Plumbing services entail anything from fixing a broken toilet to replacing a faulty sewer system. Plumbing services are in high demand in Hillsborough, which explains why the city has a high number of plumbers. From the need to preserve the “nature of Hillsborough” to the growing number of residential and commercial properties, plumbers remain an integral part of this ecosystem.
This article takes you through the ins and outs of plumbing services in Hillsborough. Whether you want routine maintenance, emergency plumbing, water heater installation, or sewer unclogging, we’ve got your back. We cover comprehensive plumbing solutions in Hillsborough and the neighboring towns. Let’s get started!
Overview of Hillsborough
Hillsborough is primarily a residential community boasting a blend of affluence and preservation of the natural environment. Located at the heart of San Mateo County, this prestigious town is only a few miles from Redwood City, the county capital.
The town is home to around 10,000 residents distributed across the 6.2 square miles. In the 1800’s, San Francisco’s millionaires were the inhabitants of the Hillsborough community. This composition explains the rich heritage of ancient mansions in the locality. These buildings come with outdated and worn-out plumbing systems requiring regular repairs or overhauls.
The Public Works Department manages Hillsborough infrastructure–from street planning to storm drainage improvement, sewer maintenance, and water distribution. Since the adoption of the Green Infrastructure Plan in 2019, there have been more stringent regulations guiding the disposal of stormwater.
Local amenities in Hillsborough, like schools, hospitals, and social places, complement the geographical to create a beautiful blend of nature and modernity. Some schools, like The Hillsborough City School District, consistently rank among the top in California. This locality also prides itself in prestigious tertiary institutions.
Geographic Location
The proximity to the Bay Area means Hillsborough experiences short, cold, and wet winters. During this season, the impact of the Hillsborough climate on the sewer system is evident. Before 2009, when the California Regional Water Quality Control Board issued an order for the county to create a comprehensive sewer management plan, winters were characterized by frequent overflows.
The task force discovered that most sewer lines in Hillsborough needed replacement after serving the community for decades. Apart from that, the growing population called for an increase in the town’s sewer capacity. This led the city to invest over $25.5 million to repair or replace the defective sewer system.
The diverse geographic features of Hillsborough are ideal for the growth of different trees. Although Coast Live Oak, California Buckeye, Coast Redwood, and Valley Oak are all good for the environment, their roots are disastrous to plumbing systems. Regular drainage system inspection is essential to ensure roots don’t impede sewer or water flow.
Significance of Quality Plumbing Services
“If it weren’t for plumbing, we would have still died from drinking water“. This is how significant residential and commercial plumbing services are to property owners.
Impact on Residential and Commercial Properties
Whether you are talking about plumbing installation, repairs, or replacement, the cost is far less (around $4,000) compared to construction costs. However, a small leak from an unattended drip could destroy your mansion within no time.
That said, plumbing’s impact on properties extends beyond just functionality; it directly affects the longevity and value of the property. Most plumbing fixtures last for more than 3 decades. However, it could lead to frequent repairs and replacements if the system is installed incorrectly, lowering your property’s cost.
Residential plumbing benefits include improved water efficiency, enhanced comfort, and increased property value. Considering these benefits, most property buyers in Hillsborough consult a plumber before making the final decision.
In business, the impact is even higher because who would like to use a broken toilet or visit a store with a backflow? For commercial properties, poor plumbing systems can make the process of getting tenants even more difficult.
Role in Health and Safety
Plumbing and health go hand in hand. Failure of a plumbing system is not only an inconvenience but could also lead to severe health effects. From Weil’s disease to Legionnaires’ disease, lead poisoning, and burns, a lot could go wrong from a faulty sewer, water, or gas line.
Apart from these diseases, leaky faucets and pipes could lead to mold growth, which are detrimental to asthmatic people. Molds could also lead to other respiratory complications and allergic reactions. The Hillsborough Public Works Department ensures safe water systems so that commercial and residential property owners enjoy a clean and reliable water supply.
Common Plumbing Systems in Homes and Businesses
Different plumbing systems work in tandem for the efficient distribution of water, gas supply, and safe waste removal. This section highlights the most common plumbing setups and their functions. Let’s dive in.
Potable Water Plumbing System
Potable water plumbing systems are what veins are to the body. They channel the flow to keep everything thriving. The fixtures, pipes, faucets, and valves distribute safe drinking and cleaning water.
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) supplies potable water in Hillsborough. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the local watersheds in Alameda County and the Peninsula are the primary sources of water in the town.
