Empire Plumbing FAQ

Your Local Utah Plumbing Questions Answered


Looking for a trusted local plumber in Utah? Our Frequently Asked Questions cover everything from emergency repairs to maintenance tips for homes in Salt Lake City, Provo, and the entire Wasatch Front.

Emergency Plumbing Services in Utah

  • Q: Do you offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Utah?

    A: Yes, we are proud to offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services throughout our entire Utah service area, including Salt Lake City, Provo, and surrounding areas. Plumbing emergencies—like a burst pipe or a sewer line backup—don't wait for business hours, and neither do we. Call us immediately at 385-381-9995 for urgent assistance.


  • Q: I have a burst pipe! What should I do before the plumber arrives?

    A: First, immediately turn off your main water shut-off valve to stop the flow of water. Next, turn off the water heater to prevent it from overheating without water in the tank. Finally, call Empire Plumbing right away! We provide fast and reliable burst pipe repair in Utah.


  • Q: How much does an emergency plumber cost in Salt Lake City, UT?

    A: Emergency plumbing costs can vary based on the issue's complexity and the time of day. We offer transparent pricing and will provide an upfront estimate before any work begins. For a precise quote on your emergency plumbing repair, please call us to discuss the issue.


Water Heater & Hard Water Questions

  • Q: Why is hard water a common problem for Utah homeowners?

    A: Utah is known for its high mineral content in the water (called "hard water"). This leads to significant scale and sediment buildup inside water heaters, pipes, and fixtures, which reduces efficiency, lowers water pressure, and shortens the lifespan of your plumbing system.


  • Q: What are the signs I need water heater repair or replacement?

    A: Common signs that you need water heater repair include:

    • Rust-colored water coming from the hot tap.
    • Loud rumbling or popping noises from the tank (due to sediment buildup).
    • Water leaking around the base of the heater.
    • Not enough or no hot water. We service and install all types, including tankless water heaters in Utah.

  • Q: Does Empire Plumbing install water softeners?

    A: Absolutely. Given the hard water issues across the Wasatch Front, installing a whole-house water softener system is one of the best preventative measures a homeowner can take. We provide expert water softener installation and can help you choose the best system to protect your plumbing and appliances.


Drain Cleaning & Sewer Line Services

  • Q: What is causing my drain to clog, and do you offer drain cleaning?

    A: The most common causes of a clogged drain in Utah homes are hair and soap scum in bathroom drains, and grease, food scraps, and non-flushable items in kitchen and toilet drains. We offer professional drain cleaning services, including hydro jetting, to clear even the most stubborn blockages and prevent future issues.


  • Q: How do I know if I have a main sewer line issue vs. a simple drain clog?

    A: A single clogged drain usually means the blockage is localized. A main sewer line problem is indicated when multiple fixtures are backing up at the same time (like your toilet, tub, and sink), or if you notice sewage odors or water backing up in a lower-level shower or toilet when you use an upstairs fixture. We use sewer camera inspection to accurately diagnose the problem.


  • Q: What is hydro jetting, and is it better than snaking for a clogged pipe?

    A: Hydro jetting uses highly pressurized water to blast away all buildup (grease, scale, roots) from the pipe walls, essentially restoring your pipes to a near-new condition. While snaking (or cabling) is effective for breaking through a simple blockage, hydro jetting provides a much more thorough, long-lasting clean, especially for persistent clogs or main line issues.


General Plumbing & Service Questions

  • Q: Are you a licensed and insured plumber in Utah?

    A: Yes, Empire Plumbing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured to operate as a professional plumbing company throughout Utah. Our technicians are trained, background-checked, and committed to following all state and local codes.


  • Q: Where in Utah do you provide plumbing services?

    A: We proudly serve a wide area, including the major metropolitan areas and surrounding communities. Our primary service areas include Salt Lake City, Provo, Orem, Ogden, West Valley City, Sandy, and the entire Wasatch Front. Contact us to confirm service in your specific Utah city or neighborhood.


  • Q: How can I prevent freezing pipes during a Utah winter?

    A: To help prevent frozen pipes in the winter, we recommend:

    • Insulating exposed pipes (especially those in crawl spaces, garages, and attics).
    • Disconnecting and draining garden hoses.
    • Leaving a faucet dripping during extreme cold snaps to relieve pressure.
    • Opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks.

Ready for Service?

Empire Plumbing is ready to handle all your repair, installation, and maintenance needs.


Call Us 24/7: 385-381-9995