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FAQ

  • Bathroom Plumbing

    • Why should I choose professional bathroom plumbing services instead of DIY?
      Professional bathroom plumbing services ensure that the work is done accurately and safely. Certified plumbers have the expertise, tools, and experience to handle complex issues, preventing further damage or costly mistakes. Unlike DIY solutions, professionals provide long-term, reliable results while complying with plumbing codes.
    • What are the common signs that I need bathroom plumbing services?
      Common signs include slow-draining sinks, leaky faucets, low water pressure, persistent odors, or water stains on walls and ceilings. If you notice these issues, it’s best to contact professional bathroom plumbing services promptly to prevent further damage.
    • How can bathroom plumbing services increase my home's value?
      Well-maintained plumbing systems enhance the functionality and appeal of your home. Upgraded fixtures, leak-free pipes, and optimal water pressure are attractive features for potential buyers, making professional bathroom plumbing services a smart investment for increasing property value.
    • What should I look for when hiring bathroom plumbing services?
      Look for licensed and experienced plumbers with positive customer reviews. Ensure they offer comprehensive services, use quality materials, provide transparent pricing, and have warranties or insurance for their work. Choosing reputable professionals guarantees reliable and efficient results.

  • Water Pressure

    • What are the common causes of low water pressure at home?
      Low water pressure at home can be caused by several issues, including clogged pipes due to mineral buildup, hidden leaks in your plumbing system, faulty fixtures, or partially closed valves. Other causes may include municipal water supply problems, corroded pipes in older homes, or a malfunctioning pressure regulator.
    • How can I check for leaks that might be causing low water pressure?
      To check for leaks, start by turning off all water-using appliances and monitoring your water meter. If the meter reading changes after an hour, you likely have a leak. Inspect exposed pipes for water stains, damp spots, or puddles. For hidden leaks behind walls or underground, contacting a professional plumber is recommended.
    • Can I fix low water pressure myself without hiring a plumber?
      Yes, many low water pressure issues can be resolved with simple DIY methods. These include cleaning clogged fixtures, fully opening shut-off valves, flushing your pipes, or adjusting the pressure regulator. However, if the problem persists or involves severe pipe corrosion or hidden leaks, it’s best to call a professional.
    • What can I do to prevent low water pressure in the future?
      To prevent low water pressure, schedule regular plumbing maintenance, install a water softener if you live in a hard water area, and replace aging fixtures as needed. Additionally, ensure all valves are fully open and avoid overloading your plumbing system by staggering the use of water-heavy appliances.

  • Clogs

    • What is a clogged drain repair service?
      A clogged drain repair service is a professional plumbing solution designed to clear blockages in your drains, pipes, and sewer lines. Experts use advanced tools like hydro-jetting, drain snakes, and video inspection cameras to diagnose and remove stubborn clogs efficiently, ensuring smooth water flow and preventing future drainage issues.
    • When should I call a professional clogged drain repair service?
      You should contact a clogged drain repair service if you experience persistent slow drainage, recurring clogs, foul odors, gurgling sounds from pipes, or water backups in multiple fixtures. These signs often indicate deep blockages or issues that DIY methods can’t resolve effectively.
    • How does a professional clogged drain repair service fix blockages?
      A professional clogged drain repair service uses specialized equipment such as hydro-jetters for high-pressure cleaning, plumbing snakes to dislodge debris, and video cameras to inspect pipes. These techniques help identify the root cause of the clog and provide a thorough, long-lasting solution.
    • How can I prevent the need for a clogged drain repair service?
      To reduce the need for a clogged drain repair service, avoid disposing of grease, food scraps, hair, and foreign objects down your drains. Use drain strainers, regularly flush drains with hot water, and schedule routine maintenance with a professional plumber to catch potential issues early.
    • What are the most effective affordable clogged drain solutions?
      There are several budget-friendly methods to clear a clogged drain, including using boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, plungers, and drain snakes. These DIY solutions work well for minor blockages, while enzyme-based drain cleaners can help prevent future buildup. If the clog persists, professional hydro jetting or snaking services may be required.
    • How can I prevent frequent drain clogs without spending too much?
      To prevent clogged drains, use drain strainers to catch hair and food particles, avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink, and flush your drains weekly with hot water. Regularly using enzyme-based drain cleaners can also help break down organic buildup without damaging your pipes.
    • Are chemical drain cleaners a good option for clogged drains?
      While chemical drain cleaners can be effective, they often contain harsh ingredients that can corrode pipes over time, leading to costly plumbing repairs. Instead, opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar or use enzyme-based cleaners that are safer for your plumbing system.
    • When should I call a plumber instead of using DIY clogged drain solutions?
      If your drain remains clogged despite trying multiple DIY methods, if water is backing up into other drains, or if you notice persistent foul odors, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Severe clogs, tree root intrusion, or damaged pipes may require specialized tools and expertise to resolve.

