Plumber in Pasadena
All Star Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning proudly serves the Pasadena area. As a locally owned and operated business, we've maintained an outstanding reputation. Our commitment to excellence has made us the most trusted plumbing company in the region. You can trust our fully licensed, insured, and bonded team of hardworking, honest, and experienced professionals. Whether you need emergency, commercial, or residential plumbing services, All Star Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is here to assist you. Join our extensive list of satisfied, loyal customers by contacting us today!
Tips and Facts from Our Plumbing Service in Pasadena
Five Most Common Plumbing Pipe Materials
PEX Piping: A modern plumbing solution known for durability, expandability, and affordability. Red PEX pipes for hot water, blue for cold water, and white for water of any temperature.
PVC Piping: Commonly used for waste lines due to its durability and cost-effectiveness, but not suitable for high water pressure.
Copper Piping: Often used for home water supply lines due to its durability and lack of chemical leaching, though it's relatively expensive.
Cast Iron Piping: Found in older homes, once popular for sewage drainage, but prone to deterioration over time.
CPVC Piping: Made of a strong, durable polymer material, outperforming copper in some ways, but with limitations.
All About Frozen Pipes
Where and When Pipes Typically Freeze
Pipes commonly freeze in exterior walls, attics, and crawl spaces. The risk is greatest when temperatures drop below 20 degrees, with water freezing within six hours.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
To avoid frozen pipes and related issues: - Keep your heater on (55 degrees or higher). - Drip cold water in the farthest faucet to keep water moving. - Run your faucets regularly. - Insulate your water tank and pipes. - Keep under-sink cabinet doors open. - Shut off outdoor spigots and drain water from lines before temperature drops.
How Our Insured Plumbers Insulate Pipes
Our local plumbers will assess your plumbing design and choose effective insulation methods, including insulation products, heat tape, or heat cables to cover pipes in crawl spaces, unheated attics, and exterior walls.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
- Check with neighbors for similar issues to rule out a water main break.
- Shut off the main water supply.
- Open faucets.
- Use a hair dryer to heat pipes, avoiding flammable materials.
- Turn water back on slowly, checking for cracks or leaks.
If unable to thaw pipes or if nervous about attempting, call our 24/7 plumber. Attempting it yourself carries risks like cracking or melting pipes, water damage, etc.
What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze
When pipes freeze, shut off the main water valve. You can attempt thawing or contact All Star Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to avoid potential damage and costly repairs.
Got Toilet Problems?
If the issue is a…
…clogged or slow-flushing toilet, attempt to remove the clog with a plunger. If your attempts at plunging don’t do the trick, you may need your Pasadena plumbing contractor to clear the blockage with a snake. Older toilets can develop a “lazy,” weak flush due to long-term buildup of lime, calcium, rust, and/or debris. If we find this to be the source of your plumbing problem, we may recommend having a new toilet installed.
…toilet that won’t stop running, the flush valve at the base of your tank might be leaking. Another common cause is a misaligned or faulty fill valve, which can allow water to fill the tank continuously.
…leaking water supply, you may notice signs like low water flow, noisy pipes, a rising water bill, or pooling water. Even a minor leak can quickly worsen and become significant if you don’t call for plumber services, so give us a call right after you shut off your main supply.
…tank-to-toilet leak, you’ll see water coming from the area where the tank connects to the toilet bowl. This is a sign that your plumber will need to drain and remove the tank to replace the gasket.
…leak at the toilet base, your wax ring is likely defective, poorly installed, or worn out. You may see water right after flushing, or it may accumulate slowly over the course of the day. For this type of plumbing repair, we’ll drain the tank, uninstall the toilet, and install a new ring. You might also need a new toilet and tank, depending on the cause and extent of the leak.
…toilet overflow, you’ll need to contact our plumbing service. The most common causes of this specific problem include a full septic tank, a blocked plumbing vent, a sewage problem, or a clogged pipe. Most toilet pipes have a valve that connects to the tank, so we recommend shutting this valve off to stop the flow. If you don’t see a valve in this location, turn off your water supply. Do not turn the valve or water supply back on until we have resolved the issue.
Toilet Installation
When you call our Pasadena 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 All Star Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for plumbing services.
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 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.
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, Heating & Air Conditioning will be happy to take a close look at your pipes to ensure that they were installed correctly.
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 us from using 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 All Star Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 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 they 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.