FAQs Archive - Page 8 of 18 - Drain Pro

How often should you drain your water heater?

If you have a traditional water heater with a reservoir tank, you should drain it every six months to a year. Doing so will flush out any minerals and sediments in the water that have made their way into the tank. This will help to prolong the life, and improve the function of the hot water heater. If left alone, these minerals and sediments can calcify on the internal components of the hot water tank which leads to component failures that need repairs or replacement.

How often should you drain your water heater?2021-02-22T18:16:20+00:00

Can a water heater explode?

A water heater that has been installed properly, and is inspected and maintained on a yearly basis has very little risk of exploding. Water heaters have a greater risk of exploding if they are poorly maintained and in need of repairs. If you check your water heater and plumbing appliances and notice any of the following, then your water heater is in need of emergency repairs. Leaking pressure valve Rotten egg smell Popping noises Hot, brown water coming from plumbing appliances Contact us right away to get your water heater repaired and avoid any disasters caused by an exploding water heater.

Can a water heater explode?2021-02-22T18:14:28+00:00

Can I shower if my water heater is leaking?

Taking a shower when your water heater is leaking may seem like an unsafe thing to do. However, it is actually okay to do so. That doesn’t mean you should put off repairing your water heater though, as the leak will continue to get worse if it doesn’t get fixed right away, causing more water damage in the home.

Can I shower if my water heater is leaking?2021-02-22T18:12:50+00:00

Do I need a permit to have work done on my gas line?

Gas line work is fully regulated under the BC Safety Standards Act. These regulations state that unless you have an emergency such as a gas leak, you need to have a permit before having any work done on your gas line. This work could be: Installations Alterations Extensions Preventative Maintenance Our team of experts will help you with permits every step of the way so there is no need to stress. Contact us today!

Do I need a permit to have work done on my gas line?2021-10-05T18:30:09+00:00

Can I use flexible gas pipe like PEX in my gas line?

Yes, but only under certain conditions. Certain grades of polyethylene pipes like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) are capable of being used for gas lines. However, due to the fact that it is plastic that expands easily near heat, they are not recommended to be connected directly to any heat-producing appliances like a gas furnace, water heater, stove or BBQ. Doing so is an easy way to spring a gas leak.   PEX pipes are great to use in gas lines when you are transporting natural gas from one point in your home to another because it is flexible and doesn't require as many directional connections. The pipes should connect to metal pipes near appliances in such a way as it isn't exposed to extreme heat.   PEX pipes also work well as buried pipes used to connect detached buildings such as sheds and garages that are on your property.   If you would like to learn more about how we can install PEX pipes in your home, contact our team today!

Can I use flexible gas pipe like PEX in my gas line?2021-10-05T18:30:40+00:00

How can I tell if I need my gas line repaired?

Aside from the obvious rotten egg smell, or alarm from your home's carbon monoxide detector, there are a number of things you can look for and notice that will tell you if your gas line needs to be fixed: Pipes are starting to crack or look like they will at any moment. Hissing noises near your gas pipes. Rust or corrosion on your gas pipes Gas appliances slowing down Dying house plants or grass around buried gas pipes despite regular watering Drastic increase in your utility bill All of these are easy ways to tell if there is (or soon will be) a gas leak somewhere in your gas line that urgently needs to be fixed.   If you notice any of the above signs, get in touch with our team at Drain Pro. We will be able to assess your situation and provide you with the next course of action.

How can I tell if I need my gas line repaired?2021-10-05T18:31:06+00:00

How often do my gas lines need to be replaced?

There are many types of pipes that work together in your natural gas system. Their lifespans vary depending on the material they are made of: Copper Pipes: 70-80 Years Brass Pipes: 80-100 Years Galvanized Steel: 80-100 Years Damage to these pipes can still happen at any time across their lifespan due to faulty components, corrosion, improperly moving gas appliances, tree roots near underground lines and more. It is important to have your pipes inspected every so often to ensure they are in working order.   Contact Drain Pro to set up an appointment for us to replace your gas line.

How often do my gas lines need to be replaced?2021-10-05T18:31:23+00:00

Can I replace my metal water lines with PEX?

Replacing metal water lines with PEX is a great way to update your plumbing system. PEX tubing is made of high density polyethylene tubes that are strong, flexible, chlorine and scale resistant, and don’t corrode or develop pinholes. PEX tubing is quicker and easier to install than metal piping because they don’t need as many directional connections and fittings. This helps you save on labour costs for installation. The flexibility of PEX pipes also makes them able to handle the freeze-thaw cycle better than traditional piping. Ask your plumber about PEX piping if you are looking to have any water lines replaced.

Can I replace my metal water lines with PEX?2020-12-09T21:52:41+00:00

What is trenchless water line replacement?

Trenchless water line replacement is a cutting-edge method of replacing broken water lines that is quicker, easier, cheaper and less damaging than traditional methods. It involves creating two holes: One hole where the water line begins, and one hole where the water line ends. Then a cable pulling system is used to connect the holes together underground and create the space for the underground water pipe to go. We then connect this pipe to the plumbing system of the property and the water access point to complete the line. Ask us about this type of water line installation and we’ll see if it’s the right service for you!

What is trenchless water line replacement?2020-12-09T21:51:19+00:00

What can I expect when I make an emergency service call?

When you call us for an emergency repair, we will give you a list of steps to take to help prevent further damage while you wait. We will then dispatch the closest available plumber right away. He will usually show up at your home within an hour. At that point, all you need to do is point to the problem and they will get to fixing it right away. Contact us if you're experiencing a plumbing emergency in Victoria, BC.

What can I expect when I make an emergency service call?2021-12-29T21:17:50+00:00