ARS Rescue RooterAir Conditioning, Heating, Indoor Air Quality, Plumbing, Drain Cleaning & Sewer Lines

On the outside of the house, I have a copper line coming out of the brick opposite the kitchen. This line just started leaking. The air conditioning has not been running, but I did repair the hot water line on the hot water heater. Where is the source of the water?

Expert Answer

Your main water supply comes from your meter underground to your water heater where it divides between hot and cold and runs to your…

When I use my Jacuzzi tub, black greasy residue sticks to the tub. It appears to be coming out of the tub faucet when I use the hot water. I don't have this problem with any of the other faucets in the home. Do you know what could be causing this to happen?

Expert Answer

It appears to me that this residue is most likely coming from the lining in your water heater. The reason you see it in the tub is…

I'm getting a buildup of dark scum in my toilets and sinks. Do you have any idea what this is? I've been in the same house since 2004, but this has only been a problem for about a year. What kind of home filtration system would be best for particulate matter?

Expert Answer

When you have a scum buildup like you describe, there can be several factors that could potentially be the cause. If you have a water filtration system installed, make sure your filters are changed frequently. …

How much would a control panel for a water heater that was installed in 2010 cost?

Expert Answer

Replacing the control panel on your hot water heater is a fairly expensive repair. Since the water heater was very recently purchased and…

The toilet flushes fine but water will not stay in the bowl; it leaks out somewhere. The landlord said to clean calcium build-up from water outlets inside the bowl but that did not work.

Expert Answer

If you are not seeing…

What can I do to fix my tankless water heater? It doesn’t heat the water in the house. Sometimes it will kick in and give me hot water but the last three days it’s been nothing but cold water. Help!

Expert Answer

The first step to correcting your problem with your tankless water heater is to look for the technical support…

I have two bathrooms and both toilets are leaking around the bottom. Previously, a plumber has come in to insert wood chips around the bottom. I don't want a quick fix. I know that it needs to be leveled. Can you give me an estimate on how much it would cost to fix both bathrooms?

Expert Answer

Leaking toilets in two bathrooms make for a very frustrating situation. My first question: Were the…

What do you charge for a service call on a leaking water heater? What is the range for a diagnostic exam/test for a leaking water heater?

Expert Answer

There is no charge to have one of our ARS/Rescue Rooter professional plumbers come out and give you an estimate on what it would cost to fix…

Background: About 2-years ago I had to have my well pump replaced. Once we waited the requisite 48-hours before turning on the water, we turned on the water only to have a muddy-looking sediment in the water. We have cleaned all the toilets - replaced the water filters - to include the tank filter that handles all water coming in to the house (replaced the tank completely). The problem really gets worse when an additional person is here and uses the bathrooms that are not normally used (more demand on the well). Question: What else can we do? Is there a way to completely clean out all the plumbing - filters? If this doesn't do the trick - what would be the next step?

Expert Answer

When you have sediment in your water like this, there may be a problem with your well water. If the entire system has not yet been completely flushed, changing the tank and filters might not have been enough. …

I have an old home and my basement needs a total plumbing works renovation for all the lines in the house. I have sump pumps that I need to remove totally from the house and then redo the whole basement like modern. I need to have an idea of the work I need to do and how much it will cost.

Expert Answer

Following are some things you’ll want to take into consideration. Develop a plan which includes what you want the finished project to look like. Schedule a licensed plumbing contractor to perform a…

My garbage disposal won't go on. I ground up a mini salt spoon, got it out, and made sure there wasn't any of it left in the disposal. I tried to reset the red button on the bottom of the unit. I hear the motor and then it goes off. I tried to hold that red button for a length of time. I tried not holding it. Can you recommend a solution?

Expert Answer

When the reset button on your sink garbage disposal unit does not correct the problem with a garbage disposal, often there is still something…

Where can I get replacements for my toilet tank lids?

Expert Answer

Due to the number of different types, styles and colors to choose from, finding the right replacement toilet tank lids can be a time…

I have a 20 year old gas water heater. Since last week, the pilot light has been going out periodically, and I have to manually light it once or twice a day. Also, the furnace pilot sometimes (actually pretty often) cannot start the burner (the fan is running, but the burner doesn't come up). To start it, I have to blow to the pilot until I hear a click - then it the burner starts. Can these two issues be part of one problem (insufficient combustion air or something like this)?

Expert Answer

It is very unlikely that your problems with the pilot light on your old gas water heater and the pilot light on your furnace are in…

I’m concerned because I don’t get the same answer to my question from all sources, so I really would appreciate a response from a reputable plumbing company (such as ARS) as well as the reason for your answer. To prepare my water pipes for the winter, I know to turn the water hose off from inside my house. Can you please tell me whether I should leave the outside water hose (faucet) open or closed?

