Common Questions
Plumbing
What should I do if I have a plumbing leak?
Shut off the closest valve if you can. If you are not sure where the leak is coming from, turn off the main water supply and call Lapin Services so we can find the source and protect the home from more damage.
Why does my drain keep clogging?
Recurring clogs usually mean buildup, roots, pipe damage, or a deeper blockage in the line. We can clear the drain, inspect the line when needed, and explain whether it is a one-time clog or a repair issue.
When should I replace a water heater?
Most water heaters are worth replacing when they leak, struggle to keep up, show heavy corrosion, or are near the end of their service life. We can check the unit and help compare repair and replacement options.
Do you offer emergency plumbing service?
Yes. Lapin Services handles urgent plumbing problems for Central Florida homes and businesses, including leaks, backups, broken fixtures, and no-water situations.
Can you repair or replace old pipes?
Yes. We repair damaged sections and can replace aging piping when repeated leaks or corrosion make spot repairs a poor long-term choice.
Why is my water pressure low?
Low pressure can come from a fixture issue, a failing pressure regulator, buildup in old pipes, a leak, or a municipal supply problem. We start with the simple checks and work back to the source.
What causes sewer smells inside the house?
Sewer smells often come from a dry trap, blocked vent, damaged pipe, or drain backup. If the odor keeps coming back, it should be inspected before it turns into a larger plumbing or septic issue.
Do you install fixtures and faucets?
Yes. We install and replace faucets, toilets, sinks, disposals, shower fixtures, and other common plumbing fixtures. We can also check shutoffs and supply lines during the visit.
How do I know if a pipe is broken underground?
Common signs include wet areas in the yard, an unexplained high water bill, low pressure, foundation moisture, or drains that keep backing up. We can locate the problem and recommend the right repair.
Can plumbing problems affect my septic system?
Yes. Leaks, running toilets, and drain problems can overload a septic system or hide early warning signs. Fixing plumbing issues quickly helps protect the tank and drainfield.
Septic
How often should my septic tank be pumped?
Most homes need septic pumping every three to five years, but tank size, household size, and water use can change that schedule. We can help set a practical interval for your property.
What are signs my septic system needs service?
Slow drains, gurgling, sewage odors, backups, standing water near the drainfield, or unusually green grass over the drainfield can all point to a septic problem.
Can you inspect a septic system before buying a home?
Yes. A septic inspection can help you understand the tank condition, drainfield condition, and whether there are visible concerns before closing on a Central Florida property.
What should not go into a septic system?
Avoid wipes, grease, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, harsh chemicals, and anything that does not break down easily. Septic systems work best with water, human waste, and septic-safe toilet paper only.
Why is my yard wet near the drainfield?
Wet soil near the drainfield can mean the system is overloaded, the drainfield is saturated, or wastewater is surfacing. It should be checked promptly, especially after backups or heavy rain.
What causes septic backups?
Backups can come from a full tank, clogged line, damaged baffle, pump issue, saturated drainfield, or system failure. We diagnose the cause before recommending a repair.
Do you repair or replace drainfields?
Yes. Lapin Services evaluates drainfield problems and can handle repair or replacement when the system cannot move wastewater properly.
How long does a septic system last?
A well-maintained septic system can last for decades. Pumping on schedule, fixing leaks, and keeping heavy traffic off the drainfield all help extend its life.
Can heavy rain affect my septic system?
Yes. Heavy rain can saturate the soil around the drainfield and slow wastewater absorption. If drains are slow after storms, reduce water use and have the system checked if symptoms continue.
What should I do if my septic alarm goes off?
Reduce water use right away and call for service. The alarm may point to a pump, float, electrical, or high-water condition that needs attention before a backup happens.
Sewer & Drain
What is the difference between a sewer line and a drain line?
Drain lines carry water and waste from sinks, tubs, toilets, and fixtures inside the home. The sewer line is the larger main line that carries that waste away from the home to the city sewer or septic system.
Why do my drains keep backing up?
Repeated backups can come from buildup, grease, roots, a damaged pipe, or a blockage in the main line. Lapin can clear the line and, when needed, inspect it to find out why the problem keeps coming back.
When do I need a sewer camera inspection?
A camera inspection is helpful when drains back up more than once, several fixtures are affected, roots are suspected, or you need to locate a break before repair work. It shows what is happening inside the line before decisions are made.
Can tree roots damage sewer or drain lines?
Yes. Roots can enter small cracks or loose joints and grow until they slow the line or cause a full blockage. This is common in older Central Florida properties with mature landscaping.
What is hydro jetting, and when is it needed?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clean the inside of a sewer or drain line. It is often used for heavy grease, sludge, roots, or recurring clogs that a basic cable cleaning may not fully remove.
How do I know if the clog is inside my home or in the main line?
If one fixture is slow, the clog may be local to that drain. If toilets, tubs, or multiple drains back up at the same time, the main line may be blocked and should be checked quickly.
Do you repair broken sewer lines?
Yes. Lapin Services can locate damaged sewer lines and explain repair options based on the condition, location, and depth of the pipe. We start by confirming the problem before recommending a repair.
What should I do if sewage backs up into my home?
Stop using water in the home, keep people and pets away from the affected area, and call for service right away. Sewage backups can create health risks and usually point to a blockage or system issue that needs prompt attention.
Can slow drains be a sign of a bigger problem?
Yes. A slow drain may be a simple clog, but several slow drains, gurgling, sewer odors, or backups can point to a main line issue. It is better to inspect recurring symptoms before they turn into a larger repair.
How can I prevent sewer and drain problems?
Keep grease, wipes, paper towels, and heavy food waste out of drains. Fix slow drains early, avoid planting large-root trees near sewer lines, and schedule cleaning or inspection when backups start repeating.