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Your water heater plays a critical role in your daily comfort, from hot showers to clean dishes and laundry. But like any major appliance, it won’t last forever. Knowing the early warning signs that your water heater is about to fail can help you avoid sudden breakdowns, costly water damage, and unexpected cold showers.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we help homeowners across Southern California with expert water heater repair and replacement services. If you spot any of these warning signs, call Hank & Sons Plumbing today at 909-524-2906 for fast, professional help.

Common Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing

Water heaters often give subtle clues before they completely break down. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Inconsistent Water Temperature

If your hot water runs out quickly, fluctuates between hot and cold, or never seems as hot as it used to, your water heater could be struggling. Sediment buildup inside the tank often causes heating elements to work inefficiently.

2. Strange Noises

Banging, popping, or rumbling sounds coming from your water heater usually indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As the sediment hardens, it creates pockets of trapped air and reduces the efficiency of the unit, accelerating wear and tear.

3. Discolored or Rusty Water

Rusty water from your hot water taps could signal corrosion inside the water heater tank—or a failing anode rod, which protects the tank lining. If left unaddressed, corrosion can eventually cause leaks and total tank failure.

4. Water Around the Base of the Heater

Pooling water or moisture around your water heater is a clear red flag. It could indicate a leaking tank or failing connections. Even small leaks can cause significant water damage if not repaired promptly.

5. Decreased Hot Water Supply

If your household suddenly runs out of hot water faster than normal, your tank may be losing its ability to maintain an adequate supply. This is a typical sign of aging or internal damage.

6. Advanced Age

Most traditional tank water heaters last about 8 to 12 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding that age—and you’re noticing other warning signs—it’s likely time to plan for a replacement rather than another repair.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

Taking the right steps quickly can save you time, money, and frustration:

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Contact a licensed plumber to assess your water heater. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we perform thorough inspections to determine whether your unit needs repair or full replacement. Catching issues early can prevent emergency situations later.

Consider Repair vs. Replacement

Depending on the age and condition of your water heater, a simple repair—like replacing a heating element or anode rod—may be enough. However, if the unit is old or has multiple issues, replacement is usually the smarter long-term investment.

Explore Energy-Efficient Options

If it’s time to replace your water heater, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Tankless water heaters, for example, provide endless hot water while using less energy, saving you money on utility bills.

Don’t Delay

Ignoring warning signs only increases the risk of a major failure—and the potential for expensive water damage. Acting quickly protects your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.

Trust Hank & Sons Plumbing for Expert Water Heater Service

Whether you need fast repairs or a full water heater replacement, Hank & Sons Plumbing has the experience and expertise to handle the job. We provide honest assessments, quality workmanship, and top-of-the-line products to ensure you always have reliable hot water when you need it.

If you’re noticing signs that your water heater may be failing, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Hank & Sons Plumbing today at 909-524-2906 to schedule a service appointment and keep your home running smoothly.

A well-deserved vacation should be a time to relax—not worry about potential plumbing disasters back home. Unfortunately, even a small leak or clog can escalate into a major problem if left unchecked while you’re away. Taking a few simple precautions can protect your home, your plumbing, and your peace of mind.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we help Southern California homeowners keep their plumbing systems in top shape year-round. Before your next trip, follow these steps—or call Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for professional help.

Why Preparing Your Plumbing Matters

An unattended plumbing issue can quickly turn into a serious and expensive problem. Burst pipes, slow leaks, or backed-up drains can lead to:

• Water damage to floors, walls, and furniture
• Mold growth from excess moisture
• Increased water bills
• Emergency repairs that disrupt your return home

Preventative steps are easy to implement and can save you from a major headache.

Essential Tips to Protect Your Plumbing Before Vacation

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply

If you’re going to be away for more than a couple of days, shutting off your home’s main water valve is one of the best ways to prevent leaks and floods. No water flowing means no risk of burst pipes or slow, unnoticed leaks while you’re gone.

Not sure where your main shut-off valve is? Hank & Sons Plumbing can help locate it and make sure it’s in working condition.

