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Why Commercial Kitchens Need Reliable Plumbing Support

August 21, 2025

In any restaurant, café, or food service business, plumbing isn’t just a background system—it’s a key part of day-to-day operations. From sinks and dishwashers to grease traps and water heaters, every part of your plumbing must function seamlessly to keep your kitchen safe, efficient, and compliant. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we know that even a minor plumbing issue in a commercial kitchen can disrupt service, cost you money, and create health risks. That’s why proactive plumbing support is critical.

The High Demands of a Commercial Kitchen

Unlike residential kitchens, commercial kitchens deal with higher volumes of water, grease, and waste on a daily basis. This puts immense strain on pipes, drains, and fixtures. Common plumbing challenges in food service businesses include:

  • Clogged drains from grease and food debris
  • Malfunctioning garbage disposals
  • Grease trap buildup and blockages
  • Low water pressure affecting dishwashing or prep areas
  • Hot water shortages during peak service hours

Ignoring these issues—or relying on quick fixes—can lead to costly downtime and potential health code violations.

The Importance of Grease Trap Maintenance

One of the biggest culprits in commercial kitchen plumbing problems is the grease trap. Designed to capture fats, oils, and grease before they reach your pipes, grease traps require regular cleaning and maintenance. Without it, they can overflow or clog, creating foul odors, plumbing backups, and even fines from local health departments. Professional cleaning from Hank & Sons Plumbing ensures grease traps are properly maintained, reducing risk and keeping your kitchen in compliance.

Why Hot Water Reliability Matters

In a commercial kitchen, hot water isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. From sanitizing dishes to cleaning prep areas, hot water is central to maintaining safety standards. A failing water heater can slow down service, create sanitation issues, and increase stress on staff. That’s why regular water heater maintenance and timely repairs are essential for food service businesses. Whether you rely on a tank or tankless system, Hank & Sons Plumbing provides installation, maintenance, and emergency service to keep hot water flowing when you need it most.

The Value of Preventative Care

Waiting until a plumbing emergency happens is a recipe for disaster. Proactive care, like hydro jetting drains, inspecting water lines, and maintaining fixtures, can prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we offer tailored maintenance plans for commercial kitchens to minimize downtime and avoid costly surprises.

Why Choose Hank & Sons Plumbing for Commercial Kitchen Plumbing

Running a restaurant or food business is stressful enough—you don’t need plumbing problems adding to the mix. By working with Hank & Sons Plumbing, you’ll get:

  • Licensed plumbers experienced in commercial kitchens
  • 24/7 emergency services to keep you running
  • Preventative maintenance to stop problems before they start
  • Fast, reliable repairs with minimal disruption
  • A trusted partner who understands the demands of food service operations

Keep Your Kitchen Running Smoothly

Your plumbing system is the backbone of your commercial kitchen. Protect your business, your staff, and your customers by partnering with Hank & Sons Plumbing for reliable plumbing services. Call us today at 909-524-2906 to schedule an inspection, repair, or maintenance plan that fits your needs.

The Hidden Danger of Slab Leaks: What Every Homeowner Should Know

August 7, 2025

When it comes to plumbing issues, few are as serious—or as sneaky—as slab leaks. Unlike a dripping faucet or a clogged drain, slab leaks happen out of sight, under the very foundation of your home. Left untreated, they can cause structural damage, mold growth, and skyrocketing water bills. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we know how important it is to catch these leaks early and repair them properly.

What Exactly Is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak occurs when pipes beneath the concrete foundation of your home develop cracks, pinholes, or breaks. Because the pipes are buried, the leak may go unnoticed until it’s already caused significant damage. Common causes include:

  • Shifting soil that puts pressure on pipes
  • Corrosion from minerals in the water supply
  • Poor installation or defective piping materials
  • Long-term wear and tear from high water pressure

Whatever the reason, water escaping under your foundation is never good news.

