Category: Plumbing

Emergency Plumbing in Boise, ID: What to Do First (and When to Call a 24/7 Plumber)

August 24, 2026

Fast, calm steps that protect your home while help is on the way

Plumbing emergencies are stressful because they escalate quickly: a pinhole leak becomes a soaked ceiling, a slow drain becomes a backup, and a water heater drip becomes a flooded utility room. If you live in Boise or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, knowing what to do in the first 5–10 minutes can dramatically reduce damage and cleanup. This guide walks you through practical first moves, what problems are truly “emergency plumbing,” and when it’s time to call a 24/7 team like Cloverdale Plumbing.

What counts as an emergency plumbing situation?

Not every plumbing problem needs a midnight call, but some issues can cause rapid property damage, create a health hazard, or risk costly secondary problems like mold. In Boise homes, the most common “call now” scenarios typically include:

Call right away if you have:
• Active water leak you can’t stop (burst pipe, failed supply line, ceiling leak)
• Sewage backing up (toilet/tub/shower, floor drain, or multiple fixtures)
• No water in the home (especially if you’re unsure whether it’s a utility outage)
• Water heater leaking or making loud popping/banging noises
• Frozen/at-risk pipes during cold snaps (common in unheated crawlspaces/garages)

The first 10 minutes: a practical emergency checklist

When something goes wrong, your goal is simple: stop the water, reduce risk, and document the issue.

Step 1) Shut off water (start small, then go big)

• If it’s a sink/toilet: close the fixture shutoff valve (usually behind the toilet or under the sink).
• If you can’t find it or it won’t turn: shut off the main water valve (often in a basement, crawlspace entry, utility room, or near where the line enters the home).
• If you’re unsure: shut off the main and open a cold faucet to relieve pressure.

Step 2) Shut off power or gas if a water heater is involved

If your water heater is leaking, turn off the water supply to the unit and then:

• Electric: switch off the water-heater breaker.
• Gas: turn the gas control to “OFF” (or follow the shutdown instructions on the tank).
Safety note: If you smell gas, leave the area and follow your utility’s emergency guidance before making adjustments.

Step 3) Contain water and protect floors

• Use towels, a mop, or a wet/dry vac if available.
• Move rugs, boxes, and valuables off the floor.
• If a ceiling is bulging from a leak above, place a bucket underneath and consider carefully relieving water into a controlled container (only if safe to do so).

Step 4) Avoid “quick fixes” that can make things worse

• Skip chemical drain cleaners for recurring clogs (they can be harsh on certain piping and don’t address root causes).
• Don’t keep running water into a drain that’s backing up.
• If more than one fixture is affected, treat it like a main-line problem and call for help.

Step 5) Document the situation

Take a few quick photos/videos of the leak location, water level, and any visible damage. If insurance becomes part of the process, you’ll be glad you did.

Drain backup emergencies: snaking vs. hot water jetting

When a drain is clogged, the right solution depends on what’s inside the pipe. A drain snake (cable auger) can punch through or retrieve a localized blockage, while hot water jetting (hydro jetting) scours the pipe walls to remove grease, sludge, and buildup more thoroughly. Recent guidance from plumbing education sources consistently notes that jetting is often the better choice for recurring clogs, heavy buildup, and certain sewer-line issues, while snaking can be sufficient for a simple, isolated clog. (hometips.com)
Situation Often a good fit Why
Single sink clogged (hair/food) Snaking Targets a localized blockage quickly
Recurring kitchen drain clogs (grease/soap) Hot water jetting Cleans pipe walls; helps prevent rapid re-clogging (hometips.com)
Multiple fixtures backing up Main-line diagnosis + cleaning Often indicates a main sewer line restriction
Heavy buildup / scale / sludge Hot water jetting More thorough cleaning of pipe interior (angermeierplumbing.com)
Tip for homeowners: If a drain has been “cleared” but clogs again in weeks, that’s a clue the pipe walls are still coated with buildup. That’s where professional jetting and/or inspection can save repeat service calls. (mnsplumbing.com)

