FAQ
Experience Unmatched Plumbing Services with DFW PipePros
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Browse our FAQ section for quick, clear responses to common queries about our services, processes, and policies. Whether you’re a new customer or need detailed information, find everything you need to know right here to make informed decisions.
My water bill went up. How do I check for leaks?
The most common causes of high water bills are running toilets, which can waste up to 200 gallons per day, and leaky faucets, which can drip up to 20 gallons per day. Check for leaks by inspecting faucets and the toilet bowl tank, and listening for unusual sounds. If you don’t find leaks in either of those locations, you’ll need to check your water line and hose bibs. You may also want to contact a plumber.
What can contribute to a high water bill besides faucet or pipe leaks?
One of the most common leaks in residential plumbing is in the toilet tank, resulting from wearing or improper alignment of parts on the flushing mechanism. It is important to repair these leaks because they will cause an increase in your monthly water bill.
How do I get my toilet tank to stop overflowing?
If your toilet tank over overflowing, there is likely a leak in the fill valve. The valve may be old and need to be replaced or some of the parts in the tank may have corroded.
My faucet only drips occasionally. Should I replace it?
You likely will not need to replace your faucet. Depending on where the drip is, you may need to only replace parts. However, if it is dripping from underneath the faucet itself you may have to replace it. Your plumber can locate the leak and discuss replacement options.
I have checked all my toilets, faucets, and outside house bibs. None are running or appear to be leaking. Why is my meter still spinning?
If you have checked all your water sources and no leak is found, follow these steps:
- Check your meter box for leaks.
- Check your water heater to ensure the overflow pan is not holding water. If so, the tank or relief valve is leaking and needs to be replaced.
- Finally, check your yard for dark green spots where the grass is richer and more moist. These spots may indicate a leak in the main water line that needs to be repaired.
What are the different leak detection methods and the pros and cons of each?
- Ultrasound testing: Uses high-frequency sound waves to detect irregularities in pipes and tubing, making it the most accurate method, but also the most expensive and time-consuming.
- Infrared thermography: A non-invasive method that uses infrared technology to detect heat emissions from objects, making it relatively cost-effective and faster than ultrasound. However, it can only detect large leaks.
- Bubble testing is a good option for detecting gas leaks. Fluorescent dye testing is the most cost-efficient method, but it requires a black light to detect the dye. In some applications, it can take a day or longer for the dye to be detected, especially for very small leaks.
- Electronic leak detectors: These are similar to ultrasonic leak detectors, but they use electronic signals to detect water. They are often used in industrial settings with a high risk of water leakage.
- Flood sensors: Pucks or spot leak sensors are small, palm-sized pucks or blocks with one or more probes attached. They are often installed near hot water tanks or near appliances like dishwashers or washing machines.
- DIY leak detection Can be challenging without the proper equipment and specialized expertise, such as infrared cameras or acoustic listening devices. There is a higher likelihood of errors and incomplete detection, and it is possible to miss hidden leaks.
How can I tell if I have pipe issues?
Identifying pipe issues can be challenging; however, there are signs to be aware of. Keep an eye out for discolored water, low water pressure in specific areas, recurring leaks, or a metallic taste in the water. If any of these occur, or if there is suspicion of deteriorating or damaged pipes, it’s advisable to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide the necessary repairs or replacements.
How do I know if my main pipe is clogged?
There are several signs which can indicate a clog in the main pipe. These include slow drainage, gurgling noises in the drains or toilets, or water backups in different areas of your house. In such cases, it’s crucial to contact a professional plumber promptly to prevent further damage to your plumbing system.
How do I know if my underground pipe is broken?
Detecting a broken underground pipe can be challenging, but there are a few signs to watch for. Look for pooling water or mysterious wet spots in the yard, significant changes in grass or plant growth, or a foul odor near the affected area. If a break in the underground pipe is suspected, contact a professional plumber immediately.
What are signs that my sewer line is broken?
A break in the sewer line can be detected by a persistent foul odor in the yard or home, slow drainage or gurgling sounds in multiple fixtures, sewage backups or water pooling in the basement or yard, and changes in grass and plants in the area where the sewer line runs. If any of these signs are detected, contact a professional plumber immediately.
