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frequently asked questions

Chandler, AZ | Serving the East Valley

My Hero Plumbing serve 7 years in the trade. $99 drain cleaning, guaranteed clear or it’s free.

Emergency Plumbing

How fast can you get to my house?

It depends on your location and what’s happening when you call, but emergency calls are always our top priority. Call (480) 677-1864 and we’ll give you a straight answer on timing.

Do you charge extra for nights, weekends, or holidays?

We believe in honest, upfront pricing. Call and we’ll tell you exactly what to expect before any work begins — no hidden after-hours markup sprung on you later.

What should I do while I wait for you to arrive?

If you have an active leak, shut off your main water valve if you’re able to. Move any valuables away from the water and try to keep the area as dry as possible until we arrive.

Is a slow leak really an emergency?

Not always, but a slow leak that’s been going for a while can turn into a bigger problem fast, especially with a slab foundation. If you’re unsure, call and describe what you’re seeing — we’ll help you figure out if it’s urgent.

What if my water heater is leaking but I still have some hot water?

Call us anyway. A leaking water heater rarely gets better on its own, and catching it early can save you from a full flood later.

Do you handle sewage backups?

Yes. A sewage backup is one of the fastest-moving emergencies there is, and we treat it as a same-day priority.

Can you help if I'm not sure what's actually wrong?

Absolutely. Just describe what you’re hearing, seeing, or smelling, and we’ll help you figure out next steps over the phone.

Do you serve businesses and general contractors for emergencies, not just homeowners?

Yes. We regularly handle emergency and urgent calls for small businesses and contractors across the East Valley.

Drain Cleaning

How much does drain cleaning cost?

$99 flat for standard drain cleaning, guaranteed clear or you don’t pay.

What's included in the $99 price

A full professional drain cleaning using proper equipment, plus a test to confirm the drain is actually flowing before we consider the job done.

Why do my drains clog so often?

Chandler’s hard water builds up mineral scale inside pipes over time, which narrows the pipe and catches debris faster than in areas with softer water. Older homes with narrower original pipes see this even more.

Can I just use a store-bought drain cleaner instead?

Chemical drain cleaners can sometimes clear a very minor clog, but they don’t remove the scale buildup causing repeat clogs, and repeated use can actually damage older pipes. A professional cleaning gets to the real cause.

Is the $99 price for every drain in my house, or just one

The $99 flat rate covers a single drain cleaning visit. If you have multiple drains with issues, we’ll give you a clear total price before starting any additional work.

How do I know if I need drain cleaning or hydro jetting?

If it’s a one-time slow drain, standard cleaning usually solves it. If the same drain keeps clogging every few months, hydro jetting is often the better long-term fix. We’ll tell you honestly which one your situation needs.

Do you clean main sewer line clogs too?

Yes, though a main line clog is sometimes a sign of a larger sewer line issue. If that’s the case, we’ll explain what we’re seeing and what your options are.

How long does drain cleaning take?

Most standard drain cleanings are finished within an hour, depending on the clog and location.

Do you offer this service to businesses, not just homes?

Yes, we handle drain cleaning for small businesses and commercial properties across the East Valley as well.

What if my drain clogs again a few days after you clean it?

If it’s within a reasonable window and related to the same issue, call us. We stand behind our work.

Hydro Jetting

What is hydro jetting exactly?

It’s a drain cleaning method that uses a high-pressure stream of water to scour the entire inside of a pipe clean, removing buildup, grease, and roots rather than just clearing a path through a clog.

How is hydro jetting different from a regular drain snake

A snake pushes or breaks through a clog to get water flowing again. Jetting cleans the whole inside surface of the pipe, which is why it solves recurring clogs that snaking alone can’t fix long term.

Is hydro jetting safe for my pipes?

For most pipes, yes. Older or already-damaged pipes need to be inspected first, which is exactly what we do before recommending jetting, so we never risk making a fragile pipe worse.

How much does hydro jetting cost?

Pricing depends on the length of the line and what we find during inspection. Call us at (480) 677-1864 for a free estimate specific to your situation.

Will hydro jetting remove tree roots from my sewer line?

Yes, hydro jetting is one of the most effective ways to clear root intrusion from a sewer line, though severe root damage may also need a repair, which we’ll explain clearly if we find it.

How often should I schedule hydro jetting for my restaurant or property

 It depends on usage, but many commercial kitchens benefit from jetting every 3 to 6 months. We can recommend a schedule based on your specific property.

Do I need a camera inspection before jetting?

We recommend it in most cases so we know exactly what we’re dealing with before running high-pressure water through the line.

Can hydro jetting prevent future clogs, or just fix the current one?

Both. It clears the current buildup and, since it removes the scale and buildup rather than just punching through it, it usually extends the time before the same problem returns.

Water Heater

How long should a water heater last in Arizona?

Nationally, tank water heaters often last 10 to 15 years, but Arizona’s heat and hard water tend to shorten that. We recommend having yours checked once it passes 8 to 10 years.

How much does water heater repair cost?

It depends on what’s wrong — a thermostat or heating element repair costs far less than tank replacement. We’ll give you a clear price after diagnosing the issue.

