Click Here To Text UsFrequently Asked Questions
To avoid clogs, only put small amounts of food scraps into the disposer at a time and avoid grinding fibrous foods (like celery, potato peels, or corn husks) or grease, which can cause blockages. Even though most sources say to run cold water when using the disposer, we recommend running hot water. We want to prevent fats, oils, and greases from congealing on the piping after it leaves the disposer. We want it to be flushed all the way to the city sewer line as a liquid. After use, let the water run for a few seconds to ensure everything is cleared out.
Call or text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Insulating your pipes is the first line of defense against freezing and bursting in cold weather, which can cause significant water damage to your home. Taking this simple precaution can save you from costly repairs and ensure your plumbing works smoothly all winter long. And it is a step you can take yourself! There may be other necessary steps that require a professional plumber.
Call or text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Your home’s water pressure should typically be between 40 and 60 PSI. If you notice weak water flow, banging pipes, or leaky fixtures, it’s a good idea to have a plumber check for pressure issues. At Your Service Plumbing checks pressure every time we visit a home. Things outside of your control can cause a change, so it should be monitored. It is much like having your blood pressure checked when you see the doctor—they do it every time!
Call or text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Yes, homeowners in Washington state can perform plumbing tasks on their own property. It is recommended they stick with tasks such as fixing leaky faucets, unclogging drains, and replacing fixtures. However, it is strongly suggested that more complex projects, such as repiping or water heater installation, be done by a licensed professional.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Flow-Tech Home stands out as the only system providing comprehensive, omnipresent treatment. While traditional water conditioners, whether salt-free or not, only treat specific zones, Flow-Tech uniquely transmits a low-frequency signal throughout your entire plumbing system. This ensures complete protection from hard water for your whole home.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Our water filtration systems enhance water quality by removing impurities and contaminants through various methods such as absorption, oxidation, and sedimentation. These systems typically use a combination of filtration media, such as activated carbon and KDF-55, to effectively reduce or eliminate harmful substances like chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pesticides, heavy metals, and bacteria. By filtering out these pollutants, water filtration systems provide cleaner, safer, and better-tasting water for household use, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Key signs that your home may require repiping include persistent low water pressure, frequent leaks, discolored or rusty water, and unusual noises coming from your pipes. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to consult with a professional plumber to assess your plumbing system’s condition. At Your Service Plumbing in Tacoma specializes in identifying and resolving such problems, ensuring your home’s plumbing operates efficiently and safely. Remember, water can cause a lot of damage, so plan ahead and avoid the pain of damage caused by water!
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
We encourage homeowners to engage with their plumbing systems and understand the basics of maintenance. Our DIY video series is a fantastic place to start, offering step-by-step guidance on common tasks that most homeowners can safely undertake, such as checking hose faucets and opening foundation vents for spring. You can watch our DIY series first and assess your comfort level.
When to Call a Professional: If you encounter any of the following, it’s time to call in your Personal Plumbing Professional:
- Tasks requiring a permit or inspections.
- Jobs involving the main water line or sewer lines.
- Repairs that involve cutting into walls or floors.
- Any task you’re not comfortable handling on your own.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
- Improve the quality of your water.
- Remove harmful chemicals used to bring you bacteria-free water. Water districts must use chemicals to kill bacteria in the water as it travels to your home. However, it has been proven that these chemicals can be harmful to us, causing skin irritations and even cancer. Many consider this when they buy bottled water, but they neglect to think about our skin being the largest organ, and we absorb these chemicals during a shower or a bath.
- Improved taste. By removing the chemicals such as chlorine, it can improve the taste of your water.
- Softer skin and hair.
- More efficient soap usage.
- Prevent scale build-up of calcium and magnesium. Traditional water softeners require periodic maintenance and upkeep. Electronic descalers, on the other hand, can break up the calcium and magnesium molecules and prevent buildup with no maintenance at all.
