Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions | Prescott Plumbing Pros
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. At Prescott Plumbing Pros, we believe that an informed homeowner is an empowered homeowner. We understand that plumbing systems can be complex, especially given the unique environmental factors we face here in the Central Highlands. From the freezing temperatures of winter to the mineral rich water that flows through our pipes, maintaining a home in Prescott requires specific knowledge and care. We have compiled this extensive list of common questions to help you understand your plumbing system better. Whether you are dealing with a midnight emergency or planning a bathroom renovation, we are here to provide clear, professional answers. We are your local plumbing expert, committed to serving our community with integrity and skill.
General Service Questions
Why should I hire a professional plumber instead of doing it myself?
While DIY projects can be satisfying, plumbing requires a specific set of skills, tools, and knowledge of local building codes. A professional residential plumber has the training to diagnose issues correctly and fix them permanently. DIY repairs often act as temporary bandages. For example, overtightening a connection can crack a fitting, leading to a slow leak inside a wall that causes extensive mold damage over time. Additionally, working with water heaters and gas lines presents safety risks that are best handled by trained technicians. By hiring Prescott Plumbing Pros, you are investing in the long term health and safety of your property.
What areas do you serve?
We are proud to serve the entire Prescott area and the surrounding communities in the Central Highlands. This includes the historic downtown districts, the expanding neighborhoods of Prescott Valley and Chino Valley, and the custom homes in Williamson. We are a local plumbing company dedicated to our neighbors. Whether you have a cabin in the pines or a ranch in the valley, we are your plumber near me for reliable service.
Do you offer services for commercial properties?
Yes, we are a full service commercial plumber. We understand that the plumbing needs of a business are vastly different from those of a residence. Commercial systems see higher usage volume and require specialized fixtures and larger piping. We handle everything from commercial water heater repair and grease trap maintenance to urinal repair and system upgrades. We also offer after hours plumber services to ensure that repairs can be performed without disrupting your business operations or inconveniencing your customers.
How do I know if I have a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is typically defined as any situation that threatens your property, health, or ability to access essential water services. This includes burst pipes, sewage backups, gas leaks, and a complete lack of water. If water is actively flooding your home or if you cannot use your toilet due to a main line blockage, you need an emergency plumber immediately. We offer 24 7 plumbing help to address these critical issues. If the issue is a dripping faucet or a slow drain, it can likely wait for a scheduled appointment, but we always recommend contacting us if you are unsure.
Winter Weather and Frozen Pipes
Why do pipes freeze in Prescott?
Unlike the lower deserts of Arizona, Prescott experiences significant freezing temperatures during the winter. When water freezes, it expands. If this happens inside a pipe, the pressure builds up until the pipe splits or cracks. Pipes located in uninsulated attics, crawl spaces, or exterior walls are most at risk. We specialize in frozen pipe repair and can help you thaw pipes safely before they burst.
What should I do if my pipes are frozen?
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out during a cold snap, suspect a frozen pipe. Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe. Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials). Do not use a blowtorch or open flame device. If you cannot locate the frozen area or if the pipe has already burst, contact us immediately for burst pipe repair.
How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?
Prevention is the best strategy. We recommend disconnecting garden hoses from outdoor faucets in the fall. We can install frost proof hose bibs to protect these vulnerable points. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. During extreme cold, you can let a trickle of cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing. We offer winterization services to help you prepare your home for the Prescott winter.
Emergency Plumbing Questions
What is the first thing I should do in a plumbing emergency?
The most important step is to stop the flow of water. You should familiarize yourself with the location of your main water shut off valve. In Prescott homes, this is often located where the water line enters the house or in a meter box near the street. Turning this valve clockwise will shut off water to the entire house. If the emergency involves an electrical appliance like a water heater, turn off the breaker at your electrical panel. Once the water is off, contact our fast response plumber to assess the damage and begin repairs.
Are you available on weekends and holidays?
