Plumbing Questions? Start Here.
Our plumbing FAQs for Johnson City homeowners and businesses cover everything from simple maintenance concerns to signs of a larger plumbing problem.
Below are answers to some of the questions we commonly hear from customers in Johnson City and the surrounding Tri-Cities. If you don't see yours, give us a call—we're always happy to help.
Most standard electric tank-style water heaters in homes operate on 240 volts, while some smaller point-of-use water heaters may operate on 120 volts. The correct electrical requirements depend on the type, size, and manufacturer of the water heater. If you're replacing or installing an electric water heater, Marc Francis Plumbing can help determine the appropriate unit for your home's hot water needs.
Regular maintenance can help extend the life of a water heater and reduce the chance of unexpected problems. Depending on the type of water heater, maintenance may include checking for leaks or corrosion, inspecting safety components, and flushing sediment from the tank or system when appropriate. Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate your water heater and recommend maintenance based on its age, condition, and type.
The correct sewer line size depends on the plumbing system, number and type of fixtures, local code requirements, and how the line is being used. While 4-inch piping is common for residential building sewers, other portions of a home's drainage system may use different sizes. Proper sizing and installation are important for reliable drainage. Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate your existing system and determine the appropriate piping for a sewer line repair or replacement.
Some sump pump noise is normal when the pump turns on and off, but unusually loud noises can indicate a problem. Common causes may include vibration, a loose or improperly positioned discharge pipe, a worn check valve, debris in the pump, or a pump that is beginning to fail. If the sound is new, unusually loud, or accompanied by poor pumping performance, Marc Francis Plumbing can inspect the system and determine what is causing it.
Be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid putting fats, oils, grease, food scraps, wipes, and other materials into the plumbing system that can contribute to buildup or blockages. Hair screens can also help protect bathroom drains. If a drain begins slowing down repeatedly, it may be better to have the cause evaluated rather than relying on harsh chemical drain cleaners.
The cost of professional drain cleaning depends on the location and severity of the blockage, the type of drain involved, and what is required to clear it. A simple stoppage may be very different from a recurring problem deeper in the drainage system. Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate the problem and explain the recommended work and cost before moving forward.
Recurring drain backups, multiple slow drains, sewage odors, unusual gurgling sounds, or wastewater backing up into fixtures can indicate a problem with the sewer line. Because similar symptoms can have different causes, the system should be properly evaluated before deciding on a repair. Marc Francis Plumbing can inspect the problem and determine whether drain cleaning, sewer camera inspection, repair, or replacement is appropriate.
Signs of high water pressure can include banging pipes, dripping faucets, running toilets, frequent plumbing leaks, or premature wear on fixtures and appliances. The most reliable way to know is to test the water pressure with a pressure gauge. If the pressure is too high, Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate the system and determine whether the pressure reducing valve (PRV) needs adjustment or replacement.
Yes. Tankless water heaters should be maintained periodically to help remove mineral buildup and keep the system operating properly. Maintenance needs can vary depending on water quality, usage, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Marc Francis Plumbing provides tankless water heater maintenance and can evaluate the unit for signs of buildup, wear, or other issues that may affect performance.
Gas line work should be handled by a qualified professional with experience working with natural gas piping. Marc Francis Plumbing is licensed, bonded, and insured for plumbing and gas work and provides gas line repair, replacement, and installation for homes and businesses. Marc can evaluate the existing system and determine what work is needed to complete the job properly and safely.
Yes. A leaking toilet, faucet, water line, or other plumbing component can waste a surprising amount of water and cause an unexplained increase in your water bill. Some leaks are obvious, while others may be hidden or difficult to locate. If your water usage has increased without a clear reason, Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate the plumbing system and help determine whether a leak may be responsible.
Frequent leaks, recurring pipe repairs, low or inconsistent water pressure, discolored water, or aging and deteriorated piping can indicate that part or all of a home’s plumbing may need to be replaced. Repiping does not always mean replacing every pipe in the house. Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate the existing hot and cold water piping and determine whether a localized repair, partial repipe, or whole-home repipe makes the most sense.
A water heater expansion tank helps manage the increase in water pressure that can occur as water heats and expands inside a closed plumbing system. Without somewhere for that expanded water to go, pressure can place additional stress on the water heater and other plumbing components. Marc Francis Plumbing can evaluate your system and determine whether an expansion tank is needed and whether an existing tank is working properly.
Still Have a Plumbing Question?
Didn't find the answer you were looking for? Contact Marc Francis Plumbing to discuss your plumbing needs. We're happy to answer questions and help you determine the next step.