Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Plumbing Services in Westminster California
At Westminster Plumbing Pros, we believe that an informed customer is a happy customer. Plumbing systems can be complex, and problems often arise unexpectedly, leading to questions about maintenance, repairs, and emergency situations. We have compiled this extensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to provide clear, detailed answers to the most common inquiries we receive from residents and business owners in Westminster California. Whether you are dealing with a cold shower, a clogged drain, or planning a kitchen remodel, you will find valuable information here.
We are dedicated to transparency and education. Our goal is to be your trusted resource for all things plumbing. If you do not see your specific question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. We are always ready to assist you with professional advice and expert service.
Emergency Plumbing Questions
What is considered a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is generally any situation that causes water damage, poses a health risk, or leaves you without essential services like water or sanitation. Common examples include a burst pipe repair need, a sewage backup into your home, a gas leak, or a complete lack of water. If you are searching for an emergency plumber near me or need 24 7 plumbing help, it is likely an emergency. We treat these calls with the highest priority to mitigate damage to your property.
What should I do if I smell gas?
CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, hear a hissing sound near a gas appliance, or suspect a gas leak, you must go outside and call 911 immediately. This is a life threatening emergency that requires urgent attention from professional emergency responders. Do not turn on lights, use your cell phone inside, or light matches. Once the authorities have declared the area safe, you can contact us for expert gas line repair and safety inspections.
How do I shut off the water in an emergency?
Every homeowner should know the location of their main water shut-off valve. In Westminster California, this is often located near the street in a concrete box or where the main line enters the house (often near a hose bib). Turning this valve clockwise will stop the flow of water to the entire house. This is the first step you should take if you have a major leak or a pipe burst. If you cannot find it or it is stuck, call us for emergency water shut off assistance.
Do you offer services on nights and weekends?
Yes, absolutely. Plumbing disasters do not respect business hours. We operate as an after hours plumber and a weekend plumber. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to handle your urgent needs. Whether it is 2 AM on a Tuesday or a Sunday afternoon, you can count on Westminster Plumbing Pros for reliable service.
Water Heater Repair and Installation FAQ
My water heater is making a rumbling noise. Is it dangerous?
A rumbling or banging noise usually indicates sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. In Westminster California, hard water causes minerals like calcium to settle in the tank. This sediment traps heat, causing water to boil underneath it, creating those popping sounds. While not immediately dangerous, it reduces efficiency and can lead to the tank overheating and failing. We recommend scheduling water heater maintenance to flush the tank and remove this sediment.
How long does a standard water heater last?
Most traditional tank-style water heaters last between 8 and 12 years. If your unit is approaching this age and you are experiencing issues like no hot water or leaks, it may be time to consider water heater replacement. Tankless models can last significantly longer, often up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Should I switch to a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters offer several advantages, including endless hot water and lower energy bills since they only heat water when you need it. However, they have a higher upfront cost and may require upgrades to your gas line or electrical panel. As your local tankless water heater install expert, we can evaluate your home’s usage patterns and infrastructure to help you decide if a tankless system is the right investment for you.
Why is my hot water running out so quickly?
If your hot water supply is depleting faster than usual, it could be due to a broken dip tube (which directs cold water to the bottom of the tank), a failing heating element (in electric units), or excessive sediment reducing the tank’s capacity. It could also mean your unit is simply too small for your household’s needs. We can diagnose the issue and perform the necessary water heater repair or recommend a larger unit.
Drain Cleaning and Clog Removal FAQ
Why does my kitchen sink drain keep backing up?
Kitchen sinks are prone to clogging due to the accumulation of grease, soap, and food particles. Even with a garbage disposal, fibrous foods and oils can coat the pipes over time. If plunging doesn’t work, the clog is likely deep in the line. We provide professional drain cleaning for clogged kitchen sink issues using mechanical snakes or hydro jetting to clear the obstruction completely.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners?
