Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions
If you have a plumbing problem, you probably have questions about what is causing it, how serious it is, and what it may cost to fix. Below are answers to some of the most common plumbing questions homeowners and businesses ask in Mobile, Baldwin County, and surrounding Gulf Coast communities.
EZ-Flow Plumbing & Drain Cleaning provides residential and commercial plumbing, drain cleaning, water heater service, leak detection, sewer services, emergency plumbing, and more. Our licensed and insured plumbers are available 24/7 for plumbing emergencies.
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Emergency Plumbing
Does EZ-Flow offer emergency plumbing services?
Yes. EZ-Flow Plumbing & Drain Cleaning provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services for urgent plumbing problems, including burst pipes, major water leaks, sewer backups, overflowing toilets, and other plumbing emergencies.
What should I do if a pipe bursts?
If a pipe bursts, shut off the water supply if it is safe to do so and contact a professional plumber as soon as possible. EZ-Flow provides emergency plumbing services to help diagnose and repair urgent plumbing problems.
What should I do if my sewer is backing up?
Avoid using sinks, toilets, showers, or other plumbing fixtures until the problem has been inspected. A sewer backup can indicate a blockage or problem with the main sewer line. EZ-Flow can inspect the system and determine the appropriate solution.
Is a leaking water heater an emergency?
A leaking water heater should be addressed promptly, especially if water is actively leaking or accumulating around the unit. EZ-Flow can inspect the water heater and determine whether repair or replacement is needed.
What is considered a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is any problem that can cause significant water damage, sewage exposure, property damage, or loss of essential plumbing service. Burst pipes, major water leaks, sewer backups, overflowing toilets, and certain water heater failures may require immediate plumbing service.
Is there a 24-hour emergency plumber in Mobile, AL?
Yes. EZ-Flow Plumbing & Drain Cleaning provides 24/7 emergency plumbing service in Mobile and surrounding communities. Our plumbers are available for urgent plumbing problems including burst pipes, major leaks, sewer backups, and other emergencies.
Drain Cleaning
Why does my drain keep getting clogged?
Recurring drain clogs can be caused by grease, hair, buildup, foreign objects, tree roots, damaged pipes, or problems with the main sewer line. If the same drain repeatedly becomes clogged, professional drain cleaning can help identify and address the underlying problem.
Does EZ-Flow provide drain cleaning in Mobile, AL?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides professional drain cleaning throughout Mobile, AL and surrounding areas. We can help with clogged sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, main drains, and sewer lines.
How do I know if I have a main sewer line clog?
Multiple slow drains, repeatedly clogged toilets, water backing up into tubs or showers, gurgling drains, and sewage odors can all be signs of a main sewer line problem.
What is hydro jetting?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to remove grease, buildup, debris, and other obstructions from inside plumbing and sewer lines. EZ-Flow provides hydro jetting for stubborn or recurring drain and sewer problems.
Is professional drain cleaning safe for my plumbing?
Professional drain cleaning methods are selected based on the condition and type of plumbing system. EZ-Flow can evaluate the problem and determine the appropriate method for clearing the blockage.
Sewer Line Services
Does EZ-Flow perform sewer camera inspections?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides sewer camera inspections to help identify blockages, damaged pipes, root intrusion, buildup, and other problems inside sewer lines.
When should I have my sewer line inspected?
A sewer inspection may be recommended if you have recurring backups, multiple clogged drains, sewage odors, slow drains throughout the property, or an older sewer line.
Does EZ-Flow repair sewer lines?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides sewer line repair and replacement services. Our technicians can inspect the condition of the sewer line and determine the appropriate repair solution.
What causes sewer line problems?
Sewer line problems can be caused by tree roots, pipe deterioration, shifting soil, buildup, blockages, broken pipes, and other damage.
Water Heaters
Does EZ-Flow repair water heaters?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides water heater repair throughout Mobile and surrounding Gulf Coast communities, including Pascagoula Mississippi, Biloxi, Pensacola Florida and surrounding areas. We service traditional tank-style water heaters as well as tankless systems.
Does EZ-Flow install new water heaters?
Yes. EZ-Flow installs replacement water heaters for residential and commercial customers and can help determine the appropriate system for your property's hot-water needs.
