Plumbing FAQs

Most water rates are very consistent. Sudden increases can mean a leak somewhere in your water pipes. If your bill goes up by more than 20% without a rational explanation (guests, new bathroom installed), it may be a good idea to have your system inspected for leaks.

Energy-efficient appliances and fixtures are a very effective way to do so. Also, only run your dishwasher when it’s completely full, and be sure to have drips and leaks repaired immediately.

Since drains are designed to keep smells from coming into your home, there’s a problem if you smell something coming from any drain. However, it’s normally due to a dried-out trap, which is an easy fix. Try to remember to pour water periodically down drains that aren’t used often. If that doesn’t do the trick, call Black Plumbing.

It can be due to several things, but problems due to the water line or shutoff valve are easiest to fix. Check for any kinks and that the valve is open all the way. Mineral deposits can also be the cause, especially in older pipes. Call Black Plumbing and we can help you decide whether it would be worth it to replace them.

First, make sure they are well insulated. Inside piping won’t be a problem, but be sure to place extra insulation around outside or garage piping.

Yes! Since it restores your water pipes from within, there is no need to replace your entire system, which could involve going through walls, ceilings, and flooring. This makes it a far less expensive option.

Yes! In fact, since new pipes start to deteriorate the instant water starts running through them, epoxy lasts even longer! Pipes are protected from corrosion.

ePIPE can restore both domestic water systems and non-potable systems.

Yes! No chemicals are used in the process, and it meets U.S. water safety standards.

In most cases, yes! However, call Black Plumbing and we will come out to make a final determination.

No! Our crews perform all work inside, so there is no tracking dirt and mud in and out of your home. We also use ground covers whenever necessary.

Yes. Since we don’t have to go through walls, ceilings, etc., there is less waste involved, which means less to go into landfills. It also protects your water supply from harmful metals.

Nope! Epoxy pipe restoration does not compromise your standard of living. Commercial projects can be done in phases, and sections of your piping system can be isolated if necessary.

Both metallic and non-metallic pipes and epoxy can typically restore piping up to 6 inches in diameter.

The epoxy coating is applied according to manufacturer specifications, and your water will always meet or exceed the required flow as per Uniform Plumbing Code requirements.

These days, hot water tanks typically last about 10 years, so older units may simply need to be replaced. However, in other cases, a broken heating element or sensor may be an issue. Try turning the temperature up on your tank. If it doesn’t produce hotter water, call Black Plumbing.

Though they are more expensive than traditional hot water heaters, they can also pay for themselves over time, since the system only heats hot water when you use it. The experts at Black Plumbing can help you decide if a tankless heater is the right option.

Yes. In fact, most of these heaters are designed to function in temperatures as cold as -30 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you find yourself calling for repairs frequently, it’s probably a good idea to consider a replacement. Obviously, if there’s a problem with producing hot water, you may need a replacement. The average life of a hot water heater is about 10 years. However, you may benefit from a replacement even if your older heater is still functioning. That’s because newer model heaters are typically much more energy-efficient.

If one drain in your home is running slowly, check all the drains. If it’s only one or two, the clog is most likely localized. If all drains seem to be slow, your sewer line may be plugged. You may also notice a foul smell in some cases.

Products that can be safely flushed down the toilet will say so on the packaging. If the packaging does not specifically say “flushable,” it’s probably better to be cautious. Also, when it comes to paper products, try to avoid flushing anything besides toilet paper. Paper towels, napkins, and sanitary wipes don’t dissolve in the same way toilet paper does. They instead hold water and become heavier, which can lead to clogs. Avoid flushing food, dental products, and hair as well.

Most sewer lines are installed under lawns, which means they are surrounded by soil. Though many homeowners don’t purposely place trees by sewer lines, tree roots are constantly seeking water sources. Guess what your sewer line is! Sometimes, the roots will only wrap around the piping and can be carefully cut back. However, if your piping is susceptible to cracks, the roots may get into the line.

Normally, you shouldn’t smell anything foul in your bathroom unless there’s a problem. However, if a drain isn’t used for a while, the trap evaporates and leaves a space for noxious gases to seep back into your home. If pouring water down the drain doesn’t do the trick, give Black Plumbing a call.

Most of the time, sewer lines located within your property lines are your responsibility. If a problem continues into the main sewer line, then the municipality can be involved, but double-check to be sure.

If you’re using more than 12,000 gallons of water per month, you more than likely have a leak somewhere

If no water is being used in your home, check the meter after two hours. If it’s not exactly the same, call Black Plumbing

Toilet leaks can be detected by placing a small amount of food coloring in the tank. If the color moves to the bowl within 10 minutes, you probably have a leak

Check for leaks

Drain and insulate

Weatherproof problem areas

Keep indoor pipes warm

If you have any plumbing questions at all, please do not hesitate to give Black Plumbing a call! We’re always more than happy to help!