We strongly advise against using chemical drain cleaners. These products often contain harsh acids that can corrode your pipes, leading to leaks and the need for expensive pipe repair. Furthermore, they are often ineffective against tough clogs like tree roots or solid objects. Professional cleaning is safer for your plumbing system and the environment.
What are the signs of a main sewer line blockage?
A blockage in your main sewer line affects all the drains in your house. Signs include multiple slow drains, water backing up into the shower when you flush the toilet, or gurgling noises from plumbing fixtures. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. We offer sewer drain cleaning and camera inspections to identify and resolve main line blockages.
What is hydro jetting and when is it needed?
Hydro jetting is a high-pressure water cleaning method. It uses a specialized nozzle to blast water into the pipe, scouring away grease, scale, and even tree roots. It is essentially a pressure wash for the inside of your pipes. We recommend hydro jetting for commercial kitchens with grease issues, homes with recurring clogs, or older lines with heavy scale buildup.
Pipe Repair and Repiping FAQ
How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?
Hidden leaks can be tricky to spot. Look for unexplained increases in your water bill, the sound of running water when all taps are off, damp or warm spots on the floor, or mold growth on walls or ceilings. If you suspect a leak, contact us for leak detection services. We use specialized equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak behind walls or under slabs.
What is a slab leak?
A slab leak is a leak in the water lines running beneath the concrete foundation of your home. In Westminster California, shifting soil and pipe corrosion can cause these leaks. Slab leaks can damage your foundation and flooring. We act as a slab leak repair specialist, offering options to fix the pipe directly or reroute the line to avoid breaking up your floor.
My house has galvanized pipes. Should I replace them?
If your home was built before the 1970s, it likely has galvanized steel pipes. Over time, these pipes rust from the inside, restricting water flow and causing rust colored water from taps. They are also prone to leaking. We recommend repiping services to replace old galvanized pipes with modern Copper or PEX piping. This improves water pressure, water quality, and eliminates the risk of leaks from corrosion.
What causes low water pressure?
Low water pressure plumber calls are very common. Causes range from a clogged aerator on a faucet to a failing pressure regulator on your main line. It can also be a symptom of a hidden leak or corroded pipes restricting flow. We perform a comprehensive pressure test to identify the root cause and restore proper pressure to your home.
Garbage Disposal FAQ
My garbage disposal is humming but not grinding. What is wrong?
A humming sound usually means the motor is getting power, but the flywheel is jammed. This can happen if a hard object like a fruit pit or bone gets stuck. Turn off the unit immediately to prevent the motor from burning out. You can try to reset it using the button on the bottom, but if it remains stuck, call us for garbage disposal repair. We can safely unjam the unit.
What can I put down my garbage disposal?
To avoid a garbage disposal jammed won’t turn scenario, only put biodegradable food scraps down the disposal. Avoid fibrous items like celery and corn husks, starchy foods like pasta and potato peels, and hard items like bones. Never pour grease or oil down the drain, as it solidifies and causes clogs.
Why does my dishwasher smell bad?
Your dishwasher typically drains through your garbage disposal. If the disposal is clogged or dirty, food waste can back up into the dishwasher hose, causing odors. Ensure your disposal is clear and run it with some ice and lemon peels to clean it. If the problem persists, we can check your dishwasher hookup plumber connections to ensure the drain hose is installed correctly with a high loop or air gap.
Toilet and Fixture FAQ
Why does my toilet keep running?
A running toilet is usually caused by a faulty flapper that doesn’t seal properly or a fill valve that doesn’t shut off. This can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day. We can perform a quick toilet repair to replace these internal components. If the toilet is cracked or very old, we may recommend toilet installation of a new, high-efficiency model.
Can you help with a bathroom remodel?
Yes, we are experienced bathroom remodel plumber experts. We can help you move drain and supply lines to accommodate a new layout, install new vanities, toilets, and showers, and ensure all plumbing meets local codes. Whether you need a shower valve replacement or a complete repipe for your renovation, we are here to help.
What causes a dripping faucet?
