FAQs

If you suddenly start to run out of hot water faster than you used to, it can be due to several reasons:

  • Multiple appliances are using hot water at the same time.
  • There is sediment building up in the unit.
  • The dip tube is broken. This allows cold water to move to the bottom of the tank to be heated.
  • Your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan.
  • Your unit’s thermostat is not working properly.

Having professionals clean your drains can remove clogs from your pipes, as well as preventatively remove buildup that could turn into a clog later. This allows technicians to keep your pipes flowing as expected, and also to locate issues with your line that could turn into larger problems later.

Our plumbers recommend having your drains professionally cleaned about once a year. If you encounter blockages, you should schedule services more frequently.

Having your drains and sewer cleaned are very different services. Your drains carry wastewater from your house down to the sewer line. These can get clogged with household items. Your sewer takes the water from your drains and carries it into your city sewer line. These can be blocked with items from your household, in addition to tree roots and other items from your yard.

If your water pressure suddenly gets lower you should call a professional to determine if it’s due to a minor issue, or something larger. Some reasons can include:

  • Too many plumbing fixtures running at the same time.
  • Faulty fixtures, like showerheads or faucets.
  • A broken pressure regulator. These are meant to stabilize the water pressure in your home.
  • Closed valves that are preventing your water supply from traveling through them.
  • Clogged pipes that are disrupting the water flow through the pipes.
  • Older plumbing systems that are corroding.

If your kitchen faucet is leaking, it could be due to one of these common causes:

  • O-ring: Dripping near the handle is typically caused by a loose or worn-out O-ring. The O-ring is the small disc that attaches to the stem screw which holds the handle of the faucet in place.
  • Broken or worn washers: Every time the faucet is turned on, the washer is pressed against the valve seat forcefully. Over time, the friction wears out the washer. When this happens, dripping starts to occur around the spout.
  • Destroyed valve seat: The spout and faucet are connected through the valve seat. Built-up water sediments can start to corrode the valve seat, which causes leaks in the spout.
  • Improper installation of washers: If your washer isn’t the right size, or is not installed the right way, water can get around the washer and start a leak.

Over time your toilet will endure wear and tear and you may need to replace it. Some reasons to install a new toilet can include if it is starting to clog more frequently if it’s using more water than it needs to, if there are cracks in the unit, and if it’s starting to show signs of wear and tear.

If there are rusty rings inside your toilet or tub, and you have a traditional hot water heater, the discoloration can be due to rust inside of your aging tank. If you notice this, it can signal it’s time to replace your system with a newer unit.

When you need plumbing or heating services, call PHD Mechanical Inc at 973-706-6210 for appointments in Denville, NJ, Madison, and the surrounding areas. We offer convenient scheduling!