Plumbers in London, ON

When Do I Need a Professional Plumber?

While some minor plumbing problems can be resolved with some basic troubleshooting, there are certain situations where the expertise of a professional plumber can be invaluable. Recognizing when you need professional help can save you from costly repairs and severe water damage. You should consider reaching out to our plumbers in London, ON, if you encounter any of the issues listed below.

Persistent Leaking Faucets

You probably need one of our plumbers if one or more of your faucets continuously drips, even when fully turned off. The constant dripping sound is annoying enough, but this problem also wastes substantial amounts of water and can increase your utility bills over time. Persistent leaks usually indicate a deeper issue with your fixture or its sealing components that require careful assessment and repair. We have the tools and expertise to replace faulty parts or recommend an entirely new fixture if needed.

Slow Draining Sinks

Slow draining can signal the build-up of debris like grease, food particles, or hair. You may be tempted to resolve such issues with over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners, which can sometimes provide a temporary fix. However, these chemicals can also cause damage to your pipes if used excessively. Our professionals can employ tools like drain snakes or hydro-jetting systems to clear blockages thoroughly without harming to your plumbing system.

Low Water Pressure

Experiencing a drop in water pressure can make simple tasks, like showering or washing dishes, inconvenient to impossible. Low water pressure can stem from various issues, including pipe obstructions, leaks, or even problems with the municipal water supply. We can diagnose and address the root cause by using specialized equipment to detect leaks and evaluate the condition of your pipes. 

Constantly Running Toilets

A toilet that continuously runs can waste an enormous amount of water and lead to higher utility costs. The problem often points to issues with the inner workings of your toilet tank, such as a faulty flapper valve, fill valve malfunctions, or issues with the overflow tube. While you might feel confident enough to fiddle with the tank components, misdiagnosis and improper repairs can lead to more significant damage. Our professionals can accurately diagnose the issue and replace faulty parts.

Strange Sounds from Your Pipes

If you hear unusual banging or gurgling noises coming from your pipes, you may be dealing with one of several problems. These sounds can be caused by air in the pipes, water hammer, or issues with the pressure regulator. Each of these conditions can lead to more severe plumbing problems if not addressed quickly. We can use the right diagnostic tools to accurately identify the source of the noise and implement the correct solution, whether it’s installing air chambers, adjusting the pressure, or replacing faulty components.

Unpleasant Odours

Foul smells originating from your drains, such as sulfur or sewage-like odours, indicate a significant problem. These smells can be caused by blockages, sewer line issues, or traps that have dried out. Our team can diagnose and address the source of the odours.

Backflow Issues

Any backflow of water from your sinks, tubs, or toilets is a severe health hazard. This issue can contaminate your clean water supply with sewage or other pollutants. Backflow is often caused by issues with the backflow prevention system or a significant blockage in the pipes. Our plumbers are trained to handle backflow situations. We use specialized equipment to clear blockages and repair or replace faulty backflow preventers.

Frequent Clogging of Drains

If you find yourself constantly dealing with clogged sinks, showers, or toilets, it’s time to call in our team. Frequent clogs suggest a recurring issue deeper in your plumbing system, such as tree roots infiltrating your pipes or substantial build-ups of debris. Our trained plumbers can assess the true extent of the blockage and use professional-grade tools to completely clear your pipes.

Discoloured Water

Brown, yellow, or red water can be alarming. Discoloration often points to rusting pipes or sediment build-up within your water heater, and both scenarios require professional intervention. Our plumbers can determine whether the problem stems from your pipes or water heater and take appropriate action, such as flushing the system or replacing corroded pipes, to restore the quality of your water.

Water Heater Problems

If your water heater is not providing enough hot water, makes unusual noises, or leaks, it likely needs professional attention. Many factors can affect a water heater’s performance, including thermostat failures, tank corrosion, or sediment build-up. We can diagnose the problem and recommend repairs or replacement. Regular professional maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your water heater and improve its efficiency.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a serious concern, especially during colder months, as they can easily burst, leading to extensive water damage and costly repairs. Signs of frozen pipes include little to no water flow, frost on the exterior of your pipes, and unusual odours from your taps. If you suspect your pipes are frozen, do not wait to call our plumbers in London, ON. We can safely thaw your pipes and implement preventive measures, such as insulation, to help protect against future freezing.