Warning Signs You Might Have a Slab Leak

Since slab leaks aren’t visible, homeowners need to pay attention to subtle red flags. You may have a slab leak if you notice:

  • Unexpected increases in your water bill
  • Warm spots on the floor (from hot water line leaks)
  • Cracks in walls, ceilings, or flooring
  • The sound of running water when no fixtures are in use
  • Mold, mildew, or musty odors inside the home
  • Reduced water pressure in one or more areas

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, it’s time to call Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for a professional inspection.

Why Slab Leaks Are So Serious

The impact of a slab leak goes far beyond wasted water. Continuous moisture under your foundation can erode soil, causing your slab to shift or crack. This may lead to:

  • Uneven floors
  • Structural instability
  • Costly foundation repairs
  • Mold and mildew that affect indoor air quality

What starts as a small leak can quickly turn into a major repair if ignored.

How Professionals Detect Slab Leaks

Trying to pinpoint a slab leak without the right tools is nearly impossible. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, our plumbers use advanced technology to locate leaks without tearing up your floors unnecessarily. Methods may include acoustic listening devices, infrared cameras, and pressure testing. Once identified, we’ll recommend the most effective repair option for your situation.

Repair Options for Slab Leaks

There are several approaches to fixing a slab leak, depending on its location and severity:

  • Direct Repair: Breaking through the concrete to access and fix the damaged pipe.
  • Re-Piping: Rerouting plumbing lines around the slab to avoid future leaks.
  • Epoxy Coating: In some cases, applying a lining inside the pipe can seal small leaks.

Our team will walk you through the pros and cons of each option to ensure the repair is cost-effective and long-lasting.

Protecting Your Home with Preventative Care

While slab leaks can’t always be prevented, regular plumbing inspections and proper maintenance reduce the risk. Addressing water pressure issues, installing a whole-house water filtration system, and replacing aging pipes can all help protect your home’s foundation from water damage.

Call the Slab Leak Experts

Slab leaks require immediate attention—waiting only makes the problem worse. If you suspect a slab leak, contact Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 today. Our skilled plumbers will diagnose the issue quickly and recommend the best solution to protect your home and your foundation.

What’s Really Clogging Your Drains? Common Culprits and How to Stop Them

July 23, 2025

There’s nothing more frustrating than a sink that won’t drain or a shower that turns into a puddle. Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues Southern California homeowners face—and while they might seem minor at first, they can quickly lead to backups, pipe damage, and expensive repairs.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we’ve seen every kind of drain clog imaginable. Some are caused by bad habits, others by aging plumbing. But the good news is that many of them are preventable.

Here’s a closer look at what’s really clogging your drains, and what you can do to keep water flowing smoothly throughout your home.

The Usual Suspects: Top Causes of Drain Clogs

1. Hair

Hair is one of the most common culprits in bathroom drains, especially showers and sinks. Over time, strands bind with soap scum to form tough clogs that slow or completely block water flow.

Prevention Tip: Install hair-catching drain screens and clean them regularly.

2. Grease and Oil

Pouring grease down the kitchen sink is a recipe for disaster. Even if it’s liquid when hot, grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to pipe walls and building up over time.

Prevention Tip: Dispose of grease in a container, let it cool, and throw it in the trash.

3. Soap Scum

Traditional bar soap contains fats that combine with minerals in hard water to form soap scum. This residue coats pipe walls and contributes to clogs.

Prevention Tip: Use liquid soap or install a water softener to reduce buildup.

4. Food Waste

Even with a garbage disposal, certain foods should never go down the drain—coffee grounds, eggshells, fibrous vegetables (like celery), and starchy items like pasta and rice can all lead to clogs.

Prevention Tip: Scrape food waste into the trash or compost bin before rinsing dishes.

5. “Flushable” Wipes

Despite the label, most wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They clump together in pipes and sewers, causing blockages and even damaging municipal systems.

Prevention Tip: Only flush toilet paper—nothing else.

