Shark Plumbing FAQ

Welcome to the Shark Plumbing FAQ! We've compiled answers to common questions about our services in San Jose, Fremont, and the surrounding areas. If you don't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us directly.

General Services & Repair

  • What areas do you serve?

    Shark Plumbing proudly serves San Jose, Fremont, Milpitas, and other surrounding areas in California. Please contact us to confirm service availability in your specific location.

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes, Shark Plumbing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind.

  • Do you offer emergency plumbing services?

    Absolutely! We understand that plumbing emergencies can happen at any time. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent issues promptly.

  • How quickly can you respond to a service call?

    We strive to provide prompt service. For emergencies, we aim for immediate response and resolution. For non-emergency services, we'll schedule a convenient time for you.

  • Do you provide free estimates?

    Yes, we offer free estimates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding holidays.

  • Do you offer any discounts?

    Yes, we offer military and senior discounts.

Plumbing Service & Repair

  • What are the most common plumbing problems you handle?

    We tackle a wide range of plumbing issues, including leaky faucets, burst pipes, clogged toilets, slow drains, low water pressure, running toilets, and general plumbing repairs and replacements.

  • What should I do if I have a leaky pipe?

    The first step is to shut off the main water supply to your home if possible. Then, contact Shark Plumbing immediately for professional repair to prevent further damage.

  • Why is my water pressure low?

    Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, including mineral buildup in pipes, leaky pipes, issues with your water main, or problems with your water heater. Our technicians can diagnose the cause and recommend the appropriate solution.

  • Can I fix plumbing issues myself?

    While some minor issues like a small clog might be temporarily addressed with DIY methods, we highly recommend calling a professional plumber for most repairs. DIY attempts can often worsen the problem or cause further damage to your plumbing system.

Sewer Services

  • What causes sewer backups?

    Sewer backups are often caused by grease buildup, flushing non-biodegradable items (like wipes or paper towels), and tree root intrusion into the sewer lines.

  • How do I know if I have a sewer line problem?

    Signs of a sewer line problem include multiple slow or clogged drains, sewage odors in your home, gurgling toilets, or standing water in your yard near your sewer line.

  • What kind of sewer services do you offer?

    We offer comprehensive sewer services, including sewer line inspections, cleaning, repairs, and replacements. We utilize advanced techniques to diagnose and resolve sewer issues effectively.

  • What is hydro-jetting?

    Hydro-jetting is a powerful drain cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to clear out stubborn blockages, grease, mineral buildup, and even tree roots from your pipes and sewer lines, leaving them thoroughly cleaned.

Water Heaters

  • What types of water heaters do you install and repair?

    We install and repair both traditional tank water heaters and tankless water heaters.

  • How long do water heaters typically last?

    The lifespan of a water heater varies depending on the type and maintenance. Traditional tank water heaters typically last 10-15 years, while tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance.

  • Why is my water heater leaking?

    A leaking water heater can be a serious issue. It could be due to a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve, a loose connection, or a crack in the tank. It's crucial to have a professional inspect it immediately to prevent water damage.

  • How often should I flush my water heater?

    For traditional tank water heaters, it's generally recommended to flush them annually to remove sediment buildup, which can improve efficiency and extend lifespan. Tankless water heaters also require periodic flushing.

  • What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?

    Tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water, are more energy-efficient, take up less space, and can have a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank units.

Piping and Repiping

  • When is repiping necessary?

    Repiping is often necessary when you experience persistent leaks, low water pressure, discolored water (e.g., rusty water), or if your home has old, deteriorating pipes (like galvanized steel).

  • What types of piping materials do you use for repiping?

    We primarily use modern, durable piping materials such as PEX and copper for repiping, depending on your needs and preferences.

  • How long does a whole-home repipe take?

    The duration of a whole-home repipe can vary based on the size of your home and the complexity of the job, typically ranging from a few days to a week. We work efficiently to minimize disruption.

  • Can I stay in my home during a repipe?

    While you can technically stay in your home, it's important to be prepared for temporary water shut-offs. We will communicate our work schedule with you to minimize inconvenience.

  • Will you need to open up my walls for repiping?

    Repiping often involves opening walls and ceilings to access and replace old pipes. We take precautions to minimize damage and can discuss options for patching and finishing afterwards.

Drain Cleaning

  • What are the signs I need professional drain cleaning?

    Common signs include slow drains, gurgling noises coming from drains, unpleasant odors, recurring clogs, and water backing up in sinks, tubs, or showers.

  • Can I use chemical drain cleaners to clear a clog?

    We strongly advise against using chemical drain cleaners. They can be corrosive, damaging your pipes over time, and often only provide a temporary fix, not addressing the root cause of the clog.

  • How often should I have my drains professionally cleaned?

    The frequency depends on factors like household usage and the age of your plumbing system. Generally, an annual or bi-annual professional drain cleaning can help prevent major clogs and maintain optimal drainage.

  • What methods do you use for drain cleaning?

    Our professional drain cleaning methods include snaking (using a drain auger) for minor clogs and hydro-jetting for more severe blockages and thorough pipe cleaning.

  • How can I prevent drain clogs in the future?

    To prevent clogs, avoid pouring grease or oil down drains, use drain strainers to catch hair and food particles, and avoid flushing non-flushable items down toilets. Regular maintenance can also help.