Frequently Asked Questions

Hydro jetting blasts water at high pressure through pipes, providing a full 360-degree clean that removes grease, hair, food residue, and mineral buildup. For older or fragile pipes, a camera inspection first is advisable to ensure the pipe walls can handle the pressure.

Most plumbers recommend professional drain cleaning every 1-2 years for average households. Homes with large families, trees near sewer lines, or older galvanized pipes often benefit from annual cleaning to prevent costly blockages.

Discolored water, persistent odors after cleaning, slow drains in multiple fixtures simultaneously, or visible corrosion on exposed pipes often indicate structural damage - cracked pipe, root intrusion, or corrosion - that requires repair rather than cleaning alone.

Tankless water heaters provide endless hot water and are 20-30% more energy-efficient, but cost more upfront. Traditional tanks are less expensive to install and simpler to maintain. In colder climates like the Lehigh Valley, proper sizing is critical - undersized tankless units struggle in winter with cold incoming groundwater.

Most tank water heaters last 8-12 years; tankless units can reach 20 years. Hard water accelerates sediment buildup and corrosion - a significant factor in eastern Pennsylvania's water supply - shortening lifespan noticeably without annual flushing.

A single slow drain usually signals a localized clog. If multiple drains are slow, toilets gurgle when you run a sink, or you notice sewage odors, the issue is likely in the main sewer line. Solder and Company addresses both - from drain cleaning to diagnosing deeper sewer line issues.

Burst pipes, sewage backups, gas line leaks near water heaters, and water heater failures causing flooding are true emergencies requiring immediate attention. A dripping faucet or slow drain can typically wait for a scheduled appointment without risking significant damage.

Before drywall goes up, a licensed plumber must install drain-waste-vent (DWV) lines, supply lines, and stub-outs for every fixture - faucets, toilets, sinks, tubs, dishwashers, and any hot tub connections. Our experience shows that skipping inspections at this phase leads to costly tear-outs later.

If your unit is under 8 years old with a single issue (faulty thermostat, failed heating element, pressure valve), repair usually makes sense. Units over 10 years old, those with rust-colored water, rumbling noises from sediment, or a leaking tank are typically better candidates for full replacement.

Brownish water often indicates rust from aging steel pipes or heavy sediment buildup. Sulfur odors can stem from bacteria in water heater tanks set below 120°F. Solder and Company recommends hydro jetting for sediment-related discoloration, but persistent rust-colored water may point to corroded pipes needing replacement.

A running toilet almost always comes down to three parts: the flapper, fill valve, or float. These are inexpensive repairs, yet a running toilet can waste 200+ gallons per day - so yes, it's absolutely worth fixing promptly both for water bills and to avoid straining the supply valve.

Pennsylvania winters regularly push temperatures below freezing, making pipes in exterior walls, crawl spaces, and garages vulnerable to bursting. Insulating exposed pipes, keeping cabinet doors open under sinks on exterior walls, and knowing where your main shut-off is located are the most effective preventive steps before the cold season hits.