Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common plumbing questions from the Lighthouse Plumbing team. We proudly serve homeowners across the Eastside and Greater Seattle area. If you don't see your question here, give us a call—we're always happy to help!
Call 425-549-2400General Questions
How much does a plumber cost in Issaquah, Sammamish, and King County?
Plumbing costs vary based on the job, but we believe in no-surprise pricing. Most service calls range from $150 to $500 for common repairs. Larger projects like water heater installation or repiping have different pricing. We provide free estimates and upfront pricing before starting work, so you'll always know exactly what to expect.
Do you offer same-day plumbing service?
Yes! We know plumbing problems don't wait, and neither should you. We offer same-day service for many repairs throughout Bellevue, Redmond, Issaquah, Sammamish, and surrounding areas. Call us in the morning, and we'll do our best to have a technician at your door the same day. Schedule your appointment or call 425-549-2400.
Do you offer free estimates?
Absolutely! We provide free estimates for most plumbing services. For diagnostic work that requires specialized equipment (like camera inspections), there may be a small fee—but it gets applied toward your repair if you move forward with us. No risk, no pressure.
What areas do you serve?
We're your local Eastside plumbers! We serve Issaquah, Sammamish, Snoqualmie, Fall City, North Bend, Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland, Woodinville, Bothell, Duvall, Carnation, Monroe, Mercer Island, Newcastle, Renton, Seattle, and surrounding King County communities. View our full service area.
Are your plumbers licensed and insured?
You bet. All Lighthouse Plumbing technicians are fully licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State. We carry liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage for your protection and peace of mind. You can trust that trained professionals are working in your home.
Do you pull permits for plumbing work?
Yes, when required by local code. Permits are typically needed for major work like water heater installations, gas line modifications, repiping, and sewer line replacements. We handle the permit process for you—no extra legwork on your end. This ensures your plumbing meets Washington State code and protects your home's value.
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Absolutely. We stand behind our work with warranties on both labor and parts. Specific warranty terms vary by service—ask your technician for details on your particular job. If something isn't right, we'll make it right.
Emergency Plumbing
Do you offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services?
Yes! Plumbing emergencies don't follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We offer emergency plumbing services for urgent situations like burst pipes, sewage backups, and major leaks throughout King County. Call us at 425-549-2400 for emergency assistance—day or night.
What qualifies as a plumbing emergency?
Great question! Plumbing emergencies include burst or frozen pipes, sewage backups, gas leaks, no water in the home, major leaks causing water damage, and overflowing toilets you can't stop. When in doubt, give us a call—we'll help you figure out if it needs immediate attention or can wait until morning.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency?
We treat emergencies like emergencies. For urgent situations in Issaquah, Sammamish, Bellevue, Redmond, and surrounding areas, we typically respond within 1-2 hours. Response times may vary based on current demand and your location, but we always prioritize true emergencies.
Water Heaters
How long does a water heater last?
Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years, while tankless water heaters can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Factors like water quality, usage, and maintenance affect lifespan. Here in the Pacific Northwest, our relatively soft water helps, but sediment buildup is still common. If your water heater is over 10 years old and giving you trouble, replacement is often more cost-effective than repair.
How much does water heater installation cost?
Water heater installation costs vary based on the type (tank vs. tankless), size, fuel source, and installation complexity. Tank water heater installations typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, while tankless installations range from $3,000 to $5,500. We provide detailed quotes before any work begins—no surprises. Learn more about our water heater services.
How long does water heater installation take?
Most standard tank water heater replacements take 2-4 hours. Tankless water heater installations typically take 4-8 hours since they often require electrical upgrades or gas line modifications. We'll give you a time estimate when we quote your project so you can plan your day. Get a quote.
Should I get a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters are popular with Eastside homeowners for good reason—endless hot water, lower energy bills, and a longer lifespan. But they cost more upfront. They're ideal for larger households with high hot water demand, or homes where space is at a premium. We'll help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation. Learn about tankless options.
What brands of water heaters do you install?
We install a variety of trusted brands including Rheem, A.O. Smith, Bradford White, Navien, and Rinnai. We'll recommend the best option based on your home's needs, your budget, and what's proven reliable in the Pacific Northwest climate. We never push a brand just because—we recommend what actually works.
Why is my water heater making noise?
Popping, rumbling, or banging sounds usually mean sediment has built up in the tank. This reduces efficiency and can shorten your water heater's life. Annual flushing can prevent this—and it's a service we offer! Screeching sounds may indicate a valve issue. If your water heater is making unusual noises, give us a call before a small problem becomes a big one.
Should I flush my water heater before winter?
Yes! Fall is the perfect time to flush your water heater and get it ready for the cold months when you'll be relying on it most. Flushing removes sediment buildup that makes your water heater work harder and less efficiently. It's a quick maintenance task that can extend your water heater's life and keep your energy bills in check. Schedule a water heater tune-up.
Drain Cleaning
How much does drain cleaning cost?
