Plumber in La Canada Flintridge
All Star Plumbing Heating and Air Condition has proudly served the La Canada Flintridge area, delivering exceptional service since our establishment. As a locally owned and operated business, we have maintained a stellar reputation, earning the trust of our customers as the most dependable plumbing company in the region. You can have complete peace of mind in our work, as our company is fully licensed, insured, and bonded. Our staff is made up of hardworking, honest, and experienced individuals who are prepared to go above and beyond for every single customer. Whether you require emergency, commercial, or residential plumbing, we would be delighted to assist you. Contact All Star Plumbing Heating and Air Condition today and join our extensive list of satisfied, loyal customers!
Tips and Facts from Our Plumbing Service in La Canada Flintridge
Five Most Common Plumbing Pipe Materials
PEX Piping is a modern plumbing solution that has gained traction for its durability, expandability, affordability, rigidness, versatility, and ability to bend (thus requiring fewer joints). Most licensed plumbers prefer this material for its wide range of benefits and its variety of practical uses. Red PEX pipes are used for hot water applications, blue PEX is used for cold water, and white PEX can be used for water of any temperature.
PVC Piping is most commonly used for waste lines. Often chosen over galvanized steel for its durability and cost-effectiveness, these pipes are still relatively popular - but they cannot be used under high water pressure.
Copper Piping is often used for home water supply line applications. Since it doesn’t leach chemicals, it’s easy to cut, and it’s impressively durable, it’s often used in areas like sinks, tubs, showers, and other household fixtures - but it’s relatively expensive.
Cast Iron Piping is typically found in older homes, as it was commonly used for sewage drainage purposes in the 1970s and 1980s. This material was frequently used because it is durable, damage-resistant, and practical. Cast iron pipes are no longer used because they are prone to deterioration over time, eventually lead to sewer backups, are heavy, corrode easily, and often leave homeowners with expensive repair bills that insurance companies typically won’t cover.
CPVC Piping (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride piping) is made of a strong, durable polymer material that outperforms copper piping in some ways. It does not corrode and it takes less time to install. It does, however, come with some drawbacks - it can’t withstand high temperatures like copper pipes can; it isn’t ideal for regions with drastic temperature variations; it is brittle; and it is approximately double the price of conventional PVC.
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, but the risk is greatest when temperatures drop below 20 degrees. Longer periods of severely low temperatures carry the greatest risk of pipe bursting. Water can freeze in pipes within just six hours.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
When you take preventative measures, you can avoid frozen pipes and subsequent problems (like burst or leaky pipes). We recommend: - Keeping your heater on (55 degrees or higher) - Drip cold water in the faucet farthest from the main valve to keep water moving - Run your faucets regularly - Ask your plumbing contractor to insulate your water tank and pipes - Keep under-sink cabinet doors open to keep pipes warm - Before temperatures drop, shut off outdoor spigots and drain water from lines
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
- Ask your neighbors if their pipes are frozen, too. 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 any 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 you should take when your pipes freeze is to shut off the main water valve. Next, you can either attempt to thaw the pipes yourself or give our local plumbers a call. If you suspect that your water meter is frozen, do not attempt to thaw it yourself as extensive damage can result. Instead, call your water company. The best course of action is to be proactive - right when you realize that your pipes are frozen, contact All Star Plumbing Heating and Air Condition to avoid burst or cracked pipes and costly repairs.Got Toilet Problems?
…clogged or slow-flushing toilet: Attempt to remove the clog with a plunger. If plunging doesn’t work, contact your local plumbing contractor to clear the blockage with a snake. Older toilets may develop a weak flush due to long-term buildup, and we may recommend installing a new toilet.
…toilet that won’t stop running: Check for a leaking flush valve or a misaligned or faulty fill valve. If the issue persists, contact us to inspect and fix the problem promptly.
…leaking water supply: Look out for signs like low water flow, noisy pipes, a rising water bill, or pooling water. Even minor leaks can worsen, so shut off your main supply and call us for prompt plumbing services.
…tank-to-toilet leak: If you see water around the tank-to-bowl connection, we may need to drain and remove the tank to replace the gasket.
…leak at the toilet base: A defective wax ring may be the cause. We'll uninstall the toilet, replace the ring, and assess if a new toilet and tank are necessary.
…toilet overflow: Contact our plumbing service. Causes include a full septic tank, blocked plumbing vent, sewage issues, or a clogged pipe. Shut off the valve or water supply and wait for our resolution.
Toilet Installation
When you call our plumbing service to install a new toilet, we’ll: 1. Uninstall your old toilet. 2. Inspect the flange and install a new wax ring. 3. Bolt the new toilet in place and install the tank, seat, and lid. 4. Test for leaks to complete the installation.
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?
…dripping faucet: Possible causes include corrosion, damaged o-rings, washers, or valve seats. We'll determine the cause and promptly repair your sink.
…clogged or slow drain: Check for soap scum or hair buildup. For mechanical drain stoppers, inspect the horizontal pivot rod. If the issue persists, contact us for further troubleshooting.