Expert Answer

There can be a few variables depending on the type of shut-off valve you have located inside your home. The simple and direct answer is that the faucet should be closed. Contrary to popular opinion, flowing…

I have a pinhole leak in the water supply flex line to the toilet tank. The valve is the older type of one piece valve with a welded flex line. I removed the flex line. However, the valve just spins in place as if the threads are stripped. As it spins it gets tighter and then spins easily again. I cannot remove the water shutoff valve. Do I need to cut the nipple?

Expert Answer

A pinhole leak can result in a lot of water damage very quickly. Because pinhole leaks are so tiny, they can exist for quite some time before they are detected. Replacing…

Both of my toilets are clogged, but my bathtubs run fine as well as my sinks. We snaked the drain line with a 100 foot snake, but still have the problem. Any idea of what this could be? I don't think it's the actual toilets as they both will flush if left alone for several hours.

Expert Answer

 Without knowing the layout of your toilets or your plumbing system it is difficult to offer a specific answer. I can tell you…

I have an old trailer with attached lanai with a hot water heater that runs on electric AND propane. Pilot light/gas line access is in the lanai. I was advised to 'vent' this somehow prior to lighting. How would that be done, and approximately how much should it cost? Hot water heater is located in the middle of combined square feet, trailer plus lanai.

Expert Answer

When installing a new water heater, it is very important to have it vented properly. There are several ways to achieve…

I was wondering if ARS/Rescue Rooter could come to my house to look at the problem of all my pipes since I have a serious leakage problem. Also I need an estimate to see how much the cost of everything will be

Expert Answer

We would be happy to check out your leak. We offer no obligation free estimates. We will provide a detailed written estimate on what we find and what…

Do you recommend shutting off the main water valve when going on vacation? I've heard so many horror stories of something bursting while away and it basically destroying the entire house. I'm a first time homeowner and would be devastated if that happened. If you do recommend shutting off the main water supply, what other steps are also necessary? I have a gas water heater, located in a unheated garage. I'm assuming I would need to turn off the gas and possibly drain the tank? I've read a lot of conflicting advice. What do you guys recommend?

Expert Answer

Shutting off your main water supply is a good idea if it makes you feel more comfortable when you are out of town, and it’s some added insurance that you won’t have a major…

My toilet is leaking from a bolt in the tank. Why is that happening?

Expert Answer

Bolts in the tank are placed there to attach the tank to the toilet bowl. Over time they will rust out and the gaskets will wear out and start to leak. They simply need to be changed out. They can be very…

After running the garbage disposal at our kitchen sink, water shoots up like a fountain, gurgling up all kinds of junk. We have run a 25' plumber’s snake, but it's still doing it. What could be the problem? Can't figure it out...

Expert Answer

It sounds like your blockage is in the garbage disposal or the piping under the sink that your cable is not getting to. You may need to…

We're replacing our bathroom vanities and removed the drywall to relocate the valves. We noticed when we removed the vanity that the pipe coming up has a slight s-shape, basically going slight out then up and out again to the straight pipe where you would attach the p/j-trap. Is this a problem? The wall is concrete. I think that originally it was a lower vanity; now it’s a taller one...

Expert Answer

If the pipes to which you’re referring are water supply pipes, most any configuration will work as long as the pipe is properly sized (typically half inch pipe for a bathroom faucet). Keep in mind that it…

I was replacing the water intake piping going into the toilet. I only used one wrench and broke the PVC pipe in the wall. I got stuff such as new piping and PVC glue to fix the PVC pipe in the wall. (I had to cut a little of the wall.) My question is this: if the pipe is going to leak, will it leak right away or is it possible to leak later on? Honestly, if it didn't cost much I would just have someone look at it.

Expert Answer

The short answer is yes. Since water lines are under constant pressure (50 to 70 psi), if the pipe is going to leak it would most likely leak within a few minutes. To ensure a good permanent pipe…

If the water pressure leaving the pressure regulator is within spec, are there other signs that the pressure regulator is bad and should be replaced?

Expert Answer

Although the original question is a little vague, making it difficult to give a detailed answer, the following are some things you should consider.  First, to define a pressure regulator.  This is a…

Last week the water from the bathroom sink was running slowly. Now all of a sudden there is no hot or cold water running from the faucets in the bathroom. Please advise.

Expert Answer

If the bathroom faucet is the only fixture in the house that is affected and you still have good (or normal) water pressure in the rest of your…

We recently moved from San Diego to TX. We were ARS customers in San Diego and used your website. We can't remember the make of the whole house water purification system we purchased and were wondering if we purchased it from you. It looks just like the one that is on the site. Could you provide us with the list of water purifiers that you recommend?

Expert Answer

The stage 5 Halo is the water purification system we recommend for single family homes. Our complete five-stage systems…

Why am I getting warm water from my cold water tap?

Expert Answer

This is a problem that can be caused several different ways. 1.) The cold water tap could be too close to the hot water heater. Sometimes the hot water will back up into the cold water line when the hot water…

I have a leak in my upstairs bathroom (standing shower) which leaks into my family room downstairs. When we take a shower sometimes it leaks and then it totally stops for weeks and then again it starts leaking. What do you think the problem is?

