SplashWorks specializes in high-end kitchen and bathroom products for clients who are building new homes, remodeling kitchens and bathrooms, or simply updating their living spaces. After working for Saratoga Plumbing Supply for eight years, Eric Nelson bought the company from its original owner in 1995 and renamed it in 2006.SplashWorks’ 3,500-square-foot San Jose gallery is one of the largest and most complete showrooms in the Bay Area, says Mr. Nelson, and contractors, designers and homeowners are encouraged to visit. It features faucets, sinks, tubs, toilets, mirrors, lighting, doors, cabinet hardware and numerous other products useful for a remodel. The company’s knowledgeable staff can provide product information, design assistance and materials for any project.SplashWorks cares about the quality of its products, including where and how they’re made. Mr. Nelson says that when manufacturers take shortcuts or use poor-quality materials, it ultimately ends up costing customers down the road, sometimes even canceling out their initial savings.

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Plumbing contractors perform a wide variety of services. The following list includes some of the most common services requested of plumbing companies.
Rooter service Also referred to as plumbing snake service, this is a drain cleaning service that unclogs pipes, cuts tree roots out of sewer lines and clears piping to allow for better plumbing drainage.
Toilet repairs These include tank repair, leak repair, flange repair, wax ring replacement, bowl repair, valve repair, parts replacement, handle repair, seat repair and flush repair.
New plumbing installation The installation of new plumbing systems most commonly occurs in new homes and other new construction projects, or as part of a remodel. However, new plumbing systems can be installed as part of extensive plumbing repairs. New plumbing installation generally involves installing new pipes, drains, fixtures and materials.
Pipe/drain cleaning Sometimes referred to as rooter or sewer services, pipe and drain cleaning involves the complete cleaning of a home’s pipes and drains. This service is generally performed to unclog pipes and drains or to prevent clogs from occurring in the first place. Pipe cleaning snakes are often used to clean pipes and drains.
Bathroom plumbing The installation and repair of pipes, drains and fixtures that are unique to bathrooms. These may include sinks, showers, toilets, bidets, bathtubs and sewer lines.
Kitchen plumbing The repair and installation of fixtures such as sinks, garbage disposals and dishwashers, and the repair of any kitchen plumbing fixtures and supplies. Together with bathroom plumbing repairs, kitchen plumbing repairs make up the most common plumbing emergency repairs.
Commercial plumbing Services that deal with plumbing repairs and installations in commercial buildings like stores, schools, offices, hospitals, libraries, and warehouses. Commercial plumbing is often on a much larger scale than residential plumbing and may require a different set of tools, knowledge, and skills. Commercial plumbers may also perform industrial plumbing services and plumbing for warehouses.
Plumbing and heating services Some companies offer plumbing and heating services because the two trades have so much in common. Many plumbing and heating contractors offer full-service plumbing and HVAC services, including water heater installation and repair, plumbing system installation, solar water heating systems, and plumbing and heating supplies.
Emergency plumbing services Any unscheduled plumbing repairs provided by a local plumber. These may include kitchen and bathroom plumbing leaks, clogged pipes and sewer lines, burst pipes, drain leaks, toilet repairs, and main water line repairs. Some plumbers offer 24-hour emergency plumbing repairs.
<a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>
Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-plumbing/" target="_self">Sonoma County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-plumbing/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-plumbing/" target="_self">San Francisco Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-plumbing/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/solano-plumbing/" target="_self">Solano County Plumbers</a>
Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Plumbing/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Plumbing, Septic Systems &amp; Gas Lines</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plumbing contractors perform a wide variety of services. The following list includes some of the most common services requested of plumbing companies.
Rooter service 
Also referred to as plumbing snake service, this is a drain cleaning service that unclogs pipes, cuts tree roots out of sewer lines and clears piping to allow for better plumbing drainage.
Toilet repairs 
These include tank repair, leak repair, flange repair, wax ring replacement, bowl repair, valve repair, parts replacement, handle repair, seat repair and flush repair.
New plumbing installation 
The installation of new plumbing systems most commonly occurs in new homes and other new construction projects, or as part of a remodel. However, new plumbing systems can be installed as part of extensive plumbing repairs. New plumbing installation generally involves installing new pipes, drains, fixtures and materials.
Pipe/drain cleaning 
Sometimes referred to as rooter or sewer services, pipe and drain cleaning involves the complete cleaning of a home&#8217;s pipes and drains. This service is generally performed to unclog pipes and drains or to prevent clogs from occurring in the first place. Pipe cleaning snakes are often used to clean pipes and drains.
Bathroom plumbing 
The installation and repair of pipes, drains and fixtures that are unique to bathrooms. These may include sinks, showers, toilets, bidets, bathtubs and sewer lines.
Kitchen plumbing 
The repair and installation of fixtures such as sinks, garbage disposals and dishwashers, and the repair of any kitchen plumbing fixtures and supplies. Together with bathroom plumbing repairs, kitchen plumbing repairs make up the most common plumbing emergency repairs.
Commercial plumbing 
Services that deal with plumbing repairs and installations in commercial buildings like stores, schools, offices, hospitals, libraries, and warehouses. Commercial plumbing is often on a much larger scale than residential plumbing and may require a different set of tools, knowledge, and skills. Commercial plumbers may also perform industrial plumbing services and plumbing for warehouses.
Plumbing and heating services 
Some companies offer plumbing and heating services because the two trades have so much in common. Many plumbing and heating contractors offer full-service plumbing and HVAC services, including water heater installation and repair, plumbing system installation, solar water heating systems, and plumbing and heating supplies.
Emergency plumbing services 
Any unscheduled plumbing repairs provided by a local plumber. These may include kitchen and bathroom plumbing leaks, clogged pipes and sewer lines, burst pipes, drain leaks, toilet repairs, and main water line repairs. Some plumbers offer 24-hour emergency plumbing repairs.

