Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At #1 Honest Plumber Inc., we believe in clear communication, upfront answers, and empowering our clients with knowledge. Here are 25 of the most frequently asked questions we receive from South Bay homeowners—along with detailed, honest answers to help you make informed decisions about your home plumbing system.
1. What do you charge for free estimates?
We provide honest, upfront pricing and transparent free estimates. There are no hidden charges or aggressive upsells. We’ll walk you through your options and let you decide what’s best for your home and budget.
2. What's the difference between hydro jetting and snaking?
Snaking involves using a rotating metal cable to break through clogs. It creates a hole for water to pass but often leaves residue behind. Hydro jetting, on the other hand, uses high-pressure water (up to 4,000 PSI) to scour the entire pipe clean, removing grease, debris, and roots for a longer-lasting solution.
3. How long do water heaters last?
Traditional tank water heaters generally last 8 to 12 years, depending on maintenance and water quality. Tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand, often last 20 years or more. Regular flushing and maintenance can extend the life of any unit.
4. What are signs my water heater is failing?
Look out for rusty or discolored water, inconsistent hot water, rumbling noises from the tank, water pooling around the base, or a noticeable drop in water temperature or pressure. These may indicate sediment buildup, corrosion, or a failing heating element.
5. Can tree roots really damage my plumbing?
Yes. Tree roots are a leading cause of sewer line damage. They naturally seek out moisture and can infiltrate even tiny cracks in clay or cast iron pipes. Once inside, they expand and block wastewater flow, often leading to backups and significant pipe damage.
6. How do I know if I have a slab leak?
Slab leaks can be tricky to detect but common signs include unusually high water bills, the sound of running water when no taps are open, warm or damp spots on flooring, and cracks in the foundation or walls. Early detection prevents major structural damage.
7. Are tankless water heaters worth the cost?
For many homeowners, yes. While the upfront cost is higher, tankless systems offer endless hot water, are energy-efficient, take up less space, and can last twice as long as traditional models. They’re especially worthwhile in homes with high hot water usage or space constraints.
8. Do you offer trenchless sewer repair?
Yes. We specialize in trenchless technologies like cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining and pipe bursting, which allow us to repair or replace underground pipes with minimal digging, preserving landscaping and saving time and money.
9. How can I prevent plumbing issues during the rainy season?
Start by having your sewer line inspected and cleared. Test sump pumps and drainage systems to ensure they’re functioning. Install or check your backwater valve to prevent sewage backups. Also, inspect your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage away from your foundation.
10. What causes low water pressure?
Common causes include mineral buildup in pipes, aging or corroded plumbing, partially closed shutoff valves, or issues with the municipal water supply. We perform diagnostic testing to pinpoint and resolve pressure problems.
11. Can I pour grease down the sink with hot water?
No. Grease may go down while hot, but it solidifies as it cools—often within your pipes—causing sticky clogs over time. Always let grease cool and dispose of it in the trash or a designated container.
12. Do you service older homes?
Yes. We’re highly experienced with homes built in the early- to mid-20th century. We understand how to work with older plumbing materials like galvanized steel, cast iron, and clay, and we offer respectful solutions that preserve the home’s integrity while modernizing the plumbing system.
13. Should I upgrade to PEX piping?
In many cases, yes. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a durable, flexible alternative to traditional copper or galvanized piping. It’s resistant to corrosion and freezing, easier to install, and ideal for retrofits and earthquake-prone areas.
14. What's the difference between hard and soft water?
Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. Over time, it leads to scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, and appliances. Soft water is treated to remove these minerals, improving water flow and reducing maintenance.
15. Do you install whole-home water filtration systems?
Yes. We install and maintain advanced filtration systems that remove chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants from your entire household water supply. Great for families with health concerns or poor water quality.
16. Is a leaky faucet a big deal?
Over time, yes. A slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year and may also lead to mold, rust, or higher water bills. Often, a quick repair or inexpensive part can fix the issue.
17. Can I use chemical drain cleaners?
It’s not recommended. These products are highly corrosive and can damage your pipes—especially older ones. They’re also harmful to the environment and septic systems. We recommend mechanical methods like snaking or hydro jetting instead.
18. How often should I schedule a plumbing inspection?
We recommend a full plumbing inspection every 1–2 years. More frequent inspections may be needed for older homes or if you’ve experienced issues in the past. Regular check-ups catch small problems before they become costly emergencies.
19. Do I really need a sewer camera inspection before buying a home?
Absolutely. A sewer camera inspection reveals hidden issues in the main sewer line—such as cracks, bellies, root intrusion, or collapsed sections—that a standard home inspection does not cover. These issues can cost thousands to repair and may not show symptoms until after you move in. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make during the home buying process.
20. Can plumbing work increase my property value?
Definitely. Upgrades like tankless water heaters, smart leak detection systems, new PEX piping, and modernized fixtures appeal to buyers and appraisers alike—especially in competitive Bay Area real estate markets.
21. What's a backwater valve?
A backwater valve is a one-way valve installed in your main sewer line. It prevents wastewater from backing up into your home during heavy rains or city sewer overloads—a critical device for flood-prone areas.
22. Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured in the state of California. Our license number and insurance details are available upon request. You can trust us to provide professional, code-compliant service.
23. Do you offer emergency plumbing services?
Yes. We’re available for urgent plumbing repairs, including burst pipes, sewer backups, water heater failures, and major leaks. Call our main line and we’ll dispatch help as quickly as possible.
24. Can I finance major plumbing repairs?
We do not offer financing options at this time. However, we are looking into providing this service in the future. If you have any questions or need updates, please ask our team.
25. How do I book a service call?
You can schedule by calling 650-422-4736, 408-230-9190, or visiting our website at https://1honestplumber.com. We also offer online booking for your convenience.
Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help—honestly.
