Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions – Mission Viejo Plumbing Pros
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. At Mission Viejo Plumbing Pros, we believe that an informed homeowner is an empowered homeowner. Plumbing systems can be complex, and when issues arise, you likely have many questions. We have compiled this comprehensive list of questions and answers to help you understand your plumbing system, recognize when you need professional help, and learn how we can assist you. We are dedicated to being the best plumber for residents in Mission Viejo California and the surrounding communities. Whether you are dealing with a midnight emergency or planning a bathroom renovation, we are here to provide clear, helpful information.
General Plumbing Questions
Why should I choose Mission Viejo Plumbing Pros?
We are a locally focused plumbing company deeply rooted in the Mission Viejo community. We understand the specific plumbing challenges that homes in our area face, such as hard water degradation and soil movement affecting pipes. We are committed to punctuality, cleanliness, and high quality craftsmanship. When you search for a plumber near me, you want a team that responds quickly and treats your home with respect. We strive to build long term relationships with our clients by providing reliable service every single time.
Do you offer services on weekends or holidays?
Yes. Plumbing problems do not stick to a schedule. A pipe can burst on a Sunday morning, and a water heater can fail on Thanksgiving. We function as a 24 hour plumber to ensure that you are never left without help. We offer weekend plumber services and 24 7 plumbing help for emergencies. You can count on us to be there when you need us most.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the entire city of Mission Viejo California, including zip codes 92690, 92691, 92692, and 92653. We also extend our expert services to Capistrano Beach (92624) and neighboring cities like Lake Forest, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, and San Clemente.
How quickly can you arrive at my home?
We pride ourselves on being a fast response plumber. For emergency situations, we dispatch a technician as soon as possible. For non urgent appointments, we work with your schedule to find a time that is convenient for you. If you need a same day plumber, contact us early in the day, and we will do our absolute best to accommodate you.
Do you handle commercial plumbing?
Yes, we act as a commercial plumber for businesses throughout Mission Viejo. We understand that plumbing issues can disrupt your operations. We service restaurants, office buildings, retail stores, and property management companies. From commercial water heater repair to clearing clogged grease traps, we have the equipment to handle heavy duty commercial systems.
Emergency Plumbing Services
What is considered a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is any situation that threatens to cause immediate damage to your property or poses a health risk. This includes a burst pipe repair need, a sewer line backup that is overflowing into your home, a gas leak, or a complete lack of water. If you are unsure, it is better to be safe and contact us. We can help you assess the situation over the phone and dispatch an emergency plumber near me if needed.
What should I do if a pipe bursts?
First, do not panic. Locate your main water shut off valve and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water to your home. This valve is usually located in the garage, near the front faucet, or in a box near the sidewalk. Once the water is off, contact us immediately for pipe leak repair. Open your faucets to drain the remaining water from the system and relieve pressure.
What should I do if I smell gas?
CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING:
If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, hear a hissing noise near a gas line, or suspect a gas leak, you must go outside call 911 immediately. Do not use any electrical switches, do not use a phone or cell phone inside the house, and do not light a match. Any spark could ignite the gas. This is a severe emergency that needs urgent attention. Once the area is declared safe by emergency responders, you can contact us for gas line repair.
My toilet is overflowing. How do I stop it?
Look for the valve on the wall behind the toilet, near the floor. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water to the toilet. If there is no valve, or if it is stuck, turn off the main water valve to the house. Do not keep flushing the toilet. Contact us for overflowing toilet help. We have the tools to clear the blockage and restore function.
Drain Cleaning and Clog Removal
Why is my kitchen sink draining slowly?
A slow draining kitchen sink is often caused by a buildup of grease, food particles, and soap scum in the P trap or the wall arm. Over time, these layers narrow the pipe. We offer clogged kitchen sink fix services using snakes or hydro jetting to clear the debris. To prevent this, avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain.
Chemical drain cleaners did not work. What now?
We generally advise against using chemical drain cleaners. They can be harsh on your pipes and often fail to clear solid blockages like hair or roots. If chemicals have not worked, the clog is likely deep in the line or very dense. You need professional drain cleaning services. We use mechanical augers and hydro jetting to physically remove the obstruction without damaging your pipes.
