Your Plumbing Questions Answered: RCS Plumbing Q&A

At RCS Plumbing, we believe in clear communication and empowering our San Tan Valley customers with information. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about our services, from routine repairs to emergency situations. If you don't see your question answered here, please don't hesitate to call us at (480) 372-0158 for plumbing needs or (480) 228-9901 for 24/7 emergencies!

General Plumbing

What areas do you serve?

RCS Plumbing proudly serves San Tan Valley, AZ, and surrounding communities. Please check our "Service Area" page or call us if you're unsure if we cover your location.

Are your plumbers licensed and insured?

Absolutely! All of our plumbers are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, ensuring professional and reliable service for your peace of mind.

Do you offer free estimates?

We offer transparent pricing and will provide a detailed estimate before any work begins. For some services, a trip charge may apply, which we will discuss upfront.

Water Heater Installation

What types of water heaters do you install?

We install all major types of water heaters, including traditional tank water heaters (gas and electric) and energy-efficient tankless water heaters. We can help you choose the best option for your home's needs and budget.

How long does water heater installation take?

The duration of a water heater installation can vary depending on the type of heater and the complexity of the existing plumbing. A standard replacement often takes a few hours, while a conversion to a tankless unit might take longer. We'll provide a more accurate time estimate after assessing your specific situation.

Do I need a permit for water heater installation in San Tan Valley?

In many areas, including San Tan Valley, permits are required for water heater installations to ensure compliance with local building codes. We will handle all necessary permits and inspections for your project.

What are the benefits of installing a new water heater?

Installing a new water heater, especially a more modern, energy-efficient model, can lead to:
  • Faster and more consistent hot water supply.
  • Reduced energy bills due to improved efficiency.
  • Increased safety with updated technology.
  • Prevention of future leaks and costly repairs associated with aging units.

Water Heater Repair

How do I know if my water heater needs repair or replacement?

Common signs your water heater needs attention include:
  • Lack of hot water or insufficient hot water.
  • Strange noises (rumbling, popping) coming from the tank.
  • Leaking around the base of the unit.
  • Rusty or discolored hot water.
  • The water heater is over 10-12 years old.
We can assess your unit's condition and help you determine whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution.

Can you repair all brands and models of water heaters?

Yes, our technicians are trained and equipped to diagnose and repair most major brands and models of tank and tankless water heaters.

What causes a water heater to leak?

Water heater leaks can be caused by various factors, including:
  • Corrosion of the tank over time.
  • Loose or faulty connections.
  • A faulty pressure relief valve.
  • Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank.

Plumbing Installation

What kind of plumbing installations do you perform?

We handle a wide range of plumbing installations for new construction, remodels, and upgrades, including:
  • Faucets, sinks, and toilets.
  • Showers and bathtubs.
  • Water lines and drain lines.
  • Garbage disposals.
  • Water filtration systems.
  • Appliance hookups (dishwashers, washing machines).
  • Repiping for entire homes.

Why should I choose professional plumbing installation over DIY?

Professional installation ensures that your plumbing system is:
  • Code-compliant: Prevents potential fines and safety hazards.
  • Properly sized and installed: Ensures optimal water pressure and drainage.
  • Warrantied: Provides peace of mind.
  • Prevents costly mistakes: DIY errors can lead to leaks, water damage, and more expensive repairs down the line.

Plumbing Repairs

What are the most common plumbing repairs you handle?

We frequently address issues such as:
  • Leaky faucets and pipes.
  • Clogged drains (sinks, showers, toilets, main lines).
  • Running or non-flushing toilets.
  • Low water pressure.
  • Sewer line backups.
  • Fixing or replacing garbage disposals.
  • Water and sewer full repipes<

My drain is slow. Can I just use a chemical drain cleaner?

While chemical drain cleaners might offer a temporary fix, they can often damage your pipes over time, especially if used frequently. We recommend professional drain cleaning using methods like snaking or hydro-jetting, which are safer and more effective at removing blockages without harming your plumbing.

How can I prevent plumbing problems?

Regular maintenance is key! This includes:
  • Not flushing non-biodegradable items down toilets.
  • Using drain screens to catch hair and debris.
  • Avoiding pouring grease down drains.
  • Scheduling annual plumbing inspections with RCS Plumbing.

Emergency Plumbing (24/7)

What constitutes a plumbing emergency?

A plumbing emergency is any issue that poses an immediate threat to your property, health, or safety. This includes:
  • Burst pipes causing flooding.
  • Major water leaks that cannot be contained.
  • Sewer line backups causing raw sewage to enter your home.
  • Complete loss of water supply.
  • No hot water (especially critical in homes with vulnerable individuals).
  • Gas leaks (if you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call your gas provider and 911 first!).

How quickly can you respond to an emergency plumbing call in San Tan Valley?

We pride ourselves on our rapid response times. When you call our emergency line, you'll speak with a live person who will dispatch a qualified plumber to your San Tan Valley location as quickly as possible, minimizing damage and stress.

What should I do before an emergency plumber arrives?

Stay calm. Locate and turn off your main water shut-off valve to stop the flow of water. If it's a water heater issue, turn off the power/gas to the unit. Clear the affected area of valuables to prevent further damage. Call RCS Plumbing's emergency line at (480) 228-9901 immediately.

Slab Leak Detection & Repair

What is a slab leak?

A slab leak is a water leak that occurs in the plumbing pipes located beneath your home's concrete foundation (slab). Because they are hidden, they can cause significant damage if not detected and repaired promptly.

What are the signs of a slab leak?

Be on the lookout for:
  • Unexplained spike in your water bill.
  • Sound of running water when no fixtures are in use.
  • Warm spots on your floor.
  • Cracks in your foundation, walls, or floors.
  • Mildew or mold growth, or a persistent musty smell.
  • Wet spots or puddles in your yard near the foundation.
  • Reduced water pressure.

How do you detect slab leaks without tearing up my floor?

We use advanced, non-invasive slab leak detection technology, including:
  • Acoustic listening devices: To pinpoint the sound of leaking water.
  • Thermal imaging cameras: To detect temperature differences caused by hot water leaks.
  • Electronic leak detectors: To identify moisture changes.
  • Video camera inspections: To visually inspect pipes in accessible areas.
These methods allow us to accurately locate the leak with minimal disruption to your property.

What are the repair options for a slab leak?

Depending on the severity and location of the leak, repair options may include:
  • Spot repair: Directly repairing the leaking section of pipe.
  • Pipe re-routing: Bypassing the damaged section of pipe by installing a new line through a wall or ceiling.
  • Epoxy pipe lining: For certain types of leaks, an epoxy coating can be applied to the inside of the pipe to seal it.
Our technicians will discuss the best solution for your specific situation after a thorough assessment.