Ace Plumbing and Rooter Frequently Asked Questions

(415) 523-0012
945 Taraval St. #201
San Francisco, CA 94116
Owner Jonathan Millington is a plumbing industry veteran.
Q: Can you give me an estimate over the phone?
A: "We give free estimates, but we try not to quote anything over the phone. If we tell you a repair is $100 over the phone and it ends up costing $300, it’s bad for everyone involved. There are a lot of variables to consider when estimating a job, including size and access issues, so we really need to come out and look at the problem. We will, however, happily schedule a free estimate for you during normal business hours."
Q: Do I need to immediately fix my toilet if it’s running?
A: "In addition to wasting water, letting a toilet run can turn a small problem into a bad situation, so you should definitely get it fixed as soon as possible. It’s a minimal amount of water in terms of billing costs, but the potential for the drain to back up and cause a flood is very concerning."
Q: What’s forensic plumbing?
A: "Forensic plumbing is a method for dealing with plumbing problems that aren’t immediately obvious, like moisture and leak issues. It requires investigation and the use of special equipment such as listening devices, which allow us to find leaks in walls, floor or concrete. You can call a regular plumber if you have a leaky faucet or toilet, but if you have a leak coming through your wall and can’t find the source, you should call a forensic plumber."
Q: How can I extend the life of my water heater?
A: "Having the rust flushed out once a year will help. Rust is inevitable when it comes to water heaters, but you can deal with it by installing an anode rod—it works by attracting rust and giving it a place to accumulate other than the tank. This nearly doubles the life of the water heater, because you just have to change the anode rod instead of the whole tank. Also, check the water pressure; if it’s too high, install a valve that will regulate it. If your house has excessive water pressure, it can reduce your water heater’s lifespan by as much as half."
Q: What are the benefits of tankless water heaters?
A: "Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless water heaters only heat water when you need it, which allows for an unlimited supply of hot water. They’re very beneficial if your plumbing is set up correctly. The initial cost is higher than normal because it’s a specialized installation, but you’ll definitely save money in the long run."