Quick “Did you know?” facts Boise homeowners should know

Water heater scald risk is real. Federal safety guidance notes that a thermostat setting around 120°F can reduce scald risk, but hot water temperature can vary and scalding is still possible—especially for children and older adults. (cpsc.gov)
Hard water minerals create buildup and “soap scum.” Hard water typically involves calcium and magnesium ions, which can react with soap and contribute to residue on fixtures and surfaces—one reason many Treasure Valley homeowners consider water treatment. (en.wikipedia.org)
Recurring clogs often need cleaning, not just “punching a hole.” Professional sources commonly emphasize that snaking can open a path, while jetting removes the buildup that causes repeats. (hometips.com)

How to prevent the most common emergency calls (without overthinking it)

Most emergency plumbing Boise ID calls trace back to a handful of preventable patterns: small leaks left alone, drains treated like trash cans, and aging components that fail without warning. These simple habits reduce your odds of an after-hours surprise.

1) Know where your main shutoff is (and test it once a year)

In a real emergency, you don’t want to be guessing. If your valve is hard to turn or hasn’t been touched in years, have a plumber assess it so it’s reliable when you need it.

2) Treat drains like plumbing—not a disposal system

Use hair catchers in showers, avoid pouring grease down the kitchen sink, and be selective about what goes through a garbage disposal. If your kitchen drain is slow repeatedly, scheduling professional drain cleaning is often cheaper than dealing with a full backup later.

3) Watch the “quiet warning signs” of pipe problems

Unexplained damp spots, fluctuating water pressure, recurring pinhole leaks, or visible corrosion are worth addressing early. Pipe repairs done proactively are typically far less disruptive than emergency pipe replacement after a failure.

4) Don’t ignore water heater “personality changes”

Rumbling noises, inconsistent hot water, rusty-looking water, or moisture around the base can signal maintenance needs. If your water heater is older and you’re seeing symptoms, it’s smart to plan an installation before it becomes a weekend emergency.

5) Consider water softening if mineral buildup is a constant battle

If you’re constantly cleaning spotting on fixtures or noticing scale buildup, a water treatment system can improve day-to-day usability and reduce mineral residue over time (depending on your household water chemistry).

Local Boise angle: why fast response matters in the Treasure Valley

Boise homes range from older neighborhoods with legacy piping to fast-growing suburbs with newer construction. Either way, timing matters. A small supply-line failure can damage flooring and cabinets quickly, and drain backups can become a sanitation issue just as fast. Choosing a truly local team that answers the phone directly (not a call center) can shorten the time between “something’s wrong” and “problem contained.”
Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953 and offers 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs—helpful when the leak starts after bedtime or the main line backs up during a family gathering.

Need emergency plumbing in Boise right now?

If you have an active leak, sewage backup, or no hot water from a leaking tank, it’s worth getting a licensed plumber involved quickly. Cloverdale Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing support across Boise and the Treasure Valley.

FAQ: Emergency plumbing Boise ID

If I have water leaking through a ceiling, what should I do first?

Shut off the main water (or the nearest fixture shutoff if you know the source), place containers to catch dripping, and avoid electrical hazards (lights, fans, outlets). Then call a plumber to locate and repair the leak source.

Is a slow drain an emergency?

Not usually. It becomes an emergency if wastewater is backing up, multiple fixtures are affected, or you have standing water that won’t drain. If you keep having the same slow drain, it’s a sign you need a more thorough cleaning than a quick plunge.

What’s the difference between drain snaking and hydro (hot water) jetting?

Snaking typically opens a path through a clog or pulls out a blockage. Hot water jetting uses high-pressure water to clean the inside of the pipe more completely, which is often recommended for recurring clogs or heavy buildup. (hometips.com)

Should I use chemical drain cleaner if my sink is clogged?

For stubborn or recurring clogs, chemical cleaners often don’t solve the real problem and can complicate professional work if a plumber needs to open the line. A safer next step is to stop using that drain and schedule a professional cleaning.

What temperature should I set my water heater to?