Why is my water heater not producing hot water?
A lack of hot water can be caused by a failed heating element, thermostat problem, burner issue, electrical problem, sediment buildup, or another component failure. EZ-Flow can diagnose the problem and determine whether repair or replacement is appropriate.
Why is my water heater leaking?
Water heater leaks can come from connections, valves, fittings, or the tank itself. A leaking tank can indicate corrosion or internal failure and may require replacement.
When should I replace my water heater?
Replacement may make sense when a water heater is older, frequently needs repairs, produces inconsistent hot water, shows significant corrosion, or develops a tank leak.
General Plumbing FAQs
How much does a plumber cost in Mobile, AL?
Plumbing costs depend on the type of problem, the location of the repair, the parts or equipment required, and how extensive the work is. The best way to determine the cost is to have the plumbing problem properly diagnosed and receive a quote for the recommended repair.
How do I know if I need a plumber?
Persistent leaks, low water pressure, recurring clogs, sewer odors, unexplained increases in your water bill, no hot water, or multiple plumbing fixtures having problems can all be reasons to call a professional plumber.
What are the most common plumbing problems in Mobile, AL?
Common plumbing problems include clogged drains, leaking faucets and pipes, water heater problems, sewer backups, low water pressure, running toilets, slab or hidden leaks, and aging or damaged plumbing lines.
Why does my water pressure keep changing?
Changing water pressure can be caused by clogged pipes, failing pressure regulators, problems with the water supply, leaks, or issues with the home's plumbing system. A plumber can diagnose the cause and determine whether a repair or replacement is needed.
Why is my water bill suddenly so high?
An unexplained increase in your water bill can be caused by a running toilet, dripping fixture, hidden plumbing leak, damaged water line, or another plumbing problem. If your usage has not changed but your bill has increased, a professional leak inspection can help locate hidden water loss.
How long does plumbing repair usually take?
The time required depends on the problem. A simple fixture repair may be completed quickly, while sewer repairs, repiping, water heater replacement, or hidden leaks can require more extensive work. A plumber can provide a better estimate after diagnosing the problem.
Tankless Water Heaters
Does EZ-Flow install tankless water heaters?
Yes. EZ-Flow Plumbing & Drain Cleaning installs and services tankless water heaters for residential and commercial customers throughout Mobile, Baldwin County, and surrounding Gulf Coast communities. We install high-efficiency Navien tankless water heater systems and can help determine which system is right for your property.
Are tankless water heaters worth it?
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand rather than storing hot water in a traditional tank. Whether one is right for your property depends on your hot-water usage, available space, existing plumbing, and other factors.
How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater in Mobile, AL?
The cost of a tankless water heater installation depends on the system selected and the existing plumbing, gas, electrical, and venting requirements at the property. A professional evaluation is important because some homes may require plumbing modifications, gas-line work, electrical upgrades, or changes to the venting system.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my home?
The correct tankless water heater size depends on how much hot water your household uses at the same time. The number of bathrooms, showers, appliances, and other fixtures that may operate simultaneously all factor into sizing. EZ-Flow can evaluate your home's hot-water demand and recommend an appropriately sized system.
Will a tankless water heater provide enough hot water for my whole house?
A properly sized tankless water heater can provide continuous hot water for a home, as long as demand stays within the system's capacity. Homes with multiple bathrooms or high simultaneous hot-water usage may require a higher-capacity system or multiple units.
Do I need to upgrade my gas line for a tankless water heater?
Not necessarily, but some installations do require gas-line modifications. Gas tankless water heaters can require greater gas flow than traditional tank-style water heaters. EZ-Flow can evaluate your existing gas supply and determine whether modifications are necessary for the new system.
Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?
Yes. Tankless water heaters should receive regular maintenance to help prevent mineral and scale buildup inside the heat exchanger. EZ-Flow provides tankless water heater maintenance, including flushing and system inspections, throughout Mobile, Baldwin County, Pensacola Florida and the Mississippi Coast.
How often should a tankless water heater be flushed?
The appropriate maintenance schedule depends on the system, water conditions, and usage. Regular flushing helps remove mineral buildup and maintain the performance of the heat exchanger. EZ-Flow can inspect your tankless water heater and recommend an appropriate maintenance schedule.