Where does the drain system usually clog up?
Clogs in the drain system usually occur in kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, shower drains, and toilet drains. These clogs are more common due to the accumulation of food debris, grease, soap scum, hair, and foreign objects. Use drain strainers and avoid pouring substances that can cause clogs down the drain to prevent blockages in these areas. If you suspect a clog, you may need to contact a plumber to assess and repair the issue.
Can snaking a drain make a clog worse?
If done incorrectly, snaking a drain can make a clog worse. A drain snake can be useful to clear a clog; however, it should be used with caution. If used improperly, a drain snake can damage pipes or push the clog deeper. In the case of a clog, it’s recommended to call a professional plumber, who can properly use a drain snake to remove stubborn clogs.
How long does a slab leak take to fix?
The time it takes to repair a slab leak varies depending on the location and severity of the leak, accessibility to the affected pipes, and the extent of the repairs needed. A slab leak can sometimes be resolved within a couple of days, while more complex issues may require several days or even weeks to be resolved. If a slab leak is suspected, it’s recommended to contact a professional plumber, who can assess the situation and provide an estimated timeline.
How serious is a slab leak?
A slab leak is a leak in the water pipes beneath the concrete foundation of a house. It is a serious problem and should not be ignored. If a slab leak is unaddressed, it can lead to significant water damage, foundation problems, increased water bills, and even mold growth. It is imperative to immediately address slab leaks to prevent further damage and mitigate potential risks. If a slab leak is suspected, a professional plumber should be contacted immediately.
How long does plumbing last in a slab foundation?
The lifespan of slab foundation plumbing varies depending on installation quality, the type of pipes, and the quality and regularity of necessary maintenance. As a general rule, copper pipes in a slab foundation will last 50-70 years, while PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes will last 40-50 years. To extend the lifespan of slab foundation plumbing, regular inspections, maintenance, and promptly addressing issues are suggested.
Why is my garbage disposal humming but not running?
A humming garbage disposal that is not running usually indicates an impeller that is jammed or stuck. The humming sound is caused by resistance in the motor attempting to turn the impeller. To resolve this, ensure the disposal is turned off and insert a hex key or an allen wrench into the bottom of the disposal, manually rotating the impeller and dislodging obstructions. Once this step is complete, turn on the disposal. If the humming continues, it is recommended to contact a professional plumber to further assess the problem.
What cannot be put down a garbage disposal?
To avoid garbage disposal damage, certain items should not be put down the drain, such as hard items (e.g., bones or fruit pits), fibrous materials (e.g., green onions or celery stalks), grease or cooking oil, coffee grounds, and starchy foods (e.g., pasta or rice). These may clog the disposal, damage the blades, or clog the pipes.
How do I increase the water pressure in my house?
To increase water pressure, check and adjust the water pressure regulator, usually located near the main water shutoff valve. Also, remove sediment or debris from faucet aerators and showerheads and clean or replace clogged filters or cartridges in the plumbing system. If these measures do not improve water pressure, contact a professional plumber to assess the problem further.
Why isn't my water hot?
A simple reason for lukewarm water is that the thermostat may have been moved and needs to be adjusted. If the thermostat isn’t the issue, some other common causes of hot water issues include gas leaks, water tank leaks, gas valve failures, pilot light problems, electric heater malfunctions, faulty heating elements, an undersized tank, and even weather conditions. Calling a plumber can help to diagnose and resolve these issues.
Can a faulty water heater cause low water pressure?
Yes, a faulty water heater can cause low water pressure. A faulty water heater can result in reduced water flow throughout the house, lowering water pressure in faucets, showers, and other fixtures. Problems such as a clogged inlet valve, a malfunctioning pressure-reducing valve, sediment buildup, or a failing water heater pump can all cause low water pressure. If it is suspected that a faulty water heater is causing low water pressure, it’s recommended to contact a professional plumber to inspect and repair the water heater.
How can common plumbing problems be prevented?
Regular maintenance is key to preventing common plumbing problems. The plumbing system should be periodically inspected.