Before distribution, SFPUC treats the water with chloramine to ensure it is safe for drinking.
Drainage Systems
There are two types of drainage systems:
- Stormwater drainage: The purpose of this system is to direct rainwater from your property to prevent flooding or damage. After collection, the drains take water to retention basins.
- Sewer line system: Water from showers, toilets, and sinks goes to the sewer systems. The system is designed to prevent sewer gases from infiltrating your building.
Between December 2004 and January 2009, there were over 89 public sewer system overflows in Hillsborough. This frequency of sewer overflows led to the formation of a task force to develop recommendations to improve the town’s sewer infrastructure. Since then, there has been tremendous improvement in commercial and residential plumbing systems.
Gas System
Gas systems help distribute propane and natural gas for use in water heaters and stoves. The gas lines require professional installation and careful handling because they can lead to fires.
In case of a gas leak, it is advisable to call 911 for immediate response because this is a threat to safety and health. Also, calling a local plumber to fix the problem can help contain the situation. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is the main gas supplier in Hillsborough, CA.
Specialty Plumbing Systems
Some commercial plumbing systems require modification to align with the purpose. For example, hospitals require specialty plumbing systems, including medical gas lines for oxygen and other gases and highly sanitized water systems for patient safety.
In restaurants, the plumbing systems require grease traps to manage waste from food preparation areas. Hillsborough has adopted the 2022 California Plumbing Code, which stipulates the requirements for each specialty.
Common Plumbing Issues in Hillsborough
Plumbing issues can strike anytime and without notice, especially because most plumbing fixtures are invisible. However, regular inspection can reduce the surprises and extensive damage to your property.
San Mateo has one of the lowest water hardness levels in California at 47 PPM. This means the water is ideal for drinking. Also, corrosion from hard water is not a big concern for the community.
Clogged Toilets and Drains
Flushing non-biodegradable materials, even the so-called flushable wet wipes, leads to drain clogging. To prevent this problem, avoid disposing of anything other than toilet paper and human waste into the toilet. Using hair catchers and grease traps also prevents unnecessary materials from going through the drain.
Pipe Corrosion
Hillsborough is renowned for its ancient buildings, which means pipe corrosion problems are common due to the age of plumbing systems. Apart from that, the materials used (mainly galvanized steel or cast iron) are prone to corrosion. Replacing aging pipes with corrosion-resistant materials like copper or PEX is the best solution.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is one of the most common plumbing issues in Hillsborough due to aging infrastructure and corroded pipes that restrict water flow. The average water pressure should be between 40 and 80 PSI. Keeping a close eye on the water pressure regulator ensures that it doesn’t go below or increase beyond the normal.
Faulty Water Heater
Most water heaters last a maximum of 15 years. So, you should replace the device once this period elapses. However, you have to deal with frequent repairs after 10 years. Implementing a hard water solution if your property has high water hardness levels, such as installing a water softener, can help extend the lifespan of your water heater and other plumbing fixtures.
Broken Pipes
Pipe bursting is common in Hillsborough due to intrusion from the giant trees along the streets. High water pressure exerted on worn-out pipes can also lead to the problem. Monitoring water pressure and replacing old pipes can curb this issue.
Sewer Backup and Overflow
Contamination of potable water from backups is a serious health risk in Hillsborough, especially in older neighborhoods with aging sewer systems. Tree roots, grease buildup, and blockages can cause sewer lines to back up, leading to wastewater flooding homes and businesses.
An overflow occurs when wastewater overwhelms the plumbing system. This problem is common during wet seasons when excessive rainwater infiltrates the sewer system. Upgrading your sewer line and installing sump pumps can improve sewer line efficiency.
Seasonal Issues Affecting Plumbing Systems
Different seasons expose plumbing systems to varying conditions, which could lead to weather-related plumbing concerns.
Winter
The most common winter plumbing problems are frozen pipes and water heater struggles. Pipes are prone to bursting due to the frozen water because temperatures can go as low as 44℉ in Hillsborough. Your water heater also needs to work harder to ensure adequate heating, which could lead to strange noises.
Spring
Between December and February, Hillsborough experiences the highest level of precipitation. This condition leads to blocked gutters and damaged drainage systems because of the heavy downpour. During this period, you should clean the drainage system regularly.
Summer
The Bay Area Water Conservation Agency (BAWSCA) puts in place water conservation measures during dry seasons. While these regulations are necessary, they could affect the routine functioning of your plumbing system. Checking notifications from the local authorities can reduce the impact of the seasonal plumbing issues in summer.
