Frequently Asked Questions

Why waste time looking around for a plumber while your plumbing problem gets worse? The Great Plumbing Co. provides the fast, friendly expertise you need when there’s no time to wait. Call 416-446-0909 to schedule an immediate appointment in Toronto and any of the surrounding areas.

When the plumbing works fine, most homeowners will pay it no mind. In most cases, something has to go wrong for them to realize how complex their home’s plumbing system is. Fortunately, our team at The Great Plumbing Co. is always here to help.

Backed by our specialized expertise and vast experience, we can answer all your burning questions regarding the problems your plumbing is facing. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive.

What would happen if a plumber were to damage my home either by flood or fire?

In the rare event that one of our trusted employees causes damage to your home, either by flood or fire, you would be covered by our liability insurance.

Do your employees work on a commission basis?

Our team members are fully salaried employees with no commission based pay.

How often should I have my drains cleaned?

If you are sensible as to what you put down your drains, you can virtually eliminate this issue. However, issues can sometimes occur because of the way your drains were installed. For example, lack of grade to the pipe can sometimes lead to clogs. Be aware of what can and can’t be put down your drains.

What is the difference between hard and soft water?

Hard water is typically found in well water situations and contains a higher level of calcium and magnesium phosphates. This can result in the deposit of these minerals in various appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines, greatly reducing their life expectancy. Also, when bathing in hard water, it can be impossible to attain a lather with your soap and you will likely feel slimy instead. Avoid hard water problems by calling our plumbers to install a water softening system.

How much do your plumbing services cost?

We charge $89 to have a licensed and insured plumber professionally assess the plumbing issue in order to provide you with a valuable estimate.

How accurate are your estimates?

We proudly provide clear, written estimates before any work begins, outlining the scope of the job and the associated costs so you know exactly what to expect from the start.

Are you licensed?

Yes, journeymen certification from province of Ontario, as well as Master plumber and Plumbing Contracting Licence from The city of Toronto.

Are you Insured?

Yes…fully insured with liability insurance.

Is there a warranty or guarantee?

100% Satisfaction Guarantee… At The Great Plumbing Co, we stand behind our work by providing you with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Complete with a full 1 year parts and labour warranty.

Why Is My Water Heater Running Out of Hot Water So Quickly?

Hot water is a precious commodity in every household. It is hard to imagine showering, bathing, or washing dishes without it. While you might fit your home with a water heater that meets your needs, issues can still arise down the line. For example, your hot water could start running out much quicker than before. It could be why your household has grown over the past few years. If it hasn’t, the problem is probably the result of a faulty dip tube. Your water heater contains various components, all working to provide the hot water you enjoy. The dip tube is one such component. Its duty is to push cold water to the bottom of your water heater tank for your gas burner to heat it. When it is faulty, it won’t be able to perform this function, meaning you will feel the cold water a lot quicker.

How Often Should You Get Your Drains or Sewer Lines Cleaned?

This is among the most common FAQs we receive. Regular drain cleaning goes a long way in helping you maintain a healthy residential environment. Forgetting to do so could leave your home with multiple clogs or slow-draining sinks. To be safe, it’s best to clean your drains at least once a year. You could increase this frequency if you notice foul odours or water back-ups around your drains.

What Should You Do When the Water Pressure Is Too Low?

Low water pressure can be highly frustrating. Fortunately, you can do a few things to bring these frustrations to an end. For instance, when the water pressure in your home is too low, consider:

What Is the Difference Between Drain and Sewer Cleaning?

With drain cleaning, you are only ridding your home’s drainage system of the food, oil, grease, and other items that could cause clogs. On the other hand, sewer cleaning refers to maintaining your home’s sewer lines. These sewer lines are responsible for taking the wastewater from the various drains in your home to the sewer.

Why Does My Sump Pump Make Noise?

Your sump pump will rarely be completely silent. However, some of the noises it might make can be alarming. For instance, you could start hearing:

It is important to contact a trained professional as soon as you notice these noises.

What is a hose bib?

A hose bib, also known as an outdoor faucet or tap, is a fixture installed on the exterior of a building. It allows you to connect a garden hose for various outdoor activities, such as watering the garden, washing the car, or filling a pool. Hose bibs are typically threaded to securely attach the hose and are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including freezing temperatures.

