Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to your plumbing system, we know that many things may be a mystery. Fortunately, our experts have the knowledge and experience to answer your questions and help you spot issues that may mean you need to call in an expert. From spotting common signs of a leak, clog, or broken fixture, to knowing what to do when you notice a rise in your water bills, we’ll provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your plumbing system.

Don’t see your question answered on this page? Call Lynch Plumbing at (818) 483-0139 to schedule your service.

What causes faucets drips and running toilets?

It’s possible that there is something wrong with your water supply, such as high water pressure, thermal expansion, or a leak in the line.

What is the lifespan of the average water heater?

The typical lifespan of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of water heater and the amount of use it gets. Warranties can be a big clue. Consumer brand heaters have prorated warranties whereas professional brands have full warranties.

Why does polybutylene pipe have a bad reputation?

Polybutylene pipe was once a popular type of piping in local homes, but it has since been found to be defective and prone to leaks. If you suspect that you have polybutylene pipe in your home, you should call a plumber to inspect it. Polybutylene pipe is typically blue or gray in color, so if you see any piping that matches this description, you should assume that it is polybutylene and call our plumbers to upgrade your water line.

How can you correct the long wait time between turning on the shower and having hot water?

One way to reduce the amount of water that you use while waiting for your shower to get hot is to install a low flow showerhead. These showerheads use less water than traditional showerheads, which can save you money on your water bill. Another way to conserve water while waiting for your shower is to install a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, which means that you don’t have to waste any water while waiting for it to heat up.

What are the best options to conserve energy when it comes to a water heater?

Tankless water heaters are a good option for conserving energy, but they may not be the best solution for everyone. Tankless water heaters only provide hot water when you need it, which can save you money on your energy bill. However, they can be expensive to install and may not be able to meet the needs of large households. If you’re thinking about installing a tankless water heater, you should consult with a plumber to see if it’s the right option for you.

What’s the cause of higher water bills, especially when water usage remains the same?

While it’s possible that the water department made a mistake, it’s also possible that there is a hidden leak somewhere in your property. You can try to find the leak by checking your water meter and watching it for a few hours. If the meter doesn’t move and not taps have been turned on, then you know that you don’t have any leaks. If the meter does move, then you need to find the source of the leak and fix it.

How do you know if your toilet is leaking?

One of the best ways to check for toilet leaks is to add a few drops of food coloring or dye to the toilet tank. Wait a few minutes, then check the bowl for any color changes. If you see any changes, it means that you have a leak and our plumber can replace the seal.

How can you extend your garbage disposal’s lifespan? What can I do if it stops working?

You can try to extend the life of your garbage disposal by using it regularly and grinding up small amounts of food. You can also try to avoid putting large chunks of food down the drain, and you should never run the disposal without water. If you think that your garbage disposal needs repairing or replacing, you should call a plumber.

If your garbage disposal stops working, you should first try to reset it by turning off the power to the unit and then turning it back on. If that doesn’t work, call Lynch Plumbing to fix it.

What causes older hot water heaters to break down?

There are a few things that can cause your water heater to not work as well as it used to. One thing that may cause this is sediment buildup in the tank. Sediment can reduce the amount of hot water that the tank can produce and may also cause the water heater to overheat. Another issue is a clogged or damaged vent pipe.

You should also periodically inspect the burner. The flame should appear blue with a yellow tip. If it’s mostly yellow, or if the area is covered in soot, the flue may be clogged, which is dangerous. At least once every two years have your water heater inspected by us. We will also check the drain valve for signs of leakage, and the anode rods for corrosion.

Are liquid drain cleaners Drano or Liquid Plumber harmful to pipes?

While helpful for minor clogs, caustic liquid drain openers can be harmful to pipes if used frequently or on lines that are completely clogged. You should also never use these products on garbage disposals. These chemicals can corrode the metal in the pipes, causing them to leak or burst. If you think that your pipes may be damaged, you should call a plumber to inspect them.

What causes blockages in sewer lines and how can you prevent them?
There are a few things you can do to try to clear a sewer line blockage:
 

  • Try to remove the debris from the drain with a plunger or a plumber’s snake
  • Try pouring boiling water down the drain
  • If the culprit is tree roots and vegetations, products containing copper sulfide may help.
  • If none of these solutions work, then you may need to call a plumber to clear or replace the line.
Why do pipes make a vibrating noise?

There are a few things that can cause a vibrating noise in your pipes, such as loose or rusted fittings, a loose water valve, loose or unanchored pipes, or a clogged drain. If you think that something may be causing the noise, you should call a plumber to come take a look and fix the problem.

Why is it important to periodically open and close the water supply shutoff valve?

It’s a good idea to close and open the main water supply shutoff valve periodically to help keep it clean and free of debris.

What can you do to prevent drain clogs?

There are a few things you can do to prevent clogged drains, including:
 

  • Never wash oil or fat down the drain. Instead, collect these in a container and dispose of them in the trash.
  • Use a strainer on tub and shower drains to catch hair, soap, and other particles. Regularly clean out this strainer.
  • Do not flush sanity products, paper towels, makeup wipes, or anything other than waste and toilet paper. Even so-called “flushable wipes” can cause clogs.
  • Only purchase septic-safe toilet paper.
  • Monitor small children to help ensure they do not accidentally flush toys, cloth, or other items.
  • Schedule regular maintenance appointments with your plumber to clean out your drains and prevent larger clogs.
Can you upgrade a two-handled faucet to a single-handle model?

Generally, yes. Most two-handled faucets use cartridges, which makes them relatively easy to replace with a single-handle faucet. Be sure to check the size of the hole in your sink before you buy a new faucet. If the hole is too small, you may need to buy a new sink.

How can you increase your water pressure?

There are a few things you can do to increase the water pressure in your faucets:

 

  • Remove and clean the aerator from the faucet
  • Make sure the emergency shutoff is fully open
  • Check washers and seals for deterioration
  • Rely on a skilled plumber to check for lime and calcium buildup
Why are warranties important?

A warranty will not only cover the part and labor for your plumbing project – it also indicates a commitment to quality and customer service. Lynch Plumbing stands behind our work with a full 1-year warranty on both labor and the materials we use. We want you to be 100% satisfied with your service, and we are confident that you will be with our warranty. If you have any problems during the year, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll take care of it for you.

What are plumbing codes and why are they important?

The plumbing code is a set of rules that plumbers must follow when working on plumbing projects. The code is designed to ensure the safety of the plumber and the home or business owner. The code is also meant to ensure that the plumbing project is done correctly and according to plan. National codes, including the UPC and IPC, are generally amended by local county rules and used to ensure the safety of your plumbing system.

What’s a plumbing permit and why is it needed?

A plumbing permit is a document that allows you to legally do plumbing work in your home. A plumber will not be able to start working on your property until they have this document in hand. There are many reasons why you may need a plumbing permit, such as if you are doing any type of remodeling that requires new plumbing installations. It is always best to check with your local building department to see what specific reasons would require a plumbing permit.

What are the benefits of hiring a bonded, licensed, and insured plumber?

You should always work with a licensed plumber to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. A licensed plumber will also have insurance in case of any accidents that may occur while on the job. Liability and workers’ compensation Insurance is also in place to protect both you and your plumber.

How should you prepare for your plumbing service?

It is best to provide a clear path for your plumber to reach the issue. If possible, move furniture out of the way and remove any debris so they can easily access the problem area. Our team can then efficiently find, assess, and fix the problem, leaving your home or business better than we found it.