  • Water Heaters

    • Why is my water heater not working and how can I fix it?
      If your water heater is not working, check for common issues like a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty thermostat, or sediment buildup in the tank. Resetting the breaker, flushing the tank, or adjusting the thermostat may help. If the problem persists, call a professional plumber for assistance.
    • What are common causes of a water heater not working?
      Common causes include a lack of power, a malfunctioning thermostat, sediment buildup, a faulty heating element, or a pilot light that won’t stay lit. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues and ensure your water heater runs smoothly.
    • When should I call a plumber for a water heater not working?
      You should call a plumber if the water heater is leaking, making unusual noises, or if troubleshooting steps like resetting the breaker or pilot light don’t solve the issue. A professional can identify and repair complex problems safely.
    • How can I prevent my water heater from not working in the future?
      Preventative maintenance, such as flushing the tank annually, inspecting the anode rod, and scheduling regular professional checkups, can extend the life of your water heater. Addressing minor issues early can prevent major breakdowns.

  • Pipes

    • How can I tell if I have a leaking pipe in my home?
      Look for common signs of a leaking pipe in your home, such as unexplained increases in water bills, visible water stains on walls or ceilings, mold or mildew growth, musty odors, or damp spots. You might also hear running water when no taps are on or experience low water pressure.
    • What should I do if I suspect a leaking pipe?
      Yes, leaking pipes can lead to structural damage, mold growth, increased water bills, and even health risks from mold exposure. Promptly addressing the signs of a leaking pipe in your home can help avoid these costly issues.
    • How can I prevent leaks in my home’s plumbing?
      To prevent leaks, schedule regular plumbing inspections, insulate pipes during winter, monitor water pressure, and replace aging or corroded pipes. Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding the common signs of a leaking pipe in your home.
    • Can leaking pipes cause serious damage?
      Yes, leaking pipes can lead to structural damage, mold growth, increased water bills, and even health risks from mold exposure. Promptly addressing the signs of a leaking pipe in your home can help avoid these costly issues.

  • Toilets

    • Why won't my toilet stop running?
      Normally, when the toilet does not stop running, the issue is inside the fill tank and is more than likely the flapper valve. When this valve does not close properly, water continuously leaks into the toilet bowl. This may be hard to detect, but you will see an increase in water usage on your water meter and bills. Repairing a leaking flapper valve can be done by yourself, but it’s certainly something the team at Hey Dude can handle for you as well. If the issue resides with the valve assembly or there is debris inside the fill valve, do not DIY this. Call the plumbing team at Hey Dude Plumbing for help.
    • How do I fix a leaky toilet?

      If possible, identify where the toilet is leaking from. The water supply line is the most common source of toilet leaks. You will want to also check the water supply valve and the point where the water supply line enters the toilet tank. Toilet leaks can occur where the toilet meets the tank and at any point where the integrity of the tank or bowl is weakened.

      Leaks also occur around the base of the toilet, especially if the mounting bolts are no longer holding the toilet properly in place. Depending on the location and severity of your leak, Hey Dude Plumbing will let you know if it’s easily repairable or if it’s time to replace the toilet.

    • What should I do if my toilet is clogged?

      The fastest and easiest way to get your toilet working properly again is to try and unclog the toilet yourself. Here are some basic solutions we recommend trying before giving the Hey Dude team a call.

      Plunging

      This is the easiest and go-to method for most people. Try pumping the plunger repeatedly until the water drains.

      Plumbing Snake or Plumbing Auger

      Another useful tool to quickly unclog a toilet is a drain snake. Try lowering the head into the toilet and turning the handle clockwise to wind the snake down the drain. If you feel an obstruction, lightly shake the handle to break up the clog and pull the drain snake head back up.

      Vinegar and Baking Soda

      Pour one cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into your toilet bowl. Wait 20-30 minutes, and then flush to see if the clog has passed through.

      Soap and Hot Water

      Squirt about half a cup of dish soap or shampoo into your toilet bowl. Wait 20-30 minutes, and then pour in hot (not boiling) water and wait another few minutes. If the water begins to drain, you’ll know the clog has passed through. Alternatively, you can also just use hot water.