Plumbing contractors perform a wide variety of services. Here are some of the most common services requested of plumbing companies.

Top Services Requested of Plumbing Contractors

top-services-requested-of-plumbing-contractors

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Planning to hire a plumbing contractor in the near future? Learning key plumbing industry terms and definitions will help you <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/industry-overview-plumbing-101/" target="_self">navigate your way through your experience</a> from beginning to end.
access panel An opening in the ceiling or wall near a plumbing fixture that allows plumbers to service the plumbing system or pipes.
Also known as: plumbing access panel, plumbing access
aerator A device added to the open end of a faucet that mixes air with water. Aerating the water creates a more even flow. Faucet aerators are inexpensive to install and can help conserve water and make shower and faucet spray seem more full.
Also known as: low-flow aerators, aerator shower heads, aerating faucets, faucet aerators
backflow preventer A device that stops wastewater and dangerous contaminants from flowing back into the drinkable water supply. Backflow preventers are often code requirements for sprinkler systems, hand-held showers, faucets with pullout spouts and kitchen sink sprayers.
Also known as: wastewater backflow preventer, backflow prevention valve
bathroom plumbing Fixtures, toilets, sinks, showers and piping that are found in the bathroom
Also known as: bathroom fixtures, bathroom plumbing repair, shower plumbing, toilet plumbing repairs
commercial plumbing Any plumbing repairs or installations that take place in a commercial building. Commercial plumbing is different than residential plumbing because it often deals with commercial-sized water heaters, boilers, larger piping and more involved plumbing systems. Some plumbing contractors specialize in commercial plumbing while others focus on residential plumbing.
Also known as: commercial building plumbing services, industrial plumbing, multi-tenant building plumbing, store plumbing, shopping center plumbing
coupling A fitting that connects two pieces of pipe. Common couplings for piping and plumbing include elbow fittings, tee fittings, cap couplings, plug fittings, nipple couplings, barb fittings and pipe reducer couplings. Plumbing system fittings can include closet flange couplings, trap primer couplings, clean-out fittings, combo-tee fittings, sanitary tee and double sanitary tee couplings, and wye fittings.
Also known as: pipe couplings, couplings, fittings, pipe valves, PVC couplings, CPVC couplings
drain cleaning A method of clearing organic debris and other materials from drains and pipes. <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/savvy-consumer-tip-drains-cleaned-holidays/" target="_self">Drain cleaning</a> for residential structures and commercial buildings includes drain pressure washing, drain snaking, drain cleaning chemicals, clearing clogged drains, drain tree root clearing, and pipe degreasing.
Also known as: clog removal, degreasing, pipe cleaning, drain clearing, unclogging, clean drainage pipes
elbow A pipe fitting that has two openings and changes the direction of the plumbing line. Pipe elbows come in a variety of degrees to account for the various angles of piping.
Also known as: el fitting, ell coupling, pipe elbow, plumbing elbow, plumbing ell
fittings These usually refer to faucets, shower valves and tub fillers, but they may also refer to elbow fittings, tee fittings and flange fittings.
Also known as: plumbing fitting, fitting, pipe coupling
fixtures In plumbing, fixtures are the objects that water comes from. Plumbing fixtures include water spigots and faucets, shower, sinks, toilets, urinals, and external plumbing system fixtures.
Also known as: fixtures, faucets, kitchen fixtures, bathroom fixtures, plumbing fixtures
GPM “Gallons per minute” refers to the rate of water flow from faucets and shower heads. GPM flow is regulated by the federal government. New showerhead flow rates can’t exceed 2.5 GMP and new faucet flow rates can’t exceed 2.5 GPM or 2.2 GPM, depending on the pressure. Installing low-flow faucets and fixtures can result in water savings between 25 and 60 percent without a noticeable change in water pressure.
Also known as: gallons per minute, flow rate
