Frequently Asked Questions

Drain cleaning in Ottawa typically costs $150-$400 depending on the type of drain and severity of the clog. Kitchen and bathroom drains are on the lower end, while main line cleaning costs more. We provide upfront pricing before starting work.

Most drains benefit from professional cleaning every 1-2 years as preventive maintenance. If you experience slow drains, frequent clogs, or gurgling sounds, schedule a cleaning sooner. Regular maintenance prevents major blockages.

Common causes include: grease buildup in kitchen drains, hair and soap scum in bathroom drains, tree root intrusion in main lines, flushing inappropriate items, and old pipes with buildup. A camera inspection can identify the specific cause.

Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to thoroughly clean pipe walls and remove all debris, while snaking breaks through clogs. Hydro-jetting is more thorough but costs more ($300-$600 vs $150-$250). We recommend it for recurring clogs and main lines.

Water heater replacement in Ottawa costs $1,500-$4,500 including installation. Standard 50-gallon tank heaters are $1,500-$2,500, while tankless units cost $3,000-$4,500. We include permit and TSSA inspection in our pricing.

Tank water heaters typically last 10-15 years, while tankless units can last 20+ years with proper maintenance. Signs of failure include: rusty water, rumbling noises, leaks, or insufficient hot water.

Tankless heaters provide endless hot water and last longer, but cost more upfront ($3,000-$4,500 vs $1,500-$2,500). They're ideal for larger families or high hot water usage. Standard tanks work well for most households.

Rumbling, popping, or banging noises usually indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Annual flushing prevents this. Loud noises in older heaters may indicate it's time for replacement.

Yes, water heater installation in Ontario requires a permit and TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) inspection for gas units or ESA inspection for electric units. We handle all permits as part of our service.

Pipe repairs in Ottawa range from $200-$800 for minor repairs to $3,000-$8,000 for full repiping. A single leak repair typically costs $200-$500. We provide exact quotes after assessing the situation.

Galvanized pipes were common before the 1970s and corrode internally over time, causing low water pressure and rusty water. If you have galvanized supply lines, we recommend replacement with copper or PEX for improved water quality and pressure.

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is modern flexible plastic piping that's resistant to freezing, corrosion, and scale buildup. It's quicker to install than copper, equally durable, and more affordable for repiping projects.

Prevent frozen pipes by: insulating exposed pipes in cold areas, keeping cabinet doors open during cold snaps, letting faucets drip during extreme cold, and maintaining heat in your home. Call immediately if you suspect frozen pipes.

Low water pressure can be caused by: corroded galvanized pipes, partially closed valves, municipal supply issues, mineral buildup in pipes, or a failing pressure regulator. We can diagnose and fix the specific cause.

Sewer line repairs in Ottawa range from $500 for minor issues to $3,000-$10,000 for major repairs or replacement. Trenchless repair methods (pipe lining) cost $3,000-$6,000 and avoid excavation.

Common causes include: tree root intrusion, collapsed or cracked pipes (especially old clay pipes), grease buildup, ground shifting, and blockages from debris. A camera inspection reveals the specific issue.

A sewer camera inspection uses a waterproof camera on a flexible cable to visually inspect your sewer line. It identifies cracks, root intrusion, blockages, and pipe condition. Inspections cost $200-$400 and are included with major repairs.

A backwater valve prevents sewage from backing up into your basement during heavy rains or city sewer overload. Installation costs $2,500-$4,500. Ottawa offers rebates of up to $2,000 for backwater valve installation.

Warning signs include: multiple drains clogging at once, gurgling sounds from drains, sewage smells, wet spots in your yard, or sewage backup in the basement. Multiple symptoms indicate main line issues.

Toilet installation in Ottawa costs $300-$600 including the toilet and labor. High-efficiency or specialty toilets cost more. We handle removal of the old toilet and ensure proper sealing and operation.

A running toilet is usually caused by a worn flapper, faulty fill valve, or float adjustment issues. These repairs typically cost $100-$200. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons per day, so prompt repair saves money.

Faucet installation costs $150-$300 for the labor, plus the faucet itself. We install all types of bathroom and kitchen faucets. Supply line replacement is often recommended with new faucets.

Water at the toilet base usually means a failed wax ring seal. This should be fixed promptly to prevent floor damage. Repair costs $150-$250 and involves removing the toilet to replace the seal.

Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs for burst pipes, major leaks, sewer backups, and no hot water situations. Emergency service rates apply for after-hours calls, but we minimize damage quickly.

Immediately shut off the main water valve (usually near the water meter). Then call us for emergency service. If water is near electrical, also shut off power. Start removing water with towels or a wet vac while waiting.

Emergencies include: burst pipes, major leaks, sewer backup, no water to the home, gas smell, or overflowing fixtures that can't be stopped. Slow drains and minor leaks can usually wait for regular service.

Your main water shut-off is usually near the water meter in the basement, often at the front of the house. Turn the valve clockwise to close it. If your valve is stuck, don't force it - call us immediately.

In Ontario, permits are required for: water heater installation, new plumbing fixtures, drain line modifications, water line replacement, and backwater valve installation. Minor repairs like fixing leaks don't require permits.

Yes, we pull all required permits and schedule inspections as part of our service. This is included in our quoted prices - you don't need to deal with permit applications or scheduling.

If work fails inspection, we correct any issues and schedule a re-inspection at no additional charge to you. We stand behind our work meeting code requirements.

Yes, we provide free in-home estimates for all plumbing work. We assess your needs, explain options, and provide a written quote with no obligation.

We quote by the job for most work, so you know the cost upfront. Small repairs may be hourly ($85-$125/hour). All quotes include permits, materials, and inspections where required.

We accept cash, cheque, e-transfer, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and debit. Large projects can be structured with deposit and final payment.

Yes, we are licensed plumbers with full WSIB coverage and $2M liability insurance. All our plumbers are certified journeypersons with proper credentials.

We serve Ottawa and surrounding areas including Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, Nepean, Gloucester, Stittsville, Manotick, Riverside South, and more. Generally within 40km of downtown Ottawa.

Fill out the form on our website to request a quote. We typically respond within a few hours and can often schedule estimates within a few days.

Yes, all our work is guaranteed and passes required inspections. We stand behind our workmanship and will address any issues that arise from our installation.