A dripping faucet is often caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the valve mechanism. While it seems minor, it wastes water and increases your bill. We offer leaking faucet repair for all types of faucets. If the faucet is old or corroded, we can provide faucet installation services to upgrade the look of your sink.
General Service and Billing FAQ
Do you serve businesses as well as homes?
Yes, Westminster Plumbing Pros is a full-service provider. We are a trusted commercial plumber for restaurants, offices, retail stores, and industrial facilities in Westminster California. We handle everything from commercial grease trap cleaning to industrial water heater repair.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the entire city of Westminster California and the surrounding communities. This includes Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and more. A full list of our service areas and zip codes can be found at the bottom of this page.
How do I find a reliable plumber?
Finding a trustworthy plumber involves looking for a company with local roots, positive reviews, and a commitment to customer service. We strive to be the best plumbing company in the region by being transparent, reliable, and professional. We treat your home with respect and stand behind our work.
Do you offer preventative maintenance?
Yes, we believe that prevention is key. We offer plumbing inspection services and maintenance plans. This includes flushing water heaters, checking water pressure, inspecting pipes for leaks, and testing shut-off valves. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly emergency repairs down the road.
Why is my water bill so high?
A sudden spike in your water bill is a strong indicator of a leak. It could be a running toilet, a dripping faucet, or a hidden leak underground or in a wall. We recommend checking all visible fixtures first. If you cannot find the source, contact us for professional leak detection.
Specific Plumbing Problems FAQ
What do I do if my pipes are frozen?
While rare in Westminster California, freezing temperatures can occur. If your pipes freeze, do not use an open flame to thaw them. This can damage the pipe or start a fire. Open the faucet to allow water to drip and use a hair dryer or heat lamp to gently warm the pipe. If a pipe bursts, turn off the main water valve and call us for frozen pipe repair.
Why is there water around the base of my toilet?
Water pooling around the base of the toilet usually indicates that the wax ring seal has failed. This allows water to seep out every time you flush. It can damage your subfloor if not addressed. We can lift the toilet and install a new wax ring to create a watertight seal.
Can you install a gas line for my new grill?
Yes, we provide outdoor gas line for grill installation. Connecting your grill to your home’s natural gas supply is convenient and means you never run out of propane. We also handle gas line installation for stoves, dryers, and fire pits.
What is a pressure regulator?
A pressure regulator is a valve on your main water line that reduces the high pressure from the municipal supply to a safe level for your home (usually between 50-75 psi). If this valve fails, high water pressure can damage your appliances, cause toilets to run, and lead to burst pipes. We can test and replace failing pressure regulators.
Why Choose Westminster Plumbing Pros?
We know you have choices when searching for a plumber near me. Westminster Plumbing Pros is dedicated to providing the best content and the best service experience possible. We combine technical expertise with a friendly, local approach. We are here to solve your problems, not create new ones. From emergency plumbing to routine maintenance, we are the team you can rely on.
Our commitment to the Westminster California community runs deep. We understand the local housing styles and plumbing systems, allowing us to diagnose and fix issues faster. We are the best plumber for older homes and the go-to team for new construction plumbing.
Contact Us
If you have a question that was not answered here, or if you need to schedule a service, please contact us. We are ready to listen to your needs and provide a solution. Do not let a plumbing issue linger; let the experts at Westminster Plumbing Pros handle it for you.
Service Areas and Zip Codes
We are proud to serve Westminster California and the surrounding communities. We cover the following zip codes and nearby locations to ensure prompt service for all our neighbors.
Westminster, CA Zip Codes: 92683, 92684, 92685
Nearby Service Areas:
- Garden Grove, CA (92840, 92841, 92843, 92844, 92845)
- Huntington Beach, CA (92646, 92647, 92648, 92649)
- Fountain Valley, CA (92708, 92728)
- Stanton, CA (90680)
- Midway City, CA (92655)
- Santa Ana, CA (92703, 92704)
- Seal Beach, CA (90740)
- Cypress, CA (90630)
- Anaheim, CA (Selected Zip Codes)