Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions Hampton Roads homeowners ask us most. If your problem isn’t covered here, give us a call at (757) 436-7901 — we’re happy to talk through it before you decide whether it’s a call-a-plumber situation.
Water Heaters
How long should a water heater last?
Water heaters are manufactured to last from 5 to 10 years, though some last longer. If yours is approaching or past that range and starting to act up, it’s worth having it inspected before it fails outright.
Why does my hot water come out rust-colored when I turn on the faucet?
This is usually a sign that your water heater is corroding internally and may need to be replaced.
Is my water heater dangerous if it pops and cracks in the attic?
Generally no — those sounds are typically sediment settling or the tank expanding with heat. It’s still worth having a plumber take a look, especially if the noises are new or getting louder.
How often should I flush my water heater?
Most manufacturers recommend flushing once a year to clear out mineral buildup, which extends the life of the unit and helps it run efficiently. Homes with hard water may need it more often.
Why is my hot water running out faster than it used to?
This can point to sediment buildup reducing the tank’s effective capacity, a failing heating element, or a water heater that’s simply reaching the end of its lifespan.
Toilets
What do I do if my toilet runs constantly?
Start by checking the flapper in the tank — it’s the most common cause and an inexpensive fix. If replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, the fill valve may need adjustment or replacement.
What causes water at the base of the toilet?
This usually means a leak at the tank connection or the water supply line at the wall. It can also mean the wax seal between the toilet and the floor has failed and needs replacing.
What’s wrong if flushing my upstairs toilet makes water come out of my downstairs toilet?
Your main sewer line is stopped up. This isn’t a fixture-level problem — call a plumber rather than trying to plunge your way through it.
Why does my toilet rock or wobble slightly when I sit down?
This often means the wax seal underneath has broken down or the toilet was never properly secured to the floor. Left alone, it can lead to water damage under the toilet, so it’s worth having it checked.
Drains & Sewer Lines
What causes my bathtub to gurgle when draining?
This is generally a sign of a blockage in the drain line, either under the house or out in the yard.
Why are both sides of my kitchen sink holding water?
The J-bend under the sink may be plugged. If plunging or clearing the trap doesn’t help, the main sewer line may be stopped up instead.
How do I know if a clogged drain is a simple fix or a bigger problem?
A single slow drain is usually local — a clog right at that fixture. If multiple drains are slow or backing up at the same time, that points to the main line and is worth a professional look rather than repeated plunging.
Do I need a video inspection for a recurring clog?
If the same drain keeps clogging even after clearing it, a video inspection is the fastest way to find out whether it’s tree root intrusion, a cracked pipe, or a collapsed section — rather than paying to clear the same clog repeatedly without knowing why it keeps coming back.
Faucets & Fixtures
Can I fix my own dripping faucet?
Sometimes, depending on the make and model — but be sure to use factory parts, since mismatched replacement parts are a common reason a “fixed” faucet starts leaking again within weeks.
Why do I hear a rattling sound when I turn off the faucet?
This is usually loose pipes inside the wall. Installing an aerator sometimes solves it; if the rattling continues, the pipes may need to be secured.
Why is my water bill unusually high?
The most common causes are a leaking toilet or a leaking hose bib on the outside of the house — both are easy to miss since they don’t always show visible water.
Leaks & Water Pressure
How do I know if I have a water leak?
If you hear running water with everything in the house turned off, or notice a sudden increase in your water bill with no change in usage, you likely have a leak somewhere in the system.
Where is my main water shut-off valve, and should I know where it is?
Yes — every homeowner should know this before an emergency, not during one. It’s typically located where the water line enters the house, often in a basement, crawlspace, or utility closet. Knowing its location before a pipe bursts can save significant water damage.
Why has my water pressure suddenly dropped?
This can mean a partial blockage somewhere in your plumbing, a failing pressure regulator, or in some cases a leak elsewhere in the system reducing pressure at the fixture.
Emergencies & Safety
What should I do if I smell gas in my house?
Leave the house immediately, call the gas company from outside, and then call a plumber. Don’t operate light switches or anything electrical on your way out, and don’t go back inside until you’ve been told it’s safe.
What actually counts as a plumbing emergency?
Active flooding, sewage backing up into the house, no water at all, or the smell of gas are same-day emergencies. A slow drain or a minor drip can usually wait for a scheduled appointment.
Still Have a Question?
If your situation isn’t covered above, call Premier Plumbing at (757) 436-7901. We’ll talk through what’s going on and let you know whether it’s something you can handle yourself or something we should come take a look at.