What is a spigot?

A spigot is another term for a faucet or tap, commonly used in both indoor and outdoor settings. The term “spigot” is often used interchangeably with “hose bib” to refer to an outdoor water fixture. It controls the flow of water from a plumbing system and is essential for connecting garden hoses and other outdoor water uses.

Standard water hose size

The standard size for a garden hose is 5/8 inch in diameter. This size is preferred for its balance between water flow and pressure, making it suitable for most residential outdoor uses. Other common sizes include 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch, with the larger size providing a higher flow rate for more demanding tasks.

Outside hose faucet leaking

If your outside hose faucet is leaking, it can usually be repaired by addressing the following common issues:

Loose packing nut: Tighten the packing nut located behind the handle with a wrench. This often stops leaks around the handle.
Worn-out washer: Shut off the water supply, remove the handle, and replace the washer inside the faucet. This is a common fix for leaks from the spout.
Damaged valve seat: If the valve seat is corroded or damaged, it may need to be replaced or reseated. This requires some plumbing knowledge and tools.
Freezing damage: Freezing temperatures can cause cracks in the faucet or connected pipes. Inspect for visible damage and replace any affected parts. Installing a frost-free hose bib can help prevent future issues.

If you’re unsure about the cause of the leak or need assistance, it’s best to contact a professional plumber to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.

How to get hair out of shower drain?

To remove hair from a shower drain, use a drain snake or a hair removal tool. Alternatively, you can remove the drain cover and pull out the hair with a wire hanger or tweezers. Regular maintenance with a hair trap can prevent buildup.

Can you pour bleach down a drain?

Pouring bleach down a drain is not recommended as it can damage your plumbing and harm the environment. Instead, use baking soda and vinegar for a natural cleaning solution.

Why does my shower drain smell?

A smelly shower drain is often caused by a buildup of soap scum, hair, and other debris. Regular cleaning and ensuring the P-trap is filled with water can help eliminate odors. If the smell persists, it might indicate a deeper plumbing issue.

What to do when drain smells like sewage?

If your drain smells like sewage, it could be due to a dry P-trap, clogged vent pipe, or sewer line issues. Pour water into the drain to refill the P-trap and see if the smell dissipates. If not, contact a plumber for further inspection.

Can you put vegetable oil down the drain?

No, you should not put vegetable oil down the drain as it can solidify and cause blockages. Dispose of vegetable oil by collecting it in a container and throwing it in the trash or taking it to a recycling center.

What is a shower diverter?

A shower diverter is a valve that directs the flow of water either to the showerhead or to the bathtub spout. It’s usually a lever or knob located on the bathtub faucet or as part of the shower control panel. When you want to switch from filling the tub to taking a shower, you activate the diverter, which changes the water direction.

How do I know if my shower diverter is bad?

Signs that your shower diverter might be failing include:

Water leaking from the tub spout while the shower is on: This indicates that the diverter is not sealing properly.
Difficulty switching between tub and shower: The lever or knob is hard to turn or feels loose.
Reduced water pressure from the showerhead: This can happen if the diverter is partially blocked or not fully engaging.

What happens when a shower diverter is broken?

When a shower diverter is broken, you might experience:

Inability to switch between the tub and shower: Water might only flow to the tub spout, or it might be stuck in the shower position.
Water leaks: Continuous dripping or a steady stream from the tub spout even when the shower is in use.
Inefficient water flow: Reduced pressure or inconsistent flow can make showering less effective and enjoyable.

Can you repair a shower diverter?

Yes, a shower diverter can often be repaired. The process involves:

Identifying the type of diverter: There are three main types – tee diverters, two-valve diverters, and three-valve diverters.
Inspecting and cleaning the diverter: Sometimes, mineral buildup can cause issues. Cleaning or replacing a worn-out washer might resolve the problem.
Replacing the diverter: If the diverter is severely damaged, replacing it with a new one is usually the best option. This might involve removing and reinstalling part of the faucet assembly.

Can a toilet be repaired?

Yes, a toilet can often be repaired. Common issues include:

Running toilet: Caused by a faulty flapper, fill valve, or overflow tube.
Clogs: Usually addressed with a plunger or auger.
Leaks: Often fixed by replacing the wax ring, tightening bolts, or repairing the tank components.
Weak flush: May be due to clogged rim jets or a flapper that isn’t lifting high enough.