Many safety resources point to about 120°F as a safer setting to reduce scald risk, especially for households with children. Keep in mind temperatures can vary and scalding can still occur, so consider anti-scald fixtures or mixing valves if needed. (cpsc.gov)

Glossary (helpful plumbing terms)

Main water shutoff: The valve that turns off water to the entire home. It’s your first line of defense during a major leak.
Fixture shutoff valve: A small valve that isolates water to a single fixture (toilet, sink, etc.) so you can stop a leak without shutting off the whole house.
Drain snaking (cabling): Using a flexible auger to break through or retrieve a blockage in a drain line.
Hot water jetting / hydro jetting: A professional method that uses high-pressure water through a specialized nozzle to clean pipe interiors and flush debris. (angermeierplumbing.com)
Hard water: Water with higher levels of dissolved minerals (often calcium and magnesium) that can contribute to spotting and scale buildup. (en.wikipedia.org)

Water Heater Installation in Meridian, ID: How to Choose the Right System (and Avoid Costly Mistakes)

August 21, 2026

A reliable water heater isn’t optional in the Treasure Valley

If you live in Meridian, a water heater problem quickly becomes a whole-house problem: no showers, no laundry, no dishwasher, and the risk of water damage if the tank fails. Choosing the right replacement matters just as much as installing it correctly. This guide breaks down what local homeowners should consider—capacity, fuel type, efficiency, venting, thermal expansion, and maintenance—so your next water heater installation is a long-term upgrade, not a short-term patch.

Why water heaters fail (and why it happens sooner than you expect)

Most “sudden” water heater failures are the result of gradual wear. In Meridian, mineral content in the water can accelerate sediment buildup in tank-style heaters. Meridian’s public water quality reporting shows hardness levels commonly in the mid-to-upper single digits (grains per gallon), which is enough to contribute to scale and sediment over time in many homes.

Common failure contributors include:

Sediment buildup: reduces efficiency, crowds tank volume, and can overheat components.
Anode rod depletion: speeds up corrosion inside the tank.
Improper sizing or venting: can lead to performance issues and safety concerns.
Thermal expansion pressure: in “closed” plumbing systems, pressure spikes can stress valves and fittings if not controlled properly.

Tank vs. tankless vs. heat pump: which is best for your Meridian home?

Type Best for Pros Watch-outs
Tank (gas or electric) Most homes wanting predictable cost and simple replacement Lower upfront cost; straightforward install; good recovery with properly sized gas models Sediment buildup in harder water; standby heat loss; needs maintenance to maximize lifespan
Tankless (on-demand) Homes prioritizing endless hot water and space savings No storage tank; long runs of hot water; strong efficiency potential with the right setup May require gas line/venting upgrades; scale control is critical; hot-water “sandwich” can occur on some setups
Heat pump water heater (hybrid electric) Homeowners aiming for very low operating cost (especially where electric rates and space allow) Very high efficiency; can significantly reduce energy use compared to standard electric models Needs adequate air volume and clearance; can cool/dehumidify the room; louder than a standard tank

Note: Heat pump water heaters are widely recognized for high efficiency compared to standard electric units, and federal guidance highlights strong savings potential in many use cases.

Step-by-step: what a professional water heater installation should include

1) Right-sizing based on your household (not just the old tank)

Many homes replace a 40-gallon with another 40-gallon by default. A better approach is to factor in the number of bathrooms, morning routines (showers + laundry), and whether you run multiple fixtures at once. Sizing mistakes show up as “we run out of hot water” or “the unit is constantly firing.”

2) Confirm fuel type, venting, and combustion safety (for gas units)

Gas water heater installs aren’t just about swapping tanks. A safe installation checks venting integrity, draft, and any required clearances. If you’re switching styles (for example, standard atmospheric vent to power vent, or tank to tankless), venting and gas piping may need adjustments to meet manufacturer requirements and local code.

3) Manage thermal expansion (especially in “closed” systems)

Many modern homes have components such as pressure-reducing valves or backflow prevention that can create a closed system. When water heats up, it expands—pressure can spike and stress valves, fixtures, and the water heater. Local installation guidance in the Boise area notes that an expansion tank is required when the water system is closed. A professional installer should identify whether your system is closed and size the expansion tank properly.

4) Add shutoffs, drainage, and leak protection where it makes sense

Water heaters often live in garages, utility rooms, and closets—places where a slow leak can go unnoticed. Smart installation choices can include a quality shutoff valve, a properly routed drain pan line (when required/appropriate), and a plan for safe draining during maintenance.

5) Set temperature and scald protection thoughtfully

Hotter isn’t always better. Many families with young kids prefer a safer delivered-water temperature at fixtures while still maintaining effective storage temperatures. Your plumber can recommend a setup that balances comfort, safety, and performance.