How much does a new water heater cost installed?

Cost varies based on tank size, fuel type, and your home’s setup. Call (480) 677-1864 for a free estimate specific to your household.

Why does my hot water run out so fast?

This can point to sediment buildup reducing your tank’s effective capacity, a failing heating element, or simply an undersized tank for your household’s usage.

Do you handle both gas and electric water heaters?

 Yes, we repair and install both types.

Is it normal for a water heater to make noise?

Popping or rumbling sounds are common with sediment buildup and usually mean it’s time for a flush or inspection, not necessarily a full replacement.

Should I repair or replace my water heater?

It depends on the age, the specific problem, and the repair cost relative to a new unit. We’ll walk you through both options honestly.

Can a water softener help my water heater last longer?

Yes. Reducing mineral content in your water directly slows sediment buildup inside the tank, which helps both lifespan and efficiency.

Do you install tankless water heaters

Yes — see our Tankless Water Heater Installation page for full details on that option.

What size water heater do I need?

It depends on your household size and hot water usage. We’ll help you figure out the right capacity during your free estimate.

Tankless Water Heater

Is a tankless water heater worth it in Arizona?

For many households, yes — especially larger families or anyone who regularly runs out of hot water. We’ll help you run real numbers for your specific situation.

How long do tankless water heaters last?

With proper maintenance, tankless units often last longer than traditional tanks, commonly 15 to 20 years.

Do tankless water heaters really provide endless hot water?

As long as the unit is sized correctly for your household’s demand, yes — you’re not limited by tank capacity the way you are with a traditional water heater.

Does hard water affect tankless water heaters?

Yes, more than it affects traditional tanks. Annual descaling maintenance is important in areas like Chandler to keep the unit running efficiently and to protect its lifespan.

How much does tankless installation cost?

It depends on the unit, flow rate, and whether any additional gas line or electrical work is needed. Call (480) 677-1864 for a free, specific estimate.

Can I convert from a tank to tankless, or do I need new construction?

You can absolutely convert an existing home. We handle the full removal of your old tank and proper installation of the new tankless unit.

Do tankless water heaters save money on energy bills?

Many households see savings from reduced standby energy use, though actual savings depend on your household’s hot water usage patterns.

What size tankless unit do I need for my family?

It depends on the number of bathrooms and how many fixtures might run hot water at the same time. We’ll calculate this for your household during your estimate.

Water Softener & Filtration

How hard is Chandler's water, really?

 Testing typically runs 12 to 20 grains per gallon, which falls in the hard to very hard range.

Do I really need a water softener if my water looks clear?

Yes — hard water minerals are dissolved and invisible. Clear-looking water can still be causing scale buildup in your pipes and appliances.

What's the difference between a water softener and a filtration system?

A softener removes hardness-causing minerals to protect your plumbing and appliances. A filtration system improves taste and removes contaminants, often at a single point of use like the kitchen sink.

Is a reverse osmosis system the same as a water softener?

No. RO systems filter drinking water for taste and quality, usually at the kitchen sink. A softener treats your entire home’s water supply to prevent scale damage.

How much does a whole-house water softener cost installed?

Cost depends on system size and your household’s water usage. Call (480) 677-1864 for a free, specific estimate.

Will a water softener help my skin and hair?

Many people notice softer skin and hair after switching to soft water, since hard water minerals can leave a residue that dries out skin.

Do new homes in Gilbert and Queen Creek need a softener too?

Yes — builders don’t typically include softeners, so even brand-new homes are exposed to the same hard water as older neighborhoods.

How much maintenance does a water softener need?

Mostly refilling the salt tank periodically. We’ll walk you through exactly what to expect for your specific system.

Can a softener fix drains that keep clogging?

t can help slow future scale buildup that contributes to clogs, though existing buildup may still need a drain cleaning or hydro jetting to fully clear.

Slab Leak

How do I know if I have a slab leak?

Watch for a warm spot on your floor, an unexplained jump in your water bill, low water pressure, or the sound of running water when everything is off. Any of these is worth having checked.

How much does slab leak repair cost?

It depends on the leak’s location, severity, and which repair option makes the most sense. We’ll give you a clear price after detection, before any repair work starts.

Do you have to break my floor to fix a slab leak?

Not always. Depending on the leak’s location, re-routing the line through the attic or walls can avoid breaking through the slab entirely. We’ll explain your specific options.

What causes slab leaks in Chandler specifically?

Hard water corrosion is the leading cause, since Chandler’s mineral-heavy water slowly wears down copper pipe from the inside over 15 to 20 years.

How accurate is your leak detection?

Using acoustic, pressure, and thermal detection together gives us a precise location before any repair work begins, minimizing unnecessary digging or demolition.

Is a slab leak covered by homeowners insurance?

Coverage varies by policy and insurer. We can provide documentation of the leak and repair, but you’ll want to check directly with your insurance company about your specific coverage.

How urgent is a slab leak once I notice symptoms?

It’s worth addressing promptly. A slab leak that continues running can cause increasing damage to flooring, drywall, and eventually the foundation.