Basic drain cleaning typically costs $150 to $300. More stubborn clogs requiring hydro jetting or video inspection may cost $300 to $600. Sewer line cleaning is priced separately. We'll diagnose the issue and give you honest pricing before starting any work.
How long does drain cleaning take?
Most drain cleaning jobs take 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the severity and location of the clog. A simple kitchen or bathroom drain can often be cleared in under an hour. Main line clogs or jobs requiring camera inspection take longer. We'll give you a time estimate once we assess the situation.
How can I prevent clogged drains?
A little prevention goes a long way! Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps down kitchen drains. Use drain screens to catch hair in bathroom drains. Run hot water after each use. Only flush toilet paper—nothing else. And consider annual professional drain cleaning to prevent buildup before it becomes a problem.
When should I call a plumber for a clogged drain?
Call us if plunging doesn't work, multiple drains are clogged at once, you notice sewage smells, water backs up into other fixtures, or clogs keep coming back. These signs often point to a deeper issue in your main sewer line that needs professional attention.
What is hydro jetting?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to blast away stubborn clogs, grease buildup, and even tree roots from your pipes. It's more thorough than snaking and actually cleans the entire pipe interior—not just punching through the clog. It's safe for most pipes and provides longer-lasting results. Think of it as a power wash for your plumbing.
Toilets
How much does toilet installation cost?
Basic toilet installation costs $250 to $450, including hauling away the old toilet. This assumes standard installation without surprises. If we discover flange damage, subfloor issues, or need to modify plumbing, additional costs may apply—but we'll always inform you before proceeding.
How long does toilet installation take?
A straightforward toilet replacement typically takes 1-2 hours. If we run into complications like a damaged flange or subfloor repairs, it may take a bit longer. Either way, we'll have you back in business the same day.
How much does toilet repair cost?
Most toilet repairs cost $150 to $400. Simple fixes like flapper or fill valve replacement are on the lower end—often under $200. More complex repairs involving the wax ring, flange, or tank components cost more. We provide upfront pricing after diagnosis, so you can make an informed decision.
Should I repair or replace my toilet?
Here's our honest take: repair makes sense if your toilet is under 15 years old and the fix costs less than $300. Consider replacement if you have frequent repairs, cracks in the porcelain, constant clogs, or an older toilet using more than 1.6 gallons per flush. Newer toilets save water and money. We'll give you a straight recommendation—no upselling.
Why does my toilet keep running?
Running toilets are usually caused by a worn flapper, faulty fill valve, or float adjustment issues. Seems minor, right? But it can waste 200+ gallons daily and seriously spike your water bill. The good news: it's a quick fix for our plumbers—typically under an hour. Schedule a repair.
Water Filtration
Do I need a water filtration system?
King County water is generally safe, but that doesn't mean it tastes great. Filtration can improve taste, remove chlorine, and reduce contaminants that make their way into our water supply. If you notice odd tastes, smells, or just want peace of mind about what your family is drinking, a filtration system is worth considering. We can test your water and recommend the right solution.
What type of water filter is best for my home?
It depends on your goals! Under-sink filters (like reverse osmosis) are great for clean drinking water at one tap. Whole-house systems treat all water entering your home—great for better-tasting showers and protecting appliances. We'll assess your needs and recommend the best option for your situation and budget. Learn about our filtration services.
How often do water filters need to be replaced?
Most filters need replacement every 6-12 months, depending on usage and water quality. Whole-house system filters may need replacing every 3-6 months. We can set up a maintenance schedule so your system keeps performing at its best—no need to remember on your own.
Horizontal Boring
What is horizontal boring?
Horizontal boring (also called directional boring) is a trenchless method for installing pipes underground without digging up your yard, driveway, or landscaping. We drill a precise path underground and pull the new pipe through—your property stays intact. It's ideal for installing water lines, sewer lines, gas lines, or conduit under driveways, sidewalks, and landscaping. Learn more about our horizontal boring services.
How much does horizontal boring cost?
Most residential horizontal boring projects cost $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the length of the bore, diameter needed, and soil conditions. Compare that to the cost of removing and replacing a concrete driveway—boring often saves money while eliminating the mess. We provide free on-site estimates with exact pricing.
Can you bore under my driveway without tearing it up?
Yes! That's exactly what horizontal boring is designed for. We only need small entry and exit pits (typically 2-3 feet) on either side. Your driveway, sidewalk, or patio stays completely intact. No jackhammers, no concrete removal, no repaving costs.
How long does horizontal boring take?
Most residential boring jobs are completed in a single day. A typical 30-50 foot bore under a driveway takes just a few hours once we're set up. Longer runs or challenging soil conditions may take longer, but we'll give you a timeline with your estimate.
Is horizontal boring safe for my property?
Yes, when done by experienced professionals. Before boring, we coordinate with utility locating services to identify existing underground infrastructure. Our crew uses professional-grade equipment and proven techniques to create accurate pathways without disturbing surrounding utilities or structures.
What can be installed using horizontal boring?