6. Tree Roots

In older homes, tiny cracks in underground sewer lines can allow tree roots to infiltrate pipes in search of moisture. Over time, roots expand and block or even collapse the pipe.

Prevention Tip: Have your sewer line inspected periodically if you have mature trees near your home.

How to Know You Have a Drain Problem

Early warning signs of a clog include:

  • Slow-draining sinks, tubs, or showers
  • Gurgling noises coming from drains
  • Foul odors, especially from kitchen sinks
  • Water backing up into sinks or tubs
  • Toilet bubbles or overflows when other fixtures are used

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to address the issue before it gets worse.

Why DIY Isn’t Always Enough

While a plunger or store-bought drain cleaner might provide temporary relief, they don’t always solve the root problem—and in some cases, chemical cleaners can even damage your pipes.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we use professional-grade tools like:

  • Drain snakes (augers) to break up clogs
  • Hydro jetting for deep, high-pressure cleaning
  • Camera inspections to see inside your pipes and identify recurring issues

We get your drains cleared quickly—and help you understand how to prevent future clogs.

Keep Your Drains Flowing Free

Regular maintenance and mindful habits go a long way toward preventing clogs. Consider scheduling annual drain cleanings, especially if you’ve had issues in the past or live in an older home.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we offer expert drain cleaning services for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and sewer lines. Whether you’re dealing with a slow sink or a complete backup, we’ll clear the blockage safely and effectively.

Call Hank & Sons Plumbing today at 909-524-2906 to schedule a drain inspection or cleaning. Don’t wait for a full-blown backup—keep your plumbing flowing the way it should.

Gas Line Safety 101: What Every Southern California Homeowner Should Know

July 9, 2025

When people think about plumbing, they often focus on water. But many Southern California homes rely on gas plumbing to power stoves, water heaters, fireplaces, and outdoor grills. And when gas lines develop leaks or faults, the risks are far greater than a simple plumbing clog—they can be life-threatening.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we provide professional gas line inspection, installation, and repair to keep your home safe, efficient, and up to code. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or smelling something suspicious, here’s what you need to know about gas line safety and maintenance.

Why Gas Line Safety Matters

Natural gas is efficient and clean-burning, but it’s also highly combustible. Even a small leak can lead to:

  • Dangerous fire or explosion hazards
  • Carbon monoxide buildup
  • Health symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea
  • Potential code violations and insurance issues

The key to gas line safety is early detection and professional intervention.

Signs You May Have a Gas Leak

Gas leaks aren’t always obvious, but here are some warning signs to watch for:

  • Sulfur or rotten egg smell (added by utility companies for detection)
  • Hissing sounds near gas appliances or lines
  • Dead or discolored vegetation above buried gas lines
  • Air bubbles in standing water near your home’s foundation
  • Unexplained headaches or fatigue in household members
  • Sudden spike in gas bills without increased usage

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them—especially indoors.

What to Do in a Gas Emergency

If you suspect a gas leak:

  1. Leave the area immediately.
  2. Do not use electronics or light switches—a spark could ignite the gas.
  3. Avoid using phones inside the home.
  4. Turn off the gas at the meter, if it’s safe to do so.
  5. Call 911 and your gas company from outside the home.
  6. Contact a licensed plumber like Hank & Sons Plumbing to assess and repair the problem.

Never attempt to fix or inspect a gas line yourself. Only licensed professionals with proper tools and permits should handle gas plumbing work.

Common Gas Plumbing Services We Offer

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we offer a wide range of gas line services for homeowners, including:

  • Gas line leak detection and repair
  • Gas line replacement for old or corroded piping
  • New gas line installation for stoves, dryers, fireplaces, and outdoor grills
  • Gas line rerouting for remodels or appliance relocation
  • Code-compliant upgrades to meet safety regulations and pass inspections

We use specialized tools and pressure testing to ensure your system is leak-free and safe to operate.

When Should You Schedule a Gas Line Inspection?