Maintenance that protects your investment (especially with Meridian’s water)

If you want your new water heater to last, plan maintenance from day one. Many manufacturers and industry resources recommend flushing a tank-style water heater about once per year to reduce sediment buildup. An anode rod inspection schedule depends on water conditions and usage, but it’s often a key “hidden” factor in tank longevity.

Simple annual checklist:
• Flush tank (helps reduce sediment)
• Check temperature/pressure relief (T&P) discharge piping condition
• Inspect for minor leaks/corrosion at fittings
• Ask about anode rod condition (especially if your tank is a few years old)

Tip: If your existing heater is very old and has never been serviced, flushing can sometimes reveal an already-failing tank. A plumber can advise the safest approach for your specific unit.

Quick “Did you know?” water heater facts

Did you know? Water hardness is often measured in grains per gallon (gpg), and even mid-range hardness can contribute to scale inside water heaters over time.
Did you know? Heat pump water heaters can be dramatically more efficient than standard electric tanks, but they need the right placement (space/airflow) to perform well.
Did you know? If your home has a pressure-reducing valve or backflow device, your system may be “closed,” and thermal expansion control can become a real issue—especially after a new install.

Local angle: what Meridian homeowners should watch for

Meridian’s growth means homes span multiple eras—some with older plumbing layouts, others with newer pressure regulation and backflow protection. That mix matters for water heater installs:

Hardness and sediment: If you notice white scale on fixtures or frequent aerator clogging, you may benefit from a maintenance schedule or water treatment options.
Garage installs: Many Treasure Valley homes place water heaters in garages—drain pans, seismic strapping (where required), and safe venting routes are important details.
Remodel plans: If a bathroom or kitchen remodel is on your horizon, it may be smart to select a system now that supports future demand (extra shower heads, soaking tubs, or recirculation).

Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953, and our team installs and maintains water heaters with the details that protect your home: correct sizing, code-aware safety components, and practical guidance for keeping the system running efficiently.

Need water heater installation in Meridian? Get clear options and straightforward pricing.

If your water heater is leaking, not keeping up, or making popping/banging noises, it’s worth getting it evaluated before it turns into an emergency. Cloverdale Plumbing offers responsive service across Meridian and the Treasure Valley, including 24/7 emergency help when it can’t wait.

FAQ: Water heater installation in Meridian, Idaho

How do I know if I need a new water heater or just a repair?

Active leaks from the tank body, recurring pilot/ignition issues, rust-colored hot water, or repeated T&P valve discharge can signal replacement is the safer choice. If it’s a minor leak at a valve or fitting, repair may be possible. A quick inspection can usually tell the difference.

What size water heater is typical for a family home in Meridian?

Many households land in the 40–80 gallon range for tank units, but “typical” isn’t the same as “correct.” Number of bathrooms, simultaneous use, and lifestyle matter. For tankless, sizing is based on flow rate (gpm) and incoming water temperature, not gallons.

Do I need an expansion tank with my new water heater?

If your plumbing system is “closed” (often due to a pressure-reducing valve, check valve, or backflow prevention), an expansion tank is commonly required to manage thermal expansion and protect the system. A plumber can confirm whether your home is closed and size the tank appropriately.

How often should a water heater be flushed in the Treasure Valley?

A common recommendation is about once per year for tank-style water heaters to reduce sediment buildup. If your water is harder, you may benefit from a more customized schedule.

Can I improve water heater performance if my drains are slow or backing up?

They’re separate systems, but plumbing issues can stack up. If you’re already planning a water heater install and you’ve had recurring clogs, it can be efficient to address both. Cloverdale Plumbing offers drain cleaning and hot water jetting for stubborn buildup.

Glossary (helpful terms when comparing water heaters)

Thermal expansion: When water heats up, it expands. In a closed plumbing system, that expansion can increase pressure.
Expansion tank: A small tank installed on the cold-water supply line that absorbs pressure increases caused by thermal expansion.
T&P valve (temperature & pressure relief valve): A safety valve designed to release water if temperature or pressure becomes unsafe.
Anode rod: A sacrificial metal rod inside a tank-style water heater that helps slow corrosion of the tank.
Grains per gallon (gpg): A common unit for water hardness; higher numbers usually mean more minerals that can contribute to scale.

