Frequently Asked Questions

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it flows through the unit, eliminating the need for a storage tank. They provide endless hot water and take up less space, but require proper gas line sizing or electrical capacity. At Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical, we ensure tankless installations meet San Francisco permit requirements and performance standards.

Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water streams to clear severe blockages and clean sewer lines without damaging pipes. It's ideal for grease buildup, tree root intrusion, and stubborn clogs that snaking can't remove. This method restores full pipe diameter and prevents recurring drain issues more effectively than traditional methods.

Commercial boilers require annual maintenance to ensure efficient operation and regulatory compliance. Regular service includes inspecting safety controls, cleaning heat exchangers, and testing system performance. At Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical, we help San Francisco businesses maintain heating reliability and meet local safety codes year-round.

Yes, video camera inspections allow plumbers to diagnose blockages, pipe damage, and system conditions without excavation. A flexible camera travels through your pipes, transmitting real-time footage that pinpoints issues accurately. This saves time and cost by targeting repairs exactly where needed rather than guessing locations.

Burst pipes, severe leaks, and complete system failures account for most emergency plumbing situations. Aging pipes, freezing conditions, and sudden pressure changes can trigger urgent issues requiring immediate attention. Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical offers 24-hour emergency service to prevent water damage and restore function quickly throughout San Francisco and surrounding areas.

Backflow testing ensures contaminated water can't reverse flow into the public water supply, protecting community health. San Francisco requires annual backflow prevention testing and certification for compliance with local water safety regulations. Devices must be tested by certified professionals to verify they're functioning properly and preventing dangerous cross-contamination.

Preventive plumbing maintenance includes system inspections, pipe cleaning, fixture checks, and performance optimization. Regular service identifies minor issues before they become costly repairs, extends equipment lifespan, and maintains water efficiency. This proactive approach saves money and prevents unexpected failures in both residential and commercial properties.

Frequent backups, multiple slow drains, sewage odors, and soggy yard patches indicate serious sewer line problems. A camera inspection reveals whether cleaning will resolve issues or if pipe damage requires repair or replacement. At Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical, we use video diagnostics to recommend the most cost-effective solution for your specific situation.

San Francisco requires permits for water heater installations to ensure compliance with building, plumbing, and safety codes. Professional installation includes proper venting, seismic strapping, and inspection approval for both residential and commercial units. Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical handles all permitting requirements to ensure your installation meets local regulations and operates safely.

San Francisco's relatively soft water causes less mineral buildup than hard water areas, but older pipe systems can still develop corrosion and sediment issues. Regular maintenance and inspections help identify problems early, especially in aging infrastructure common throughout the city. Water quality variations across different neighborhoods may require specific treatment or equipment considerations.

Using chemical drain cleaners repeatedly can damage pipes and create bigger problems than the original clog. These harsh products corrode pipe materials over time and rarely resolve underlying issues like tree roots or structural damage. Professional methods like hydro jetting and camera inspections address root causes safely and effectively.

Most residential water heater installations take 3 to 5 hours, depending on the unit type and existing setup. Tankless installations may require additional time for gas line upgrades or electrical work. At Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical, we complete installations efficiently while ensuring proper permits, code compliance, and thorough testing before we leave.