How much does a plumber cost per hour?
Most plumbers charge $70 to $180 per hour, plus a service or trip fee for the first visit. Many quote flat rates for common jobs instead, which protects you if the work takes longer than expected. Emergency, weekend, and after-hours calls typically run 1.5 to 2 times the standard rate.
What counts as a plumbing emergency?
A burst or leaking pipe, sewage backing up into the home, a gas smell near a water heater, or a complete loss of water are all true emergencies — shut off the water at the main if you can and call right away. A slow drip or a single slow drain usually is not, and calling during normal hours will save you the emergency premium.
How long does a water heater last?
A standard tank water heater lasts about 8 to 12 years; tankless units often run 20 years or more with maintenance. If yours is over a decade old and you're seeing rust-colored water, popping noises, or puddling at the base, start planning a replacement before it fails on its own.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
As a rule of thumb, repair a unit that's still under about 8 years old with a minor issue like a faulty thermostat or element. Replace it if it's near the end of its life, leaking from the tank, or if repairs would cost more than half the price of a new one. A plumber can tell you which side of that line you're on.
Do I need a permit for plumbing work?
Small repairs like swapping a faucet usually don't need a permit, but water heater replacements, repipes, and new lines almost always do. A licensed plumber pulls the permit as part of the job — if a contractor suggests skipping it to save money, treat that as a red flag.
Why is my water bill suddenly so high?
The usual culprit is a hidden leak — most often a running toilet, which can waste hundreds of gallons a day silently. Check toilets first by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank and seeing if it appears in the bowl. If the bill is high with no visible cause, a plumber can run a leak-detection check.
Can I fix a clogged drain myself?
A single slow drain often clears with a plunger or a hand auger, and mechanical methods are safer for your pipes than harsh chemical drain cleaners. If multiple drains back up at once, or the same drain clogs repeatedly, that points to a deeper line issue that needs a pro with a drain camera and a powered snake.
How do I know if a plumber is licensed?
Ask for the license number and verify it through your state or city licensing board — most have a free online lookup. Also confirm they carry liability insurance. Licensing matters because unpermitted or unlicensed plumbing can fail inspection and complicate a future home sale.
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