Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions – La Mirada Plumbing Pros
Welcome to the La Mirada Plumbing Pros FAQ page. We understand that plumbing issues can be confusing and stressful for homeowners and business owners alike. Whether you are dealing with a sudden emergency or planning a renovation, you likely have questions about the process, the causes of your issues, and the best solutions available. We have compiled this comprehensive guide to answer the most common inquiries we receive from our neighbors in La Mirada California. Our goal is to provide you with clear, helpful information so you can make informed decisions about your plumbing system. If you do not see your specific question listed here, please contact us directly. We are the local plumbing expert ready to assist you.
General Plumbing Inquiries
What areas do you serve?
We are a locally focused company dedicated to serving La Mirada California and the surrounding communities. Our primary service area covers all neighborhoods within La Mirada, but we also extend our services to nearby cities including Whittier, Buena Park, Fullerton, La Habra, Cerritos, Santa Fe Springs, and Norwalk. We are the plumber near me that you can rely on for prompt arrival and local knowledge. We understand the specific plumbing challenges inherent to this region, such as hard water and soil conditions that affect pipe integrity.
Do you offer services for both residential and commercial properties?
Yes, we are a full service plumbing company equipped to handle the needs of both residential and commercial clients. Whether you need a residential plumber to fix a kitchen sink clog in your home or a commercial plumber to handle a main sewer line replacement for a restaurant or office building, we have the expertise and equipment. We understand that businesses have unique requirements regarding scheduling and capacity, and we tailor our services to minimize disruption to your operations.
What are your operating hours?
Plumbing problems do not adhere to a standard nine to five schedule, and neither do we. We operate as a 24 hour plumber offering 24 7 plumbing help. You can contact us at any time of the day or night, including weekends and holidays. Whether you need a weekend plumber open on Saturdays for a convenience call or an emergency plumber at 3 AM for a burst pipe repair, our team is standing by to respond to your needs.
Emergency Plumbing Questions
What constitutes a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is generally defined as any situation that poses an immediate threat to your property or your health. This includes issues like a burst pipe repair need where water is flooding your home, a sewage backup where wastewater is entering your living space, or a complete loss of water service. If you see water on floor near water heater or hear water rushing inside a wall, these are also emergencies. Essentially, if waiting until normal business hours would cause significant damage or safety risks, you need our fast emergency service.
What should I do if I smell gas?
URGENT SAFETY WARNING: If you smell gas, hear a hissing sound near a gas line, or suspect a gas leak in your home or business, you must go outside and call 911 immediately. This is a serious emergency that needs urgent attention from emergency responders and utility providers. Do not use any electrical switches, do not use your phone inside the house, and do not light any matches. Once the area is declared safe by the authorities, contact us for professional gas line repair.
How can I stop a flood before you arrive?
If you are experiencing a major leak, the first step is to perform an emergency water shut off. Every home has a main water shut off valve, usually located near the front of the house or in the garage. Turning this valve clockwise will cut off the water supply to the entire property, stopping the active leak. If the leak is isolated to a specific fixture, like a toilet or sink, look for the isolation valve on the wall behind or underneath the fixture and turn it off. Knowing where these valves are before an emergency occurs is a vital part of home plumbing maintenance.
Drain Cleaning and Clog Removal
Why is my kitchen sink draining slowly?
A slow draining kitchen sink is often caused by the accumulation of grease, soap scum, and food particles inside the pipe. Over time, these substances build up on the inner walls of the drain, creating a narrow passage that restricts flow. If your kitchen sink drain keeps backing up, it is likely that this sludge has formed a significant blockage. We recommend professional drain cleaning to remove this buildup completely rather than just pushing a hole through it.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?
We generally advise against using chemical drain cleaners available at grocery stores. These products rely on harsh acids or caustics to dissolve clogs. While they might provide temporary relief for minor blockages, they can generate excessive heat that damages plastic pipes and corrodes metal pipes. Furthermore, if the chemical fails to clear the clog, it sits in the pipe, creating a hazard for the plumber who eventually comes to fix it. Mechanical methods like snaking or hydro jetting are far safer and more effective for clogged drain repair.
What is hydro jetting and do I need it?
Hydro jetting is an advanced method of sewer drain cleaning that uses high pressure water streams to scour the interior of your pipes. Unlike a traditional snake, which may only punch a hole through a blockage, hydro jetting removes grease, scale, roots, and debris completely, restoring the pipe to a like new condition. You may need hydro jetting if you experience recurring clogs, have a grease blockage in a kitchen line, or have root intrusion in your main sewer line. It is the most effective solution for long term flow restoration.
Why does my toilet clog frequently?
If you need a clogged toilet plumber near me on a regular basis, there is likely an underlying issue. It could be due to an obstruction trapped in the trapway, such as a toy or a toothbrush. It could also be caused by using too much toilet paper or flushing non flushable items like “flushable” wipes, which do not break down easily. In some cases, a frequently clogged toilet indicates a blockage further down in the main sewer line or a vent pipe issue that is preventing the toilet from flushing with enough force. We can diagnose the root cause and provide the appropriate toilet clog repair.