Can a slab leak cause mold?

Yes, ongoing moisture from an undetected slab leak can lead to mold, especially in flooring and nearby walls.

Will fixing a slab leak lower my water bill back to normal?

Yes, once the leak is repaired, your water usage and bill should return to your normal baseline.

Sewer Line Repair

How do I know if my sewer line needs repair?

Multiple slow or backed-up drains, gurgling sounds, sewage smells, or unusually green patches in your yard are all signs worth investigating with a camera inspection.

What is trenchless sewer repair?

It’s a method of repairing or replacing a damaged sewer line with minimal excavation, often through a small access point rather than digging up the entire line’s path.

How much does sewer line repair cost?

It varies widely depending on the damage and repair method needed. We’ll give you a clear price after the camera inspection shows exactly what’s involved.

Do you really need a camera inspection, or can you just guess based on symptoms?

Symptoms tell us something’s wrong, but not exactly where or how severe. A camera inspection lets us recommend the right fix instead of the most expensive one.

Do older homes in the East Valley need sewer line inspections more often?

 Yes, especially homes with original clay or cast iron lines and mature trees nearby. A periodic camera inspection can catch problems before they become emergencies.

What causes tree roots to get into sewer lines?

Roots are drawn to the moisture inside sewer lines and can work their way in through small cracks or joints, especially in older clay or cast iron pipe.

Can hydro jetting fix a sewer line problem, or do I need a full repair?

 It depends on what the camera inspection shows. If it’s buildup or minor root intrusion, jetting may fully resolve it. Structural damage typically needs a repair.

How long does trenchless sewer repair take?

Many trenchless jobs are completed in a single day, though timing depends on the length and condition of the line.

Will my yard be torn up during sewer line repair?

With trenchless methods, yard disruption is usually minimal. Traditional excavation involves more digging, which we’ll only recommend when it’s genuinely the better option for your situation.

Whole Home Repiping

How do I know if my house needs to be repiped?

Repeated pinhole leaks in different spots, discolored water, steadily dropping water pressure, or original galvanized or polybutylene piping are all strong signs worth a real evaluation.

How much does whole home repiping cost?

It depends on your home’s size, pipe material, and layout. We’ll give you a detailed, accurate estimate after inspecting your current system.

how long does a whole home repipe take?

Timing varies by home size and complexity, but we’ll give you a clear timeline specific to your house before work begins.

Do I have to move out during the repipe?

Most homeowners stay in their home, though water is shut off temporarily during parts of the process. We’ll explain exactly what to expect for your situation.

Does homeowners insurance cover repiping?

Coverage varies by policy, especially for pre-existing conditions like polybutylene pipe. We recommend checking directly with your insurer about your specific coverage.

What's wrong with polybutylene pipe?

Polybutylene, common in Arizona homes built mainly in the 1980s and early 1990s, is known to fail more often than modern materials and is increasingly flagged by insurers during inspections.

Is PEX or copper better for repiping?

Both are solid options. PEX resists hard-water corrosion well and is often faster to install; copper is a proven, durable choice many homeowners prefer to match existing systems. We’ll help you choose based on your home and budget.

Will repiping fix my low water pressure?

 If low pressure is caused by corroded or narrowed pipes, yes, repiping typically restores normal pressure throughout the home.

Can I repipe just part of my house instead of the whole thing?

In some cases a partial repipe makes sense, depending on which sections are failing. We’ll walk you through whether a full or partial repipe fits your situation.

Remodel Plumbing

Do I need a licensed plumber for a bathroom or kitchen remodel?

For any work involving moving pipes, adding fixtures, or gas line changes, yes — this ensures the work meets code and protects you if you sell the home later.

How much does it cost to move plumbing during a kitchen remodel?

It depends on how far lines need to move and what’s involved. We’ll give you a clear price after reviewing your remodel plan.

Can plumbing really be relocated anywhere in a remodel, or are there limits?

Most relocations are possible, but drainage slope and venting requirements sometimes limit how far a line can practically move. We’ll explain any real constraints upfront.

How long does remodel plumbing typically take?

It varies by project scope, from a day for a simple fixture swap to several days for a full layout change. We’ll give you a specific timeline for your project.

Do you install refrigerator water lines for ice makers?

Yes, this is a common addition during kitchen remodels, especially when upgrading to a new refrigerator.

Do you work with my contractor, or do I need to manage the plumbing myself?

We’re happy to work directly with your general contractor and coordinate around the rest of your renovation schedule.

Will my old pipes work with new, modern fixtures?

Not always. We’ll evaluate your existing plumbing during the planning stage and flag anything that needs upgrading before new fixtures are installed.

Can you install a walk-in shower in place of my old tub?

Yes, tub-to-shower conversions, including drain relocation, are one of our most common bathroom remodel requests.

Do you handle gas line work for a new kitchen range?

Yes, we handle gas line adjustments and installation as part of kitchen remodel plumbing.

What if a plumbing problem is discovered mid-remodel that wasn't part of the original plan?

We’ll explain what we found and give you a clear price for addressing it before doing any work outside the original scope.