Fall
Accumulation of leaves and debris in autumn could lead to drainage system blockage. So, you should clear these materials to ensure an efficient drain line.
Residential Plumbing Services
Hillsborough is home to almost 3.5k households, most of which live in their own properties. This means residents are willing to invest in long-term plumbing services. Some of the most sought-after plumbing services are listed below.
Leak Detection and Repair
Drip! Drip! Drip! This is a sound every homeowner dreads. However, before things get to this point, regular leak detection services can help repair the leaks before they become a headache.
Here are some of the techniques used in leak inspection:
- Thermal imaging: Use of cameras that detect temperature differences to pinpoint leak locations.
- Ultrasonic and acoustic detection: Leaks usually cause strange sounds like hissing and gargling, which are used to locate the problem.
- Video camera inspection: Plumbers use high-definition cameras to give a live video of the plumbing system performance.
- Drone technology: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are ideal for massive plumbing systems, and they provide a clear picture of the location of the leak.
Repairing plumbing leaks requires the intervention of professional plumbers, especially if the problem is extensive. However, you can use a home leak solution for simple issues like loose faucets or minor pipe leaks.
Installation and Repair of Fixtures
Fixture installation and repair services in Hillsborough cover everything from upgrading sinks and toilets to fixing faulty showers and bathroom remodeling. It is advisable to consider professional bathroom plumbing services because of the delicate nature of the repairs and installation.
The services not only improve the functionality but can also lower water bills and increase property value. Apart from that, bathroom and kitchen plumbing solutions are essential for long-lasting results.
Drain Cleaning and Blockage Removal
Grease buildup, hair, or foreign objects clogging the pipes are the main causes of drain blockage. Certified plumbers are guaranteed solutions for unclogging drains because they can use techniques like hydro-jetting and snaking.
With the help of blockage removal experts, you can prevent recurring issues and ensure smooth water flow. Regular drain maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and keep the plumbing system in peak condition.
Water Heater Installation and Maintenance
The experience of cold water running through your body during winter is chilling. That is why water heaters are essential to start the day refreshed. Expert water heater services include installation and regular maintenance to prolong the lifespan of the devices.
Whether opting for a tankless or traditional model, proper installation ensures optimal performance. Routine water heater maintenance, such as flushing sediment buildup and checking the thermostat, keeps the system running efficiently, reducing energy costs and preventing sudden breakdowns.
Commercial Plumbing Services
The uniqueness of commercial buildings in handling high usage and large-scale operations requires experienced plumbers. That said, here are some of the aspects of the services and the essential considerations.
Plumbing System Design and Installation for New Construction
Commercial plumbing design services are like a jigsaw puzzle. Every part needs to fall in place to avoid costly modification or inefficiencies. That is why architects, engineers, and plumbers should collaborate through BIM (Building Information Modeling) for optimized mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.
During the design phase, new construction plumbing needs to consider the following factors to ensure efficiency:
- Water source
- The building’s architectural design
- Drainage requirements
- Related systems
To reduce the cost, different experts work hand in hand to create integrated zoning and control systems. These could include functionalities like water supply, heating, sewer disposal, and electricity supply.
Hiring experts for commercial plumbing installation is essential to avoid costly modifications or repairs, incorporate sustainable practices, reduce insurance costs, and take advantage of subsidies like the CalSHAPE. In line with this, we will look at the factors you should consider when hiring such an expert.
Maintenance Contracts for Businesses
Plumbing maintenance contracts are legal agreements between commercial property owners and plumbing companies stipulating the services, schedule, cost, and coverage period.
The primary cause of plumbing emergencies like pipe bursts, toilet backups, and clogged drains is wear and tear. Preventive plumbing maintenance can save commercial property owners as much as $1,500 for emergency services. The contract helps in early identification and intervention of plumbing issues, reducing the risk of costly repairs and downtime.
Also, most plumbers in Hillsborough offer priority service to businesses that have maintenance contracts. So, you are guaranteed prompt response to fix any issues on your property, which reduces the risk of damage from plumbing issues. You can also get exclusive regular discounts from the plumbing companies.
When it comes to warranties, suppliers are likely to give lenient terms to customers with maintenance contracts. Also, insurance companies offer favorable rates because regular maintenance reduces risk.
Grease Trap Installation and Servicing
According to research, fats, oils, and grease account for almost half of all sanitary sewer overflows in the United States. Grease traps are plumbing devices that prevent the three components from entering the sewer system.
