Plumbing Questions, Answered

Straight answers from Ray's Rescue Plumbing, your local plumber in Cotati serving Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Petaluma and Cotati. Same-day service available, emergency calls taken. Don't see your question? Call or text (707) 596-3095.

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About Us and Booking

What does Ray's Rescue Plumbing do?

Ray's Rescue Plumbing is a local plumber based in Cotati, CA. We repair and replace drain and water lines, replace faucets, toilets, sinks and garbage disposals, repair and replace tank and tankless water heaters, and fix leaks, including slab leaks. We also do repiping, sewer line repair and sewer camera inspections, gas line repair, and a whole lot more. Call or text (707) 596-3095.

What areas do you serve?

We serve Sonoma County, focused on Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Petaluma and Cotati. If you're nearby and not sure, call or text (707) 596-3095 and ask.

Who owns Ray's Rescue Plumbing?

Ray's Rescue Plumbing is owned by Ray (Raymond J.) Hernandez and based at 8412 Lakewood Ave, Cotati, CA 94931.

How do I book a plumber?

Call or text (707) 596-3095, or email ray@raysrescueplumbing.com. Tell us your address and what's going on. A photo of the problem helps us come prepared.

Can I text instead of calling?

Yes. Text (707) 596-3095 with your name, address, a short description of the problem and a photo if you can.

What are your hours?

We're open Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on weekends. We still take emergency calls on weekends. Call or text (707) 596-3095.

Do you offer emergency plumbing service?

Yes. We take emergency calls, even on weekends when we're otherwise closed, and same-day service is available. If you have an active leak, shut off the water at the nearest valve or the main shutoff, then call or text (707) 596-3095.

Are you licensed?

Yes. Ray's Rescue Plumbing holds California contractor license #1112228, issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You can look up the license on the CSLB website.

Do you offer same-day service?

Yes. Same-day service is available, and we take emergency calls, including on weekends. Our regular hours are Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Call or text (707) 596-3095.

Do you charge for estimates?

Water heater estimates are no cost, including estimates for tankless water heater installation. For other plumbing work, we explain the problem and give you a price before any work begins.

Leaks and Pipes

How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?

Turn off all water in the house and watch your water meter for 15 to 30 minutes. If the meter moves, you likely have a leak. Other signs are a higher water bill, the sound of running water, and stains or soft spots on walls, ceilings or floors.

What should I do first if a pipe is leaking?

Shut off the water. Use the valve under the sink or behind the toilet, or the main shutoff for the whole house. Keep clear of any wet electrical outlets, then call or text Ray's Rescue Plumbing at (707) 596-3095.

Why is my water pressure low?

Low pressure throughout the house often comes from corroded old pipe, a hidden leak or a failing pressure regulator. Low pressure at one faucet is usually a problem with that fixture. We can find the cause and fix it.

Why is my water rusty or brown?

If only the hot water is rusty, the water heater is the likely cause. If hot and cold are both rusty, corroded galvanized pipe in an older home is a common reason. Call or text (707) 596-3095 and we'll check it out.

Water Heaters and Tankless

How long does a tank water heater last?

A standard tank water heater often lasts around 8 to 12 years, depending on water quality, maintenance and use. Rusty hot water, rumbling noises or water around the base are signs it may need repair or replacement.

Should I repair or replace my water heater?

If the water heater is fairly young and a part like a thermostat or valve has failed, repair usually makes sense. If the tank itself is leaking or the heater is near the end of its life, replacement is usually the better choice. Water heater estimates are no cost.

Is a tankless water heater worth it?

A tankless water heater gives you continuous hot water, saves space and often lasts longer than a tank, but costs more upfront and may need gas, venting or electrical upgrades. We'll look at your home and tell you honestly if it makes sense.

Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?

Yes. Minerals build up inside a tankless unit over time, so it should be flushed (descaled) regularly, often about once a year, and more often in homes with harder water.

Do water heaters need earthquake straps in California?

Yes. California requires water heaters to be strapped so they can't tip or shift in an earthquake. Ray's Rescue Plumbing includes proper strapping with every water heater installation.

Fixtures

Can you replace my faucet, toilet or garbage disposal?

Yes. We replace kitchen and bathroom faucets, toilets, sinks and garbage disposals throughout Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Petaluma and Cotati.