Water Heater Services
My water heater is making a rumbling noise. What does this mean?
Rumbling or banging noises coming from your water heater are typically caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. In La Mirada California, hard water minerals precipitate out of the water when heated and settle in the tank. This layer of sediment traps water underneath it. When the burner heats the tank, the trapped water boils and bubbles up through the sediment, creating the noise. This condition makes your unit work harder and can lead to overheating. We offer flushing services to remove this sediment and resolve the noisy banging pipes in walls sound.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
The decision to repair or replace depends on the age of the unit, the cost of the repair, and the overall condition of the tank. Generally, if your water heater is over 10 years old and requires a major repair, water heater replacement is the more succinct financial choice. If the tank itself is leaking, it must be replaced immediately. However, if the issue is a minor component like a thermocouple or a heating element, water heater repair is often a cost effective solution. We provide honest assessments to help you make the right choice.
What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?
A tankless water heater heats water on demand rather than storing it in a large tank. The primary benefits include endless hot water, as you never run out of a stored supply, and increased energy efficiency, as you are not paying to keep 40 or 50 gallons of water hot 24/7. They also save significant space in your garage or closet. We are the tankless water heater install expert team in La Mirada. We can evaluate your home to see if your gas line and electrical system can support a tankless upgrade.
Why do I have no hot water?
A no hot water plumber call is one of our most frequent requests. In a gas water heater, this is often due to the pilot light going out, a gas supply issue, or a faulty gas control valve. In an electric water heater, it is usually caused by a tripped circuit breaker, a failed heating element, or a broken thermostat. Our technicians can troubleshoot these components quickly to restore your hot water supply. We offer water heater repair same day service to minimize your inconvenience.
Pipes, Leaks, and Repiping
How do I know if I have a hidden leak?
Hidden leaks can be tricky to spot until they cause damage. Common signs include a sudden, unexplained increase in your water bill, the sound of running water when no appliances are in use, warm spots on your floor (indicating a hot water slab leak), or damp, discolored patches on your walls or ceilings. If you suspect a leak, contact us for leak detection services. We use specialized electronic equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak without damaging your property unnecessarily.
What is a slab leak?
A slab leak occurs when a water pipe running beneath the concrete foundation of your home breaks or corrodes. This can be caused by shifting soil, poor installation, or the chemical reaction between copper pipes and the concrete. Slab leaks are serious because they can erode the soil supporting your foundation and cause significant water damage. We specialize in slab leak repair, often recommending rerouting the piping through the walls and ceiling as a less invasive and more permanent solution than jackhammering up the floor.
Why do I have low water pressure?
If you are wondering why is my water pressure low, there are several potential causes. It could be a simple issue like a clogged aerator on your faucet or a partially closed shut off valve. However, it can also indicate a more serious problem like a hidden underground water line leak, a failing pressure regulator, or corroded galvanized pipes that have narrowed on the inside. We are the plumber to fix low water pressure issues. We start with a comprehensive diagnosis to find the source of the restriction and then recommend the appropriate fix.
What are the signs that I need repiping?
Many older homes in La Mirada were built with galvanized steel pipes. Over time, these pipes rust from the inside out. Signs that you need whole house repiping services include rust colored water from taps, persistent low water pressure, frequent leaks, and visible corrosion on exposed pipes. If your plumbing system is reaching the end of its lifespan, replacing it with modern copper or PEX piping is the best way to protect your home and improve water quality. We are the best plumber for older homes looking to modernize their plumbing infrastructure.
Fixtures and Kitchen Plumbing
My faucet is dripping. Can it be fixed?
Yes, a leaking faucet repair is a standard service we provide. A dripping faucet is usually caused by worn out internal washers, O-rings, or a corroded valve seat. While a small drip might seem minor, it can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time and increase your utility bill. We can repair most faucets by replacing these internal parts. However, if the faucet is old or the finish is damaged, we may recommend faucet installation of a new, more efficient model.
Can you install a garbage disposal provided by the homeowner?
Yes, we are happy to perform garbage disposal installation for a unit you have purchased yourself. However, we also carry high quality professional grade disposals on our trucks if you prefer us to supply one. If your current unit is humming but not grinding, or if it is leaking, you likely need garbage disposal repair or replacement. We ensure that the new unit is connected securely to the sink and the dishwasher drain, preventing future leaks and vibration issues.
What can I put down my garbage disposal?
To avoid a garbage disposal jammed won’t turn situation, be selective about what you grind. Safe items include soft food scraps, fruit peelings (citrus helps clean it), and small vegetable scraps. You should strictly avoid putting fibrous materials like celery and corn husks, starchy foods like pasta and rice (which expand), coffee grounds, eggshells, and bones down the disposal. Most importantly, never pour grease or oil down the drain, as this leads to severe clogs requiring professional drain cleaning.
My toilet keeps running. What should I do?