      If you have tried one or more of these, it is time to call the pros at Hey Dude Plumbing. The clog is more than likely farther in the drain line or sewer line, which requires a professional inspection.

  • General Plumbing

    • What exactly is involved in a seasonal plumbing check?
      A seasonal plumbing check involves a comprehensive inspection of your home’s plumbing system by a professional. This includes examining pipes for signs of damage or wear, testing water pressure, checking for leaks in faucets and toilets, ensuring that your sump pump and water heater are functioning efficiently, and preparing your plumbing for the upcoming season’s specific challenges. The goal is to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs.
    • What are the most common plumbing issues in older homes?
      Older homes frequently experience problems such as outdated pipes (like galvanized steel or lead), low water pressure, corroded pipes, and clogged drains. Additionally, older sewer lines and water heaters may cause issues due to age and inefficiency. These problems often arise because older materials degrade over time, leading to corrosion, leaks, or reduced water quality.
    • How often should I schedule a seasonal plumbing check?
      It’s recommended to schedule a plumbing check at least twice a year, ideally during the transition into the winter and summer seasons. These times are chosen because they prepare your plumbing system for the extreme temperatures and usage demands that tend to stress plumbing systems the most. However, depending on the age of your plumbing system and any previous issues you may have encountered, more frequent checks might be advisable.
    • How can I tell if my old home has lead pipes, and should I replace them?
      To check for lead pipes, look for dull gray pipes that can be easily scratched with a coin, exposing a shiny surface underneath. Lead pipes should be replaced as soon as possible, as they pose serious health risks. Consulting a licensed plumber can confirm the pipe material and help determine the best replacement options, such as copper or PEX pipes, which are safer and longer-lasting.
    • Can seasonal plumbing checks actually save me money?

      Yes, seasonal plumbing checks can save you money in several ways. First, by identifying and fixing minor issues before they become major, you avoid the high costs associated with emergency repairs and extensive damage. Regular maintenance also extends the lifespan of your plumbing system, reducing the need for costly replacements. Additionally, ensuring your system is running efficiently can help lower your water bill by preventing leaks and other issues that lead to water waste.

    • Why is the water pressure low in my older home, and what can be done to improve it?
      Low water pressure in older homes often results from mineral buildup or corrosion inside the pipes, which restricts water flow. Cleaning out showerheads and faucets may temporarily improve pressure. However, if the issue persists, it may be necessary to replace sections of the plumbing system or install a pressure booster pump. A professional plumber can assess the system and recommend the best solution.
    • Are seasonal plumbing checks really necessary if I haven't had any plumbing issues?
      Absolutely. Even if your plumbing system seems to be working fine, issues can develop silently and gradually, only becoming apparent when they’ve caused significant damage. Seasonal checks help catch these problems early, maintaining your system’s efficiency and preventing unexpected breakdowns. Think of these checks as a form of insurance: they help ensure your plumbing continues to operate smoothly, avoiding the disruption and expense of sudden failures.
    • How can I prevent frequent clogs in the drains of my older home?
      Preventing clogs involves regular maintenance and mindful use of drains. Using strainers in sinks and showers to catch hair and debris, avoiding grease disposal down kitchen drains, and occasionally flushing drains with enzyme-based cleaners can reduce buildup. For older plumbing systems, regular professional inspections and cleanings help maintain smooth water flow and prevent recurring clogs.
    • What is a clogged drain repair service?
      A clogged drain repair service is a professional plumbing solution designed to clear blockages in your drains, pipes, and sewer lines. Experts use advanced tools like hydro-jetting, drain snakes, and video inspection cameras to diagnose and remove stubborn clogs efficiently, ensuring smooth water flow and preventing future drainage issues.
    • When should I call a professional clogged drain repair service?
      You should contact a clogged drain repair service if you experience persistent slow drainage, recurring clogs, foul odors, gurgling sounds from pipes, or water backups in multiple fixtures. These signs often indicate deep blockages or issues that DIY methods can’t resolve effectively.
    • How does a professional clogged drain repair service fix blockages?
      A professional clogged drain repair service uses specialized equipment such as hydro-jetters for high-pressure cleaning, plumbing snakes to dislodge debris, and video cameras to inspect pipes. These techniques help identify the root cause of the clog and provide a thorough, long-lasting solution.
    • How can I prevent the need for a clogged drain repair service?
      To reduce the need for a clogged drain repair service, avoid disposing of grease, food scraps, hair, and foreign objects down your drains. Use drain strainers, regularly flush drains with hot water, and schedule routine maintenance with a professional plumber to catch potential issues early.
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