All Star Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
All Star Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has been proudly serving the Arcadia area with dedication and expertise. As a locally owned and operated business, we have built a strong reputation over the years, becoming the most reliable plumbing company in the region. With a commitment to quality service, you can trust our team for all your plumbing needs. Our company is fully licensed, insured, and bonded for your peace of mind. Our team consists of hardworking, honest, and experienced professionals ready to exceed your expectations. Whether you have emergency, commercial, or residential plumbing needs, we are here to assist you. Reach out to All Star Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today and become one of our satisfied customers!
Tips and Facts from Our Plumbing Service in Arcadia
- PEX Piping: A modern plumbing solution known for durability, expandability, affordability, and versatility. It requires fewer joints, and different colored pipes serve various temperature needs.
- PVC Piping: Commonly used for waste lines due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. Not suitable for high water pressure.
- Copper Piping: Ideal for home water supply lines, easy to cut, and durable but relatively expensive.
- Cast Iron Piping: Found in older homes, durable but prone to deterioration over time. No longer recommended due to potential issues.
- CPVC Piping: Strong and durable, outperforming copper in some aspects, but has limitations like sensitivity to high temperatures and higher cost.
Toilet Installation
When you call our plumbing service to install a new toilet, we’ll first uninstall your old toilet. We’ll inspect the flange, install a new wax ring, and put the toilet into place. After bolting the toilet into place, we’ll install the tank, seat, and lid. After testing for leaks, your installation is complete! Certain toilets, such as wall-mounted toilets, modern toilets with heated seats or other electrical functionality, models with bidets, and other special models will require additional steps.
Our plumbers near you can install all toilets, including:
- Comfort-Height
- Pressure-Assisted
- Gravity-Fed
- Dual-Flush
- Double-Cyclone
- Waterless
- One-Piece
- Two-Piece
- Wall-Hanging
- And More!
Got Bathroom Sink Problems?
If the issue is a…
…dripping faucet, the cause is likely to be corrosion, a damaged o-ring, washer, or valve seat, or simple wear and tear. Our plumbers near you will determine the cause of the issue and quickly get your sink back in proper working order.
…clogged or slow drain, you may have soap scum or hair buildup. If you have a mechanical drain stopper, check it to see if the clog is caused by buildup on the horizontal pivot rod (located just under the drain opening). If this is not the source of the problem, contact us for further troubleshooting and repair.
…malfunctioning drain stopper, the stopper might be broken. The stopper allows the drain to open and close when you pull the knob on your faucet, but a loose retaining nut on the horizontal pivot rod is a common issue.
…deteriorated sink caulking, water has likely damaged it. Water can cause caulking to mildew, mold, crack, or peel. Caulking should be replaced every five years.
…rotten egg-like odor coming from your sink, there is probably a microbial infection in the sink overflow passage or drain. Simply use 3% hydrogen peroxide to treat this problem. If it persists, just call for plumbing services.
All About Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting involves using a special hose to force high-pressure water through your system. The first step of this non-invasive process is using a camera to examine the line and identify damage, which would preclude the use of hydro-jetting to clear the clog. When damage is ruled out, we’ll begin your hydro jetting service by inserting the hose and attaching it to a professional water tank. We must carefully identify an optimal location to insert the hose before we begin this process.
Highly pressurized water will get to work - with the help of our highly durable hose and gravity - and flush the debris from the system by forcing water at around 20 gallons per minute through backward-facing jets that propel the nozzle through the pipes and a forward-facing jet that further clears debris. Along with any clogs, hydro jetting will clear your system of grease, tree roots, mineral scale, and other debris that could cause problems in the future. If you have a deep clog, this method will likely be recommended by your trusted plumbing company.
Got Low Water Pressure?
The problem might be the result of…
…a problem with your water supplier. If nearby businesses or residences are experiencing the same pressure issue, the supply itself could be the root cause. In this case, contact the company and let them know that you and your neighbors share this common concern.
…corroded pipes. Older pipes are more susceptible to corrosion, but this problem cannot be fully ruled out without help from your reliable plumbing expert. If you have brass pipes over 40 years old, copper pipes over 50 years old, or galvanized steel pipes over 20 years old, the issue likely involves corrosion.
…your main house shutoff valve or water meter valve being partially shut. The water meter valve helps control water intake into a property, but it is the property of your local water company. The main house shutoff valve is typically located near the main city supply pipe in your home. If either of these valves aren’t fully open, your water pressure will be affected. If you rule out an issue with your main shutoff, contact the city and ask them to check your water meter valve.
…leaky pipes. Leaks come in many forms and sizes, and they result in misdirection of water and, therefore, diminished water flow. Check for pooling water or wet spots, and be sure to contact services so we can stop the problem before it becomes a costly and complicated one.
…a faulty fixture. If your household fixtures are all experiencing low pressure, the fixtures themselves are likely not to blame. However, if you only notice a problem with one faucet, for example, the fixture itself could be the culprit. A clog or buildup may be causing the pressure problem, or the fixture may simply need to be replaced.