A toilet keeps running what to do inquiry usually points to a flapper valve that is not sealing properly or a fill valve that is not shutting off. This wastes a tremendous amount of water. You can try jiggling the handle, but this is a temporary fix. We can replace the internal components of the toilet tank to resolve the issue permanently. If the toilet is very old, toilet installation of a new low flow model might be a better investment for water savings.
Commercial Plumbing
How fast can you respond to a commercial plumbing issue?
We understand that for a business, plumbing issues mean lost revenue. We prioritize commercial calls and act as a fast response plumber to get your facilities back up and running. Whether it is a clogged grease trap in a restaurant or a broken toilet in an office building, we aim to be on site as quickly as possible. We offer fast emergency service for critical issues that affect your ability to operate.
Do you offer maintenance plans for businesses?
Yes, preventative maintenance is crucial for commercial properties. We offer commercial drain cleaning schedules to prevent backups during peak hours, water heater inspections, and general plumbing checkups. Regular maintenance helps identify potential failures before they become emergencies. We work with property managers as the plumber for condo or apartment complexes to keep multiple units running smoothly.
Hiring and Trust
Are you a local company?
Yes, La Mirada Plumbing Pros is a locally based company. We live and work in the La Mirada community. We are not a national franchise; we are your neighbors. This allows us to be the local plumber expert who truly cares about the reputation we build in our town. We are familiar with the local building codes and the common plumbing issues specific to our area.
What makes you different from other plumbers?
We differentiate ourselves through our commitment to quality, honesty, and customer service. We do not use “cheap rates” to lure customers in only to upcharge later. We provide transparent assessments and high quality workmanship. We are a full service plumbing company, meaning we handle every aspect of the job from start to finish. We treat your home with respect, using drop cloths and cleaning up after ourselves. We strive to be the trustworthy plumber you recommend to your friends and family.
Do you help with plumbing inspections for home buyers?
Absolutely. A plumbing inspection before buying house is one of the smartest investments a prospective buyer can make. Standard home inspectors often do not have the specialized tools to inspect sewer lines or detect slab leaks. We perform a thorough plumbing inspection, including a video camera inspection of the main sewer line, to reveal any hidden issues. This information can save you thousands of dollars in future repairs and give you peace of mind during the buying process.
Specific Issues and Troubleshooting
Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?
A rotten egg smell is typically caused by hydrogen sulfide gas. If the smell is coming from the hot water only, it is likely due to bacteria reacting with the magnesium anode rod in your water heater. We can remedy this by replacing the anode rod with an aluminum one and flushing the tank. If the smell is coming from both hot and cold water, it may indicate a problem with the municipal water supply or a lack of use in a guest bathroom allowing the trap to dry out (allowing sewer gas in). We can help diagnose the source of the odor.
What should I do if my pipes are frozen?
While deep freezes are rare in La Mirada California, they can happen. If you suspect a frozen pipe, do not use an open flame to thaw it. Open the faucet connected to the pipe to allow water to flow as it melts. You can gently heat the pipe with a hair dryer or space heater. If the pipe has already burst, perform an emergency water shut off and call us for frozen pipe repair immediately. We can replace the split section of pipe and insulate it to prevent recurrence.
How do I find the main water shut off valve?
Locating your main water shut off valve is essential. In most La Mirada homes, it is located on the front exterior wall of the house, often near the garden hose spigot, or in a ground box near the street curb. Sometimes it is inside the garage. It usually has a wheel handle (gate valve) or a lever handle (ball valve). If you cannot find it, ask one of our technicians during a service visit. We are happy to show you exactly where it is and tag it for easy identification during an emergency.
Can you fix a leak in the wall without destroying the wall?
While we need access to the pipe to fix a leaking pipe in wall, we strive to minimize the damage. We use precision leak detection to find the exact spot, so we only remove a small section of drywall. In some cases, such as with a slab leak, we can reroute the pipe through an attic or closet to avoid opening up the wall in the main living area. We always discuss the options with you before cutting into your home.
Conclusion
We hope this FAQ page has answered many of your questions regarding our services and plumbing in general. At La Mirada Plumbing Pros, we believe that an informed customer is a happy customer. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of service for all your plumbing needs, from drain cleaning near me to complex gas line installation. We are the residential plumber and commercial plumber you can trust for quality, safety, and reliability.
If you have a question that was not answered here, or if you are ready to schedule service, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are ready to listen to your needs and provide the best solution for your home or business.
Contact us today to speak with a plumbing professional or to schedule your service.
Service Areas and Zip Codes
We are proud to serve residents and businesses in La Mirada, California and the surrounding communities. Our service area includes the following zip codes and nearby locations:
- La Mirada: 90637, 90638, 90639
- Whittier: 90601, 90602, 90603, 90604, 90605
- Buena Park: 90620, 90621, 90622, 90623, 90624
- Fullerton: 92831, 92832, 92833, 92835
- La Habra: 90631, 90632, 90633
- Cerritos: 90703
- Santa Fe Springs: 90670, 90671
- Norwalk: 90650, 90651, 90652
If you live in La Mirada or any of these neighboring cities and need a trusted plumber, contact La Mirada Plumbing Pros. We are your local experts.