You should schedule an inspection if:

  • You’re buying or selling a home
  • You smell gas or have any suspicion of a leak
  • Your home is older than 30 years and has never had a gas line check
  • You’re installing or relocating a gas appliance
  • You’ve had prior work done on the line and want to confirm safety

Regular inspections can catch early issues—like corrosion, loose fittings, or poor installations—before they turn into serious problems.

Protect Your Home with Professional Gas Plumbing

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we know that safety is non-negotiable. Our licensed and experienced plumbers follow all California plumbing and gas safety codes, and we take the time to test, secure, and verify every connection we touch.

If you suspect a gas issue or are planning a renovation involving gas appliances, don’t leave it to chance. Call Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for expert gas line service you can trust.

Why Whole-House Water Filtration Is a Smart Investment for Southern California Homes

June 20, 2025
Why Whole-House Water Filtration Is a Smart Investment for Southern California Homes

When most people think about water filtration, they picture a pitcher filter or maybe a refrigerator with a built-in system. But if you live in Southern California—where water hardness, contaminants, and aging infrastructure are real concerns—a simple filter at the tap may not be enough.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we help homeowners upgrade to whole-house water filtration systems that do more than just improve the taste of drinking water. These systems deliver clean, safe water to every tap in your home, offering long-term benefits for your health, your plumbing, and even your energy bill.

Here’s why investing in a whole-house filtration system is more than just a luxury—it’s a smart move for your home and your family.

What’s Really in Your Tap Water?

Southern California gets its water from a mix of local sources, imported supplies, and recycled water. While the water is treated and regulated, many residents still deal with:

  • Hard water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium
  • Chlorine and chloramine added for disinfection
  • Sediment and rust from aging pipes and infrastructure
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemical contaminants
  • Bacteria or minerals that impact water quality

Even if your water meets legal safety standards, that doesn’t mean it’s as clean or gentle as it could—or should—be.

The Benefits of Whole-House Water Filtration

A whole-house water filtration system connects to your main water line, meaning every drop of water that enters your home is filtered before reaching your faucets, showers, appliances, or pipes.

Here’s what that means in real terms:

  • Better tasting, odor-free water from every tap—not just your kitchen sink
  • Gentler showers with fewer harsh chemicals irritating your skin or hair
  • Cleaner laundry with softer fabrics and no mineral buildup
  • Prolonged lifespan of plumbing and appliances, including water heaters and dishwashers
  • Reduced scale buildup in faucets, showerheads, and pipes
  • Fewer water spots and streaks on dishes, glass, and fixtures

In areas with hard water (like much of Southern California), filtration combined with softening can drastically reduce maintenance issues and improve energy efficiency in appliances.

Filtration vs. Softening: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse water filtration with water softening, but they’re not the same:

  • Filtration removes contaminants like chlorine, sediment, and chemicals.
  • Softening targets minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause hardness.

The best systems often combine both functions to provide cleaner, softer water throughout your home.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we help you choose a system based on your home’s needs, water test results, and usage habits. Whether you need a high-capacity filter for a large household or a compact system for a condo, we’ll design the perfect solution.

Long-Term Savings and Peace of Mind

While installing a whole-house filtration system is an investment, it pays off in multiple ways:

  • Fewer plumbing repairs due to scale buildup and corrosion
  • Lower utility bills thanks to more efficient water heaters and appliances
  • Longer-lasting clothes and linens
  • Better skin and hair health
  • Less need for bottled water or faucet filters

And perhaps most importantly, it gives you peace of mind knowing that the water you use every day—for drinking, bathing, cooking, and cleaning—is clean and safe.

Ready to Upgrade Your Water Quality?

If you’re tired of dealing with hard water, foul odors, or suspicious stains, it’s time to take control of your water quality. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we offer professional installation of whole-house filtration systems tailored to your specific needs.

Call 909-524-2906 today to schedule a consultation and start enjoying cleaner, softer, safer water—everywhere in your home.