We use horizontal boring for water line installation, sewer line replacement, gas line runs to detached garages or outbuildings, electrical conduit, and irrigation main lines. If you need to get a pipe or conduit from Point A to Point B without destroying what's in between, horizontal boring is often the answer.
Sewer & Drain Lines
How do I know if I have a sewer line problem?
Watch for these warning signs: multiple slow drains, gurgling sounds from drains, sewage smells inside or outside, wet spots in the yard, or sewage backing up into your home (yikes). If you notice any of these, call us for a camera inspection. We'll diagnose the issue and show you exactly what's going on. Learn more about sewer services.
How much does sewer line repair cost?
Sewer line repair costs vary widely based on the problem and repair method. Spot repairs may cost $1,000 to $3,000. Full sewer line replacement can range from $5,000 to $15,000+. Trenchless methods often save your landscaping and can be comparable in cost to traditional dig-and-replace. We provide detailed estimates after camera inspection—no guessing games.
What is trenchless sewer repair?
Trenchless repair fixes sewer lines without digging up your entire yard—great news for Eastside homeowners who've invested in their landscaping! Methods include pipe lining (creating a new pipe inside the old one) and pipe bursting (breaking the old pipe while pulling in a new one). It's faster, less disruptive, and keeps your yard intact. Learn more about trenchless options.
Gas Lines
Do you work on gas lines?
Yes! Our technicians are licensed and specially trained for gas line work. We handle gas line installation, repair, leak detection, and appliance hookups for water heaters, stoves, dryers, fireplaces, and more. Gas work is serious business—always hire a licensed professional, and that's exactly what you get with Lighthouse Plumbing.
How do I know if I have a gas leak?
Gas leaks are dangerous—know the signs. Look for a rotten egg smell, hissing sounds near gas lines, dead vegetation near gas lines, or a higher-than-normal gas bill. If you smell gas, leave your home immediately, don't touch any electrical switches, and call 911 and Puget Sound Energy from outside. Safety first, always.
Seasonal Plumbing
How do I prevent frozen pipes in winter?
Pacific Northwest winters can surprise us! To protect your pipes: insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher, even when away. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls. Let faucets drip slightly during deep freezes. And know where your main water shutoff is—just in case. Need help winterizing? Give us a call.
What plumbing maintenance should I do before winter?
Great question! Before the cold hits, we recommend: disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, shut off exterior hose bibs if you have interior shutoffs, flush your water heater to remove sediment, insulate exposed pipes, and check for any slow leaks that could freeze and burst. We offer fall plumbing check-ups to get your home ready for winter—a small investment that can prevent expensive emergencies.
When should I schedule spring plumbing maintenance?
Spring is the perfect time to check for damage from winter freezes! We recommend inspecting your hose bibs for freeze damage, checking for leaks that may have developed over winter, clearing slow drains before summer guests arrive, and testing your sump pump before spring rains. A quick inspection now can catch small problems before they become big headaches.
How do I know if my pipes were damaged over winter?
Sometimes freeze damage doesn't show up until the weather warms. Watch for these signs in spring: unexplained wet spots on walls or ceilings, reduced water pressure, discolored water when you first turn on faucets, higher-than-normal water bills, or visible cracks on exposed pipes. If you notice any of these, call us for an inspection before a small crack becomes a burst pipe.
Should I test my sump pump in the spring?
Absolutely! Spring rains in the Pacific Northwest can overwhelm a sump pump that's been sitting idle all winter. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to make sure the pump kicks on and drains properly. Listen for unusual noises and check that water is actually being pumped outside. If it's sluggish, making grinding sounds, or not turning on at all, give us a call before the heavy rains hit. Learn more about sump pump services.
When should I turn my outdoor water back on after winter?
Wait until you're confident the freezing temps are behind us—typically mid-April in the Seattle area, though it varies year to year. Before turning the water back on, check your exterior hose bibs for visible cracks or damage. Turn the water on slowly and have someone watch the hose bib outside for leaks. If you see spraying water or dripping, shut it off and call us—you likely have freeze damage that needs repair.
Scheduling & Payment
How do I schedule an appointment?
Easy! Call us at 425-549-2400 or request a quote online. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your busy life, including same-day service for many repairs. We'll work around your schedule—not the other way around.
How long do most plumbing repairs take?
It depends on the job! Here's a quick guide:
Toilet repair: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Faucet repair/replacement: 1-2 hours
Drain cleaning: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Water heater replacement: 2-4 hours (tank) or 4-8 hours (tankless)
Toilet installation: 1-2 hours
We'll give you a time estimate when we quote your job so you can plan accordingly.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards. Payment is due upon completion of service. For larger projects, we're happy to discuss payment arrangements—just ask!
Do you offer financing?
Yes! We understand that major plumbing projects like water heater installation, repiping, or sewer line replacement can be a significant investment. Contact us to discuss financing options that work for your budget.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Contact Lighthouse Plumbing for answers to your plumbing questions or to schedule service. No question is too small—we'd rather you ask than guess.