GPF “Gallons per flush” is the amount of water a toilet uses per flush. The current law requires a maximum of 1.6 GPF (older styles were usually 3.5 GPF).
Also known as: gallons per flush, flush flow rate, flush capacity
ID Stands for “inside diameter,” which refers to the size of the diameter of a plumbing pipe when measured from the inside edges. All pipes are referred to according to their ID.
Also known as: inside diameter
kitchen plumbing Sinks, faucets, dishwashers, garbage disposals, drains, S-traps, slip joints and supply line water pipes that are found in the kitchen
Also known as: kitchen fixtures, kitchen pipes, kitchen plumbing repair, kitchen plumbing installation
new plumbing installation Refers to the installation of <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/water-line-replacement-what-homeowners-need-to-know/" target="_self">new plumbing lines</a>, water pipes, drain lines, faucets and plumbing fixtures. New plumbing may be installed in new construction projects or in existing homes.
Also known as: plumbing installation, commercial plumbing installation, residential plumbing installation, industrial plumbing installation, plumbing replacement, plumbing reinstallation
OD “Outside diameter” refers to the dimension commonly used to size water pipes and tubing for plumbing.
Also known as: outside diameter
PVC pipes Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a hard white or cream-colored plastic that’s used to form plumbing pipes. PVC pipes are often used in venting and waste water systems that are not pressurized. PVC will melt if exposed to hot temperatures, so PVC pipes are used for cold water distribution.
Also known as: polyvinyl chloride, PVC piping
rooter service A drain cleaning service that unclogs pipes, cuts tree roots out of sewer lines and clears home piping to allow for better plumbing drainage.
Also known as: plumber’s snake, drain snaking, drain rootering, drain rooting, pipe rooter service, pipe snaking
rough-in The initial part of a plumbing installation that lays out all the basic plumbing lines without permanently connecting them. The rough-in generally includes water supply lines, water drains, water waste and vent lines that run to each fixture (toilet, sink, shower, etc.). It’s usually done before the plumbing inspection.
Also known as: roughing in, to rough in, roughing
toilet repair Some toilet repairs can be simple enough for homeowners to handle themselves, or they may require the assistance of a plumber. The most common toilet repairs include a toilet running continuously, a loose or sticking toilet handle, water on the floor around the toilet, leaking toilet tanks, poorly flushing toilets, clogged toilets, noisy toilets and toilet tank repairs.
Also known as: toilet problems, toilet problem repairs, toilet part replacement, toilet tank repairs, toilet unclogging, fixing the toilet
<a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>
Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-plumbing/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-plumbing/" target="_self">Marin County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-plumbing/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-plumbing/" target="_self">San Francisco Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-plumbing/" target="_self">Sonoma County Plumbers</a>&nbsp;
Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Plumbing/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Plumbing, Septic Systems &amp; Gas Lines</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;

<h3>Before hiring a plumbing company, it&#8217;s helpful to educate yourself on plumbing industry terms and processes.</h3>
Planning to hire a plumbing contractor in the near future? Learning key plumbing industry terms and definitions will help you navigate your way through your experience from beginning to end.
access panel 
An opening in the ceiling or wall near a plumbing fixture that allows plumbers to service the plumbing system or pipes.
Also known as: plumbing access panel, plumbing access
aerator 
A device added to the open end of a faucet that mixes air with water. Aerating the water creates a more even flow. Faucet aerators are inexpensive to install and can help conserve water and make shower and faucet spray seem more full.
Also known as: low-flow aerators, aerator shower heads, aerating faucets, faucet aerators
backflow preventer 