Expert Answer

This could be your shower pan or shower pan drain connection. If standing in the shower puts weight on the drain connection or there is a crack in the shower pan, then the leak…

I lost all water pressure in the house. I have a water softener that I put on bypass and water pressure increased to a bare trickle. Outside faucets have normal pressure. Loss of water pressure was sudden. What may have caused this?

Expert Answer

There are several problems that could cause this sudden pressure loss. The first thing you will want to check is your water pressure regulator. Next…

I just moved into an old house and the standing shower, toilet, and sink must be linked because the shower and toilet fills up if the sink water runs. I pulled out some crap but unsure what else I should do. Help!

Expert Answer

The situation you describe sounds like a main line blockage. All three fixtures – shower, toilet and sink – connect…

I have what appears to be a leaky backflow preventer valve that is attached to my outside spigot. Not even sure if I am using the correct terminology, but all my Internet searches have indicated this is a "non-removable" backflow preventer. The water flows out only when the faucet is turned on (I usually attach a hose to this spigot for watering the lawn), and when I turn the water off, just at the point "before" the pipe is fully off, the water sprays out everywhere. Is this something that I can fix or does this require the services of a professional? (Wish I could upload pictures)

Expert Answer

Backflow preventers on your faucets are among the parts of your house’s plumbing system that should only be worked on by professionals.…

My sink was clogged and nothing seemed to work so I finally bought an auger. We put it in the sink and it seemed like it unclogged because the water is not coming back up but now the auger is stuck and we can’t get it out! We have pulled it so hard and nothing...we would push in and pull out and we got a good part of it out but now there’s a good amount of it in. It just won’t come out and the auger has even stretched a lot! How can I get it out??

Expert Answer

The auger is designed for use in clearing toilet stoppages. It is definitely not designed to unclog a sink drain. However, now that it is…

There has been a foul smell from the outside vents of my house and in the laundrey room and bathroom. THe last couple of weeks the smell has been even stronger. I don't know if it is a piple line issue or a sewer issue. Can you help?

Expert Answer

Smell issues in a plumbing system are usually the toughest problems to diagnosis. There are a number of possible reasons that your plumbing system has a foul odor. Some of the most common problems are broken…

My bathroom sink is completely clogged. I've tried using a plunger, using the snake, and drain cleaners and nothing is working. My father took off the trap, and tried the snake again, but it gets to a point and won't move. Could something that big have gotten down there from my sink or up from the other way?

Expert Answer

Yes, your clogged sink drain could be caused by a large object that got into your drain, but most likely it is blocked from sludge build…

What could cause carpet and baseboards to be wet on a cement slab? The AC unit pipe line on the outside of house is not dripping any more.

Expert Answer

Your problem would be typical of a water pipe leaking in the slab (a slab leak). This happens when the water pipes running under the…

I had a plumber come to my house to replace the hot water tank PRV (pressure release valve). He told me that my pressure was too high (100 psi) and that I needed to replace the water pressure regulator. I did not have him replace it, but do I have any other options? From what I have read on the internet, most regulators can be adjusted. Is this true? It appears to have some type of bolt or nut at the top of the "bell".

Expert Answer

Yes, it is true that most regulators can be adjusted to improve water pressure and the flow of water. You can adjust your water pressure regulator by…

A bar of soap fell into the toilet. What solutions are typically used? We read about combining certain chemicals to dissolve a bar of soap. Any help for an out-of-work homemaker is appreciated.

Expert Answer

I am not aware of any chemical that would help with your bar of soap issue. Your best bet is a plunger or a toilet auger to free up the bar of soap. An auger is a specialized plumbing tool used to clear…

My brother recently ran his clothes washer drain into the sewer drain and now he gets sewer smells in the shower and laundry room. What can we do to prevent that from happening?

Expert Answer

There are several possible answers to this question. First, I recommend you check out the vent line that should have been installed with the new line your brother put in. Make sure it is properly sized and…

I just drained my water heater, refilled it, lit the pilot light, and everything appeared ok. This morning I went and checked it and now I've got water on the stand in the garage, and it appears to be from the bottom of the tank, this happened when it was installed and they changed some value. That was 5 years ago. Is the H2O heater on it's way out? What should I do?

Expert Answer

First, try to determine whether the leak is actually from the tank or from the plumbing. If the water is leaking from a valve or piping, it is possible that you may be able to simply fix the part that is leaking.…

In one of our bathrooms when the water is turned on at the toilet, it starts humming loudly. What could be causing this and does it sound expensive to fix?

Expert Answer

Most likely the fill valve, sometimes also referred to as the ballcock, needs to be replaced in your toilet. This is not an expensive…

We have a double kitchen sink with a garbage disposal. My wife put some leftover turkey down the disposal and now it is stopped up. I have removed the drain and trap back to the wall and I ran a 20 foot snake twice the full length, and after reassembling, it is still stopped up. Is it recommended to run a longer snake from the roof down the vent pipe that goes straight down to the basement?

