Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions - Boise, ID
Answers to the most common plumbing questions from Boise homeowners. Can't find what you're looking for? Call us at (208) 871-9113 — we're happy to help.
General Plumbing Questions Questions
View All Plumbing Services →How much does a plumber charge per hour in Boise?
Most Boise plumbers charge between $75 and $150 per hour, or use flat-rate pricing per job. Hyde Park Plumbing provides upfront flat-rate pricing so you know the exact cost before work begins—no hourly surprises.
Is Hyde Park Plumbing licensed and insured?
Yes, Hyde Park Plumbing is fully licensed (License #PLB-J-4285) and carries $2 million in liability insurance. All our technicians are licensed by the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses and pass background checks.
Do you offer free estimates for plumbing work in Boise?
We provide free phone estimates for many common plumbing services. For complex jobs requiring on-site assessment, we offer a low diagnostic fee that is waived when you proceed with the repair. Call (208) 871-9113 for a free phone estimate.
What areas do you serve in Boise?
Hyde Park Plumbing serves all of Boise including North End, Downtown, West Boise, East Boise, Southeast Boise, and the Bench. Our licensed plumbers know every Boise neighborhood and can reach most locations in 15-25 minutes.
Do you offer financing for plumbing repairs?
Yes, we offer flexible financing options for larger plumbing projects like water heater replacements, sewer line repairs, and whole-house repiping. Ask about our financing plans when you schedule your service.
Emergency Plumbing Questions
24/7 Emergency Service →How fast can an emergency plumber get to my Boise home?
Hyde Park Plumbing offers an average 45-minute response time for emergency plumbing calls in the Boise area. We have licensed plumbers on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
What counts as a plumbing emergency?
Plumbing emergencies include burst pipes, major water leaks, sewer backups, flooding, gas leaks, no hot water in winter, and overflowing toilets. If water damage is actively occurring or there is a safety hazard, call us immediately at (208) 871-9113.
How much does an emergency plumber cost in Boise?
Emergency plumbing services in Boise typically cost between $150 and $500, depending on the issue and time of service. Hyde Park Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work—no hidden fees or surprise charges.
Do you charge extra for after-hours or weekend plumbing calls?
We offer competitive pricing for all emergency calls. While after-hours service may carry a service fee, we always provide upfront pricing so you know the cost before we begin work. No surprise charges.
What should I do while waiting for an emergency plumber?
Shut off the main water valve to stop water flow, turn off the water heater, move valuables away from the affected area, and open faucets to drain remaining water. Our dispatcher can guide you through these steps when you call.
Who is the best plumber in Boise?
Hyde Park Plumbing is consistently rated Boise's top plumber with over 500 five-star reviews and a 4.9 Google rating. Family-owned since 2009, we've completed more than 10,000 jobs across all Boise neighborhoods. Licensed (#PLB-J-4285), insured for $2 million, and available 24/7 with 45-minute emergency response.
What plumber is open now near me in Boise?
Hyde Park Plumbing is open 24/7 for plumbing emergencies in Boise. Regular hours are 7am to 8pm daily, but for after-hours emergencies like burst pipes, sewer backups, or no hot water, call (208) 871-9113 for immediate dispatch. Average response time is 45 minutes across all Boise neighborhoods.
How do I find a reliable plumber in Boise Idaho?
To find a reliable Boise plumber, verify Idaho licensing, read Google reviews, confirm insurance coverage, and ask for upfront pricing. Hyde Park Plumbing meets all criteria: License #PLB-J-4285, 500+ five-star reviews, $2 million insurance, and transparent flat-rate quotes before work begins.
Drain Cleaning Questions
Drain Cleaning Services →How much does drain cleaning cost in Boise?
Professional drain cleaning in Boise typically costs between $100 and $350, depending on the severity of the clog and method used. Hydro jetting for severe blockages ranges from $250 to $600. Hyde Park Plumbing provides upfront quotes before starting work.
What causes slow or clogged drains?
Common causes include hair buildup, grease and food particles, soap scum, mineral deposits from Boise's hard water, tree root intrusion into sewer lines, and foreign objects. Regular maintenance can prevent most clogs.
What is hydro jetting and when is it needed?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water (up to 4,000 PSI) to scour the inside of pipes, removing grease, scale, tree roots, and debris. It's recommended for severe or recurring clogs, commercial kitchens, and as preventative maintenance for older Boise homes.
How often should I have my drains professionally cleaned?
For most Boise homes, annual drain maintenance is recommended. Homes with mature trees near sewer lines or older cast iron pipes may benefit from cleaning every 6 months. Commercial properties with heavy drain use should schedule quarterly cleaning.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners instead of calling a plumber?
Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes, especially older galvanized or cast iron pipes common in Boise's North End and Bench neighborhoods. They also don't remove the root cause of clogs. Professional mechanical or hydro jetting cleaning is safer and more effective.
Why does my kitchen sink smell like sewage?
A sewage smell from your kitchen sink usually means a dry P-trap, blocked vent pipe, or food debris rotting in your drain or garbage disposal. Try running water for 30 seconds to refill the P-trap. If the smell persists, call Hyde Park Plumbing at (208) 871-9113 for professional drain cleaning and inspection.
How do I know if my main line is clogged?