…local regulations have changed. Water regulations might change unexpectedly, forcing water suppliers to comply. If you confirm that such a change has taken place in your city, you might want to speak with your plumber about installing a water pressure booster. We will check your plumbing carefully to be sure no other issues exist before we expertly install your booster system.
…a failing pressure regulator. Some properties don’t have pressure regulators. If you do have one, you can use a water pressure gauge to get an accurate idea of the exact pressure you’re getting. If your pressure regulator indicates that the number should be higher, the regulator itself is likely faulty. If it isn’t reading at all, this could be another sign of a problem. With the help of a plumber, the pressure regulator will be easy to troubleshoot and swap out, if need be.
Whole Home Water Filtration
The Filtration Process
Most homes are connected to a city water supply. Water undergoes treatment at a facility, including sediment pre-filtration, copper-zinc KDF and activated carbon treatment, and post-filtration for safety and quality. Home water filters are then installed to remove contaminants, hard minerals, heavy metals, PFOS, PFOA, pesticides, and herbicides. Filtered water benefits health and preserves home plumbing, faucets, and water-using appliances.Benefits
Installing a whole-house water filtration system offers a myriad of benefits. It ensures that you have safe and great-tasting drinking water at your fingertips, eliminating concerns about contaminants. This not only saves you money on bottled water but also contributes to environmental preservation by reducing plastic waste. The filtration system reduces limescale and mineral deposits, minimizing potential plumbing issues that can lead to costly repairs. Your skin will appreciate the absence of irritants, and you'll notice a reduction in the need for soap and the joy of cleaner, softer clothes after each wash. Overall, whole-house water filtration is a wise investment that enhances your quality of life while being mindful of your budget and the planet.Gas Piping Services
How Gas Piping Systems Work
Gas piping systems depend on pressure to bring natural gas to a property. Gas in these systems flows from higher to lower pressure along a network of pipes, passes through a pressure regulator, enters your distribution system, and ultimately makes its way into your home. Gas originates at mainlines and flows through a service line, which are both owned by gas utility companies. Every component downstream (i.e. on your property) is your responsibility. When you turn on a gas stove or furnace, the pressure of the gas rises slightly higher than the air pressure, which ignites the heating unit.
Six Most Common Gas Piping Materials
HDPE is similar to PVC in that it is well-suited for use as an underground exterior line. Made of plastic, these lines are cost-effective and flexible. However, they are prone to damage from underground sources, such as tree roots or rocks.
Flexible Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing is a good choice for tight spaces or regions at high risk of a natural disaster. These easy-to-install, flexible pipes might minimize damage, but they are prone to cracking, making them best suited for indoor gas pipes only.
Black Iron is the most popular gas piping material for both exterior and interior applications. This durable, robust, and heat-resistant material creates an airtight seal. As time goes on, though, black iron is known to corrode, and the sealant used on this material often deteriorates. If you have this type of gas line, you’ll want to have regular maintenance performed.
Copper pipes typically last around 20 years and have a number of stringent code requirements that limit its use in many regions. In fact, a number of municipalities have banned it completely.
PVC is a good choice for exterior, underground gas lines because this material is corrosion-resistant and impressively durable. These affordable pipes are preferred by many plumbers, but they are not allowed in certain regions because they are known to break during installation.
Galvanized Steel is a resilient and energy-efficient piping option, often used for water supply lines or for exterior or interior gas lines. Since it is more labor-intensive than its counterparts, it has been phased out in new construction projects and is therefore usually found only in older structures.
Got Kitchen Problems?
If the issue is a…
…dripping kitchen faucet, a simple cartridge replacement may be in order. Modern kitchen faucets often have a single-valve cartridge that controls the flow of hot and cold water. Replacing that component typically resolves this problem.
…slow sink drain, there could be soap scum or grease buildup, food debris, or another object obstructing a pipe. Sometimes, your plumbing pros need to open the drain trap and use a snake to clear this type of blockage.
…water leak on the cabinet beneath your sink, there is likely a leak at your drain pipe joint. However, we’ve also encountered this problem when faucet water supply connections are faulty. Today’s kitchen faucets often feature flexible hoses that serve as a connection between water supply pipes and faucets. The fittings at these connections are hand-tightened, which means human error can come into play. Splashed water also has a tendency to leak into the cabinet below when seals or caulking are defective.
How We Install a Garbage Disposal
- Turn off the circuit breaker and carefully complete the electrical wiring.
- Install the drain flange.
- Install the gasket and mounting ring.
- Prop and mount the disposal to install the unit.
- Use pipe connectors to connect the P-trap (discharge pipe) to the disposal outlet.
- Tighten every fastener at both mounting and plumbing connections, then test for leaks by running water and running the disposal.
Got Leaky Pipes?
The problem could be caused by…
…a broken seal. During appliance installation, contractors install rubber sealant around connections for the purpose of watertightness. Over time, that sealant deteriorates, and you may start to notice signs of a broken seal - such as puddles of water near your appliance or condensation on them.
…loose water connectors. Pipes and hoses between appliances and water supplies can loosen because of movement or shifting, which leads to a leak. These connectors can also become damaged. Signs of this problem include puddles near the appliance or water coming from your supply line.