Emergency Plumbing in Caldwell, ID: What Counts as an Emergency (and What to Do First)

August 20, 2026

Fast, calm steps that protect your home before the plumber arrives

Plumbing problems rarely happen at a convenient time. One minute everything is normal, and the next you’re hearing water run behind a wall, seeing a water heater puddle spread, or watching a toilet threaten to overflow. If you live in Caldwell or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, knowing what’s truly “emergency plumbing” (and what you can safely do in the first few minutes) can reduce damage and keep your family comfortable. Cloverdale Plumbing has served local homes and businesses since 1953, and this guide is built around the same priorities a good on-call plumber uses: stop the water, protect people and property, and prevent the problem from getting worse.

What counts as an emergency plumbing situation?

A plumbing emergency is any issue that creates one (or more) of these risks: active water damage, sewage exposure, loss of essential plumbing (toilets/water/heat), or a situation that could quickly become unsafe. The tricky part is that some problems start “small” and turn urgent fast—especially when a leak is hidden in a wall, ceiling, crawlspace, or under a slab.

Typically urgent: call for emergency plumbing right away

  • Burst pipe or fast-growing leak (water spreading, ceiling bulging, drywall getting soft).
  • Sewer backup (toilet/shower/tub backing up with dirty water or sewage odor).
  • No hot water with signs of water heater failure (leaking tank, loud popping, water around the base).
  • Overflowing toilet that won’t stop with the shutoff valve.
  • Multiple drains clogged at once (often points to a main line issue).
  • Water near electrical outlets/panels or dripping through light fixtures (treat as urgent and prioritize safety).
 

May be able to wait (but still needs prompt service)

  • Single slow drain (one sink draining sluggishly, no overflow risk).
  • Dripping faucet or running toilet that stops with a simple adjustment.
  • Minor under-sink leak that’s contained and stops when you close the shutoff valves.

If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent—especially if water is moving where it shouldn’t. Hidden leaks can cause mold and structural damage quickly.

First 10 minutes: a safe, practical emergency checklist

These steps are designed for homeowners—no special tools, no risky disassembly. If at any point you see electrical danger, step back and prioritize safety.

Step-by-step: stop the damage first

1) Shut off the water (closest valve first)

For a toilet leak, turn the valve behind the toilet clockwise. For a sink leak, use the hot/cold valves under the sink. If you can’t find a local shutoff—or the leak is rapid—shut off the home’s main water valve. If you don’t know where yours is, it’s worth locating it on a calm day.

2) If water is near electricity, don’t guess

If water is pooling near outlets, cords, or a panel, keep people away. If you can safely do so, shut off power at the breaker (dry hands, dry floor, no standing water). If it’s not clearly safe, wait for professional help.

3) Contain and protect

Use towels, a bucket, or a shallow pan. Move rugs, paper goods, and anything porous. If a ceiling is bulging, keep the area clear—waterlogged drywall can fail suddenly.

4) For a sewer backup, stop using water immediately

Don’t run sinks, showers, dishwashers, or laundry if you suspect the main line is blocked. Extra water can bring the backup higher and spread contamination. Sewer overflows are often made worse by materials that don’t break down well (including grease and “flushable” items). The EPA specifically calls out fats, oils, grease, and some wipes as common contributors to sewer problems.

5) Call for help—and share the right details

When you call, mention: where the leak/backup is, whether the water is clean or dirty, whether you’ve shut off water, and whether anyone smells gas or sees water near electrical. Clear details help a plumber arrive prepared.

 

What not to do during an emergency

  • Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain “to rinse it away.” It can cool and harden in your plumbing and contribute to clogs and backups.
  • Don’t use chemical drain cleaners when a drain is fully blocked or overflowing—chemicals can splash back and can complicate professional drain cleaning.
  • Don’t keep flushing an overflowing toilet; shut off the valve and call.

Common emergency scenarios (and what they usually mean)

Water heater leaking

A leak can come from a failing tank, a connection, or the temperature/pressure relief (TPR) valve. A licensed plumber will check safe discharge piping and confirm whether repair is possible or replacement is the safer call (especially if the tank is corroding). Many plumbing codes address how relief valve discharge must be routed to reduce scalding and property damage risk.

