Plumbing FAQs
Dealing with plumbing issues can be stressful, but having the right information helps you make informed decisions for your home. At Center Guard Plumbing, we believe in providing our Chicagoland neighbors with honest advice and reliable solutions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive regarding water heaters, drains, and general maintenance.
Why is my water pressure low?
Low water pressure can stem from several issues, including a faulty pressure regulator, a hidden pipe leak, or mineral buildup within your fixtures. If the problem is isolated to a single faucet, cleaning the aerator often resolves the issue. When low pressure affects the entire house, it is best to have a professional inspect your main water line or shut-off valves.
Why is my water bill so high?
A sudden spike in your water bill usually indicates a hidden leak, such as a running toilet or an underground pipe fracture. Even a small pinhole leak in a service line can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month. We recommend checking your water meter while all faucets are off to see if it is still spinning, which confirms a leak is present.
What are some common water heater problems?
If you are experiencing inconsistent temperatures or strange noises, you are likely dealing with common water heater problems. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank often causes popping sounds and reduces efficiency. Most water heater repairs involve replacing a thermocouple or heating element, but if your unit is over a decade old, a replacement might be more cost-effective.
When should I consider water heater replacement?
Most traditional tank heaters last between eight and twelve years. You should consider a water heater replacement if you notice persistent leaking around the base of the tank or visible rust in your hot water. Upgrading to a high-efficiency model or a tankless system can provide more reliable hot water while lowering your monthly energy costs.
What causes my drains to clog frequently?
Frequent clogs are often caused by the accumulation of hair, grease, and soap scum, or the flushing of non-flushable items like “flushable” wipes. If multiple drains in your home are backing up simultaneously, the issue likely resides in your main sewer line. Professional rodding or sewer scoping can identify if tree roots or structural damage are obstructing the flow.
When should I call a plumber?
While minor tasks like changing a showerhead are DIY-friendly, you should call a plumber for any work involving gas lines, major leaks, or sewage backups. Attempting complex water heater troubleshooting or sewer repairs without the proper tools can lead to expensive property damage. If you notice damp spots on your walls or a persistent smell of sewage, it is time to bring in a licensed expert.
How can I prevent plumbing emergencies?
Preventive maintenance is the best way to avoid unexpected repairs and water damage. We recommend testing your sump pump seasonally and having your water heater flushed annually to remove performance-robbing sediment. Being mindful of what goes down your drains and monitoring your water pressure can extend the life of your entire plumbing system.
What Are Your Business Hours?
Our standard business hours are Monday through Saturday from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM. We know that plumbing issues don’t just happen between nine and five, which is why we offer extended evening and weekend hours to make sure your home is taken care of when you need it most.
What Areas Do You Serve?
We proudly service the entire Chicagoland area. Whether you are located right in the city or in surrounding suburbs like Bolingbrook, Rockford, Spring Grove, Tinley Park, Gurnee, Geneva, Naperville, Schaumburg, or Arlington Heights, our experienced technicians are ready to head your way and help with your plumbing needs.
Are You Licensed and Insured in Illinois?
Yes, Center Guard Plumbing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured to perform plumbing work in the state of Illinois. For your peace of mind, our Illinois License Number is 058-177312 and our Contractor Number is 055-036024. You can rest easy knowing a qualified, protected professional is working on your home.
Do You Offer Same-Day Service?
Yes, we offer same-day service! If you are dealing with a plumbing emergency like a burst pipe or a gas leak, we will get a plumber out to you as quickly as possible.
Do You Provide Free Estimates?
Yes, we provide free estimates for your plumbing projects. We believe in transparent pricing and making things as easy as possible for our customers. That’s why we also offer a “Price Your Job in 60 Seconds” feature right here on our website. You can use it to get a quick, accurate estimate for many common jobs before you even give us a call.
Contact Center Guard Plumbing Today
Whether you need urgent water heater repairs or a routine inspection, the team at Center Guard Plumbing is ready to help. We provide transparent pricing and expert service to homeowners throughout the Chicago area. Call us at 847-716-2398 or reach out online to schedule your service appointment today.