- Prolong the life of water-using appliances. Preventing scale from building up in your water heater, dishwasher, or washing machine will help them not only work better but also last longer with less maintenance.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Hiring a certified plumber in Tacoma, WA, is crucial due to the specific plumbing challenges and regulations in the area. Certified plumbers have the necessary training and knowledge to adhere to local building codes, ensuring safe and efficient plumbing work. Their expertise helps in accurately diagnosing and resolving complex issues, preventing costly future repairs. Additionally, certified plumbers are required to stay updated with the latest plumbing techniques and safety protocols, offering homeowners high-quality, reliable service. This level of professionalism and adherence to standards is vital for the longevity and safety of your home’s plumbing system.
In the state of Washington, a contractor offering and performing plumbing services is also required to be licensed as a plumbing contractor with at least one certified plumber on staff. In order for homeowners to verify if a company is a plumbing contractor and an individual is certified, the state has provided a website – https://secure.lni.wa.gov/verify/. It is also recommended to look to see if they have a valid worker’s compensation account and are reporting their employees.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your water heater, whether it’s a tank or tankless model. Due to the small piping within a tankless water heater, it will typically require servicing every year to prevent sediment buildup, which can reduce heating efficiency and clog the heat exchanger. Tank water heaters could also benefit from annual servicing depending on your water quality. If you are provided water from most municipal water companies in the Puget Sound, the quality is pretty good. However, there are some areas which are prone to sediment accumulation. During maintenance, a professional will check for any corrosion or leaks, clean the system, and ensure that all components are functioning correctly.
The average lifespan of a tank water heater is about 10-15 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years with proper care. However, the lifespan can vary depending on factors like usage, water quality, and maintenance frequency. Indicators that your water heater needs to be replaced include persistent issues like insufficient hot water, noises from the tank, frequent repairs, or visible rust and corrosion on the tank. Upgrading to a newer model can offer improved energy efficiency and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for your home’s comfort needs.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
If you suspect that you have a frozen water pipe, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent potential damage and costly repairs. Start by turning off the water supply to the affected area to minimize the risk of a burst pipe. Then, open the faucets connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure and allow for melting ice to escape. You can also apply gentle heat to the pipe using a hairdryer or heating pad, but avoid using an open flame, as it can be dangerous. If the problem persists or if you’re unsure about the extent of the damage, it’s highly recommended to call At Your Service Plumbing at 253-448-8168. Their experienced professionals can assess the situation, safely thaw the frozen pipe, and address any potential issues to ensure the continued integrity of your plumbing system. Don’t delay, as addressing frozen pipes promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
What if I find a water leak in my home – Discovering a water leak in your home can be concerning, but it’s important to act quickly to minimize damage and prevent further issues. Here’s what you should do if you discover a water leak:
Turn off the water supply:
- If the leak is at an individual fixture, look for an emergency water shut-off valve under or near the fixture. Hopefully, it is a quarter turn and can be turned off easily.
- If the leak is behind the individual shut-off valve or in piping, you will need to know how to turn off your whole home emergency water shut-off valve.
Have you had your shut-off valves inspected within the last year to be sure they actually shut the water off, and you are physically able to turn them?
- It is a good idea to check these valves once a year to be sure they are operationally sound. Check out our Diamond Club – https://www.atyourserviceplumbing.com/diamond-club-page/ as it includes an annual plumbing system inspection
- Do you know the location of your whole home water shut-off? Is it a quarter-turn ball valve to make it easy to turn off? Is it accessible to you?
Call 253.565.0090 to get your Personal Plumbing Professional from At Your Service Plumbing to come and help you as soon as possible. We will always attempt same-day service for an emergency. Club members receive service within 2 hours!
If your shut-off valves are not working, you don’t know where they are, or you cannot access them, and water is gushing, you can call your local fire department as a last resort.
Some other things to consider when water has been leaking, and you shut it off:
- You may need to shut off the power to your electric water heater or other electricity if the water is near.
- You may need to use a water mitigation company professional who is used to working with insurance companies to help with cleanup.
