Answers To Your Questions
"Can you tell me exactly how much this will cost?"
In our years of experience we have found that our clients prefer an accurate price based upon their specific problem. Most phone quotes given are low and will change once there is an actual site inspection of the problem. In person, our plumber will be able to correctly diagnose your problem and give you an exact price and guarantee that price in writing.
"Why do you have a service/diagnostic fee? I already know what my problem is."
Although we can appreciate that you feel you have properly diagnosed your problem, there are many things you, as a homeowner, may have overlooked. Our plumber may discover a small problem that could have gone undetected, causing a major problem, with major costs, if not repaired. Or he may find a way of fixing your problem at a lesser cost. Our plumbers have received professional training on the latest technology and plumbing codes to ensure the safety of your home and your family. They are background checked and receive ongoing training. They arrive in a fully stocked service vehicle so they won't have to leave you to get parts. We believe that a minimal service fee is a small amount compared to the value homeowners receive from getting a skilled plumber and quality workmanship and parts with a solid 100% written satisfaction guarantee. Also, unlike many other plumbing companies, we do not "hide" the service fee within each repair cost just so we can say there are no other charges. We prefer to be upfront and honest. Wouldn't you rather deal with a company who is upfront about all their prices and other variables?
"What does that mean, 'charge by the job and not by the hour'?"
Charging by the job is simply more efficient. You receive one price, including all parts and labour, to complete your work regardless of how long it takes. It will not depend upon who the plumber is or how fast he may or may not be. You will know how much your final invoice will be even before we begin working.
"Do you do work in condos?"
Yes, we do emergency repairs, installations, renovations and maintenance work. (It is important to note that only copper piping is allowed in condos by the Ontario Building Code and that any renovation work be performed by a licensed and insured company. Any major changes are to be pre-approved by the Condo Board and management for legal and insurance reasons.)
"My water bill is very high and yet none of my faucets appear to be leaking. What else could be the problem?"
The most common culprit is the toilet. Did you know that a toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day? The easiest way to find out if your toilet is leaking is by dropping a toilet leak test tablet or a few drops of food colouring into your tank. Do not flush. If the water in your toilet bowl changes colour after 20 - 30 minutes, it indicates that water is leaking. Also be sure to check underneath your sinks for moisture or leaks. Even a slow leak can waste up to 75 litres (20 gallons) of water per day. Your furnace humidifier should also be checked for signs of leaking. Other areas to check are: hot water heater, water softener, fridge water line/valve, dishwasher piping, washing machine hoses/valves and underground sprinkler system.
"What are those noises I hear in my pipes?"
There are a number of reasons for noises in pipes. They could either be coming from the supply system or the drainage system. It could indicate any one of the following: that a toilet or faucet repair is needed, water pressure needs to be addressed, lines need to be "purged" or pipes need to be supported. Your plumber is trained to determine the cause of the noises and perform the necessary repairs.
"I have an awful sewer smell coming from my bathroom in the basement. What is it?"
Plumbing systems were designed to prevent sewer gases from entering your home by means of a trap attached to each plumbing fixture that contains water and/or seal to block them out. From our experience, most people rarely use their basement washrooms and this water or seal dries up. To solve this problem, simply pour about 1 litre of water in each sink, shower and floor drain once a week to prevent these odours from entering the house. And don't forget to flush the toilet too! If that does not solve the problem, it could be that one of the seals needs replacing or the toilet gasket is worn out or improperly installed. It could also mean that the washroom has not been properly piped or vented. Please contact a professional.
"I installed non-freeze taps outside but they still froze and burst. Why? And how can I prevent this from happening again?"
Non-freeze taps, or hosebibbs, still have to be correctly drained before the outside temperature gets too cold. To prevent freezing, turn off the indoor water supply line that runs to your outside tap. This separate shut off valve, or cut-off valve, is usually close to where it goes to the outside. Once the water has been shut off inside, go outside and remove and drain your garden hose. Now turn on the outside tap so any water remaining in the tap or pipe will drain out. Once completely drained, turn off the tap. Store your garden hose in your garage or shed for the winter. Never leave it attached to the tap.