How long does a tankless water heater last?
A properly installed and maintained tankless water heater can last significantly longer than many traditional tank-style systems. Actual lifespan depends on the unit, water quality, usage, installation, and maintenance.
Can EZ-Flow repair a tankless water heater?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides tankless water heater service and maintenance and can diagnose problems affecting your system. If your tankless heater is producing inconsistent temperatures, shutting off, showing an error code, or failing to provide hot water, professional diagnosis can determine whether repair or replacement is appropriate.
Why is my tankless water heater not producing hot water?
A tankless water heater can stop producing hot water because of issues involving the water supply, gas or electrical supply, flow rate, mineral buildup, sensors, ignition, or other system components. If your tankless system isn't heating properly, EZ-Flow can inspect the system and determine the cause.
Should I replace my traditional water heater with a tankless water heater?
A tankless water heater may be a good replacement option if you're looking for on-demand hot water, additional space, and a different approach to water heating. However, the best choice depends on your home's hot-water demand, existing utilities, installation requirements, and budget. EZ-Flow can evaluate your current water heater and discuss your options.
Does EZ-Flow install tankless water heaters in Baldwin County, Foley, and Gulf Shores?
Yes. EZ-Flow Plumbing & Drain Cleaning provides tankless water heater installation and service throughout Mobile and Baldwin County, including communities such as Foley and Gulf Shores. Our plumbers can evaluate your existing system, determine the appropriate tankless water heater for your property, and handle the installation.
Leak Detection
How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?
Signs of a hidden leak can include an unexplained increase in your water bill, sounds of running water when fixtures are not being used, damp or discolored walls and ceilings, musty odors, warm spots on floors, low water pressure, or unexplained water damage.
How much does leak detection cost in Mobile, AL?
The cost depends on the type of leak, where it is located, and what diagnostic methods are required. Professional inspection can help identify the source before determining the appropriate repair.
Can a plumber find a water leak behind a wall?
Yes. Professional leak detection can help locate hidden leaks behind walls, beneath floors, under slabs, and in other areas where a leak may not be immediately visible.
Why is my water bill suddenly higher?
A sudden increase in water usage can be caused by a hidden leak, running toilet, leaking fixture, damaged water line, or another plumbing issue. If your water usage has not changed, leak detection may help determine whether water is being lost somewhere in the plumbing system.
What is a slab leak?
A slab leak is a water line leak located beneath or within the concrete foundation of a home. Signs can include warm flooring, unexplained water usage, damp areas, low water pressure, or sounds of running water.
Can a plumber detect a leak without tearing up my whole house?
In many situations, professional leak detection methods can help narrow down the location of a hidden leak before unnecessary demolition or repairs are performed.
Are hidden plumbing leaks an emergency?
They can be. Even a small hidden leak can cause significant water damage over time. If you suspect a leak behind a wall, beneath a floor, or under your home, professional inspection can help prevent the problem from becoming more serious.
Repiping
When does a house need repiping?
A home may need repiping when it has widespread pipe corrosion, repeated leaks, deteriorating plumbing, poor water pressure, or frequent repairs that are no longer economical.
How much does it cost to repipe a house in Mobile, AL?
Repiping costs vary depending on the home's size, number of fixtures, existing plumbing, accessibility, and replacement materials.
What are the signs that old plumbing needs to be replaced?
Frequent leaks, visible corrosion, rusty or discolored water, low water pressure, recurring plumbing repairs, and deteriorating pipes can all indicate that a home's plumbing system may need replacement.
Can EZ-Flow repipe an older home?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides whole-home repiping services for homes with aging or damaged plumbing systems.
Is it better to repair old pipes or replace them?
If the problem is isolated, repair may be sufficient. If the plumbing system has widespread deterioration or repeated failures, repiping may provide a more reliable long-term solution.
Commercial Plumbing
Does EZ-Flow provide commercial plumbing in Mobile, AL?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides commercial plumbing services for businesses throughout Mobile, Baldwin County, and surrounding South Alabama communities.
What does a commercial plumber do?
Commercial plumbers install, repair, maintain, and diagnose plumbing systems in businesses and commercial properties. Services can include water heaters, drains, sewer lines, fixtures, backflow systems, water lines, and other commercial plumbing equipment.