Visible Water Stains

Water stains on your walls, ceiling, or floors generally suggest a “hidden” leak somewhere in your plumbing system. We can identify the source of these leaks, even if they are behind walls or above ceilings, and perform the necessary repairs to prevent further damage and mould growth.

Sump Pump Malfunctions

Your sump pump works to protect your basement from flooding, particularly during heavy rain or rapid snowmelt. If your sump pump fails to activate, runs continuously, or makes strange noises, it’s time to call our team at M&K Heating & Air Conditioning. Our professionals can inspect your pump, clear debris, and confirm it is functioning properly. 

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is an emergency situation that requires immediate professional intervention. Signs of a burst pipe include a sudden drop in water pressure, wet spots on walls or ceilings, and pooling water. A burst pipe can quickly cause extensive damage, affecting your home's structure and leading to mould growth. We can quickly locate the burst section, repair or replace the damaged pipe, and offer advice on preventing future incidents.

How Often Should I Schedule Plumbing Maintenance?

While many homeowners tend to wait until they encounter a problem to call a plumber, routine maintenance can preemptively address issues before they turn into costly repairs. So, how often should you schedule plumbing maintenance for your home?

We generally recommend scheduling a comprehensive plumbing inspection at least once a year. An annual check-up allows one of our professional plumbers to thoroughly examine your entire plumbing system, from pipes and fixtures to water heaters and sewer lines. During this inspection, our plumber can identify any small leaks, corrosion, or blockages that could develop into more serious problems. Regular inspections not only help maintain optimal water pressure and prevent leaks but can also extend the lifespan of your home’s plumbing infrastructure.

Older homes with aging plumbing systems may want to consider inspections every six months. Older pipes are more susceptible to deterioration, rusting, and mineral build-up. Similarly, if you have trees surrounding your property, tree root intrusion into your sewer lines can be a recurring issue that warrants more frequent maintenance visits. Winterizing your plumbing system before the onset of freezing temperatures can help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, which are common issues during the colder months. Similarly, a spring check-up can verify that your plumbing system has not sustained damage from any winter conditions.

Our plumbers in London, ON, can evaluate your home’s plumbing system and recommend the appropriate maintenance schedule! We aim to make maintenance as easy and stress-free as possible and can schedule service visits at your convenience. 

Tips for Minimizing Damage During a Plumbing Emergency

Facing a plumbing emergency like a burst pipe can be a stressful experience. Taking immediate action can significantly reduce damage and prevent the situation from worsening before professional help arrives.

If you discover a burst pipe or significant leak, make every effort to take the following steps until one of our plumbers can get to you:

• Turn off the water supply. For smaller leaks, you may be able to turn off the valve located under the sink or near the appliance. In the case of a major leak or burst pipe, locate the main water shutoff valve for your house, usually found near your water meter or where the main water line enters your home, and turn it off.
• Switch off electrical appliances. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If water has reached any electrical appliances, outlets, or wiring, turn off the main electrical supply to avoid potential electrocution. Only do this if it is safe to access the electrical panel without coming into contact with water.
• Contain the leak. Use buckets, towels, or any absorbent materials to contain and soak up the water. Place towels or rags around the base of the leak to absorb as much water as possible. These actions can help prevent water from spreading to other areas and minimize potential damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings. 
• Seal and patch the leak temporarily, if possible. For small leaks or cracks, apply a temporary patch using plumber's tape, epoxy putty, or a rubber pad with hose clamps. While not a permanent solution, these measures can help control the leak until one of our professional plumbers arrives.
• Clear out the affected area. Remove any furniture, electronics, or other valuables from the area to help prevent water damage. Elevate items off the ground if possible and confirm that the area is clear so our team can work efficiently when we arrive. 

Do not wait to call (226) 210-0916 or contact us online if you are dealing with a plumbing emergency!