…corrosion. Plumbing systems feature a number of components that deteriorate as they age. Rust or other types of corrosion (sometimes caused by minerals or improper pH) can slowly damage your pipes and develop leaks. Galvanized steel pipes have an average lifespan of about 20 years, and brass pipes typically last for up to 70 years. If your water is discolored, smelly, or foul tasting, your pipes may be corroded.
…a fixture crack. Physical impact is the most common cause of this type of problem. If this is the cause of your leak, you may see obvious damage to the pipes or fixtures.
…clogged lines. Clogs can occur for a number of reasons, including gutter debris, air handler drain pan obstructions, excessive hair, chemicals, and so many more. If your drains are clogged, toilets are overflowing, or pipes burst when they aren’t frozen, you likely have a severe line clog.
…pipe joint damage. Pipe joints are quite vulnerable because they are made of multiple pieces and because they have so much water constantly flowing through them. Damage can be caused by high water pressure, extreme temperatures, or age. If you hear a banging or ticking noise - especially one that only occurs when you run hot water - you likely have a joint problem.
…high water pressure. Pipes might be durable, but if they are constantly challenged by high water pressure, you risk a leak. Pipes can even burst if water pressure becomes too high (over 60 psi). If you’re unsure about the cause of a leak, your plumber will check your pressure as part of their thorough assessment.
…improperly laid pipes. If your pipes were not installed by a licensed plumber or the job simply wasn’t done properly, extensive, emergency pipe leaks can occur. Gravity and water demand careful fitting of every connector and pipe. An expert from All Star Plumbing, Heat and Air Condition, will be happy to take a close look at your pipes to ensure that they were installed correctly.
…intrusive tree roots. Tree roots are complex and can extend far beneath and throughout the ground, which means they can easily grow into water lines. If you have trees growing near your home, notice a significant drop in water pressure, have a sinkhole in your yard, or see wet patches anywhere on your property, your go-to plumber will need to take a close look.
…ground movement. Floods, earthquakes, and other natural occurrences cause the ground to shift and move, which can lead to pipes separating, cracking, bending, or twisting. When a leak develops underground, you might notice water supply issues or slow draining. Only a plumber can properly inspect your pipes to confirm or rule out this type of damage.
All About Frozen Pipes
Where and When Pipes Typically Freeze
The most common areas where pipes freeze include exterior walls, attics, and crawl spaces. Pipes can freeze when temperatures are under 32 degrees, with the greatest risk when temperatures drop below 20 degrees. Longer periods of severely low temperatures carry the greatest risk of pipe bursting, with water freezing within six hours.How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
To avoid frozen pipes and related problems like burst or leaky pipes, we recommend: Keeping your heater on (55 degrees or higher) Dripping cold water in the faucet farthest from the main valve to keep water moving Running your faucets regularly Asking your plumbing contractor to insulate your water tank and pipes Keeping under-sink cabinet doors open to keep pipes warm Shutting off outdoor spigots and draining water from lines before temperatures drop.How Our Insured Plumbers Insulate Pipes
Every home is plumbed differently, so our local plumbers in South Pasadena will determine the best approach to insulating your pipes. This may involve choosing an effective insulation product for pipes in crawl spaces, unheated attics, and exterior walls. Heat tape or heat cables might also be suggested based on our findings and your plumbing design. Opting for pipe insulation ensures your pipes can withstand low temperatures, preventing freezing or bursting.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
- Ask your neighbors if their pipes are frozen. If so, there could be a water main break rather than frozen pipes in your home.
- Shut off your water supply at the main.
- Open faucets.
- Use a hair dryer to heat pipes and surrounding areas, avoiding flammable materials.
- Turn your water back on at the main slowly and check for cracks or leaks. If you see pooling water, your pipes have likely cracked or burst.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
The first action when pipes freeze is to shut off the main water valve. You can attempt to thaw the pipes yourself or call our local plumbers. If you suspect your water meter is frozen, do not attempt to thaw it yourself, as extensive damage can result. Instead, call your water company. To be proactive, contact All Star Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning when you realize your pipes are frozen to avoid burst or cracked pipes and costly repairs.Got Shower Problems?
If the issue is a…
…dripping shower head, you probably have a worn-out gasket or mineral buildup on the head. Mineral buildup is caused by hard water, which contains minerals like silica, lime, magnesium, and calcium. You can spot mineral buildup if you look for white lines around the shower head. A vinegar soak may resolve mineral buildup, but if the problem persists or you need help with gasket replacement, we are always here to help.
…clogged shower drain, the source of the problem is most likely a broken pipe, foreign object obstruction, mineral deposit, soap scum, or hair buildup. Never use drain cleaner to clear a clog, as these products can cause a variety of problems that far exceed a simple clog. If a plastic drain cleaning tool doesn’t do the trick, you may need our South Pasadena plumbing company to use our professional equipment to clear the clog.
…smelly shower drain, you might have a mold, bacteria, or sewage gas problem. If the smell is coming from an infrequently used guest bathroom, there may be a dry P-trap in your shower drain allowing gas to escape. Your trusted plumber can easily identify and solve this off putting issue.