A device that stops wastewater and dangerous contaminants from flowing back into the drinkable water supply. Backflow preventers are often code requirements for sprinkler systems, hand-held showers, faucets with pullout spouts and kitchen sink sprayers.
Also known as: wastewater backflow preventer, backflow prevention valve
bathroom plumbing 
Fixtures, toilets, sinks, showers and piping that are found in the bathroom
Also known as: bathroom fixtures, bathroom plumbing repair, shower plumbing, toilet plumbing repairs
commercial plumbing 
Any plumbing repairs or installations that take place in a commercial building. Commercial plumbing is different than residential plumbing because it often deals with commercial-sized water heaters, boilers, larger piping and more involved plumbing systems. Some plumbing contractors specialize in commercial plumbing while others focus on residential plumbing.
Also known as: commercial building plumbing services, industrial plumbing, multi-tenant building plumbing, store plumbing, shopping center plumbing
coupling 
A fitting that connects two pieces of pipe. Common couplings for piping and plumbing include elbow fittings, tee fittings, cap couplings, plug fittings, nipple couplings, barb fittings and pipe reducer couplings. Plumbing system fittings can include closet flange couplings, trap primer couplings, clean-out fittings, combo-tee fittings, sanitary tee and double sanitary tee couplings, and wye fittings.
Also known as: pipe couplings, couplings, fittings, pipe valves, PVC couplings, CPVC couplings
drain cleaning 
A method of clearing organic debris and other materials from drains and pipes. Drain cleaning for residential structures and commercial buildings includes drain pressure washing, drain snaking, drain cleaning chemicals, clearing clogged drains, drain tree root clearing, and pipe degreasing.
Also known as: clog removal, degreasing, pipe cleaning, drain clearing, unclogging, clean drainage pipes
elbow 
A pipe fitting that has two openings and changes the direction of the plumbing line. Pipe elbows come in a variety of degrees to account for the various angles of piping.
Also known as: el fitting, ell coupling, pipe elbow, plumbing elbow, plumbing ell
fittings 
These usually refer to faucets, shower valves and tub fillers, but they may also refer to elbow fittings, tee fittings and flange fittings.
Also known as: plumbing fitting, fitting, pipe coupling
fixtures 
In plumbing, fixtures are the objects that water comes from. Plumbing fixtures include water spigots and faucets, shower, sinks, toilets, urinals, and external plumbing system fixtures.
Also known as: fixtures, faucets, kitchen fixtures, bathroom fixtures, plumbing fixtures
GPM 
&#8220;Gallons per minute&#8221; refers to the rate of water flow from faucets and shower heads. GPM flow is regulated by the federal government. New showerhead flow rates can&#8217;t exceed 2.5 GMP and new faucet flow rates can&#8217;t exceed 2.5 GPM or 2.2 GPM, depending on the pressure. Installing low-flow faucets and fixtures can result in water savings between 25 and 60 percent without a noticeable change in water pressure.
Also known as: gallons per minute, flow rate
GPF 
&#8220;Gallons per flush&#8221; is the amount of water a toilet uses per flush. The current law requires a maximum of 1.6 GPF (older styles were usually 3.5 GPF).
Also known as: gallons per flush, flush flow rate, flush capacity
ID 
Stands for &#8220;inside diameter,&#8221; which refers to the size of the diameter of a plumbing pipe when measured from the inside edges. All pipes are referred to according to their ID.
Also known as: inside diameter
kitchen plumbing 
Sinks, faucets, dishwashers, garbage disposals, drains, S-traps, slip joints and supply line water pipes that are found in the kitchen
Also known as: kitchen fixtures, kitchen pipes, kitchen plumbing repair, kitchen plumbing installation
new plumbing installation 
Refers to the installation of new plumbing lines, water pipes, drain lines, faucets and plumbing fixtures. New plumbing may be installed in new construction projects or in existing homes.
Also known as: plumbing installation, commercial plumbing installation, residential plumbing installation, industrial plumbing installation, plumbing replacement, plumbing reinstallation
OD 
&#8220;Outside diameter&#8221; refers to the dimension commonly used to size water pipes and tubing for plumbing.
Also known as: outside diameter
PVC pipes 
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a hard white or cream-colored plastic that&#8217;s used to form plumbing pipes. PVC pipes are often used in venting and waste water systems that are not pressurized. PVC will melt if exposed to hot temperatures, so PVC pipes are used for cold water distribution.
Also known as: polyvinyl chloride, PVC piping
rooter service 
A drain cleaning service that unclogs pipes, cuts tree roots out of sewer lines and clears home piping to allow for better plumbing drainage.
Also known as: plumber&#8217;s snake, drain snaking, drain rootering, drain rooting, pipe rooter service, pipe snaking
rough-in 
The initial part of a plumbing installation that lays out all the basic plumbing lines without permanently connecting them. The rough-in generally includes water supply lines, water drains, water waste and vent lines that run to each fixture (toilet, sink, shower, etc.). It&#8217;s usually done before the plumbing inspection.
Also known as: roughing in, to rough in, roughing
toilet repair 
Some toilet repairs can be simple enough for homeowners to handle themselves, or they may require the assistance of a plumber. The most common toilet repairs include a toilet running continuously, a loose or sticking toilet handle, water on the floor around the toilet, leaking toilet tanks, poorly flushing toilets, clogged toilets, noisy toilets and toilet tank repairs.
Also known as: toilet problems, toilet problem repairs, toilet part replacement, toilet tank repairs, toilet unclogging, fixing the toilet