What is hydro jetting?
Hydro jetting is a powerful method of sewer drain cleaning. It uses high pressure water streams to scour the interior of your pipes. Unlike snaking, which just pokes a hole in the clog, hydro jetting removes grease, sludge, scale, and even tree roots, returning the pipe to a like new condition. It is the most effective solution for recurring clogs.
Why does my bathtub drain smell?
Odors from the bathtub drain are usually caused by a buildup of hair, soap, and skin cells that are decaying in the pipe. It could also mean that the P trap has dried out if the tub has not been used in a while. Running water can refill the trap. If the smell persists, we can perform a bathtub drain cleaning to remove the organic matter causing the odor.
Can tree roots really block my sewer line?
Yes, tree roots are a major cause of sewer backups in Mission Viejo California. Roots seek out the moisture inside sewer pipes and can enter through tiny cracks. Once inside, they grow rapidly and catch toilet paper and waste. We can use a camera to confirm root intrusion and use hydro jetting or rooter services to clear them.
Water Heater Repair and Installation
Why do I have no hot water?
No hot water can be caused by several issues. If you have a gas heater, the pilot light may be out. If you have an electric heater, a breaker may have tripped or a heating element may have failed. It could also be a broken thermostat. We are the no hot water plumber experts who can diagnose the issue quickly.
How long does a water heater last?
A traditional tank water heater typically lasts between 8 and 12 years. If your unit is older than this and requires frequent repairs, we often recommend water heater replacement. Tankless units can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters heat water on demand rather than storing it in a tank. This means you never run out of hot water. They are also more energy efficient because they do not have standby heat loss. They take up significantly less space than a tank. If you are interested, we are tankless water heater install experts who can help you make the switch.
Why is my water heater making a rumbling noise?
Rumbling or popping noises are caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. In Mission Viejo, hard water minerals precipitate out of the water and settle in the heater. This sediment traps water bubbles, which pop as they are heated. This can overheat the tank and shorten its life. We offer water heater maintenance and flushing to remove this sediment.
Can you fix a leaking water heater?
It depends on where the leak is. If the leak is coming from a valve or a pipe connection, we can usually repair it. However, if the tank itself is leaking, it cannot be repaired safely. A water heater leaking from bottom usually indicates internal corrosion and a crack in the tank. In this case, the unit must be replaced immediately to prevent flooding.
Pipe Repair, Repiping, and Leak Detection
How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?
Hidden leaks can be tricky. Look for signs like a sudden increase in your water bill, the sound of running water when all taps are off, warm spots on the floor, or damp patches on walls or ceilings. If you suspect a leak, call us for leak detection. We use advanced equipment to locate leaks without destroying your home.
What is a slab leak?
A slab leak is a leak in the water lines that run beneath the concrete foundation of your home. This is a common issue in Mission Viejo due to soil shifting and copper pipe corrosion. Slab leaks can cause significant damage to your foundation and flooring. We specialize in slab leak repair and can offer solutions like rerouting pipes to solve the problem permanently.
What is repiping?
Repiping involves replacing the old supply pipes in your home with new ones. If your home has old galvanized pipes that are rusting, or copper pipes that are developing pinhole leaks, repiping is the best long term solution. We offer repiping services using durable PEX or copper piping. This improves water pressure and water quality.
Why is my water pressure low?
Low water pressure can be caused by mineral buildup in old pipes, a hidden leak, or a failing pressure regulator. If the pressure is low at only one fixture, it is likely a clogged aerator. If it is low throughout the house, it could be a main line issue. We are the low water pressure plumber who can find the root cause and restore strong flow.
Do you repair frozen pipes?
Yes. While rare in Southern California, freezing temperatures can occur. If a pipe freezes and bursts, we provide frozen pipe repair. We can also insulate exposed pipes to prevent this from happening in the future.
Fixture Installation and Repair
Can you replace my old toilet?
Absolutely. We offer toilet installation services. We can remove your old, inefficient toilet and install a new water saving model. We ensure the new toilet is seated correctly and does not leak.
My faucet is dripping. Can it be fixed?
