Plumbing Tips

We recently helped a homeowner in Santa Cruz, CA who was dealing with an unpredictable shower—fluctuating temperatures, inconsistent pressure, and a less-than-relaxing experience. After a thorough inspection, we discovered the issue: a faulty shower valve. Once we replaced it, their shower was working perfectly again. If you’ve ever turned the knob in your shower andContinue reading “Shower Valve Replacement: Why It Matters for Your Water Temperature and Pressure”

When you turn on the tap, you probably aren’t thinking about what’s in your water—just that it’s flowing. But beyond the basics of hydration and hygiene, the quality of your water can significantly impact your home, plumbing, and health. If your water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, it’s known as hard water—and itContinue reading “What Is Hard Water & Why Does It Matter for Your Home?”

Shopping for a new toilet may seem straightforward, but with so many options available, it can quickly become overwhelming. From water-saving models to high-tech touchless designs, choosing the right toilet depends on your home’s needs, preferences, and budget. At Wade’s Plumbing & Septic, we help homeowners across Santa Cruz County select and install the perfectContinue reading “5 Types of Toilets & How to Choose the Right One for Your Home”

If your tap water smells off, tastes strange, or leaves behind stains, it may be time to install a filtration solution. In Santa Cruz County, hard water and other water quality issues are common. That’s why many homeowners choose to install either a whole-house filtration system, a water softener, or both. But which is theContinue reading “Water Softeners vs. Whole-House Filtration Systems: Which Is Right for Your Home?”

The plumbing world has its own language—and if you’ve ever tried to follow along with a plumber mid-job, you know it can feel like they’re speaking a different dialect. Words like “blackwater,” “blow bag,” or “trap seal” might sound unfamiliar, but understanding them can go a long way in helping you communicate effectively and makeContinue reading “Plumbing Terms Every Homeowner Should Know”

A broken water heater can quickly disrupt your home life—no hot showers, inefficient appliances, and rising utility bills. When your unit stops working properly, you’re faced with a critical decision: Should you repair it or replace it entirely? At Wade’s Plumbing & Septic, we help homeowners across Santa Cruz County make informed, cost-effective choices aboutContinue reading “Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?”

Plumbing problems in your home can range from a quick fix with a plunger to a major issue requiring professional help. While some clogs are manageable on your own, others can lead to serious backups and damage if ignored. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or a full-on plumbing emergency, it’s crucial to actContinue reading “How to Handle a Clogged Drain or Sewer Line”

Few things are more alarming than seeing dirty water rising into your shower. This usually signals a blockage in your home’s main sewer line. When any of your plumbing fixtures—like the toilet, bathroom sink, dishwasher, or washing machine—experience drainage issues, water can be redirected to the lowest point in your home, often the shower orContinue reading “Why Is Dirty Water Backing Up Into Your Shower?”

Water leaks are one of the most damaging and costly problems a homeowner can face. According to national studies, the average home wastes up to 180 gallons of water per week—adding up to more than 9,000 gallons of water lost per year due to undetected leaks. These leaks can lead to high water bills, structuralContinue reading “6 Signs You Have a Hidden Water Leak”

When a plumbing issue pops up, your first thought might be: Should I try to fix this myself or call a plumber? It’s a valid question—and the answer depends on several key factors like your experience, the severity of the issue, and how much time you’re willing to invest. At Wade’s Plumbing & Septic, we’veContinue reading “Should You Call a Plumber or Fix It Yourself?”