AFFORDABLE PLUMBING SERVICE IN Hartford, CT

What Are the Most Common Plumbing Issues in Hartford?

Some of the earliest structures that are still standing are from the 19th century, meaning old and outdated plumbing systems are common. Some plumbing issues we see are:

Old, Leaking Pipes

In Hartford, leaking pipes are a common reason to call us. Old plumbing lines, which is common in Hartford due to the prevalence of older houses, are often the cause of leaks when the pipes succumb to corrosion. Copper pipes are known for corroding in a way that causes pinhole leaks. The leaks are difficult to detect early on and can spread rapidly throughout a corroded plumbing system.

Improper plumbing installation is also another major cause of leaking pipes and fixtures. Temperature changes can cause pipes to expand and contract, resulting in various leaks.

You can also call the MDC Command Center at (860) 278-7850 if you see water bubbling in the street or grass area and/or experience no water, lower water pressure or a prolonged period of dirty or rusty water, or a water main break or service leak.

Clogged Drains

When drains become clogged with debris or drain slowly, you may need to call us. While hair, hygiene products, and other debris are common causes, the three most notorious drain clogs are known as FOG, or fats, oils, and grease.

FOG clogs and slows your drain when you dump dripping fat, oil, or grease from a pan or scrape food from dishes into the sink. It may seem like liquid oil will flow down the drain without a problem, but it can be a big problem when the liquid solidifies in the pipe.

While you may be tempted to reach for an over-the-counter liquid plumbing solution, these products don’t always work and can be hazardous. We highly recommend calling us to affordably and professionally unclog the drain.

The Metropolitan District needs the help of all residents to keep the sewer system flowing properly. Sewage back-ups can do damage to both personal property and public property and increase sewer rates for all District members.

Frozen Pipes

Connecticut experiences its fair share of chilly weather and winter storms. When the mercury drops, your pipes can freeze if they aren’t protected. Frozen pipes are a common reason we receive calls during the winter.

It is important to have your pipes well insulated and leave the faucets turned on so the water barely drips out during freezing temperatures. Knowing where your shut off valve is located is also key to preventing damage if a pipe bursts during wintery weather. It is best to call us before inclement weather strikes to prepare your pipes for the worst.

Tree Roots

Tree roots can also be a common problem for plumbing systems in Hartford, thanks to its abundance of trees-lined neighborhoods. While the roots do not penetrate fully sealed pipes, they can exploit small leaks, cracks, and corroded sections of pipe. When a root penetrates a sewer system, septic line, or plumbing line, it can cause a major blockage.

Typically, the root will need to be cut out of the pipe with a hydro-jetting system or by removing the line. It is best to keep trees away from the home to avoid root-related plumbing issues.

The Metropolitan Water District listed ways on what we can do to save water inside and outside the home.

How Does the Water in Hartford Affect Your Plumbing?

While The Metropolitan District attempts to keep Hartford’s water supply clean and healthy, the water is not without its problems. The water can contain bacteria if it is not filtered, causing a pink, slimy buildup in dog dishes and sinks. The water may also have an unpleasant taste due to geosmin and methylisoborneol, chemicals released by bacteria and algae in the reservoir.

In homes with plumbing systems from before 1986, lead may also be present in the water. Lead can be harmful if found in drinking water and was commonly used in older metal pipes and copper solder. It is important to have your plumbing system tested for lead, and have it flushed regularly or replaced to remove the lead.

How Much Does Plumbing Usually Cost in Hartford?

In 2021, homeowners paid an average of $468 for plumbing repair and installation in Hartford. Several factors may increase or decrease the cost of our affordable plumbing service in Hartford. Three major factors impact the cost of service.

Type of Plumbing Service

The type of plumbing service requested has a major impact on the cost of hiring us. Repairs, maintenance, installations, and replacements all require different amounts of labor and supplies which can significantly affect the cost.

For instance, routine maintenance on a water heater is typically inexpensive, but if the water heater needs to be replaced, it can increase the cost several times. The amount of labor required increases and the cost of the water heater is included in the cost of the service.

Generally, maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs are the least expensive plumbing services. The most expensive plumbing services include installation, replacement, and major repairs.