These outstanding plumbing components were patented in the early 1880s by a Californian, Nathaniel T. Whiting. In the state, an 80-gallon capacity grease trap installation is a requirement for all commercial kitchen plumbing systems.
After installation, grease trap maintenance is mandatory after every three months. However, some facilities require more frequent servicing due to the activity level. The property owners should ensure grease interceptor maintenance is recorded in the “Pump Out” log sheet.
Emergency Plumbing Services
Albert Einstein once said, “If I had my life to live over again, I’d be a plumber”. But he might not have wanted to deal with plumbing emergencies.
24/7 Availability
For emergency plumbing services, 24/7 isn’t a marketing gimmick but a reality. From dealing with burst pipes to handling gas leaks and mitigating severe water damage, the solution should be quick and calculated.
When looking for a 24-hour plumber in Hillsborough, you should go for providers near your location. This guarantees immediate plumbing assistance to avoid escalation of the problem, which could lead to extensive damage, not to mention the cost.
Rapid Response Protocols for Urgent Issues
Although prevention is the best plumbing emergency prevention, we’ve all been there— a sewer backup, a burst pipe, or a kitchen flood. To make things worse, most plumbing companies promise rapid plumbing response, but there isn’t a guarantee.
Any plumbing issue that risks a person’s health and safety requires prompt intervention. In this case, the plumber provides any immediate interventions that the property owner can take, like shutting off the water supply for the entire house.
Plumbing emergencies that disrupt business operations or make a home uncomfortable are considered urgent plumbing repairs. Your plumber should take the least practical time to fix such issues and restore normalcy. Conventionally, plumbers should respond to emergency plumbing service requests in less than an hour.
Specialized Plumbing Services
Beyond the routine maintenance and repairs, plumbers address complex and unique challenges that require advanced expertise. Whether water heater installation or sewer line repair, these services require more than plumbing knowledge.
Sewer Line Inspection and Repair
Sewer line problems not only make your property inhabitable but also pose serious health risks. So, you need to inspect your sewer system daily. You read that right. Besides using advanced tools to check the condition of sewer lines, you can monitor foul smells.
Sewer line services are essential in ensuring the system works optimally without disrupting your activities as a business owner or resident. When you don’t have confidence in your sewer system, you are no longer at peace. Sewer inspection in Hillsborough is the surest guarantee for your peace of mind.
The most common sewer inspection technique is the use of cameras. This method entails attaching small high-definition cameras to the sewer line to send live videos to the plumber. The technology comes in handy in reducing the inspection time, avoiding extensive excavations, and lowering costs.
Water Purification and Filtration Systems
Clean water. Healthy living. Interestingly, only slightly above 1% of the earth’s water is safe for drinking. Water filtration and purification are the most effective methods to increase the water available for safe use.
Clean water plays an integral part in preventing outbreaks of cholera, shigella, typhoid, and Hepatitis A and E. A report by the World Health Organization shows that these diseases cause over 4% of global deaths.
Another benefit of clean water is its contribution to other aspects of the economy, like education, tourism, and manufacturing. Installing water filters in residential or commercial property has become almost necessary in the US, with 9 out of 10 Americans using the device.
You can also use water purification services to clean water. The most common water purification methods are boiling, distillation, and disinfection. Besides these DIY methods, you can use advanced technology like deionization, UV treatment, and reverse osmosis to clean water.
Gas Line Plumbing and Safety Checks
The California Public Utilities Commission mandates gas suppliers to survey for gas leaks frequently, but not after a period exceeding 5 years. The regulator also requires property owners and operators to repair hazardous leaks immediately. You should also schedule regular gas line safety checks to ensure compliance.
For all gas line plumbing, you need experts to ensure the safety of the system. The services they provide include new gas installation, gas leak detection, and compliance checks. Regular gas safety checks prevent hazards like fires or carbon monoxide exposure.
Choosing the Right Plumbing Service Provider
California has the highest number of plumbing companies in the US, with over 23,000 providers. Choosing from such a vast pool of plumbers can prove a hard nut to crack. However, here are some of the considerations you should make.
Importance of Licensed and Insured Plumbers
C-36 Plumbing Contractor Licenses are a requirement for plumbers in Hillsborough. The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) issues this certification to plumbers who meet the set requirements. Some of them include:
- Having a high school diploma or GED
- Passing criminal background checks and fingerprinting
- Having at least $2,500 capital and $10,000 bond
- Being at least 18 years
- Passing the necessary exams
Besides, licensed companies offer insured plumbing services, meaning you and your property are covered against any occurrences. The licenses also show that the company has certified plumbing professionals. As a property owner, you can verify the validity of permits and certificates on the issuing authority’s website.