Yes, plumbing disasters do not respect business hours or holidays. We function as a weekend plumber and a holiday plumber to ensure you are never left without support. Whether your kitchen sink clogs on Thanksgiving or a pipe bursts on a Sunday morning, we have technicians on standby. We are your 24 hour plumber resource in the Central Highlands.
My toilet is overflowing. What should I do?
If your toilet is overflowing, look for the shut off valve located on the wall behind the toilet near the floor. Turn it clockwise to stop the water supply. If the valve is stuck or missing, remove the tank lid and lift the float ball to stop the fill valve from running. Then contact us for overflowing toilet help. We can clear the blockage and repair the toilet mechanisms to prevent it from happening again.
Water Heater Repair and Installation
My water heater is making a popping noise. Is it dangerous?
A popping or rumbling noise from your water heater is usually caused by sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank. In Prescott, our hard water contains minerals that settle out when heated, forming a layer of scale. The noise is steam bubbles trapped under this sediment escaping. While not immediately explosive, this buildup causes the heater to overheat and work inefficiently, which can lead to premature tank failure. We offer water heater maintenance services to flush the tank and remove this sediment.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
This decision depends on the age and condition of the unit. The average lifespan of a traditional tank water heater is about 8 to 12 years. If your unit is within this age range and requires a minor repair like a thermostat or element replacement, repair is often a good option. However, if the tank itself is leaking or if the unit is over 12 years old, water heater replacement is usually more cost effective in the long run. Investing in a new, energy efficient model can save you money on utility bills and prevent emergency floods.
Is a tankless water heater right for my home in Prescott?
A tankless water heater heats water on demand rather than storing it in a large tank. This means you never run out of hot water, which is ideal for large families. They are also more energy efficient. However, because groundwater temperatures in Prescott can be very cold in the winter, it is crucial to size the unit correctly to ensure it can raise the water temperature sufficiently. We are your local tankless water heater install expert and can determine if your gas line and electrical capacity are suitable for a tankless system.
Why is my hot water rust colored?
Rust colored hot water is a sign that the inside of your water heater tank is corroding. Every tank is equipped with an anode rod designed to attract corrosive elements and sacrifice itself to save the tank. If this rod is depleted, the tank begins to rust. If caught early, replacing the anode rod can help. However, if the rust is significant, you likely need a new water heater. If the rust appears in both hot and cold water, the issue may be with your galvanized pipes requiring repiping services.
Drain Cleaning and Sewer Line Services
Why do my drains keep clogging?
Frequent clogging can be caused by several factors. In the kitchen, it is often due to grease and food scraps building up in the pipes. In the bathroom, hair and soap scum are the usual culprits. However, if multiple drains are clogging or if you experience backups in the shower when flushing the toilet, you may have a main sewer line blockage. In Prescott, tree roots invading sewer lines are a very common cause of persistent clogs. We offer video camera inspections to see exactly what is causing the problem and recommend the best drain cleaning solution.
Is hydro jetting safe for my pipes?
Hydro jetting is a highly effective and generally safe method for cleaning pipes. It uses high pressure water to scour the interior walls of the drain, removing grease, scale, roots, and sludge. Unlike a traditional snake that just pokes a hole in the clog, hydro jetting cleans the pipe to a like new condition. It is safe for most plumbing systems, but we always perform an inspection first to ensure the pipes are structurally sound. This is the best plumbing service for restoring full flow to your system.
Can tree roots really damage my sewer line?
Yes, tree roots are a leading cause of sewer line damage in our area. Roots seek out moisture and nutrients, and a sewer pipe is a perfect source. They can enter through tiny cracks or loose joints in older clay or concrete pipes. Once inside, they grow rapidly, catching debris and causing blockages. As they expand, they can break the pipe completely. We use specialized cutting blades and hydro jetting to remove roots. In severe cases, we perform water line replacement or sewer repair to install root resistant materials.
Leak Detection and Pipe Repair
I have a high water bill but no visible leak. What is wrong?