Urgency of Service

The urgency of the plumbing service can also have an impact on the overall cost of the service. While many plumbing services can wait several hours or even a day without impacting your health and safety, certain plumbing repairs are incredibly urgent. Damaging or hazardous malfunctions, like broken water heaters, flooding, burst plumbing lines, major leaks, and frozen lines, require a quick response.

When your plumbing service cannot wait, we offer our 24/7 emergency service at a slightly higher cost than our regular plumbing services. We answer calls 24/7 and respond to your location immediately.

When you call for emergency service, we will rearrange our schedule and arrive promptly, even if the call is outside our regular business hours. Our emergency services are well worth the price for your safety, health, and peace of mind.

Materials

Materials are often an unavoidable cost and can considerably increase or decrease the cost of plumbing service. Replacing and repairing plumbing lines or fixtures require compatible materials. We must also use compatible materials when installing new equipment.

Common modern plumbing materials include copper, galvanized steel, ABS, PVC, and PEX. The least expensive is generally PVC, as it is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to install. Copper pipe requires more work to install and is heavier and more expensive than PVC. PEX is a recent material that makes installation simple and is lightweight, but it can be expensive.

The material used to repair and replace parts of your plumbing system will depend on the existing material. If the plumbing material in your system is outdated, corroded, or contains lead, it may need to be replaced, which can cost much more than a typical repair.

Can Better Plumbing Save You Money in Hartford?

While fixing a leak is a common money-saving plumbing repair, better plumbing can also save you money in ways that you may not have imagined. The Metropolitan District charges customers within Hartford a rate of $4.05 per 100 cubic feet of water used. A single leaky faucet can waste 3,000 gallons of water in a year at only one drip per second. Calling us to fix any leaks can save you thousands of gallons of water.

Another way to save is to upgrade your water heater. Water heaters are a major energy consumer in the home. If your water heater is over 10 years old, we highly recommend replacement. An Energy Star water heater can save a family of four up to $3,500 over its lifetime.

Upgrading your plumbing fixtures can also help you save on your water bills. We recommend upgrading your fixtures to EPA-approved WaterSense products. WaterSense products are at least 20% more water-efficient than conventional plumbing fixtures. This means you will not only save water but also energy when the water is heated, increasing your savings significantly.

When Should You Call the Water Utility Company in Hartford Vs Hire a Plumber?

When you have a plumbing issue, you may need to decide if it is better to call the water utility company or a licensed plumber like us in Hartford. This guide will walk you through several common scenarios to help you determine the best solution.

The Water Utility Company

The Metropolitan District of Connecticut serves most of Hartford with water and sewage service. If you have a question about your water bill or want to start or stop water service, you can get a quick solution from them. They also service your water meter, installing, maintaining, and replacing the meter as needed. 

If your water pressure is too high or low from the meter, they can fix it. They can also adjust the meter if you’re being billed improperly and can install a radio frequency meter free of charge to increase ease of use.

The Metropolitan District is also responsible for the plumbing infrastructure and maintains and repairs water mains throughout the city.

Your Plumber

If your plumbing repair is within your home and doesn’t extend to the water meter, we can likely offer a solution. We repair, maintain, replace, install, and inspect a wide range of plumbing systems and equipment.

The following is a small selection of the plumbing systems we service:

• Sinks
• Drains
• Showers and tubs
• Toilets
• Outdoor plumbing
• Sump pumps
• Garbage disposals
• Water heaters
• Water softeners and purifiers
• Washing machine supply and drain lines
• Plumbing and sewage lines

We offer a wide range of services and can provide emergency service 24/7 when you have an urgent repair. We can solve your leaks, clogs, and water efficiency problems at an affordable price.

When Do You Need Permits for Plumbing Service in Hartford?

Certain plumbing services in Hartford will require a permit. The burden of obtaining a permit is placed on the homeowner, so when a permit is needed to pull for the homeowner, it is best to trust a licensed plumber like us with a proven record. We can pull the permit and have an excellent understanding of local codes, permits, and inspections.

Most new plumbing work and replacement will require a permit with two exceptions. Services that do not require a permit include repairing clogged drains or vents and repairing leaks. If the drain or vent must be replaced, it will require a permit. Leaks can be repaired without a permit, even if the water closet requires removal and reinstallation. The work will require a permit if a valve or fixture requires replacement.