2. Drain Water From Faucets and Fixtures

After shutting off the water supply, open your faucets and flush your toilets to drain any remaining water from the lines. This reduces pressure in the pipes and further minimizes the risk of leaks or water damage.

3. Inspect for Leaks Before You Leave

Take a few minutes to walk through your home and check under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Look for any signs of moisture, corrosion, or small drips. If you find anything suspicious, call Hank & Sons Plumbing for quick repairs before you go.

4. Check and Clear Drains

Clogged or slow drains can worsen over time. Before leaving, make sure your sinks, tubs, and showers drain properly. If necessary, clear minor clogs with a safe, non-corrosive drain cleaner—or schedule a professional drain cleaning with Hank & Sons Plumbing for extra peace of mind.

5. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Many modern water heaters have a “vacation” setting designed to lower energy consumption while maintaining safe system pressure. If your unit doesn’t have a specific vacation mode, you can lower the thermostat to around 50°F to reduce energy use without turning the heater off entirely.

6. Ask a Friend or Neighbor to Check In

If you’re planning an extended trip, ask someone you trust to check on your home periodically. A quick walkthrough can catch any problems early and prevent small issues from becoming disasters.

7. Protect Outdoor Plumbing

If you’re traveling during colder months, don’t forget your outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Shut off and drain outdoor water lines to prevent freezing and bursting. Insulate exposed pipes if necessary.

Consider Professional Plumbing Help Before Long Trips

If you’re going on a long vacation or just want extra peace of mind, consider a pre-trip plumbing inspection. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we offer comprehensive plumbing checks to ensure your system is in top shape before you leave, identifying any hidden issues that could cause problems while you’re away.

Travel With Confidence — Protect Your Plumbing Before You Go

Taking a few simple steps to secure your plumbing before vacation can help you avoid expensive water damage, emergency repairs, and ruined homecomings. Trust the experts at Hank & Sons Plumbing to help you prepare your home and enjoy worry-free travel.

Call Hank & Sons Plumbing today at 909-524-2906 to schedule a plumbing inspection or get help preparing your system for your next trip!

When building a new home, your focus might be on paint colors, countertop finishes, and curb appeal. But behind the walls and beneath the floors lies one of the most important systems in your home—the plumbing. Get it right the first time, and you’ll enjoy years of trouble-free comfort. Get it wrong, and you could be facing costly repairs, water damage, or even health hazards down the line.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we specialize in residential new construction plumbing across the Inland Empire, providing expert installation that prioritizes reliability, efficiency, and long-term peace of mind. In this blog, we’re breaking down why your plumber matters just as much as your builder—and what you should look for when choosing one.

Plumbing: The Backbone of a Healthy, Functional Home

Think of your plumbing system as your home’s circulatory system. It brings in clean water, removes waste, supplies gas to appliances, and supports everything from your morning shower to your washing machine. If even one part of this system is installed incorrectly or with low-quality materials, it can lead to disruptive leaks, clogs, or contamination.

This is why it’s vital to choose a plumber who understands more than just pipe fittings. You need someone who sees the full picture—from water pressure and flow to local building codes and future-proofing your home.

What Makes a Great New Construction Plumber?

Not all plumbers are equipped to handle new builds. When it comes to residential construction, experience and planning are everything. Here’s what you should expect from a reputable new construction plumbing contractor:

1. Thorough Planning & Collaboration

Plumbing should be coordinated with your builder, architect, and other contractors. A seasoned plumber will review blueprints, suggest optimal fixture placement, and help avoid design issues that could create problems later on.

2. Expert Knowledge of Building Codes

New construction plumbing must meet strict local and state codes. Hank & Sons Plumbing ensures every pipe, valve, and vent is up to code—protecting you from failed inspections and project delays.

3. Use of Modern Materials and Techniques

The best plumbing systems are built to last. We use high-quality materials like PEX and copper and apply modern installation methods that minimize potential failure points.

4. Gas, Water, and Sewer Expertise

Your plumber should be equally skilled in all parts of the system—including water supply, drainage, and gas lines. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we handle everything from installing tankless water heaters to routing sewer lines for maximum efficiency.