Does EZ-Flow provide emergency commercial plumbing?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides emergency plumbing service for commercial customers when plumbing problems threaten operations, property, employees, customers, or inventory.
Can EZ-Flow service commercial water heaters?
Yes. EZ-Flow installs and services commercial-grade water heaters, including tankless and larger-capacity systems.
Does EZ-Flow provide commercial drain cleaning?
Yes. Commercial properties can experience heavy grease, buildup, and recurring drainage problems. Professional drain cleaning can help restore proper drainage and identify recurring issues.
Can you inspect commercial sewer lines with a camera?
Yes. Video camera inspections can help identify blockages, damaged pipes, root intrusion, and other sewer line problems without immediately excavating the entire line.
Does EZ-Flow offer plumbing maintenance for businesses?
Yes. Preventative commercial plumbing maintenance can help identify potential problems before they become costly emergencies. Maintenance may include inspections, drain service, water heater service, and other routine plumbing needs.
What areas does EZ-Flow serve for commercial plumbing?
EZ-Flow serves businesses throughout Mobile and Baldwin County, including Mobile, Saraland, Satsuma, Semmes, Theodore, Tillmans Corner, Daphne, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, Foley, Gulf Shores, and surrounding communities include Pensacola,Miltion, Biloxi, Pascagoula.
Plumbing Cost & Financing
Does EZ-Flow provide upfront plumbing pricing?
Yes. EZ-Flow focuses on upfront pricing and honest recommendations so customers understand the recommended work before approving a repair.
Can I finance a plumbing repair?
EZ-Flow offers financing through Wisetack for qualifying purchases between $500 and $25,000. Financing is subject to credit approval and terms vary based on the financing offer.
Can I finance a water heater replacement?
Qualifying plumbing purchases can be financed through EZ-Flow's Wisetack financing options. This can help customers spread the cost of larger plumbing repairs or replacements over time.
Can I finance sewer line replacement?
Qualifying larger plumbing projects may be eligible for financing through Wisetack. EZ-Flow can provide information about available financing options when discussing your project.
Why can plumbing repairs cost more than expected?
The cost of a plumbing repair depends on what is actually found during diagnosis. Hidden damage, additional failed components, difficult access, specialized equipment, and the extent of the problem can all affect the final scope of work.
Should I get a plumbing inspection before buying a home?
A plumbing inspection can help identify leaks, drainage problems, water heater issues, aging pipes, sewer problems, and other plumbing concerns before purchasing a property.
How do I find a reliable plumber near me?
Look for a plumber who is licensed and insured, has strong local reviews, clearly explains the recommended work, provides transparent pricing, and has experience with the type of plumbing problem you are experiencing.
Local Plumbing Service Area
Is there a plumber near me in Mobile, AL?
EZ-Flow provides residential and commercial plumbing services throughout Mobile and surrounding communities, including emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, leak detection, water heaters, sewer services, repiping, and more.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing in Theodore, AL?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides plumbing, drain cleaning, water heater, sewer, leak detection, repiping, fixture, and emergency plumbing services in Theodore.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing in Saraland, AL?
Yes. Saraland is part of EZ-Flow's Mobile-area service coverage.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing in Daphne and Fairhope?
Yes. EZ-Flow serves Daphne, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, and surrounding Baldwin County communities.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing in Foley and Gulf Shores?
Yes. EZ-Flow provides plumbing services in Foley, Gulf Shores, and surrounding Baldwin County communities.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing in Pensacola, FL?
Yes. EZ-Flow has expanded its service area into the Pensacola, Florida area.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing in Pace and Milton, FL?
Yes. EZ-Flow currently lists Pace and Milton among its Florida service areas.
Does EZ-Flow provide plumbing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
Yes. EZ-Flow currently serves portions of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, including communities such as Pascagoula, Moss Point, Lucedale, and Hurley.
What areas does EZ-Flow Plumbing & Drain Cleaning serve?
EZ-Flow serves Mobile and Baldwin County, including Mobile, Saraland, Satsuma, Semmes, Theodore, Tillmans Corner, Daphne, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, Foley, Gulf Shores, and surrounding communities. The company also serves portions of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the Florida Panhandle, including Pensacola, Pace, and Milton.