Expert Answer

It sounds to me like the stoppages are farther away than 20 feet but not in the mainline. You can get a snake that goes 75 feet and run it…

I have no HOT WATER. I have no idea how to check my water heater

Expert Answer

The first step in trouble shooting a water heater: Make sure the dial is not in vacation mode. The dial (thermostat…

Should I shut off the gas and/or water to my hot water heater if the home will be unoccupied for 6 months? Power will still be on in the property...I just don't want the hot water heater to keep heating the water if no one is there to use it.

Expert Answer

Shutting down the water heater while you are away for any more than one week is always a good idea. You should…

Currently I’m having an issue in my spare bathroom. The problem that I am having is that the shower/tub fixture when turned to cold has great water pressure, but when switched over to hot it goes to a slow drip with no water pressure. I’ve checked all other faucets and bathrooms and the pressure is perfect in those, so it is centralized to that specific shower/tub fixture. What could the problem possibly be?

Expert Answer

I’m not sure what type of shower valve you have but, regardless of the type of valve, the hot water port of the valve needs to be examined. The valve can sometimes be cleaned or rebuilt and that will take…

Recently I realized that the water will not come out of the water faucet outside. I do not see any water standing around the area. The pipe to the faucet has been wrapped throughout the winter. What is going on with this problem? Please advise.

Expert Answer

It sounds like your faucet has developed some corrosion in it and that is causing it to be blocked. Try changing out the faucet to see if that takes…

The toilet in my master bathroom is not working properly. When I flush the toilet the water comes up really high like it's going to overflow (but it doesn't/hasn't yet), then it goes down very slowly and then it gurgles when the bowl empties out. Every now and then when I flush, bits of toilet paper come out and it looks like it's been shredded. Sometimes it flushes normal and sometimes it acts up as described above. Do you think I could have a "blockage"?

Expert Answer

This is definitely a blockage. There could be something stuck in the toilet trap or something in the main line. Sometimes you can use an…

My toilet, sink, and tub are all slow to drain. When you flush, soap bubbles come up into the sink. When water drains from the sink or the tub, the toilet gargles. Already tried plunging, using an auger, rid-ex. What could be the problem?

Expert Answer

Your main line for these three fixtures, sink, tub and toilet, has a blockage.…

I have a 68-gallon gas water heater. My shower head is a bit bigger than normal, but nothing insanely big. I’m only getting 15 to 25 minutes hot/warm water in the shower. If no other water is being used shouldn’t I get like 30 to 45 minutes of hot/warm water? My dad’s house has a little bit smaller water heater (also gas) and it lasts 30 to 45 minutes easy. Do I need a new water heater?

Expert Answer

Hot water heaters vary widely in their efficiency at delivery of hot water. Sediment buildup inside the tank is the most common reason for a…

During the hard freeze, the top cover on my backflow preventer for the sprinkler system popped and some of the plastic contents inside were broken. Is this something that I can purchase and replace myself, or do I need a professional?

Expert Answer

There are two types of sprinkler backflow valves that are commonly called by the same name. One is a backflow prevention device that is built into the valve. It is designed to keep the water from backing up from…

I have an 8-month-old Rheem tankless hot water heater using LP gas. When using the hot water for more than 2 minutes it will turn into cold water for a couple of minutes than back to hot. Hot is not staying hot for a very long.

Expert Answer

The first thing I would check is the set temperature on the tankless hot water heater. Normally I get a call with this problem when the set…

I believe we have a huge pipe leak. We walked into the bathroom and could hear water running behind the walls and underneath our modular home. What could this be and how much could this cost? We had to shut off the main water line at the end of our road. What do we do now? Due to the snow could this be a frozen pipe that has burst or just a busted pipe? Help!!

Expert Answer

It sounds like one of your pipes in the wall and/or under your modular home developed a leak. This may have resulted from your pipes freezing or…

Years back I had Rescue Rooter work on our drains. I purchased Drainright so that I could perform routine drain cleaning. However , I have lost the instructions for its use over the intervening time. Could you provide me with the simple instructions on how to properly use the product?

Expert Answer

Thank you for your question about our DrainRight® product.  The General Manager for our ARS/Rescue Rooter branch in your area has…

I noted your recent advertisement in the Noblesville Neighborhood Source flier. I would like to get an estimate on the cost, including installation and warranty, of a 40-gallon water heater. It is located in our garage and is easily accessible. I note there are standard, deluxe and premium models. I would appreciate any information on all three models. Thank you very much.

Expert Answer

Water heater prices vary for a wide range of reasons, including the water line connections, valves, venting, gas line, strapping, access,…

I have an outdoor faucet where the pipe is sticking out about 4 inches. Is that ok?

