Plumbing Questions Answered: Homeowners and Contractors

How long does a water heater last?

A conventional tank (storage) water heater lasts about 10 to 15 years, and a tankless water heater lasts about 20 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Actual life depends on water quality, usage and maintenance. Rust-colored water, leaks around the base, or rumbling noises are common signs a tank is near the end of its life, so have a plumber inspect it before it fails.

Source: Which Water Heater Is Right for You? (U.S. Department of Energy)

Should I choose a tank or a tankless water heater?

It depends on your household's hot water demand, the fuel available, and how much installation work the home needs. Tankless units heat water on demand and the Department of Energy lists them as lasting about 20 years, versus about 10 to 15 years for a storage tank. Tank units are simpler to swap in most existing homes. A plumber can size either type to your household and check gas line, venting and electrical requirements.

Source: Which Water Heater Is Right for You? (U.S. Department of Energy)

How can I tell if my toilet is leaking?

Put a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank and wait 10 minutes without flushing. If color shows up in the bowl, the toilet is leaking, usually through a worn flapper. This is the test the EPA WaterSense program recommends. Flush right after the test so the dye does not stain the tank.

Source: Fix a Leak Week (EPA WaterSense)

How much water does a small leak really waste?

More than most people expect: the EPA estimates the average household's leaks can waste more than 9,300 gallons of water a year. Nationwide, household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons annually. Dripping faucets, running toilets and leaky valves are the usual culprits, and most are quick repairs.

Source: Fix a Leak Week (EPA WaterSense)

Why is my drain slow or clogged?

Most slow drains are caused by buildup: hair and soap in bathroom drains, and grease, food scraps and coffee grounds in kitchen drains. Wipes and paper towels are a common cause of toilet and main line clogs because they do not break apart the way toilet paper does. If several drains are slow at once, or a toilet gurgles when the sink drains, the problem may be in the main sewer line and needs a plumber.

What should I do if a pipe bursts?

Shut off the main water valve right away, then call a plumber. Know where the main shutoff is before you need it (it is often near the water meter, in a basement, crawl space or garage). If water is near outlets, appliances or the electrical panel, stay out of the wet area and have the power shut off safely. Photograph the damage before cleanup if you plan to file an insurance claim.

Why does my house smell like sewer gas?

The most common cause is a dry drain trap, which happens when a sink, tub or floor drain goes unused and the water seal evaporates. Running water into the drain for a minute usually refills the trap and stops the smell. If the odor persists, it can point to a failed toilet wax ring, a cracked pipe or a vent problem that a plumber should inspect. If you smell a rotten egg odor that could be natural gas, leave the home and call your gas utility from outside.

What temperature should my water heater be set to?

Set it as low as still meets your household's needs, since turning down the water heater thermostat is one of the Department of Energy's main recommendations for lowering water heating costs. A lower setting also reduces the risk of scalding. Households with young children, older adults, or particular health needs should ask a plumber what setting fits their situation.

Source: Water Heating (U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Saver)

How should a plumber price a service call?

Price from your own numbers: labor cost per billable hour, overhead, vehicle and fuel, and the profit margin you need, not from what a competitor charges. Many plumbing companies use flat-rate pricing so the customer approves a fixed price before work starts, while others bill time and materials. Pricing varies widely by market and job type, so review your rates against your actual job costs regularly.

Do I need a license to work as a plumber?

In most places, yes, but the rules differ by state and sometimes by city or county. Some states license plumbers at the state level through a dedicated board, for example the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, which oversees master plumbers, journeymen, apprentices and inspectors. Other states leave licensing to local jurisdictions. Check with your state licensing board and local building department before taking work.

Source: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Do I need a permit to replace a water heater?

Often, yes. Many jurisdictions require a permit and inspection for water heater replacement because of gas, venting and pressure relief requirements. Rules vary by city and county, so check with the local building department before the job. Pulling the permit protects the homeowner and creates a record that the installation met code.

How can a plumbing company win more of the estimates it sends?

Follow up quickly and consistently. Many estimates are lost simply because nobody checked back, so set a schedule to contact every open estimate within a few days. Offering clear options (for example repair now versus replace) and explaining the difference in plain language helps the customer decide. Photos of the problem attached to the estimate also make the recommendation easier to trust.