- Take lots of pictures for your insurance company.
- Most insurance will cover the damage caused but not the repair of the plumbing system leak that caused the damage.
- Cleaning up and drying the water within 24 to 48 hours is crucial so mold does not form.
While your AYSP plumbing professional is in your home making the repair, they can review and advise you on making sure you have access to emergency water shut-off valves that work.
Remember, water damage can lead to structural issues and mold growth if not addressed promptly. Acting swiftly to shut off the water, clean up, and make necessary repairs is crucial to minimizing the damage caused by a water leak in your home.
Feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
Maintaining the drains in your home is important for several reasons:
- Preventing Clogs: Regular maintenance helps prevent the buildup of debris, hair, soap scum, and other materials that can clog your drains. Clogs can lead to slow drainage or complete blockages, causing inconvenience and potentially costly repairs.
- Avoiding Odors: Drains that are not properly maintained can emit unpleasant odors due to the accumulation of organic matter and bacteria. This can make your home uncomfortable and unhygienic.
- Extending Drain Lifespan: regular maintenance can prolong the lifespan of your drains and plumbing system. Clogs and corrosion caused by neglect can lead to the need for expensive repairs or replacements.
- Preventing Water Damage: Clogged or poorly maintained drains can cause water to back up and overflow, potentially damaging your home’s interior walls and floors. This can result in costly repairs and mold growth.
- Health and Hygiene: Blocked drains can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria that pose health risks to you and your family. Proper drain maintenance helps maintain a clean and hygienic environment.
- Cost Savings: Preventive maintenance is typically less expensive than emergency repairs. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your drains can help you avoid the high costs of fixing severe blockages or damage.
- Environmental Impact: Clogs and blockages in drains can lead to overflows of wastewater, harming the environment by contaminating water sources and ecosystems. Proper drain maintenance can help reduce this impact.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your drains are well-maintained can provide peace of mind, knowing that you are less likely to experience unexpected plumbing issues and the associated stress.
To maintain your drains effectively, consider using BioOne, a monthly safe approved by the Environmental Protection Agency to keep your pipes clean and free from build-up. This product can be purchased from an At Your Service Plumbing team member either by stopping by our office or while your Personal Plumbing Professional is in your home. Avoid disposing grease and large food particles down the kitchen sink and using drain strainers to catch debris. Joining our club will also ensure you have an annual plumbing system inspection with an included camera scope of your main drain line with an accessible clean-out.
For more information on BioOne or our club membership, please call At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 565-0090.
Handling a plumbing emergency requires quick thinking, decisive actions, and sometimes the help of professionals. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to handle a plumbing emergency:
- Stay Calm: Panicking can lead to poor decision-making and worsen the situation.
- Turn Off the Water: If the emergency is a leak somewhere, it is best to shut your water down as soon as possible to avoid any more damage. Hopefully you have a whole home shut off valve which is easily accessible. If not, as a last resort you can call the fire department to shut it off at the meter. If you have an electric water heater turn the breaker off to it while the water is off.
- Assess the Situation: Identify the source of the problem. Is it a burst pipe, a leaking faucet, a clogged toilet, or something else? Understanding the issue will help you decide on the appropriate course of action.
- Contain the Water: Use buckets, towels, or any available materials to contain and absorb water. Place buckets under leaks and use towels to mop up standing water to prevent it from spreading.
- Fix Minor Leaks: If the issue is a minor leak or only happening with one fixture, such as a dripping faucet, you can turn the water off just to that fixture and wait for a professional plumber to make a repair.
- Unclog Drains: If a clogged drain is causing an issue, try using a plunger or a drain snake to clear the blockage. Avoid using chemical drain openers, as they are very harmful and might not be effective.
- Call a Professional Plumber: For serious plumbing emergencies like burst pipes, major leaks, sewer backups, or gas leaks, it is best to call a licensed professional plumber. They have the expertise and the equipment to handle these situations safely and effectively.