Expert Answer

When a house is first built the plumbers “rough” in the plumbing to the specifications of the blueprints so that it is set up to match where finish wall dimensions are shown in the blueprints. In most…

We had a clogged drain in our bathroom sink. We ended up with a crack in the pipe. We had planned on fixing that this afternoon. Our washing machine is just on the other side of the wall. We could always hear our washer draining or gurgling through that pipe. We discovered that our shower was full today after our washer drained. This is the first time this has happened. Any suggestions?

Expert Answer

The main line pipe that the washing machine, bathroom sink & shower are all flowing into is the problem. You should still fix the crack in the pipe for the sink and washing machine, but you need to call a…

My plumber says that my PH is too low from the water conditioning system in my homem and that it will destroy my copper piping. He said I need a pH level above 6.5 to be safe. Is that true?

Expert Answer

Your plumber is correct. When the pH of water is below 6.5 on the pH scale, there is too much acid in the water and it can cause “pitting” of the pipes. Internal pitting (corrosion) of copper pipes is…

Can you put a trap in the main line, and then put through the wall to put a trap in under the sink? (2 traps back to back within 3 feet of each other.) Forgot to put air vent in the wall. Would be last on the line. (Trap in the wall would be for gas smells not to come in.) Walls have been finished already. Sink for garage use only.

Expert Answer

You do not want to put a trap in a main line plumbing system. You need to install a Comby (Tee fitting) in the main line, then run a branch line through the wall and install the p-trap. In some states, you can…

How much does it cost to have someone come out and determine why my pilot light is going out every night? When i relight the pilot, the hot water heater seems to work. It has not been windy.

Expert Answer

It sounds like you are having a problem with the thermocouple. This is an electronic device on the hot water heater that keeps the pilot burning once you light it. The thermocouple is designed to sense when…

How will I know if my water heater needs to be replaced? Will it always leak water? My gas water heater won't stay lit. Does it need to be replaced? There is no water surrounding the tank. Does that mean it is not empty?

Expert Answer

In most cases, residential water heaters that are out of warranty 5, 7 or 10 years (depending on the water heater), should be replaced instead of trying to repair them. The cost savings from a new water…

I am interested in installing the Navien Tankless water heater. I know there is a $500 credit between plumber and owner. Federal is $1500? My house is 3750 square feet with 5 Bedrooms and 4 full baths. Does SC have any good credits in 2010? What is estimated total cost and what Navien system would you recommend for my house?

Expert Answer

If you purchase and install a qualifying tankless water heater, you are eligible for a tax credit equal to 30% of the full purchase and installation price up to a maximum of $1,500. This tax credit expires…

I need help installing a 3/4 DCVA for my sprinkler system. How would I know if the tech is backflow certified? Will he show me his license?

Expert Answer

Your best bet is to call the Washington State Department of Health Office of Drinking Water. They will be able to give you a current list of certified testers. The DCVA, or Double Check Valve Assembly, will…

Our water heater started leaking water to the outside overflow pipe so we called a plumber and he replaced the pressure valve and put a turn valve, like the outside water spigot, on the pipe to the outside to stop it from leaking. Now whenever we turn on any water any temperature, the pipes make a very LOUD humming noise and right at the water heater you can feel them vibrating. The vibrating does decrease when more than one faucet is being used. What could it possibly be?

Expert Answer

There are several scenarios that could be causing this plumbing problem, but noisy pipes are most often an indicator that the water pressure to the house is too high. Your pipes should not be humming at all, and…

What do you know about descaling pipes? does the chemical process really work and is it worth the cost?

Expert Answer

This is one of those challenging plumbing questions. I have been plumbing a long time and I simply have not found any good fix for this. When you are talking about pipe in drainage systems, there is a possibility…

Where can I buy DrainRight?

Expert Answer

DrainRight®  is available only through  ARS/Rescue Rooter service technicians. You can combat deteriorating drain performance with DrainRight®…

When I ran my washer, the water from the hot water tank began pouring out of drain valve and onto the floor. Does that mean it needs to be replaced?

Expert Answer

Water coming out of your drain valve is an unusual problem and needs to be addressed. Water should never come out of the bottom drain valve unless it is turned on manually. I would contact a professional plumbing…

We have lived in our house for about 5 years now. For the past 6 months, we have had to hit the reset button on the water heater at least once a day if not more to get hot water. My family keeps telling me it is the element that needs fixed. I keep telling my husband we need to get it fixed but he seems to not worry about it. I do not want to get a new one if this is an inexpensive fix. Could you please help me?

Expert Answer

This is a serious issue.  The reset button is a safety device.  If the water temperature gets higher than 210 degrees, it will be scalding hot.  I suggest you contact a professional plumbing…

The garbage disposal kicks off within a few seconds after it is turned on. I can reset the disposal and the same thing happens. Could something be clogging it up?

