Plumbing FAQ

How do I unclog my toilet?

The most common way to unclog your toilet is using a plunger. But if you don’t have one available, there are other methods. You can use a drain snake to clear the clog. You can also fill your toilet with laundry detergent or dish soap, add a pot of boiling water and then wait a few minutes before flushing. The hot water should break through the clog as the soap washes everything through the siphon and out of the drain. For serious or recurring clogs, however, we recommend that you call in a professional.

What are the most common causes of pipe corrosion?

Many factors can cause pipe corrosion. A few reasons include: 

• The pH of the water 
• The water pressure and the speed at which the water moves through the pipes
• Chemicals in the water
• The amount of oxygen in the water
• The temperature of the water

Can leaks get bigger over time?

They sure can! That’s why it’s important to get your leaks repaired the moment you notice them. Leaks left untreated will not only grow, but they can cause significant water damage.

Why is my faucet leaking?

Because of valve seat friction, the rubber washers in your faucet will wear out, leading to leaks. Simply replace the washers to fix your leak.

Why is my shower pressure low?

If you notice low water pressure in your shower, it might mean that you either have a leak or there’s insufficient water access to the shower. Our Boston plumbers can take a look so you can go back to enjoying your showers. Because we offer complete plumbing services, we can address whatever the cause of your low-pressure shower may be.

Do I need a sump pump?

If you have a basement that frequently floods or your home is built so water flows toward it, you should definitely have a sump pump. By collecting and removing water from collecting at the foundation of your home, a sump pump can help prevent serious water damage during heavy rains or in places where the water table is high.

How can I prevent frozen pipes?

You can prevent frozen pipes by insulating your pipes or by allowing sink faucets to slightly run throughout the winter.

How Do I remove tree roots in my drain pipe?

The most common way to remove tree roots from drain pipes is to dig a trench and remove the offending root. However, if you want to avoid the mess, you can try non-invasive methods such as root-removal chemicals or hydro jetting. We offer trenchless sewer repair services and complete drain and sewer cleaning to handle roots and other debris or blockages.

Can I use a tankless water heater if I have hard water?

You certainly can! Tankless water heaters are less susceptible to hard water damage compared to other water heaters. However, if you do have hard water, we recommend water softening treatments to preserve your tankless water heater and all parts of your plumbing system.

Why does my hot water smell like rotten eggs?

Does your hot water stink? This can be caused by a combination of sulfur, hydrogen, and bacteria in the water. Bacteria and sulfur are naturally found in the water when you use your appliance and won’t make you sick. When the magnesium anode rod in your water heater tank reacts with the sulfur and bacteria in the water, it creates enough hydrogen to create an odor. You can prevent or treat this in many different ways, including purifying the water in your water heater to replacing the magnesium anode rod.

If you have more questions or want to schedule an appointment with one of our Boston plumbers, call 617-221-5899 or contact us online!