Recognitions from Industry Associations
Accredited plumbers are the best to work with for your peace of mind. Some plumbing industry associations include the Better Business Bureau, the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).
While these certificates are not a must-have, they show the plumber’s commitment to their practice. The associations also ensure the plumbers maintain professionalism in their services. Apart from that, the associations fight for the rights of plumbing companies and their employees.
You can also check for reviews and ratings on trusted platforms like Yelp or Google. These directories are essential for most clients, with more than three-quarters visiting them before making purchase decisions.
Hillsborough Plumbing Codes
Key Regulations Plumbers Must Adhere To
Hillsborough has detailed plumbing codes adopted in 2022 that provide all the necessary regulations for safe and efficient plumbing installations. The town stipulates the required plumbing design, materials, and installation practices for commercial and residential properties.
The code sets out requirements for gas, water, and electrical lines to withstand earthquakes because Hillsborough is near seismic faults, which could cause earthquakes. The ordinance recommends low-flow fixtures and plumbing systems for water conservation.
Part of the local plumbing regulations is installing automatic residential fire sprinkler systems with adequate water supply. Property owners should also ensure the new systems comply with the current standards during remodeling and replacement. To ensure code-compliant plumbing, inspections are mandatory for all new installations and should be submitted for review and approval.
Permitting Process for Major Works
Although permit requirements can seem tedious and costly, they are important to ensure compliance with local regulations. In Hillsborough, you can apply for all permits online using the eTrakit portal.
For major plumbing projects, you might need more permits to carry out the project without delays or legal complications. Some of these permits include:
- Plumbing permit
- Right-of-way permits to get approvals to obstruct public streets, sidewalks, or other public rights-of-way
- Building permit if the project interferes with structural design
- Excavation permits for considerable digging
- Fire safety permit when dealing with suppression system
- Environmental permit if the project interferes with stormwater management
Ignoring plumbing permit applications in Hillsborough could attract more than $1,000 in finals for each incidence. So, you should hire a knowledgeable plumber to guide you through the necessary reviews and approvals before commencing major projects.
How to Handle After-Hours Emergencies
There is no right time for plumbing emergencies. However, after-hours plumbing emergencies are even more hectic because you are not sure whether you will get a plumber immediately. The good thing is that you can do a few things to contain the situation as you wait for the plumber. Here are some of them:
- Shut off water from the main valve
- Switch off electricity
- Use cloth material to contain any water in one area
- Open all the windows and doors
- Remove all your valuables from the affected area
- Call the plumber and explain the urgency of the situation
These emergency plumbing steps come in handy in minimizing damage as you wait for assistance from a professional. However, you should vacate the property while you wait for help from the relevant authorities or experts if the issue is beyond your containment.
Contact Information for Utility Services
Hillsborough Utility Contacts
| Utility | Phone Number | Others |
| Water Utility Payments | (650) 375-7402 | 555 County Center Redwood City, CA 94063 E-mail: info@flowstobay.org |
| Pacific Gas and Electric Company | 1-800-743-5000 | |
| San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board | (510) 622-2300 | 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1400 Oakland, CA 94612 Fax: (510) 622-2460 |
| The Hillsborough Public Works Department | 650-375-7444 | 1600 Floribunda Ave. Hillsborough, CA 94010 Fax: 650-548-0859 |
Emergency Service Numbers
| Service | Phone Number |
| Universal Emergency Number | 911 |
| Hillsborough Emergency Center | 650-375-7470 |
| County Emergency Center | 650-363-4911 |
| Central County Fire Department | (650) 558-7600 |
Links to Regulatory Bodies and Consumer Protection Agencies
Here are some to consider if you are looking for plumbing regulatory agencies to verify the qualifications of a plumber:
This board regulates the construction industry, including plumbing contractors, to ensure adherence to the set standards.
The DIR ensures companies follow workplace standards, including those for plumbing professionals.
The regulator oversees the adoption, approval, publication, and implementation of California’s building and plumbing codes.
The SWRCB regulates water quality and water resources, which affects plumbing work.
- The Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency (BAWSCA)
This organization represents the interests of 24 cities and water districts and two private utilities in Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties
These official plumbing resources are essential in helping consumers, plumbing contractors, and professionals. We encourage you to verify this information and protect yourself from scammers.
