Plumbing Questions

Q. Why do I need a pressure regulating valve?
A. A pressure regulating (or reducing) valve reduces the pressure of the water in the pipes of your home so not to cause undo wear or void warranties on your water heater, faucets, washing machine, dish washer and toilets. Pressure reducers also save water by lowering the pressure. Less water flows through faucets showers etc. at a slower rate.

Q. What is a water hammer?
A. Water hammer is the bang you hear when the water is shut off very quickly. Maybe the washing machine or dishwasher stops filling. This usually can be corrected by installing more piping restraints, lowering the water pressure, installing an air chamber or water shock absorber on the banging pipes.

Q. How can I increase my water pressure in my sink?
A. Check the emergency shut off valves under your sink to make sure there fully open. If the rubber washers or seals have begun to deteriorate, you'll also lose pressure there, so check those. Calcium and lime deposits from hard water will also cause low water pressure, you may want to consider having a water softener professionally installed.

Q. Can you fix my faucet?
A. Yes, we can fix almost any faucet. There are a few brands out there that have gone out of business and no parts are available, but this is a very seldom. Sometimes it just makes sense to replace a faucet and take advantage of its ease of use, reliability and good looks.