A sudden spike in your water bill is a classic sign of a hidden leak. You may have a leak in the service line running from the meter to your house, or a slab leak under your foundation. Even a running toilet can waste thousands of gallons. We offer leak detection services using sensitive acoustic equipment to listen for the sound of escaping water underground or in walls. Finding and fixing these leaks quickly pays for itself in water savings.
What is a slab leak?
A slab leak is a water leak occurring in the copper or plastic pipes buried beneath the concrete foundation of your home. It can be caused by friction, corrosion, or ground shifting. Symptoms include warm spots on the floor, the sound of running water, or cracks in the tiles. Slab leak repair can involve jackhammering the floor to access the pipe, but we often recommend rerouting the pipe through the walls or attic. This abandons the compromised line under the slab and eliminates the risk of future leaks in that section.
Why is my water pressure so high?
Prescott has varied topography with significant elevation changes. To get water to homes at higher elevations, the municipal water pressure must be high. This means homes at lower elevations can experience pressure that is unsafe for plumbing fixtures (over 80 psi). High pressure can damage water heaters, blow out faucet seals, and cause pipes to burst. We can install a pressure reducing valve (PRV) to regulate the pressure entering your home, protecting your plumbing system.
What type of pipe is best for repiping my home?
For most repiping services in Prescott, we recommend PEX (cross linked polyethylene). PEX is flexible, durable, and resistant to the scale and corrosion issues that affect copper in our hard water environment. It is also more resistant to bursting in freezing temperatures because it can expand slightly. However, we also install copper piping for specific applications. We will discuss the pros and cons of each material to help you make the best choice for your home.
Fixtures, Faucets, and Toilets
Why does my toilet run constantly?
A running toilet is usually caused by a worn out flapper that fails to seal the tank drain, or a fill valve that is not shutting off correctly. This allows water to continuously flow into the bowl. It is a common issue that wastes a significant amount of water. We provide toilet repair to replace these internal components. If the toilet is very old or the porcelain is cracked, we may recommend toilet installation of a new, high efficiency model.
Can I upgrade my bathroom fixtures without a full remodel?
Absolutely. Replacing old, dated faucets and showerheads with modern fixtures is a great way to refresh your bathroom without the cost of a full renovation. We offer plumbing fixture installation for sinks, tubs, and showers. We can install rainfall showerheads, handheld sprayers, and modern widespread faucets. This not only improves the look of your space but can also improve functionality and water efficiency.
What is the white buildup on my faucets?
The white, crusty buildup on your faucets and showerheads is calcium and magnesium deposits from hard water. This is very common in Prescott. It can restrict water flow and corrode the finish of your fixtures. You can clean it with vinegar, but for a long term solution, you might consider installing a water softener. We can help you select a water treatment system to protect your fixtures and appliances.
Kitchen Plumbing and Garbage Disposals
My garbage disposal is jammed. How do I fix it?
If your disposal is humming but not turning, it is jammed. First, turn off the switch. You can try using the hex key (Allen wrench) that came with the unit to manually turn the flywheel from the bottom. If it moves freely, press the reset button on the bottom and try again. If it is still jammed or making a loud grinding noise, contact us. We offer garbage disposal repair to safely remove obstructions. Never put your hand inside the disposal to clear a jam.
What can I safely put down my garbage disposal?
Garbage disposals are designed for soft, biodegradable food scraps. Safe items include fruit and vegetable scraps (excluding fibrous ones), cooked meat, and small amounts of citrus peels. You should avoid putting hard items like bones and fruit pits, fibrous items like celery and corn husks, and starchy foods like pasta and rice down the drain. Also, never pour grease or oil into the disposal as it solidifies and causes clogs. Proper usage prevents the need for a clogged kitchen sink fix.
Why does my dishwasher water back up into the sink?
The dishwasher typically drains through a hose connected to the garbage disposal or the sink tailpiece. If the disposal is clogged or if there is a blockage in the drain line past the trap, the water has nowhere to go but up into the sink. It can also be caused by a missing air gap or high loop in the drain hose. We can inspect the dishwasher hookup plumber connections and clean the drains to ensure the dishwasher empties correctly.
