FAQs About Plumbing
Get answers to common plumbing questions with Blue Skies Plumbing. Learn about repairs, installs & maintenance. Call today for expert plumbing help!
Sewer Lines
Water Lines
Drains
Water Heaters
Frequently Asked Questions – Blue Skies Plumbing
At Blue Skies Plumbing, we understand that plumbing issues can be confusing and stressful. Our FAQ page provides clear answers to the most common questions about repairs, installations, and maintenance. From leaky faucets and clogged drains to water heater concerns, our expert team gives the guidance you need to make informed decisions. Browse our FAQs and contact us for fast, professional plumbing service you can rely on.
Water Heater Repair
How do I know if my water heater needs repair?
Signs include inconsistent hot water, unusual noises, rusty water, leaks around the tank, or water that doesn’t get hot enough.
Can my water heater be repaired, or will I need a replacement?
Many issues, like faulty thermostats or heating elements, can be repaired. If the tank is leaking or the unit is over 10–12 years old, replacement may be more cost-effective.
How quickly can you repair my water heater?
Most repairs can be completed the same day, depending on the issue and availability of parts.
Is it safe to keep using my water heater if it’s making noise?
No, noises like banging or rumbling often mean sediment buildup. Continued use can damage the tank, so it’s best to schedule a repair quickly.
How much does water heater repair cost?
Costs vary depending on the repair needed, but our team provides upfront pricing after diagnosis so there are no surprises.
Clogged Drain
What causes drains to clog?
Common culprits include grease, soap scum, hair, food scraps, and foreign objects.
Can I use store-bought drain cleaners to fix the problem?
We don’t recommend it. Chemical cleaners can damage pipes and often provide only temporary relief.
What should I do if my sink or shower is draining slowly?
Try using a plunger or drain snake. If the problem persists, call a professional to avoid worsening the blockage.
Are clogged drains a sign of a bigger plumbing issue?
Sometimes. Frequent clogs can point to damaged pipes, tree root intrusion, or sewer line issues.
How do I prevent future clogs?
Use drain screens, avoid pouring grease or food down the sink, and schedule routine plumbing maintenance.
Tankless Water Heater
What is the main advantage of a tankless water heater?
Tankless units provide endless hot water on demand and are more energy-efficient than traditional tank models.
How long does a tankless water heater last?
With proper maintenance, they often last 20 years or more, which is almost double the lifespan of a traditional water heater.
Do tankless water heaters require maintenance?
Yes, they should be flushed annually to remove mineral buildup and keep the system running efficiently.
Can a tankless water heater replace my current tank system?
Yes, but installation may require adjustments to plumbing, gas, or electrical lines. We’ll evaluate your setup to recommend the best solution.
Will a tankless water heater save me money?
In most cases, yes. They use less energy since they only heat water when needed, reducing monthly utility bills.
Toilet Repair
Why does my toilet keep running?
This is often caused by a worn flapper, faulty fill valve, or improper float adjustment.
What should I do if my toilet is clogged?
A plunger usually works for minor clogs. For recurring or severe blockages, a plumber should inspect for deeper issues.
Why is water leaking at the base of my toilet?
A damaged wax ring or loose toilet bolts are common causes. Repairs should be made promptly to prevent water damage.
Can you fix a toilet that won’t flush properly?
Yes, flushing issues often come from faulty handles, chains, or valves and can be repaired quickly.
How long does a toilet repair take?
Most repairs take less than an hour, depending on the issue.
Leak Detection
How can I tell if I have a hidden leak?
Signs include unexplained high water bills, damp spots on walls or ceilings, mold growth, or low water pressure.
What methods do you use for leak detection?
We use advanced tools like acoustic detectors, thermal imaging, and pressure tests to locate leaks without damaging your property.
Are hidden leaks dangerous?
Yes, untreated leaks can cause structural damage, mold growth, and higher utility bills.
How long does leak detection take?
Most leaks can be found within an hour or two, depending on the complexity of your plumbing system.
Do I need to repair the leak immediately after detection?
Yes, delaying repair can worsen the damage and increase repair costs.
Leak Repair
What types of leaks can you repair?
We repair leaks in pipes, faucets, toilets, water heaters, and underground water lines.
Can small leaks really cause major damage?
Absolutely. Even a minor drip can waste gallons of water daily and damage floors, walls, or foundations.