Before hiring a plumbing company, it’s helpful to educate yourself on plumbing industry terms and processes.

Glossary of Plumbing Terms and Definitions

glossary-of-plumbing-terms-and-definitions

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Do you have questions about your upcoming plumbing job or plumbing work in general? You’re not alone. Below, we answer some commonly asked questions about plumbing, as well as hiring and working with a plumbing contractor.
Q: Why won’t some plumbers give estimates over the phone? A: Many plumbers won’t give estimates over the phone because it can be hard or impossible to accurately diagnose a plumbing problem without seeing it in person. Since plumbing fixtures and materials greatly vary, plumbing contractors who give estimates over the phone may end up changing the diagnosis and fee after arriving to the jobsite. However, many plumbers will give free estimates when they come to look at the plumbing problem in person. Others may charge for estimates but might apply the fee toward your repair costs if you hire them to handle the work.
Q: Is there an advantage to hiring a plumber who carries parts and equipment in their work truck? A: Yes. Prepared plumbers can usually fix common plumbing problems faster because they have all the materials they need and don’t have to drive to a plumbing supply store.
Q: My plumber wants me to sign a Waiver of Right to Cancel for my emergency plumbing repairs. What is this? Is it legal? A: In the state of California, consumers who sign a contract with a company that comes to their home to provide a service or product have three days to cancel the transaction. However, while that might be a protection for the consumer in some cases, it can cost plumbers thousands of dollars if a consumer decides to cancel the contract after an emergency plumbing service has been rendered. That’s because unlike products, consumers can’t return services, so if a customer cancels the transaction, the plumber will have essentially done all the work for free.
For that reason, some plumbers ask emergency plumbing customers to sign a Waiver of Right to Cancel, meaning that they accept and will pay the charges for the emergency plumbing repairs. Asking a customer to sign this waiver is legal, but only if the repairs are for a true emergency. To protect yourself from plumbers who try to take advantage of their customers by asking them to sign a waiver in a non-emergency situation, make sure the repairs you’re having done are truly required immediately.
Q: How can I prevent drain clogs? A: If you find yourself regularly calling your plumber to fix clogged drains, there are some simple solutions that can help you avoid trouble in the future.
<ul>
<li>First, find out what type of pipes you have. Iron or galvanized pipes can rust and clog more easily. You may choose to hire a local plumbing company to repipe your home using copper or PVC pipes, which are less likely to clog and won’t rust.</li>
<li>Install stoppers and hair traps on all your sinks and bathtubs. Remove hair and other debris before it can be flushed down the drains.</li>
<li>Don’t pour cooking grease (or other liquids that may solidify when they cool) down your sink.</li>
<li>Regularly flush sinks and bathtubs with running water.</li>
<li>Never use your toilet as a garbage disposal or flush baby wipes or paper towels.</li>
</ul>
Q: We rarely use our guest bathroom. Is there anything we should do to keep the plumbing and fixtures working? A: Toilets, piping and fixtures should be regularly flushed with water. This keeps the water traps full and avoids the backflow of odors and gasses into the home. Once a week, you should use or turn on the fixtures to keep them functioning. You can also pour a bucket of water in each toilet, sink, shower and floor drain in the unused bathrooms in your home.