- Turn off Gas Supply: If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply to your home and leave the premises immediately. Contact your gas provider or emergency services.
- Notify Relevant Parties: If the plumbing emergency is causing damage to adjoining properties or if you’re renting, notify your neighbors, landlord, or property management company about the situation.
- Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the plumbing emergency and any resulting damage. This documentation can be useful for insurance claims.
- Be Prepared: Know where and how to shut your water off. Have you sewer line scoped periodically. Don’t flush anything down the toilet beside human waste and toilet paper.
- Prevent Future Emergencies: Once the immediate crisis is under control, consider preventive measures which could include an At Your Service Plumbing club membership to be sure your plumbing system is inspected once a year!
Remember your safety is paramount. If the situation is dangerous or you’re unsure how to handle it, don’t hesitate to call for professional help. At Your Service Plumbing is just a phone call away!
Have you ever come home to water all over the floor, woke up to no hot water, or flushed a toilet and watched the contents show up in your shower? Add to this it happens at 10 PM or 5 AM!!
These scenarios can be frustrating, and you may not know who to call or what to do. At Your Service Plumbing (AYSP) offers a club membership called Diamond Club, which can remove some of the frustration and stress. We consider these clients as family members and will always go the extra mile whenever possible.
Here are 5 reasons becoming a club member makes sense:
Timely Response: We promise to provide you with a prompt response by showing up for an emergency, as noted above, within two hours, so you won’t be left waiting for extended periods.
Priority Treatment: Because you are a valued member of the AYSP family, you will go to the front of the line for all emergencies, and we will do our best for any other service request.
Preventative Measures: An AYSP plumber will perform a plumbing system inspection once a year to attempt to avoid emergencies by putting eyes on all plumbing outside the wall, including your crawl space.
Familiarity with Your Plumbing System: Due to these annual inspections and the recordkeeping involved, when you call in with a question, concern, or need more information, we can help as we maintain everything in your file.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a reliable plumber to turn to in emergencies brings peace of mind. You won’t have to scramble to find a reputable plumber during a high-stress situation.
While At Your Service Plumbing does not control the partners we may refer you to, we do have a working relationship with them. We have spoken with most about the importance we put on customer service and taking great care of our clients. We will let you know if we refer you to someone we are not as familiar with.
As far as payment plans being offered – some may and others may not; however, we could discuss hiring the partner through At Your Service Plumbing and using our program if payment plans are important.
In the state of Washington, the plumbing trade is regulated, which is important to the health and safety of all consumers. There are a handful of certifications within the plumbing trade which have different requirements and allow a person to perform work at different levels. The law representing these certifications can be found at RCW 18.106.
At Your Service Plumbing has chosen to serve homeowners; therefore, we only have employed plumbers who have obtained or will obtain a residential certification. We do not employ certified plumbers on our team to work on commercial buildings. However, we have a couple of great referral partners we can recommend.
As plumbers, we recommend tankless water heaters for their energy efficiency and endless hot water supply. Unlike traditional tanks that constantly heat stored water, tankless units heat water on demand, which can save you on energy costs. Additionally, you won’t run out of hot water during peak use times, which can be a major convenience for large families or households. Lastly, their compact size frees up space in your home, providing a cleaner, uncluttered look.
This is a great question. We are happy to answer this for you.
In plumbing, grounding and bonding are important concepts that work together to ensure safety and prevent electrical hazards.
Grounding involves establishing an electrical connection between the plumbing system and the earth, providing a safe path for electrical currents in case of faults or surges. This protects against shocks and fire risks. Bonding, on the other hand, connects different metallic components within the plumbing system to eliminate potential voltage differences, reducing the risk of electrical shock.
By creating a continuous electrical pathway, bonding ensures equal potential among the components. Both grounding and bonding are essential for electrical safety in plumbing, and it is crucial to adhere to local codes and consult professionals for proper implementation.
If you have further questions, feel free to call / text At Your Service Plumbing at (253) 448-8178 or Request Plumbing Service here.