5. A Clean, Safe Worksite

We maintain a clean, organized job site and prioritize safety for all trades involved in the construction process.

Long-Term Benefits of Doing It Right

While a well-installed plumbing system may not be the flashiest part of your home, its importance can’t be overstated. A professional installation now can save you thousands later by:

• Preventing early failures and repairs
• Reducing water and energy bills with efficient systems
• Increasing resale value with modern, code-compliant infrastructure
• Avoiding major disruptions from leaks or system failures

Choosing a licensed, experienced plumber also means your home will be ready for future upgrades like filtration systems, home additions, or outdoor plumbing features.

Build Smart from the Ground Up

Don’t leave your new home’s plumbing to chance. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we work closely with homeowners, builders, and developers to deliver smart, reliable plumbing systems tailored to each property’s unique layout and needs. Whether you’re building a cozy starter home or a custom estate, our goal is to do it right—the first time.

Call 909-524-2906 today to request your free estimate and find out why Hank & Sons Plumbing is the Inland Empire’s trusted choice for new construction plumbing. Your dream home deserves nothing less.

A sudden whiff of rotten eggs in your home might not seem alarming at first—but it should be. That distinct odor is added to natural gas to help detect leaks, and if you smell it, time is of the essence. Gas leaks are not only hazardous to your health but also pose a serious risk of fire, explosion, and structural damage.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we understand how critical a gas line issue can be. That’s why we provide fast, professional gas line repair and replacement throughout the Inland Empire and beyond. In this blog, we’ll break down what to do if you suspect a gas leak—and why calling an experienced plumber should be your first move.

What Causes Gas Leaks?

Gas leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Aging or corroded gas lines
• Loose fittings or connectors
• Faulty appliances, such as water heaters or stoves
• Damage during construction or landscaping projects
• Natural disasters like earthquakes or soil shifting

No matter the cause, gas leaks should never be taken lightly. Even a small leak can have dangerous consequences if ignored.

Warning Signs of a Gas Leak

The most common warning sign is that sulfur-like “rotten egg” smell—but that’s not the only clue. Other symptoms may include:

• Hissing or whistling sounds near gas appliances or lines
• Dead or dying plants near a buried gas line
• Bubbles in standing water or mud near your home’s foundation
• A visible cloud or mist near a gas pipe
• Dizziness, nausea, or headaches when indoors

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action—immediately.

What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you think there may be a gas leak in your home, follow these steps without delay:

1. Leave the area immediately: Get your family and pets out of the house. Don’t stop to gather belongings.
2. Avoid sparks or flames: Don’t flip light switches, use your phone, or start your car near the house—any spark could ignite the gas.
3. Turn off the gas if safe to do so: If you know where your gas shut-off valve is and can access it safely, turn it off.
4. Call emergency services: Contact your local gas company or 911 to report the suspected leak.
5. Call a professional plumber: Once it’s safe, contact Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for expert assessment and repair of your gas line.

Why You Need a Licensed Professional

Repairing or replacing a gas line is not a DIY job. It requires advanced tools, a deep understanding of building codes, and a licensed plumber with experience in gas line systems. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we provide:

• Accurate gas leak detection using specialized equipment
• Safe and code-compliant gas line repairs
• Gas line replacement when repairs aren’t sufficient
• Post-repair testing to ensure your home is fully safe

Our team works quickly and efficiently to restore your home’s safety—without cutting corners.

Prevention Is Key

While not all gas leaks can be predicted, you can reduce your risk with a little proactive care:

• Schedule annual inspections of your gas appliances and connections
• Replace outdated gas lines before they fail
• Have your gas lines checked after major renovations or natural events
• Know where your gas shut-off valve is located and how to use it

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we’re happy to help with preventive maintenance and inspections, so you’re never caught off guard.

Protect Your Home and Family

A gas leak isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s an emergency. Trust Hank & Sons Plumbing to respond quickly, repair safely, and leave you with total peace of mind. Whether you suspect a small leak or need a full gas line replacement, we’re just a phone call away.

Call 909-524-2906 now to speak with one of our licensed professionals or schedule a fast-response visit. When it comes to gas safety, you can never be too careful.