Expert Answer

Many times something will cause garbage disposals to automatically shut down. This is a safety feature to prevent the motor from burning up if a unit is not able to function properly. Often, an object has become…

I have been experiencing water back up in the basement. I rented a plumber’s snake to use to unclog whatever was in the way. When I retracted the snake I found no debris, nor did it unclog the problem. I hired someone to come out and use a camera to determine the cause of the block up. There is a hole in our sewer pipe that is in the basement. How much will it cost to have someone come dig up the basement and fix the pipe? It's not a big hole but there are probably four months of problems under ground. Can a pipe be patched up or can you cut out a section? Or, does the whole pipe need to be replaced? Thank you!

Expert Answer

Accurately diagnosing your specific drain problem without evaluating the situation first hand can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis. The plumber who video inspected the line should have been able to accurately…

My drains are slow and my water pressure is low. What can this mean and what must I do to correct it? I occasionally use a drain cleaner. I have city water and a septic tank. I bought this home built in 1975 six years ago. I have no maintenance history on this house.

Expert Answer

I think I have lime buildup in my home built in 1975. I saw it in the shower drain when cleaning, and I put a drain cleaner in the drain. What can be done about this?

Expert Answer

Lime scale is a chalky, white mineral deposit that is a result of hard water (water with a high mineral content). A higher pH level (which measures the relative acidity) and hotter temperatures result in a larger…

Our main bathroom toilet makes a really loud noise when flushed and vibrates in the floor at times. It does not make the loud noise every time but does at some point during the day. What could be the cause of this? The other bathroom toilet has no problems.

Expert Answer

This sounds very similar to a question we received last week. For reference you may find the previous post “Is there a cure for humming plumbing” helpful. In your case however we have one extra clue: this only… Read more

We just moved into my grandparents older house (built in 1961). At least 3 times a week one of the toilets backs up and we notice the tub and shower back up too. We have to go to the front yard and open a round pressurized drain and plunge it 15-45 minutes and put a high pressure nozzle on the hose and put it as far as we can and keep plunging until it finally goes through! Years ago there was a tree in the front yard but it was removed about 10 years ago, we don't know what to do and everywhere we've called wants a lot of $$$. Help please, can we do anything ourselves?

Expert Answer

The problem you described is not abnormal, especially in an older home. Unfortunately it sounds like a root intrusion somewhere in your sewer lines and it needs be handled by a professional. The good news is that… Read more

We are getting a loud humming noise whenever we run any water in our house it sounds similar to a tuning fork and if you place your hand on the inlet pipe in our basement you can feel it vibrating.  This noise happens regardless of the pressure or temperature coming from the sink/shower and it even happens when the toilet is refilling after being flushed. Please let me know if there is anything I can try before bringing a plumber in.

Expert Answer

“Humming Plumbing’ is a common problem. The good news is that it usually is an inexpensive fix. The humming noise could be due to a couple of things. First, it could be excessive water pressure. Do you have a water… Read more

My bath tub was backed up. My husband tried to unclog the drain using a snake. The bath tub is flowing properly now, however the snake is stuck in the drain pipe and we can't get it out. What do we do to get the snake out, aside from calling a plumber as we cannot afford one?

Expert Answer

In order to remove the plumbing snake from your bathtub drain, I would suggest using a pair of Vice Grip® pliers. I recommend using a pair of Vice Grip pliers because they lock into place. If you do not currently… Read more

I have a Moen single handle shower faucet that screams apparently when the pressure is lower (another faucet is turned on elsewhere in the house). If I turn it all the way on, it does not scream, but as I turn it back (less hot, more cold) it starts to scream. As near as I can tell, the screaming is intermittent. What is the problem and how can I fix it? Thanks.

Expert Answer

Faucets can scream, whistle, or chatter when you turn them on or off. There are several possible causes for these faucet noises. If your house is newly built, you may have pipes that are too small to allow the water… Read more

What does it mean to have hard water, and how does a water softner help with hard water build up?

Expert Answer

Water softening is an important process because as its name suggests, it reduces the hardness of the water in your household. Hard water refers to water that has a higher mineral content of magnesium and calcium.… Read more

I have some wet spots in my ceiling upstairs, one of them was leaking. I had a guy come out and cut the sheetrock to see what was leaking and it's a pipe under the water heater, which dripped and caused a puddle to drip. Something in the attic is making a very loud noise like thunder and rattles the ceiling some, every time the a/c unit comes on it starts, then when its off it stop. But now it’s doing it even when the a/c is not on, could it be the hot water heater? It gets loud also when I turn the washer on, so I had to stop washing clothes, what could the problem be? The site manager said it's not covered under warranty since I been here 3 years. It's very scary and I hope that the ceiling doesn't cave in with whatever is going on.

Expert Answer

It is hard to say exactly what is making that loud noise and why without inspecting the situation first hand. However I do highly recommend that you get the water heater checked immediately by a licensed plumber. It… Read more

We have water marks coming on the carpet from underneath.  they start as perfectly formed round circles.  The pipes are in the ceiling and the carpet is not wet by the walls.  Are we looking at foundations problems?