When does a toilet need replacing?

A toilet might need replacing if:

Cracks in the bowl or tank: These can cause leaks and structural issues.
Frequent repairs: Constant issues can indicate it’s time for a new toilet.
Old age: Older toilets are less efficient and might use more water.
Persistent clogs: If plunging and augering don’t help, a replacement might be necessary.
High water bills: Upgrading to a modern, water-efficient toilet can save money and water.

Is toilet installation easy?

Toilet installation can be straightforward for someone with basic plumbing knowledge, but it does require careful attention to detail. The steps include:

Removing the old toilet: Turn off the water supply, drain the toilet, and unbolt it from the floor.
Preparing the flange: Clean and inspect the flange, and replace it if necessary.
Installing the new wax ring: This creates a seal between the toilet and the flange.
Positioning the new toilet: Carefully set the toilet over the flange and secure it with bolts.
Connecting the water supply: Attach the water supply line and turn on the water to check for leaks. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to hire a professional plumber.

Can you flush hair down a toilet?

No, you should not flush hair down a toilet. Hair can easily cause clogs in your plumbing system because it doesn’t dissolve in water and can combine with other debris to form blockages. It’s better to dispose of hair in the trash.

Why is my toilet bubbling?

Toilet bubbling is typically a sign of a blockage or venting issue in your plumbing system. Common causes include:

Partial clogs: A clog in the toilet, drain line, or sewer line can cause air to be trapped and released as bubbles.
Blocked vent pipe: The vent pipe allows air to enter the plumbing system, enabling smooth drainage. If it’s blocked, it can cause negative pressure, leading to bubbling.
Main sewer line issues: Problems in the main sewer line can cause water and air to back up into the toilet.

If you notice persistent bubbling, it’s a good idea to call a plumber to diagnose and resolve the issue.

What is hydro jetting?

Hydro jetting is a method of cleaning pipes and sewer lines using high-pressure water streams. It involves inserting a hose with a specialized nozzle into the pipe. The nozzle emits powerful water jets that can cut through blockages, remove debris, and clean the pipe walls. Hydro jetting is highly effective for clearing stubborn clogs, tree roots, and buildup from grease, minerals, and other residues.

Can hydro jetting damage pipes?

Hydro jetting is generally safe for most plumbing systems when performed by a professional. However, it can potentially damage pipes if:

1. Pipes are already damaged or fragile: Older, corroded, or weak pipes might not withstand the high pressure.
2. Improper technique: Using too high a pressure or incorrect nozzle can harm the pipes.

A professional plumber will inspect the condition of the pipes and adjust the pressure accordingly to prevent damage.

Is hydro jetting safe for old pipes?

Hydro jetting can be safe for old pipes if done correctly. A thorough inspection is necessary to assess the condition of the pipes before hydro jetting. If the pipes are significantly deteriorated or have existing damage, alternative methods like snaking or pipe replacement might be recommended. A professional plumber will determine the best approach based on the pipe’s condition.

Is hydro jetting worth it?

Yes, hydro jetting is worth it for several reasons:

Thorough cleaning: It removes all types of buildup and blockages, ensuring the pipes are clean and functional.
Prevents future clogs: By thoroughly cleaning the pipes, hydro jetting reduces the likelihood of future clogs and backups.
Versatility: It can handle various types of blockages, including grease, scale, and tree roots.
Environmentally friendly: It uses only water, avoiding the need for harsh chemicals.

How long does hydro jetting last?

“The duration of a hydro jetting process depends on several factors, including the length and condition of the pipes, the severity of the blockage, and the complexity of the plumbing system. On average, hydro jetting can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours.

Inspection and setup: Before starting, a professional plumber will inspect the pipes, which can take 15 to 30 minutes.
Hydro jetting process: The actual hydro jetting usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the cleaning needed.
Final inspection and cleanup: After hydro jetting, the plumber will inspect the pipes again to ensure they are clean and in good condition, which can take an additional 15 to 30 minutes. In total, you can expect the entire process to take around 2 to 3 hours, but this can vary based on the specific situation.