At GBL Mechanical Inc , we are happy to help you with large and small plumbing problems. If you are experiencing a plumbing emergency, you can review these questions and answers while you are waiting for repair services from our company. Many people have common questions, so we have compiled the most popular plumbing FAQs here.

1. What is a backflow preventer and why is it important ? A backflow preventer’s function is to prevent contaminated water from entering the public’s drinkable water supply. Backflow preventers can be found on residential, commercial, and industrial facilities throughout the United States. Most backflow preventers must be tested annually to ensure proper function. By law, only a certified technician can test the device.
2. I believe my plumbing system is frozen or there is ice in the lines, what do I do? If you turn your water on and nothing comes out, your water lines possible could be frozen. If and when this happens leave your faucet slightly on so when the temperature rises above freezing the ice has a way to flush out. If you do not leave a faucet on then is a good possibility the water line will build up pressure which may cause the line to split therefore causing a leak. Once this happens contact a licensed Plumber at GBL Mechanical Inc .
3. I smell gas throughout the house. What could be wrong? gas can be caused by many different issues, It can be a open valve or a leak. Tests can be performed by a licensed plumber to pinpoint the problem. Contact GBL Mechanical Inc to assist you.
4. The drain in the bathtub in clogged, should I use an over-the-counter chemical product to eliminate the clog? You should never use an over-the-counter drain cleaner to eliminate any clogs. Chemicals will cause plumbing pipes to deteriorate. Most tub drains are clogged by hair at the stopper. The only way to clear the drain is for the hair to be removed at the stopper and the line to be augured. These services can be provided by a licensed plumber.
5. The pipes seem to be making a sound when I turn on the water, what’s wrong? The plumbing terminology for this is Water Hammer. This happens most often when you shut a valve off quickly. An example would be shutting off a lavatory faucet and hearing a banging noise in the wall. A combination of things may be wrong.
6. What causes hot water to be rusty and brown? Rusty and brown water are the first signs that a water heater is beginning to fail. The coloring of the water is caused by rust. The interior of the tank is wearing out due to age and from water not being regularly flushed from the unit. This aging process commonly happens with gas heaters as a result of direct heat from the burner assembly. Turn off water and gas to the heater. Once you have shut off the water and gas contact GBL Mechanical Inc.
7. What type of water heater is most efficient? The most efficient heater on the market today is the Condensing Tankless Heater which is 95% to 98% efficient.
8. Why does it take so long for hot water to reach the taps in the kitchen and bathrooms? This is a common complaint from homeowners. If it takes a long time for hot water to reach your kitchen, it’s most likely due to the travel distance from the water heater. In most cases, the kitchen is the last fixture on the hot water system. This means water travels the furthest from the heating source. Please contact GBL Mechanical Inc solutions to this problem.

Contact Us Today

Leave the plumbing repairs and installations to the experts at (646)565-0539. We are proud to serve residential and commercial customers in the Manhattan and surrounding areas. Contact us today at (347) 925-3554 to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate or if you have a question that was not answered here. We are happy to help!