Q: What are on-demand water heaters? A: On-demand water heaters, also called tankless water heaters, heat water as you use it rather than heating and storing hot water in a tank. Because tankless water heaters don’t waste energy storing and maintaining the temperature of unused hot water, their operating costs can be up to 30 percent lower than those of a traditional water heater. And with the emphasis on energy-saving appliances, tax credits may be available if you purchase an on-demand water heater.
Q: Should I buy a low-flow showerhead or low-flush toilet? A: Low-flow toilets and showerheads save substantial amounts of water compared to traditional showerheads and toilets. Numerous water-saving fixtures have been available since the National Energy Policy Act (which mandated low-flow toilets) was passed in 1995.
Q: What other water- and energy-saving plumbing fixtures are available? A: These days, there are many options for energy-saving plumbing fixtures, including air-assisted toilets, gravity toilets, power-assisted toilets, aerators, tankless water heaters, graywater recycling fixtures, composting toilets, dual-flush toilets, waterless urinals, sensor-operated faucets, solar water heaters and hot water recirculating pumps. Call your local plumbing contractor for more information on available water-saving plumbing products and which ones will work best for you.
Q: My drains are running slow. Can I use a store-bought cleaner like Liquid-Plumr to clean out the pipes? A: You may be able to fix clogged drains and stopped up sinks by using drain-cleaning products that you buy at the store, but for tough clogs that you can’t clear after a few attempts or drains and pipes that clog constantly, you may need to call a plumbing company to snake out your pipes.
Q: I think tree roots may be growing in our pipes. What should I do? A: First, have a plumber confirm that you have roots in your piping. Some plumbers have camera equipment that can locate the problem area and give them a view of how to repair it. A plumber can also advise you on ways to prevent the problem from reoccurring, like removing bushes or trees that are growing into the piping, using a root-killing product, replacing the affected pipe with a stronger material, or snaking out the pipe or using high-pressure water to jet out the pipe and line it with an epoxy material.
Q: Why should I choose a Diamond Certified plumbing company? A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a plumbing company with confidence by offering a list of top rated local companies that have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only plumbers rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with in-depth and ongoing <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/our-certification" target="_self">research and ratings</a>. And your purchase is backed by the <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/performance-guarantee/" target="_self">Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee</a>, so you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified plumbing contractor.
<a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>
Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-plumbing/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/solano-plumbing/" target="_self">Solano County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-plumbing/" target="_self">Marin County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-plumbing/" target="_self">Alameda County Plumbers</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-mateo-plumbing/" target="_self">San Mateo County Plumbers</a>
Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Plumbing/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Plumbing, Septic Systems &amp; Gas Lines</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Do you have questions about your upcoming plumbing job or plumbing work in general? You’re not alone. Below, we answer some commonly asked questions about plumbing, as well as hiring and working with a plumbing contractor.