Signs of a main sewer line clog include multiple drains backing up simultaneously, gurgling sounds from toilets when you run water elsewhere, sewage odors inside, and water backing up in floor drains. Hyde Park Plumbing offers HD camera inspections ($150-$300) to diagnose main line problems accurately.
Can tree roots get into my drain pipes in Boise?
Yes, tree roots are a common cause of sewer line blockages in Boise, especially in older North End, Bench, and East Boise neighborhoods with mature trees. Roots enter through pipe joints seeking moisture. Hyde Park Plumbing removes roots with hydro jetting and can reline pipes to prevent regrowth.
Have a Plumbing Question Not Listed Here?
Our licensed plumbers are happy to answer your questions and provide free phone estimates for common plumbing services in Boise.
Call (208) 871-9113Water Heater Questions
Water Heater Services →How much does water heater replacement cost in Boise?
Water heater replacement in Boise costs $1,200 to $2,500 for a standard 50-gallon tank unit installed, or $2,500 to $4,500 for tankless systems. Hyde Park Plumbing offers same-day installation, upfront flat-rate pricing, and disposes of your old unit. Call (208) 871-9113 for a free estimate.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
Replace your water heater if it's over 10-12 years old, leaking from the tank, producing rusty water, or if repair costs exceed 50% of replacement. Boise's hard water shortens water heater life, so annual maintenance helps. Hyde Park Plumbing provides honest repair-vs-replace recommendations.
What type of water heater is best for Boise homes?
For most Boise homes, a 50-gallon gas tank water heater is the most cost-effective option. Tankless water heaters (Rinnai, Navien) save 20-30% on energy bills and are ideal for larger households. Heat pump water heaters work well in Boise's climate for maximum efficiency.
How long does water heater installation take?
A standard tank water heater replacement takes 2-4 hours. Tankless water heater installation takes 4-8 hours if gas line and venting modifications are needed. Hyde Park Plumbing offers same-day installation for most water heater replacements.
What brands of water heaters do you install?
We install and service all major brands including Bradford White, Rheem, A.O. Smith, Rinnai, and Navien. As Boise's trusted plumber, we recommend the best water heater for your home's size, budget, and hot water needs.
How long do water heaters last in Boise?
Tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years in Boise, though our hard water (12-17 grains per gallon) can shorten lifespan without regular maintenance. Tankless units last 15-20 years. Hyde Park Plumbing recommends annual flushing and anode rod inspection to maximize your water heater's lifespan.
Sewer & Main Line Questions
Sewer Repair Services →How much does sewer line repair cost in Boise?
Sewer line repair in Boise costs between $1,500 and $5,000 for traditional methods. Trenchless sewer repair ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 but avoids excavating your yard. Hyde Park Plumbing offers a lifetime warranty on sewer line replacements.
What are signs I need sewer line repair?
Warning signs include multiple drain backups, gurgling sounds from toilets, sewage odors in your yard, wet spots or sinkholes in your lawn, slow drains throughout the house, and increased pest activity. A sewer camera inspection can confirm the problem.
What is trenchless sewer repair?
Trenchless sewer repair (pipe lining or pipe bursting) replaces damaged sewer lines without digging trenches through your yard. A new pipe is pulled through the existing damaged pipe or a liner is cured in place. It's faster, less disruptive, and equally durable.
Do you offer sewer camera inspections in Boise?
Yes, we use HD sewer camera inspection technology to visually inspect sewer lines and identify problems like tree root intrusion, bellied pipes, cracks, and blockages. Camera inspections cost $150-$300 and help us recommend the most cost-effective repair.
How long do sewer line repairs last?
Traditional sewer line replacements with PVC pipe last 50-100+ years. Trenchless pipe lining (CIPP) has a rated lifespan of 50+ years. Hyde Park Plumbing backs our sewer line replacements with a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.
Leak Detection Questions
Leak Detection Services →How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?
Signs of hidden water leaks include unexplained spikes in your water bill, the sound of running water when fixtures are off, damp spots on walls or ceilings, musty odors, mold growth, or warm spots on floors. Hyde Park Plumbing uses acoustic and thermal detection to locate leaks without tearing out walls.
How much does leak detection cost in Boise?
Professional leak detection in Boise typically costs $150 to $400. Hyde Park Plumbing uses advanced acoustic detection, thermal imaging, and pressure testing equipment to locate hidden leaks without destructive investigation.
What is slab leak detection?
Slab leak detection locates leaks in water lines running beneath your home's concrete foundation. We use acoustic listening devices and thermal imaging to pinpoint the leak location without breaking concrete. Slab leak repair methods include rerouting, epoxy lining, or spot repair.
Can a small water leak cause serious damage?
Yes. Even a small leak losing 1 drip per second wastes over 3,000 gallons per year and can cause extensive water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. Boise homes with crawlspaces are especially vulnerable to undetected leaks causing wood rot and foundation damage.
Do you repair the leak after detection?
Yes, Hyde Park Plumbing handles both leak detection and repair. Once we locate the leak using our advanced equipment, we provide upfront pricing for the repair and can often fix the problem the same day.
What causes slab leaks in Boise homes?
Slab leaks in Boise homes are caused by soil shifting, copper pipe corrosion from our hard water, poor original installation, or ground movement from freeze-thaw cycles. Signs include warm floor spots, foundation cracks, or high water bills. Hyde Park Plumbing locates slab leaks non-invasively and offers reroute or spot repair options.
Ready to Solve Your Plumbing Problem?
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