Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
How do I know if my pipes have frozen?
Frozen pipes typically show clear warning signs: no water flow from faucets, unusual sounds in walls, or visible frost o...
How do I stop my pipes from freezing overnight?
Turn up your heat and let faucets drip slightly - these are your two most effective immediate actions to prevent frozen...
Why does my water taste metallic all of a sudden?
Metallic-tasting water usually indicates dissolved metals in your water supply, most commonly from aging pipes, water he...
What's the best homemade drain cleaner?
Baking soda and vinegar is the safest and most effective homemade drain cleaner for regular maintenance. Pour 1/2 cup of...
Why is my electric water heater tripping the breaker?
Your electric water heater is likely tripping the breaker due to an electrical overload, which typically happens when th...
What causes a sewer line to collapse?
Sewer line collapse typically occurs due to age, ground movement, root intrusion, or poor installation, and it's one of...
What size drain pipe does a kitchen sink need?
Kitchen sinks in Ontario require a minimum 1.5-inch drain pipe, though 2-inch drains are often preferred for better flow...
How do I insulate my pipes for winter?
Pipe insulation is essential in Ottawa's harsh winters to prevent freezing and costly burst pipes. You'll want to focus...
How much does it cost to fix a leaking pipe?
Pipe leak repair costs in Ottawa typically range from $200 to $500, depending on the location, pipe material, and extent...
Why is my floor drain backing up?
Floor drain backups typically occur when the drain line is clogged, the main sewer line is blocked, or there's a problem...
How do I unclog a double kitchen sink?
Start with the garbage disposal side if you have one - turn it off and disconnect power, then try plunging that side fir...
Should I try to fix a leaky shutoff valve?
A leaky shutoff valve should typically be repaired by a licensed plumber, especially if it's your main water shutoff. Th...
How long does a pipe repair usually take?
Most pipe repairs take 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the location and extent of the damage. Simple exposed pipe fi...
Why does my toilet bowl empty slowly?
A slowly emptying toilet bowl is typically caused by a partial blockage in the drain or issues with the toilet's flushin...
Can I add a pot filler to my kitchen?
Yes, you can add a pot filler to your kitchen, but it requires running a new water line behind your stove and will need...
Should I get a single or double bowl kitchen sink?
The choice between single and double bowl kitchen sinks depends on your cooking habits, kitchen size, and personal prefe...
How much does a sump pump replacement cost?
Sump pump replacement in Ottawa typically costs between $800 and $1,500, depending on the pump type, installation comple...
How long do copper pipes last?
Copper pipes typically last 50-70 years in Ottawa homes, making them one of the most durable plumbing materials availabl...
Can I switch from electric to gas water heater?
Yes, you can switch from electric to gas water heater, but it requires significant work including running a new gas line...
Can I put a bathroom in my garage?
Yes, you can typically add a bathroom to your garage in Ottawa, but it requires proper permits, plumbing connections, an...
Is a backwater valve mandatory in Ottawa?
Yes, backwater valves are mandatory in Ottawa for most new construction and many renovation scenarios, particularly wher...
Do drain screens actually prevent clogs?
Drain screens are moderately effective at preventing clogs, but they're not a complete solution. They catch hair, food p...
Should I get a battery backup for my sump pump?
Yes, a battery backup for your sump pump is highly recommended in Ottawa, especially given our spring snowmelt, summer s...
Can boiling water unclog a drain safely?
Boiling water can help with minor grease clogs in metal pipes, but it's not safe for all drain types and won't clear mos...
How do I prevent hair from clogging my shower drain?
Hair clogs are one of the most common shower drain problems, but they're easily preventable with the right approach and...
Why does my toilet randomly run for a few seconds?
Your toilet is likely running randomly because the flapper valve isn't sealing properly against the flush valve seat, al...
How much does it cost to add a bathroom?
Adding a bathroom in Ottawa typically costs $15,000 to $35,000 for a basic full bathroom, with luxury installations reac...
How much does bathroom plumbing cost?
Bathroom plumbing costs in Ottawa typically range from $2,000 to $15,000+ depending on the scope of work. A basic fixtur...
Why does my toilet keep running?
A running toilet is typically caused by a faulty flapper, chain, or fill valve that prevents the toilet from completing...
What should I do if my basement is flooding?
Shut off your main water supply immediately and get everyone out of the flooded area. This is a plumbing emergency that...
Do I need a water softener in Ottawa?
Most Ottawa homes don't need a water softener - the city's water is naturally soft to moderately soft, with hardness lev...
How do I replace a toilet wax ring?
Replacing a toilet wax ring is a manageable DIY project that typically takes 2-3 hours and requires basic tools. You'll...
Who do I call for an emergency plumber in Ottawa?
For emergency plumbing in Ottawa, call Ottawa Pro Plumbing at our 24/7 emergency line. We provide immediate response for...
How do I install a bathroom where there is none?
Installing a bathroom where none exists is a major plumbing project that requires running new water supply lines, drain...
How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heater installation in Ottawa typically costs between $3,500 to $5,500, including the unit, installation...
When should I shut off my outdoor water in Ottawa?
You should shut off your outdoor water by mid to late October in Ottawa, typically before the first hard frost which usu...
What is the cost of frozen pipe repair?
Frozen pipe repair costs in Ottawa typically range from $200-$800 depending on the extent of damage and location of the...
What do I do if my sewer backs up?
Immediately stop using all water in your home and call a licensed plumber for emergency service. Sewer backups are serio...
How do I fix a toilet that won't flush properly?
A toilet that won't flush properly is usually caused by low water level in the tank, a clogged drain, or faulty internal...
Can unpermitted plumbing affect my home sale?
Yes, unpermitted plumbing work can significantly impact your home sale, potentially delaying closing, reducing your sale...
How do I unclog a kitchen sink drain?
Start with hot water and dish soap - pour a large pot of boiling water down the drain, followed by a few tablespoons of...
Why does my bathroom sink drain slowly?
A slow-draining bathroom sink is typically caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, and toothpaste residue that accumulat...
What should I never put down my kitchen drain?
Never put grease, fats, oils, coffee grounds, or food scraps down your kitchen drain - these are the top culprits that c...
Should I call a plumber for a small leak?
Yes, you should call a plumber for even a small leak. What seems minor can quickly become major water damage, and small...
How do I shut off the water to my house?
Your main water shut-off valve is typically located where the water line enters your house from the street, usually in t...
How do I protect outdoor plumbing in winter?
Protecting outdoor plumbing from freezing is essential in Ottawa's harsh winters - frozen pipes can burst and cause thou...
Why does my faucet have low water pressure?
Low water pressure in a faucet is usually caused by mineral buildup in the aerator, clogged supply lines, or issues with...
How do I test my sump pump?
Testing your sump pump is crucial for preventing basement flooding, especially before Ottawa's spring melt and heavy rai...
Is it safe to have lead pipes in my house?
No, lead pipes are not safe and should be replaced as soon as possible. Lead can leach into your drinking water, posing...
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
The decision between repairing or replacing your water heater depends on its age, the cost of repairs, and efficiency co...
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