…malfunctioning drain stopper: A broken stopper or loose retaining nut on the pivot rod may be the cause. We'll fix the issue promptly.
…deteriorated sink caulking: Water damage may have occurred. We recommend replacing caulking every five years.
…rotten egg-like odor from your sink: There might be a microbial infection in the sink overflow passage or drain. Use 3% hydrogen peroxide; if the issue persists, contact All Star Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for plumbing services.
Got Shower Problems?
…dripping shower head: Worn-out gaskets or mineral buildup may be the cause. A vinegar soak or gasket replacement can resolve the issue.
…clogged shower drain: Causes include broken pipes, foreign objects, mineral deposits, soap scum, or hair buildup. Avoid drain cleaner and contact our plumbing company for professional clearing.
…smelly shower drain: Possible issues include mold, bacteria, or sewage gas. We'll identify and solve the problem promptly.
Got Kitchen Problems?
…dripping kitchen faucet: Consider a cartridge replacement for modern faucets with a single-valve cartridge.
…slow sink drain: Soap scum, grease buildup, or food debris may be the cause. We'll clear the blockage using appropriate methods.
…water leak beneath your sink: Look for leaks at drain pipe joints or faucet water supply connections. We'll tighten connections or replace faulty parts as needed.
How We Install a Garbage Disposal
- Turn off the circuit breaker and complete 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 fasteners and test for leaks by running water and the disposal.
Got Leaky Pipes?
Possible causes:
…broken seal: Rubber sealant around connections can deteriorate over time, leading to water puddles or condensation.
…loose water connectors: Pipes and hoses may loosen due to movement or shifting, causing leaks. Damaged connectors can contribute to the issue.
…corrosion: Rust or corrosion caused by minerals or improper pH can damage pipes over time, resulting in leaks.
…fixture crack: Physical impact can cause visible damage to pipes or fixtures.
…clogged lines: Various reasons, including debris, can lead to severe clogs. Symptoms include overflowing toilets or burst pipes.
…pipe joint damage: Joints are vulnerable to high water pressure, extreme temperatures, or age. Banging or ticking noises may indicate joint problems.
…high water pressure: Constant high water pressure can lead to leaks or even pipe bursts.
…improperly laid pipes: Poorly installed pipes can cause emergency leaks. A professional inspection is essential.
…intrusive tree roots: Tree roots can grow into water lines, causing water pressure drop or visible wet patches.
…ground movement: Natural events like floods or earthquakes can shift pipes, leading to leaks. Water supply issues or slow draining may indicate underground damage.
All About Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting involves using a special hose to force high-pressure water through your system. The process includes:
1. **Camera Inspection:** A camera is used to examine the line and identify damage that may prevent hydro-jetting.
2. **Inserting the Hose:** Once damage is ruled out, the hydro jetting service begins by carefully inserting the hose and attaching it to a professional water tank.
3. **High-Pressure Water:** Highly pressurized water, propelled at around 20 gallons per minute through backward-facing and forward-facing jets, flushes debris from the system. It effectively clears clogs, grease, tree roots, mineral scale, and other debris.
4. **Deep Clogs:** Hydro jetting is recommended for deep clogs, providing a thorough cleaning solution.
Got Low Water Pressure?
The problem might be the result of:
…a problem with your water supplier. If nearby properties share the pressure issue, the supply itself could be the cause. Contact the water company to address the concern.
…corroded pipes. Older pipes, especially brass over 40 years, copper over 50 years, or galvanized steel over 20 years, may suffer from corrosion.
…partially shut valves. Check the main house shutoff valve or water meter valve for full openness. Contact the city if issues persist.
…leaky pipes. Look for pooling water or wet spots and contact All Star Services for prompt repair.
…a faulty fixture. If one faucet has low pressure, it could be a fixture issue, requiring repair or replacement.
…changes in local regulations. Confirm if water regulations have changed and consider installing a water pressure booster if needed.
…failing pressure regulator. Test your pressure regulator with a gauge. A plumber can troubleshoot and replace it if faulty.
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 All Star 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 connected to city water undergo treatment at a facility. Home water filters are then installed to remove contaminants, hard minerals, heavy metals, PFOS, PFOA, pesticides, and herbicides.Benefits
Installing a whole-house water filtration system offers various benefits, including safe drinking water, cost savings on bottled water, reduced environmental impact, minimized plumbing issues, and improved skin health.
Gas Piping Services
How Gas Piping Systems Work
Gas piping systems depend on pressure to bring natural gas to a property. Gas flows from higher to lower pressure through pipes, passes through a regulator, enters the distribution system, and reaches your home.
Six Most Common Gas Piping Materials
1. **HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene):** Cost-effective and flexible, suitable for underground use.
2. **Flexible Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing:** Easy to install, best for indoor use due to cracking risk.
3. **Black Iron:** Popular for both exterior and interior applications, durable but prone to corrosion.
4. **Copper:** Lasts around 20 years, subject to code requirements and restrictions.
5. **PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):** Corrosion-resistant and durable, suitable for exterior, underground gas lines.
6. **Galvanized Steel:** Resilient and energy-efficient, used in older structures for water or gas lines.