Q: Why won&#8217;t some plumbers give estimates over the phone? 
A: Many plumbers won&#8217;t give estimates over the phone because it can be hard or impossible to accurately diagnose a plumbing problem without seeing it in person. Since plumbing fixtures and materials greatly vary, plumbing contractors who give estimates over the phone may end up changing the diagnosis and fee after arriving to the jobsite. However, many plumbers will give free estimates when they come to look at the plumbing problem in person. Others may charge for estimates but might apply the fee toward your repair costs if you hire them to handle the work.
Q: Is there an advantage to hiring a plumber who carries parts and equipment in their work truck? 
A: Yes. Prepared plumbers can usually fix common plumbing problems faster because they have all the materials they need and don&#8217;t have to drive to a plumbing supply store.
Q: My plumber wants me to sign a Waiver of Right to Cancel for my emergency plumbing repairs. What is this? Is it legal? 
A: In the state of California, consumers who sign a contract with a company that comes to their home to provide a service or product have three days to cancel the transaction. However, while that might be a protection for the consumer in some cases, it can cost plumbers thousands of dollars if a consumer decides to cancel the contract after an emergency plumbing service has been rendered. That&#8217;s because unlike products, consumers can&#8217;t return services, so if a customer cancels the transaction, the plumber will have essentially done all the work for free.
For that reason, some plumbers ask emergency plumbing customers to sign a Waiver of Right to Cancel, meaning that they accept and will pay the charges for the emergency plumbing repairs. Asking a customer to sign this waiver is legal, but only if the repairs are for a true emergency. To protect yourself from plumbers who try to take advantage of their customers by asking them to sign a waiver in a non-emergency situation, make sure the repairs you&#8217;re having done are truly required immediately.
Q: How can I prevent drain clogs? 
A: If you find yourself regularly calling your plumber to fix clogged drains, there are some simple solutions that can help you avoid trouble in the future.
<ul>
<li>First, find out what type of pipes you have. Iron or galvanized pipes can rust and clog more easily. You may choose to hire a local plumbing company to repipe your home using copper or PVC pipes, which are less likely to clog and won&#8217;t rust.</li>
<li>Install stoppers and hair traps on all your sinks and bathtubs. Remove hair and other debris before it can be flushed down the drains.</li>
<li>Don&#8217;t pour cooking grease (or other liquids that may solidify when they cool) down your sink.</li>
<li>Regularly flush sinks and bathtubs with running water.</li>
<li>Never use your toilet as a garbage disposal or flush baby wipes or paper towels.</li>
</ul>
Q: We rarely use our guest bathroom. Is there anything we should do to keep the plumbing and fixtures working? 
A: Toilets, piping and fixtures should be regularly flushed with water. This keeps the water traps full and avoids the backflow of odors and gasses into the home. Once a week, you should use or turn on the fixtures to keep them functioning. You can also pour a bucket of water in each toilet, sink, shower and floor drain in the unused bathrooms in your home.
Q: What are on-demand water heaters? 
A: On-demand water heaters, also called tankless water heaters, heat water as you use it rather than heating and storing hot water in a tank. Because tankless water heaters don&#8217;t waste energy storing and maintaining the temperature of unused hot water, their operating costs can be up to 30 percent lower than those of a traditional water heater. And with the emphasis on energy-saving appliances, tax credits may be available if you purchase an on-demand water heater.
Q: Should I buy a low-flow showerhead or low-flush toilet? 
A: Low-flow toilets and showerheads save substantial amounts of water compared to traditional showerheads and toilets. Numerous water-saving fixtures have been available since the National Energy Policy Act (which mandated low-flow toilets) was passed in 1995.
Q: What other water- and energy-saving plumbing fixtures are available? 
A: These days, there are many options for energy-saving plumbing fixtures, including air-assisted toilets, gravity toilets, power-assisted toilets, aerators, tankless water heaters, graywater recycling fixtures, composting toilets, dual-flush toilets, waterless urinals, sensor-operated faucets, solar water heaters and hot water recirculating pumps. Call your local plumbing contractor for more information on available water-saving plumbing products and which ones will work best for you.
Q: My drains are running slow. Can I use a store-bought cleaner like Liquid-Plumr to clean out the pipes? 
A: You may be able to fix clogged drains and stopped up sinks by using drain-cleaning products that you buy at the store, but for tough clogs that you can&#8217;t clear after a few attempts or drains and pipes that clog constantly, you may need to call a plumbing company to snake out your pipes.
Q: I think tree roots may be growing in our pipes. What should I do? 
A: First, have a plumber confirm that you have roots in your piping. Some plumbers have camera equipment that can locate the problem area and give them a view of how to repair it. A plumber can also advise you on ways to prevent the problem from reoccurring, like removing bushes or trees that are growing into the piping, using a root-killing product, replacing the affected pipe with a stronger material, or snaking out the pipe or using high-pressure water to jet out the pipe and line it with an epoxy material.
Q: Why should I choose a Diamond Certified plumbing company? 
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a plumbing company with confidence by offering a list of top rated local companies that have passed the country&#8217;s most in-depth rating process. Only plumbers rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can&#8217;t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with in-depth and ongoing <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/our-certification>research and ratings</a>. And your purchase is backed by the <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/performance-guarantee/>Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee</a>, so you&#8217;ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified plumbing contractor.