Gas Line Services
I want to switch from an electric stove to a gas range. Can you help?
Yes, we provide gas line installation to run new piping to your kitchen. We can size the pipe correctly to handle the BTU load of your new appliance. We also install lines for gas dryers, water heaters, and outdoor amenities like fire pits and barbecues in Williamson. We ensure all connections are tight and pressure tested before we leave.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Go outside call 911 immediately as this is a serious emergency that needs urgent attention. If you smell the distinct rotten egg odor of natural gas, hear a hissing sound near a pipe or appliance, or suspect a leak, do not hesitate. Do not turn any light switches on or off, do not use a phone inside the home, and do not attempt to locate the leak yourself. A spark from a switch or phone could ignite the gas. Once the emergency responders have declared the area safe, contact us to perform the necessary gas leak repair.
Local Prescott Plumbing Issues
How does hard water affect my plumbing?
Hard water is water with a high mineral content. In Prescott, this is a fact of life. Hard water causes scale buildup inside pipes, water heaters, and valves. This reduces efficiency, restricts flow, and shortens the lifespan of appliances. We recommend regular water heater maintenance to flush out sediment and can install water softeners to treat the water before it enters your plumbing system.
I live in a historic home in downtown Prescott. Do you work on older plumbing?
Yes, we have extensive experience as a plumber for older homes. We understand the unique challenges of historic properties, such as galvanized steel pipes, cast iron drains, and non standard fixture rough ins. We offer repiping services to modernize the infrastructure while preserving the character of the home. We can retrofit modern fixtures and ensure your plumbing meets current codes.
Do you service the Williamson area?
Yes, we provide full service plumbing to the Williamson area. We understand that homes in Williamson often have larger lots, longer water lines, and specific septic or well configurations (though we focus on the plumbing side). We are equipped to handle the plumbing needs of custom estates and new construction in this beautiful part of our community.
Hiring Prescott Plumbing Pros
Do you provide quotes before starting work?
We believe in transparency. While we cannot always diagnose complex issues over the phone without seeing the problem, we strive to provide clear, upfront communication about the scope of work and the costs involved. For larger projects like remodels or repiping, we can discuss the options and provide a detailed proposal. We do not offer cheap rates that hide extra fees later; we offer fair, honest pricing for quality work.
Why should I choose Prescott Plumbing Pros?
We are a locally dedicated team that cares about our community. We combine technical expertise with exceptional customer service. We are punctual, clean, and honest. We do not try to sell you services you do not need. When you have a problem, we provide a solution. From the moment you contact us to the completion of the job, we aim to exceed your expectations. We want to be the best plumber you ever hire.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Contacting us is easy. You can use our contact form or call our office to speak with a friendly representative who will schedule a time that works for you. Whether you need a plumbing inspection before buying house, a routine drain cleaning, or an emergency repair, we are ready to serve. We serve all zip codes in the Prescott area and look forward to earning your business.
Service Areas and Zip Codes:
We are proud to provide comprehensive plumbing services to residents and businesses throughout Prescott, Williamson, and the surrounding Central Highlands region. Our service areas include:
- Prescott, AZ: 86301, 86302, 86303, 86304, 86305
- Williamson, AZ: 86305
- Prescott Valley, AZ: 86312, 86314, 86315
- Chino Valley, AZ: 86323
- Dewey-Humboldt, AZ: 86327
- Groom Creek, AZ: 86303
Plumbing Pro Services
Committed To Flowing Water & Peace Of Mind
Reliable plumbing solutions for residential and commercial needs. We ensure your pipes, drains, and fixures are working perfectly.
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Don’t gamble with your plumbing. We combine years of experience with modern technology to deliver lasting repairs and installations. Our team respects your time and your property.
- Fixture Installation
- Leak Detection
- Modern Diagnostics
- Drain Cleaning