Yes, a leaking faucet repair is one of our most common services. We can replace the internal cartridge, washers, or seals to stop the drip. If the faucet is old or corroded, we might suggest faucet installation to give your sink a fresh look and better performance.
Do you install garbage disposals?
Yes, we provide garbage disposal installation and repair. If your disposal is jammed or humming, we can often fix it. If the motor is burned out or the housing is cracked, we can replace it with a high quality new unit.
Can you install a new shower valve?
Yes. If your shower temperature is hard to control or leaks behind the wall, you may need a shower valve replacement. This is a precise job that involves working inside the wall. Our technicians are skilled at performing this repair with minimal disruption to your bathroom tile.
Do you help with bathroom and kitchen remodels?
Yes, we are the bathroom remodel plumber and kitchen remodel plumbing team you need. We can move drains, install new supply lines, and fit all your new fixtures. We work with you to ensure your new space is both beautiful and functional.
Gas Line Services
Do you install gas lines for BBQs?
Yes, we provide gas line installation for outdoor kitchens, BBQs, and fire pits. We can run a new line from your meter to your patio, allowing you to stop using propane tanks.
Can you move a gas line for a new stove?
Yes. If you are remodeling your kitchen and moving the location of your stove, we can extend or relocate the gas line to the new position. We ensure all connections are secure and code compliant.
Miscellaneous Plumbing Questions
What is hard water and does it affect my plumbing?
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. Mission Viejo California has hard water. These minerals build up inside pipes, water heaters, and fixtures, reducing efficiency and causing damage over time. We can discuss water softener installation to protect your home from these effects.
Why is my toilet running?
A running toilet is usually caused by a worn out flapper that is not sealing the tank, or a fill valve that is set too high. This wastes a tremendous amount of water. We can perform a quick toilet repair to adjust or replace these components.
Do you handle dishwasher installations?
Yes, we act as a dishwasher hookup plumber. We ensure the water supply and drain lines are connected correctly. We also check for the proper air gap to prevent sink water from backing up into the dishwasher.
Can you fix a leak in the wall or ceiling?
Yes. A leak in the wall or ceiling is urgent. We handle wall leak repair and ceiling leak plumber tasks. We locate the source of the leak, cut access to repair the pipe, and verify that the leak is stopped.
What causes low water pressure in the shower?
This can be caused by a clogged showerhead, a restrictive flow restrictor, or an issue with the shower valve. We can clean or replace the showerhead and check the valve to restore pressure.
How do I prevent clogged drains?
The best prevention is to watch what goes down the drain. Do not pour grease down the kitchen sink. Use hair catchers in the shower and tub. Do not flush wipes or sanitary products down the toilet. Regular plumbing maintenance and inspection can also catch small issues before they become big clogs.
What is a pressure regulator?
A pressure regulator is a valve on your main water line that controls the pressure of the water entering your home. High water pressure can damage pipes and appliances. If your regulator fails, you might experience banging pipes or leaks. We can test your pressure and replace the regulator if needed.
About Mission Viejo Plumbing Pros
Are you a local company?
Yes, we are proudly local. We serve the community where we live and work. We are dedicated to providing the best plumbing services to our neighbors in Mission Viejo.
How do I contact you?
You can contact us by calling our office. We are available to answer your questions and schedule service. For emergencies, please call us immediately so we can dispatch a technician.
Do you guarantee your work?
We are committed to quality and stand behind every job we do. We want you to be completely satisfied with our service. If there is ever an issue with our workmanship, we will make it right.
Do you offer maintenance plans?
Yes, we offer plumbing maintenance services. Regular check ups can identify potential problems early and save you money on emergency repairs. We can inspect your water heater, check water pressure, and test shut off valves annually.
Service Areas & Zip Codes
Mission Viejo, California:
92690, 92691, 92692, 92653
Capistrano Beach:
92624
Nearby Service Areas:
Lake Forest: 92630
Laguna Hills: 92653, 92654
Laguna Niguel: 92677
Rancho Santa Margarita: 92688
Ladera Ranch: 92694
Aliso Viejo: 92656
San Juan Capistrano: 92675
Dana Point: 92629
San Clemente: 92672, 92673