some cases, it may be in a box buried in the ground near the curb. We can help you locate and label this valve during a routine inspection so you are prepared for an emergency.
Areas We Serve
Fullerton Zip Codes: 92831, 92832, 92833, 92834, 92835, 92836, 92837, 92838.
Surrounding Service Areas:
- Anaheim (92801, 92802, 92804, 92805, 92806, 92807, 92808)
- Brea (92821, 92823)
- Placentia (92870, 92871)
- La Habra (90631, 90632, 90633)
- Buena Park (90620, 90621, 90622, 90623, 90624)
- Yorba Linda (92885, 92886, 92887)