Where is my main shut-off valve?  

Every home and building is required to have a main shut-off valve within the home/building, and the city meter is not the shut-off. Most homes have the main shut-off in the crawl space, and it can be difficult to access during an emergency. Most homes have isolation or shut-off stops at each fixture, also. The main valve is the valve that will turn off all water to the home. 

Can I use chemical drain cleaners? What's the best?

This is an absolute no. Heavily advertised chemical-based drain cleaners are extremely harmful to pipes. They can also be a danger to pets and to children. Also, they’re not a permanent solution to unclogging a drain. We always recommend calling a professional plumber or drain cleaning company.

What can go down the disposal?

The disposal is not a trash can. We always tell our customers to never place any grease, pasta, or large amounts of waste food, and fibrous foods such as celery, potato peels, etc. As to the type of disposal to install for your home, contact us today. Our team can help you make an informed decision. We can also properly install the unit for you. 

Why does my water heater make noise or rumble?

The most common reason is poor water quality. Mineral sediment builds up inside the water heater tank. Maintenance is discussed in the owner's manual of all water heaters. Mineral sediment builds up faster with higher water heater temperatures. The standard temperature of a water heater is 120 degrees. First Choice can help inspect your water heater and discuss options for fixing the water heater noises. We can also discuss options for water treatment to help prevent mineral buildup if necessary.

How often should I have my plumbing inspected?

While it’s not required to get routine plumbing inspections, we do think they are necessary. It’s an effective way to ensure your plumbing is actually in top shape. Without regular plumbing inspections, you might never know there are issues that need to be addressed right away. It might be too late when you do notice these problems, as they might have already progressed into something more serious, something that will cost you more money down the road.

Why is my water pressure low?

Low water pressure can come from simpler to larger issues. Simple items such as clogged sink aerators, bad cartridges in faucet valve bodies, and, in extreme of galvanized pipe internally clogged with rust debris. The average water pressure for a home is approximately 60 PSI. The water pressure should not exceed 80 PSI, and if it does, a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) should be installed to prevent damage to appliances such as your dishwasher or washing machine.

Why do we need to hire a professional plumber?

Licensed professionals have the right credentials and are trained to properly carry out the tasks. They’re also highly experienced, making them experts in the field. A licensed plumber also prioritizes your safety and the safety of your home. They’re fully equipped to provide the right services and ensure the safety of your property. You need to hire a licensed professional if you want to make sure the problem is indeed permanently resolved. The last thing you want to do is to hire another plumber because the previous one you hired didn’t get the job done right the first time. You won’t have to worry about this when hiring a plumber. Our plumbing team at First Choice Water and Plumbing will never leave your home unless we’re certain that everything is fixed and there are no unresolved issues.

Are "flushable" wipes actually flushable?

No. Despite the labeling, these wipes do not break down like toilet paper and are a leading cause of sewer line blockages and "fatbergs".  There have been several articles and news reports about sewage treatment plants having to shut down and perform costly repairs. If your home is not on city treatment and you have your own septic tank and drain field, you should treat that system as if it were your own million-dollar sewage treatment plant.

What kind of services does First Choice Water & Plumbing provide?

We offer a comprehensive range of plumbing services for both homeowners and businesses in the area. We can help repair water heaters, plumbing pipes, garbage disposals, water main or your sump pump. Our plumbing experts can also do major plumbing installations and maintenance. Additionally, we can also help with professional drain cleaning services and leak detection. Most importantly, we provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services. We’re available even in the wee hours to ensure you’re getting immediate plumbing service when you need it. 

Do I really need to disconnect my garden hose in the winter if the hose bibb or spigot says frost free?

To prepare for winter, you want to do everything necessary to prevent cracked pipes. While many homes have hoses with a “frost-free” spigot, you still need to disconnect it because when the hose is used, water gets trapped in the line going to the spigot. Once you’ve shut off the hose, the water remains, and when temperatures drop, this water freezes, causing pipes to crack. With a frost-free spigot, the cracking still occurs, typically behind the washer, inside your house. While a non-frost-free spigot reveals cracks immediately, frost-free spigots mean cracks are less noticeable immediately, and water might pour inside your home. So, remove the hose before winter and also use the spigot’s shut-off valve, located inside your home. If you don’t have one, have one installed by a professional plumber. We commonly refer to a frost-free failure as a freeze burst.

How do I deal with hard water issues?

Hard water can cause scaling, which damages appliances, clogs pipes, and makes soap less effective. Installing a water softener system is the most effective way to deal with hard water. These systems remove minerals like calcium and magnesium, which cause water hardness. When testing hard water, anything over 11 PPM is categorized as Extreme hardness. The Magic Valley is in the extreme category, with Twin Falls being 12 PPM and some wells being around 20 PPM.

What’s the difference between Soft Water and Hard Water?

The difference between soft water and hard water is the concentration of minerals. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can lead to build-up in pipes and appliances, while soft water has these minerals removed. Soft water is gentler on appliances, easier on soap and detergents, and better for skin and hair.

Is it worth investing into a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters, while more expensive upfront, offer numerous benefits, including endless hot water, lower energy bills, more space savings, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank heaters. They’re ideal for families who use a lot of hot water or for homes where space is at a premium. However, the initial cost and potential need for retrofitting your plumbing or electrical system can be drawbacks. Assessing your household’s hot water needs with a professional can help determine if a tankless system is right for you.

Is it safe to use drop in toilet bowl cleaners?

While drop-in toilet bowl cleaners can keep your toilet smelling fresh and looking clean, they may harm the internal components of your toilet tank over time, leading to leaks and other problems. For long-term maintenance, it’s better to use manual cleaning methods. If you prefer the convenience of drop-ins, opt for a septic-safe, non-chemical alternative.