Expert Answer

It is possible that you have foundation problems, or it could just be the slab compensating. Unfortunately I can only speak to recommendations on the plumbing side. It sounds like you might need to call a water… Read more

What should I expect to pay to get the thermocouple changed out on my water heater?  It is in the garage (accessible) and it is less than 5 years old.  It is a Whirlpool

Expert Answer

Charges can vary depending on what region of the country you are in and if any other services need to be performed. First I would check to see if your hot water heater is under manufacturer’s warranty. If so, the… Read more

I live in a top floor condo (2 floors), and noticed for the last 3 months that there is sediment buildup only in one bathroom in my unit. The other bathroom does not have this problem. Building management says that since it is only in one bathroom and in my unit they do not have to take care of it. However, our plumber says that the hot water holding tank has to be flushed.

Expert Answer

This condition could be related to a lot of issues. It could be due to sediment build-up in the water tank itself. Just about all manufacturers recommend routine sediment flushes to keep your water heater operating… Read more

I just had my home inspected and the inspector in his report brought out the fact that the pipes under the tubs that go into the foundation are black-iron pipes. These pipes could cause foundation problems if they are corroded. He suggested a "Hydrostatic Test" to tell if there is any corrosion. What he didn't do is tell me is how these pipes can cause foundation problems and what the fix is and the cost to fix. The Home is about 42 years old. If you know please let me know.

Expert Answer

A hydrostatic test is used to examine the durability of your pipes, and gives us insight as to how well they are maintaining safety standards. During a hydrostatic test, we will fill the sewer lines under the… Read more

Lately I have noticed that when it is really cold I do not seem to have as much hot water as in warmer weather. What is wrong with my water heater?

Expert Answer

This type of problem could be caused by a number of different things. It may be something as simple as your hot water heater needing to be flushed. Just about all manufacturers recommend routine sediment flushes in… Read more

What brand of hot water tanks do you use?

Expert Answer

ARS/Rescue Rooter plumbing technicians are experienced in working with all brands of water heaters. There are several different types and brands of water heaters available on the market, and when selecting a water… Read more

I need an estimate of how much it costs to have a tankless water heater installed in my home, It has 2.5 bathrooms, HE washing machine & a dishwasher. Thanks.

Expert Answer

Many of our customers are curious about what it will cost to install a new tankless water heater, but it is hard to estimate costs without inspecting the individual home. When considering the total costs for going… Read more

I have a two story patio home with 2.5 baths. When the master bath toilet is flushed there is a loud reverberating noise throughout the house (sounds like a tuning fork). It only happens when that one toilet is flushed (not the other two). Why is this happening?

Expert Answer

Before you call anyone, you may want to try this first. When the master bath toilet it is humming, take the lid off the back of the toilet and pull up on the float, then push it down. The float is the hollow… Read more

I have hot water pressure throughout my house except for in the Kitchen. I have replaced the faucet, nothing seems to be clogged. What should I do...I am going crazy.

Expert Answer

This type of problem is hard to diagnose without inspecting your plumbing in person. We actually had a customer with a similar problem here this week. In their case, the emergency stop under the sink was clogged… Read more

I have a children’s toy stuck in my toilet. What is the easiest way to get it our besides a plunger?

Expert Answer

Unfortunately it is nearly impossible to properly diagnose this type problem without inspecting the situation firsthand. Your biggest concern however is preventing the toy from going into the sewer system and… Read more

My water heater makes a "knocking" sound after using hot water for a while.  I tried flushing it, but very little sediment came out.  How can I be sure that I flushed the heater properly, and if the sediment wasn't the cause of the knocking, what else could it be?

Expert Answer

All water heater manufacturers recommend periodically flushing sediment from your hot water heater as part of routine maintenance. If left unmaintained, sediment buildup can reduce the efficiency of your water… Read more

Can I replace my Moen shower cartridge, model 1222, with a more simple cartridge that does not rely on pressure or temperature? This shower is far from the water heater and it takes a long time for hot water to reach the faucet. As a result, pressure varies beyond the model 1222's tolerance and reduces the flow to next to nothing or never warms. Help. Thank you.

Expert Answer

No, the valve is designed for that cartridge only. The Moen 1222 reacts to pressure, not temperature, so the distance from the water heater should not matter. The entire valve would need to be re-plumbed. Before you… Read more

The power was shut off to my home for repairs and when it was turned back on the electric water heater (new) will not heat the water. I checked the breakers and they seem to be fine. Any idea what the problem is?

Expert Answer

Some electric water heaters have a reset button in the upper and lower electrical panel. You may need to call a licensed plumber or electrician to reset the buttons. If you have power to the water heater itself but… Read more

I was recently in the UK and every shower was an electrical shower -- meaning there was a switch to turn the system on and then an in-shower push button system to turn the water on. I was wondering why you do not see these more in the US and what pros and cons there are for these types of systems. Thank you.