Here are some commonly asked questions about plumbing, as well as hiring and working with a plumbing contractor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing Services

frequently-asked-questions-about-plumbing-services

<img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/Romans-Plumbing.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/>
Whether you have a plumbing problem or want to perform preventative maintenance, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with industry basics. Photo: <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/romans-plumbing-inc/" target="_self">Roman’s Plumbing, Inc.</a> (2015)
Like many industries, plumbing is extremely complex and continues to become more so with <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/diamond-certified-experts-plumbing-millennium/" target="_self">ongoing technological innovations</a>. This article contains some useful information to help you get more acquainted with the trade, including key terms, DIY tips and answers to frequently asked questions.
<h3>Key Terms</h3>
Aerator: A device added to the open end of a faucet that mixes air with water to create a more even flow. Inexpensive to install, faucet aerators can help conserve water without diminishing water pressure.
Fittings: Fittings usually refer to faucets, shower valves and tub fillers, although they may also refer to piping coupling such as elbow and tee fittings.
GPM: Gallons per minute (GPM) is the rate of water flow from faucets and shower heads. GPM is regulated by the federal government, with the maximum flow rate for new showerheads and faucet aerators currently set at 2.5 GPM, although there are new aerators that operate at as little as 0.5 GPM. Installing low-flow fixtures can result in a water savings of 25 to 60 percent without a noticeable change in water pressure.
GPF: Gallons per flush (GPF) is the amount of water a toilet uses per flush, or the rate of water flow by which toilets and flush valves are measured and regulated. In the past, toilets averaged 3.5 GPF, but current law requires a maximum of 1.6 GPF for new models.
Rough-in: The rough-in is the initial part of a plumbing installation that lays out all the basic plumbing lines without permanently connecting them. This generally includes the water supply lines, water drains, water waste and vent lines that run to each fixture (toilet, sink, shower, etc.). Roughing in is typically done before the plumbing inspection.
DIY Fixes and Maintenance When a plumbing problem strikes or maintenance is needed, you don’t always need to call a professional—there are many things you can do yourself. Here are a few:
Unjam a garbage disposal Garbage disposals come with tools that are specifically designed to unblock jams. They’re usually located in a small compartment beneath the unit, but if you can’t find them, a quarter-inch Allen wrench will serve the same purpose. After unplugging the unit’s power cord, insert your tool into the center slot on the unit’s underside and begin turning it back and forth. This will turn the disposal’s grinding unit and help unjam whatever is caught in the teeth. After removing your tool, restore power to the device, run the faucet and turn on the disposal. If your disposal doesn’t turn on, its automatic shut-off may have been triggered, in which case you can just press the reset button (also on the unit’s underside).
Clear a drain In most cases, a clogged sink or shower drain is caused by a buildup of hair and grime. A simple yet effective tool for removing this kind of blockage is a 14-gauge wire. After cutting the tip of the wire, fray the strands and bend them backward to create a series of hooks to catch the hair. Next, stick the wire down the drain and turn it several times to get the hair and grime thoroughly entangled. Once you’ve removed the bulk of the buildup, run some hot water to flush down the remaining bits.
Drain and flush a water heater An important part of <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/extend-lifespan-water-heater/" target="_self">maintaining a water heater</a> is draining and flushing it of sediment buildup, which should be performed on an annual basis. Follow these steps:
<ol>
<li>Shut off the electricity or gas to the unit, depending on what it’s powered by.</li>
<li>Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and turn off the cold water supply.</li>
<li>Turn on the hot water at a sink or tub in your house. This will prevent a vacuum from forming in the water lines.</li>
<li>Open the drain valve to drain the tank. Make sure to run your hose outside, and remember, the water will be hot.</li>
<li>Once the water has fully drained from the tank, turn the cold water supply back on to flush the tank of sediment. Once the water starts running clear out of your hose, turn off the drain valve (as well as your indoor faucet).</li>
</ol>
<img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/NEW-Bylined-1.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/>
Installing low-flow faucet aerators and other fixtures can substantially reduce your home’s overall water usage. Photo: American Ratings Corporation (2015)
<h3>Frequently Asked Questions</h3>
Q: Can I use a drain cleaner like Liquid-Plumr if my drains are running slow? A: When it comes to store-bought drain cleaning products, one important factor to consider is frequency of use. Using Liquid-Plumr for a one-time clog probably won’t hurt, but if it becomes a recurrent problem, continually pouring chemicals down your drain may start to have a detrimental effect on your piping. In this case, you should contact a professional about a more permanent solution.
Q: Should I avoid putting certain things down my garbage disposal? A: A garbage disposal may seem like a “catch-all” for organic refuse, but there are several things that should never be put into it. For example, items like chicken bones and large pits from avocados and peaches can damage the device’s blades, and rice and pasta can cause clogs due to water expansion. Stringy vegetables, potato peelings, egg shells and coffee grounds can also cause problems by wrapping around the blades or getting caught in the trap. To avoid these situations, consider composting organic items instead.
Q: What are the benefits of an on-demand water heater? A: On-demand water heaters (also called <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/5-factors-tankless-water-heater-installation/" target="_self">tankless water heaters</a>) provide both functional and financial benefits. First, they provide immediate hot water to the point of use rather than heating and storing hot water in a tank. Second, since they don’t waste energy by storing and maintaining the temperature of unneeded hot water, their operating costs can be up to 30 percent lower than conventional models. Furthermore, consumers who purchase on-demand water heaters are often eligible for tax credits.
Q: Should I do anything to keep the plumbing and fixtures working in guest bathrooms and other infrequently used areas? A: Seldom-used toilets, piping and fixtures should be periodically flushed with water, which will keep the water traps full and avoid the backflow of odors and gasses into your home. Additionally, it’s a good idea to regularly turn on faucets and hose spigots to keep them from freezing up due to prolonged dormancy.
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Don’t let plumbing be a mystery. This helpful guide tells you what you need to know about plumbing: terms, DIY plumbing fixes and maintenance, and FAQs.

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