Recurring clogs or a sudden backup

If your kitchen sink, bathtub, and toilet all struggle at once, it can indicate a main line problem. Buildup from fats, oils, and grease (FOG), sediment, and non-flushable items can narrow pipes over time, and root intrusion can also trigger blockages. For tougher buildup, professional hot water jetting can scour pipe walls and restore flow more thoroughly than a quick “punch-through.”

Leaky or failing pipes (especially in older homes)

If you notice repeated pinhole leaks, water staining, or a sudden drop in pressure, you may be dealing with aging or damaged lines that need targeted repair—or in some cases, a more comprehensive repipe plan. A professional assessment helps avoid “whack-a-mole” repairs that keep coming back.

Quick reference table: symptoms, risk level, first action

Symptom Why it matters First action Urgency
Water dripping through ceiling Hidden leak + structural damage risk Shut off main water; avoid electrical Emergency
Toilet overflowing Rapid water damage + sanitation issues Close toilet valve; stop flushing Emergency
Multiple drains backing up Main line blockage likely Stop using water; call for service Emergency
Water heater puddle Tank or fitting failure can worsen quickly Shut off cold supply to heater; call Urgent
Single slow sink drain Localized buildup Stop using disposal; schedule cleaning Soon

Caldwell & Treasure Valley angle: what locals run into

In Caldwell, plumbing emergencies often spike around a few predictable stress points:

  • Summer kitchen clogs and slow drains from heavier cooking, gatherings, and grease/food scraps. Grease is a major contributor to sewer problems, and many agencies recommend scraping plates and keeping FOG out of drains.
  • Main line backups where buildup, aging lines, or intrusion causes a sudden blockage. If you experience a sewer backup, the City of Caldwell provides guidance resources for residents.
  • Water heater surprises that show up as warm puddles in a garage or utility room—especially when a tank ages out or sediment buildup stresses the system.
 

A simple prevention habit that helps

Keep a small “grease jar” or sealable can in your kitchen. Let fats/oils cool, then dispose of them in the trash rather than sending them down the drain. It’s a small habit that can help prevent stubborn clogs and backups.

Need emergency plumbing help in Caldwell?

If you have active leaking, a backup, or no hot water, it’s worth getting a licensed plumber involved quickly. Cloverdale Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency response across the Treasure Valley with a local team—no call centers.

FAQ: Emergency plumbing in Caldwell, Idaho

How do I know if a clogged drain is an emergency?

If more than one fixture is backing up (for example, a toilet and a shower), or you see dirty water/smell sewage, treat it as an emergency. Stop using water and call for service.

Should I turn off the water heater if it’s leaking?

First shut off the cold-water supply valve to the water heater if you can find it. If the leak is significant or you’re unsure what’s happening, call a plumber. If water is near electrical components, prioritize safety.

Is it okay to use hot water to “flush” grease down the drain?

No. Grease can travel a bit and then cool, harden, and collect debris. Many public agencies recommend keeping fats, oils, and grease out of drains to reduce clogs and sewer issues.

What should I do if sewage backs up into my home?

Stop using all water in the home, keep kids and pets away from affected areas, and call for emergency drain/sewer service. If you’re on city sewer, check for local guidance as well—Caldwell provides resident resources related to emergency sewer backups.

Do you handle emergency plumbing for businesses in Caldwell?

Yes. Emergency issues like restroom backups, water heater failures, and drain blockages can disrupt operations quickly. A local, on-call plumbing team can help reduce downtime.

Glossary (helpful plumbing terms)

Main line (main sewer line)

The primary drain line that carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer (or to a septic system). When it’s blocked, multiple fixtures may back up.

FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease)

Cooking fats and oils that can cool inside pipes, stick to pipe walls, and create stubborn clogs—especially when combined with food scraps and “flushable” products.

Hot water jetting (hydro jetting)

A professional drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure (often hot) water to remove grease, scale, and buildup from inside pipes.

TPR valve (Temperature and Pressure Relief valve)

A safety valve on a water heater designed to release pressure/temperature to prevent dangerous conditions. If it’s discharging or leaking, it should be evaluated by a plumber.