Expert Answer

An “electric shower” uses what is called a point of use water heater. A point of use water heater is a compact, tankless style water heater that provides instant hot water to individual fixtures. They are usually… Read more

How can I determine when to buy a new water heater? Also, what's the price range for a 50 gallon water heater for a condo that I own? I deal with ARS for air conditioning but never for plumbing.

Expert Answer

Without seeing the water heater or knowing if regular preventative maintenance has been performed (necessary unless you have a self cleaning hot water heater) it is impossible to properly evaluate here. A free check… Read more

Where can I find a replacement stem for the on/off valve under my kitchen sink? The unit is welded to the copper pipe that comes out of the wall and is not removable unless cut and replaced by a compression valve. The house was built in 1995 and the valve is original. The handle shows it to be an Everman.

Expert Answer

That could be a tough one. Just to replace the stem would depend on what brand valve it is and if it is still available on the market. Also, the valve could be damaged on the inside from years of use and could… Read more

I am replacing the shower faucets. They are recessed. I got the hot water stem off but can't get the cold water stem off. I have used a liquid wrench and a socket wrench. I have broke of a good portion of the stem by using a pipe wrench. Nothing is working. Help!!

Expert Answer

If you are trying to replace your shower faucets (not disassemble/rebuild for refurbishment), you do not need to take them apart.  You just need to access, remove and reinstall. If you are trying to rebuild them,… Read more

What are the pros and cons of going to a tankless water heater? How can the cost difference be justified?

Expert Answer

Tankless water heaters only provide hot water as it is needed, and can save homeowners considerable money by not producing the standby energy loss associated with regular water heaters, which keep a reservoir of… Read more

My toilet seems to run a lot. It will spontaneously flush. I am on the second floor of a four story condo building. Does this have to do with my toilet or the plumbing of the entire building? If it is my toilet, what can you do to fix it? Sheila, Herndon, Va.

Expert Answer

The problem is related to your toilet — not the whole building. This is a very common problem and may be due to a single part malfunction, but more likely, your toilet tank needs to be rebuilt. If the flush… Read more

My buddy was over and pointed out that my kitchen faucet leaks a little. Nothing steady, maybe a drop every couple minutes. I don’t think it’s a big deal, but he swears I’m wasting a ton of water and money. What do you think? Ben, Cleveland, OH

Expert Answer

Faucets are designed not to leak. If the faucet at your kitchen sink is leaking at all, it will only get worse over time and needs to be repaired or replaced. Leaky faucets with a steady drip (a drop or more per… Read more

Whenever I’m taking a shower and someone else turns on the faucet or flushes a toilet, I get blasted by either freezing cold or scalding hot water. Please tell me there’s a better solution to this problem than constantly screaming, “I’m in the shower!” at the top of my lungs Ida, Atlanta, GA

Expert Answer

Consistent water temperature and water pressure are the results of a properly designed and functional water system. The shower shocks you are experiencing may be due to a pressure balancing shower valve problem. In… Read more

I have a 65 gallon Bradford White electric water heater, and I get hot water out of my faucets, but luke warm water out of both showers. Then the water goes cold. But the water out of the faucets is still hot. ARS installed the water heater in 2006, so it is still under warranty, and I'm not sure if there is something I can do before a service call has to be made. I have a one story ranch style house and this problem just started a couple days ago. Thanks for the help.

Expert Answer

The fact that your hot water reaches some bathroom fixtures adequately pretty much rules out the water heater from being your problem. When hot water reaches some bathroom fixtures within the hot water piping system… Read more

I have a double sink in my master bathroom. One of the sinks (the one that is used all the time) is clogged. I opened the pipe under the sink - thinking that it was clogged there - but it's not. It must be somewhere before the other sink meets up with it, because the second sink if fine. I am not having trouble with anything else in the bathroom. What can I do to unclog this sink and if I asked ARS / Rescue Rooter to come out what would be the charge for a service call and to unclog my bathroom sink?

Expert Answer

The two sinks that you have in your master bathroom are connected to a single drain - picture the letter “Y.”  It seems like you have a blockage before the “Y”, also called the “wye connection.” In order to take… Read more

If I shower before my wife in the morning, there’s no hot water left when it’s her turn. Even a half hour later! A coworker said the same thing happened to him and he ended up needing a new water heater. If that’s the case, where do I even start? I’ve never bought a water heater, so I’m clueless. My wife doesn’t care what we get, as long as it heats her shower. Got any suggestions?

Expert Answer

Under normal circumstances, taking two showers back-to-back with adequate hot water shouldn’t be a problem, even with a standard, builder’s-grade, 40-gallon water heater. So unless you take unusually long showers,… Read more

Our neighbor's washing machine hose burst and flooded their utility room and adjacent kitchen, causing some pretty major damage. What causes something like that to happen and what can we do to keep it from happening at our house?

Expert Answer

It is likely that your neighbor's washing machine water supply hose was of poor quality, old, damaged, or any combination of these conditions. Check the supply hoses connected to your washing machine for stress… Read more