Slab leaks are one of the most serious plumbing issues a homeowner can face. When a leak develops in the water lines beneath a home’s concrete foundation, it can cause significant structural damage, increase water bills, and lead to mold growth.

Detecting and addressing a slab leak early is essential to preventing costly repairs and maintaining the integrity of your home. Contact Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for help from a Southern California plumber.

What Causes a Slab Leak?

A slab leak occurs when a water pipe underneath the foundation of a home begins to leak. Several factors can contribute to this type of leak, including:

Corrosion in Pipes

Over time, metal pipes can corrode due to chemical reactions with minerals in the soil and water. Copper pipes are particularly vulnerable to this type of deterioration, which can lead to leaks beneath the foundation.

Shifting Soil and Foundation Movement

Homes naturally settle over time, but excessive shifting due to soil expansion, erosion, or earthquakes can put stress on water pipes. This pressure can cause pipes to crack or develop leaks.

Poor Plumbing Installation

If pipes were improperly installed during construction, they might not be secured correctly or could have weak spots that lead to leaks. Low-quality materials or poor workmanship can contribute to premature pipe failure.

High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure puts strain on plumbing pipes. If the pressure is too high, it can weaken pipes over time and lead to leaks, particularly in older plumbing systems.

How to Detect a Slab Leak

Since slab leaks occur beneath the foundation, they can be difficult to detect until significant damage has occurred. However, homeowners should be aware of the following warning signs:

Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

A sudden spike in water bills without an obvious reason may indicate a hidden leak. Even small leaks can lead to a noticeable increase in water usage over time.

Warm or Damp Spots on Floors

If you notice warm areas on your flooring, particularly in spots where hot water pipes run beneath the slab, it could be a sign of a slab leak. Moist or damp areas on floors should also be investigated.

Mold or Mildew Growth

Excess moisture from a slab leak can lead to mold and mildew growth. If you notice a musty odor or see mold forming near baseboards or walls, it may indicate a leak beneath your foundation.

Cracks in Walls or Flooring

As water leaks beneath the foundation, it can weaken the structure of the home. This may result in cracks forming in walls, flooring, or even the foundation itself.

Running Water Sounds When No Fixtures Are On

If you hear the sound of running water even when no faucets or appliances are in use, it could be an indication of a leak in your plumbing system.

How to Fix a Slab Leak

Once a slab leak is detected, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent further damage. There are several methods for repairing a slab leak, depending on the severity and location of the problem.

Spot Repair

If the leak is localized and easily accessible, plumbers may choose to cut into the foundation, remove the damaged section of pipe, and replace it with new piping. This method is best for small leaks.

Pipe Rerouting

In cases where a section of pipe is severely damaged or difficult to access, rerouting the plumbing may be the best option. This involves bypassing the affected pipe and installing new pipes through walls or ceilings.

Epoxy Pipe Coating

For minor leaks in water lines, epoxy coating can be applied to the inside of the pipes to seal small cracks and prevent further leakage. This method is less invasive and avoids cutting into the foundation.

Full Repiping

If a home has aging pipes that are prone to leaks, a full repiping may be necessary. This involves replacing the entire plumbing system with new, durable piping materials. While costly, it is a long-term solution that prevents future slab leaks.

Preventing Future Slab Leaks

Taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of slab leaks and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Monitor Water Pressure

Ensure that your home’s water pressure is within the recommended range. If pressure is too high, installing a pressure regulator can help prevent stress on your pipes.

Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections

A professional plumber can inspect your pipes and detect early signs of corrosion, leaks, or weak spots before they develop into serious problems.

Use High-Quality Materials

If you are building or remodeling your home, opt for high-quality plumbing materials that are resistant to corrosion and wear. Copper and PEX piping are durable options.

Address Foundation Issues Promptly

If you notice signs of foundation movement, such as cracks in walls or uneven flooring, have a professional assess the issue to prevent further stress on your plumbing system.

Slab leaks are a serious problem that can lead to extensive damage if not addressed promptly. If you suspect a slab leak in your home, contact Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 to schedule an inspection and get expert repair solutions.