About SOS Plumbing & Services

How do I know if my water heater needs to be replaced or just repaired?

Age is the first indicator. Most tank water heaters last eight to twelve years, and once a unit is past that range, a repair may only delay the inevitable. If the unit is leaking from the tank itself, that is almost always a replacement. Rumbling or popping sounds, inconsistent temperatures, or rusty water are signs we look at closely during an assessment. We will tell you honestly whether a repair makes sense or whether a new unit is the better investment for your situation.

What causes drains to keep clogging no matter how many times they are cleared?

A drain that clogs repeatedly usually has buildup on the pipe walls that basic snaking does not fully remove, or the blockage is sitting deeper in the line than a standard auger reaches. Grease, soap, and hair accumulate over time and narrow the pipe gradually. Hydro jetting flushes the line with high-pressure water and clears buildup that snaking leaves behind. If the problem persists after that, a camera inspection can show whether there is a structural issue like a root intrusion or a collapsed section.

How do you find a leak that is hidden behind a wall or under a floor?

We use pipe inspection tools and pressure testing to locate water that is moving where it should not be, without opening up walls or floors until we know exactly where to look. Signs that point us toward a hidden leak include unexplained increases in water bills, damp spots on ceilings or walls, and the sound of running water when everything is turned off. Finding the source first means the repair is targeted rather than exploratory.

Is the plumbing work permitted and done to code?

We perform code-compliant plumbing on every job. That means the right materials, the right methods, and work that meets the local requirements for Antioch and Lake County. For jobs that require a permit, we handle that as part of the process. Cutting corners on code creates problems down the road, whether that is a failed inspection during a home sale or a repair that does not hold up.

What are the signs of a sewer or main line problem?

Multiple drains slowing down or backing up at the same time is the clearest sign. A single slow drain is usually a localized clog, but when the kitchen, bathrooms, and basement floor drain all act up together, the main line is the likely cause. Sewage odors inside the home, gurgling sounds from drains or toilets, and water backing up into a floor drain when you run a washing machine or flush a toilet are all worth a call. A camera inspection confirms what is happening in the line.

How do tree roots damage a sewer line, and what can be done about it?

Roots follow moisture, and older clay and cast-iron sewer lines develop small cracks and joint gaps over time that let roots in. Once inside, roots grow and expand, slowing the line, cracking it further, or blocking it entirely. We clear root-affected lines using snaking and hydro jetting, then run a camera to assess the damage. Depending on what the camera shows, we can do a trenchless repair or replace the affected section of line. The work stays on the pipe from your house to the connection point.

What is the difference between a tank and a tankless water heater?

A tank water heater stores a set volume of hot water and keeps it ready, which means it uses energy continuously to maintain that temperature. A tankless unit heats water on demand as it flows through, so there is no standby heat loss. Tankless units tend to cost more upfront but can reduce energy use over time, and they do not run out of hot water the way a tank can during heavy use. We can walk you through both options based on your household size, usage habits, and what your current setup can support.

What causes low water pressure, and can it be fixed without a full repipe?

Low pressure has several possible causes. A partially closed shutoff valve, a failing pressure regulator, or a corroded section of pipe can all reduce flow without requiring a full repipe. We diagnose the cause before recommending a fix, because the right answer depends on where the restriction is. If the issue is isolated to one valve or one corroded section, that is a targeted repair. If the whole system is deteriorating, repiping may be the more practical long-term solution.

Do I need to be home when the plumber comes out?

For most jobs, yes, because we need to assess the problem, explain what we find, and get your approval before starting any work. If you are a landlord or property manager and cannot be on site, we can work with a tenant or another contact you designate, as long as someone is available to let us in and answer questions about the job. Call ahead and let us know the arrangement.

When does a plumbing problem call for a professional rather than a DIY fix?

Simple tasks like replacing a faucet aerator or tightening a supply line connection are reasonable for a handy homeowner. Once the job involves opening walls, working on gas lines, replacing a water heater, or diagnosing a leak you cannot locate, the risk of making the problem worse goes up quickly. A plumbing mistake that goes unnoticed can cause water damage, mold, or a failed inspection. If you are not certain what the problem is or how to fix it properly, a call for a quote costs nothing and gives you a clear picture.

How does a sump pump failure lead to a basement backup, and what should I do?

A sump pump sits in a pit at the lowest point of the basement and moves groundwater out before it can rise to floor level. When the pump fails, whether from age, a tripped breaker, or a float switch that stops working, water has nowhere to go and starts accumulating. In Lake County, where the water table is high and spring storms can push a lot of water fast, a failed pump can mean a wet basement in a matter of hours. If your pump is running constantly, making unusual sounds, or has not been replaced in several years, it is worth having us look at it before the next heavy rain.