How do you repair leaking pipes?
Depending on the situation, we may tighten connections, replace fittings, or repipe damaged sections.
Do you offer emergency leak repair services?
Yes, we provide fast response for urgent leak situations to minimize property damage.
Will repairing a leak save me money?
Yes, fixing leaks lowers water bills and prevents costly damage to your home.
Sewer Line Repair
What are signs that my sewer line is damaged?
Frequent drain backups, foul odors, gurgling sounds, and soggy patches in your yard are common indicators.
What causes sewer line damage?
Tree root intrusion, shifting soil, corrosion, clogs, or pipe collapse are typical causes.
How do you repair sewer lines?
Depending on the issue, we may use trenchless methods, pipe lining, or pipe replacement.
How long does a sewer line repair take?
Minor repairs can be done in a few hours, while major replacements may take 1–3 days.
Is sewer line repair covered by homeowners insurance?
It depends on your policy. Some cover sudden damage, but not wear-and-tear or root intrusion.
Commercial Plumbing
What commercial plumbing services do you provide?
We handle installations, repairs, maintenance, drain cleaning, water heaters, leak detection, and more for businesses.
Can you handle large-scale plumbing systems?
Yes, we have the equipment and expertise to work on restaurants, office buildings, retail stores, and other commercial properties.
Do you offer scheduled maintenance plans for businesses?
Yes, regular maintenance helps prevent costly downtime and plumbing emergencies.
How quickly can you respond to a commercial plumbing issue?
We prioritize commercial calls and can often dispatch a plumber the same day.
Garbage Disposal Repair
Why did my garbage disposal stop working?
Common issues include jammed blades, electrical problems, or worn-out motors.
Can I fix a jammed disposal myself?
You can try resetting the unit or carefully using a hex key, but avoid putting hands inside. If that doesn’t work, call a plumber.
Why does my disposal make a humming noise but not grind?
This usually means the motor is stuck or burned out and may need repair or replacement.
How long do garbage disposals last?
Most last about 8–12 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
What shouldn’t I put in my garbage disposal?
Avoid grease, bones, fibrous foods (like celery), coffee grounds, and large food scraps.
Repiping
When does a home need repiping?
If your pipes are old, corroded, frequently leaking, or causing discolored water, repiping may be necessary.
What materials do you use for repiping?
We typically use copper, PEX, or CPVC, depending on your home’s needs and budget.
How long does repiping take?
Most projects take 2–5 days, depending on the size of the home and plumbing system.
Will I need to leave my home during repiping?
Not usually. Water service may be temporarily turned off, but we minimize disruption so you can stay in your home.
Is repiping a good investment?
Yes, repiping increases water quality, improves water pressure, prevents leaks, and adds value to your property.
Main Water Line Repair
What are the signs of a broken or damaged main water line?
Common signs include unexplained high water bills, low water pressure, puddles in the yard, wet spots in the basement, or discolored tap water.
What causes main water line damage?
Tree root intrusion, shifting soil, old or corroded pipes, freezing and thawing cycles, or accidental damage from digging can all cause water line problems.
How is a main water line leak detected?
We use advanced methods like pressure testing, video camera inspections, and acoustic listening devices to pinpoint the exact location of the leak.
Do you always have to dig up my yard to repair the water line?
Not always. In many cases, trenchless repair methods can fix the issue with minimal digging, preserving your lawn and landscaping.
How long does main water line repair take?
Small repairs can often be completed in a day. Full replacements may take 1–3 days depending on pipe length, soil conditions, and repair method.
Bathtub Repair
What types of bathtub issues can you repair?
We handle a wide range of issues including leaks, clogged drains, damaged caulking, faucet or handle problems, and chips or cracks in the tub surface.
How do I know if my bathtub needs repair instead of replacement?
If the damage is minor—like small leaks, cracks, or surface wear—repairs are often sufficient. If your tub is severely damaged, outdated, or inefficient, replacement may be the better option.
Can you fix a leaking bathtub faucet?
Yes, leaking faucets are a common issue. We can replace worn washers, cartridges, or valves to stop the leak and save water.
How long does a typical bathtub repair take?
Most bathtub repairs can be completed within a few hours, though larger issues like drain replacements may take longer.
What Our Clients Say
Testimonials from past clients