General
When I run water, my pipes make a lot of noise, what is wrong?
There are many possibilities to your problem. It takes being a detective to solve. Does it happen at one faucet or all faucets? Is it on the hot side or cold side or both? How long has the problem occurred? These answers will help us determine your problem. It could be the pressure reducing valve needs replacement, pipes may be installed or hung improperly, or a shut off valve may be partially open. Call us and we will solve your plumbing problem.
I have low or extremely high water pressure, what is causing this?
Most likely your pressure reducing valve needs replacement. Another common problem in older houses is low pressure with rust in the water. This is usually due to the material of the water pipes. If you have old galvanized water pipes they are deteriorating on the interior of the pipe with rust and build up chocking the size of the pipe down. You may need a section or all of your pipes replaced. Contact us, and we can determine the cause of your problem and the best solution for you.
What is a pressure reducing valve? Do I need one?
A valve that performs two functions: (1) they automatically reduce the high incoming water pressure from the water mains to provide a lower, more functional pressure for distribution in the home; (2) they "regulate" by maintaining a set pressure in the home usually 50 Ibs. thereby insuring that the home piping and appliances operate under a safe, more moderate, but satisfactory pressure. Yes, most plumbing systems in the Knoxville area need one due to the high street main pressure coming into your home.
If I have an emergency water leak and I can not get the water to shut off, what do I do?
You can call Lawrence Plumbing or your utility water company 24 hours a day everyday. We will be glad to assist and solve your plumbing problems need. Your local utility water company will promptly come out and shut off the water at your water meter, usually free of charge.
If I have a leak on my water line, Should I replace the water line or patch the pipe?
It depends on the material and age of the pipe as well as the location of the leak. If the pipe is made of inferior material, we recommend replacing the waterline. If the location is under the driveway or in a well landscaped area we can replace it without damaging the landscape and driveway. Call us today and we will come out, investigate your particular problem, and decide what is the best solution for your situation. We take pride in our honest and professional advice, accompanied with our skilled craftsmanship.
Can tree roots really penetrate a sewer line? What can I do to solve it?
Yes, tree roots can cause a lot of severe damage to you drain line. Honestly, nine times out of ten the problem occours near or at the connection from your pipe to the utility companies pipe. The connection is usually a rubber gasket where they will penetrate the pipe. If you have roots in your sewer line, they will continue to cause your sewer to back up, costing you the trouble of having the pipe cleaned out with a drain cleaning machine. Having your line cleaned is only a temporary fix, the only correct way to fix the problem is to dig up the troubled spot and replace the pipe. We are experienced in solving this problem and can help you solve it and prevent it.
If I know I have roots in my sewer line and the problem is near the street, What should I do?
We recommend contacting the sewer department of your utility company. Let them know you have roots in your sewer tap and they will come out promptly, and check to see if the problem is their responsibility. They will usually camera the line and get a visual of the problem and locate your sewer tap connection. They will provide this service for free, saving you the expense of a plumber locating it for you. If the problem is your responsibility, call Lawrence Plumbing! You can depend on us to solve it and prevent it from reoccurring.
My pipes are frozen, what do I do?
If you know where the problem is and can safely reach the pipe, using a hair dryer may help. If this doesn't work or the problem is too severe for you, call Lawrence Plumbing. We are skilled and have the proper tools to get the water flowing. Don't wait on calling a plumber when the pipes freeze; the longer you wait the more likely the pipes will burst. Call us for your emergency repairs.
What precautions can I take to help prevent my pipes from freezing?
When the temperatures drop below freezing combined with high wind; pipes are prone to freezing and bursting. There are precautions you should take. Disconnect your water hoses from your exterior faucets after the summer months. Seal off or cover your crawl space vents around the house; cardboard or insulation works great. When the temperatures drop well below freezing its best to let the hot and cold side of your faucets run, not drip, a stream of water the thickness of lead in a pencil. Water can freeze in pipes that are dripping. Leave the cabinet doors below your sinks and faucets open. If your pipes freeze call us immediately to help prevent your pipes from bursting.
