Top-rated plumbers.

Get matched with top plumbers in Oakland, CA

There are 34 highly-rated local plumbers.

TRUSTED BY OAKLAND, CA HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.4
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon1.3k+
    Verified plumbing services reviews

Find Plumbers in Oakland

Avatar for Water Heaters Masters

Water Heaters Masters

4.89(
105
)
Approved Pro

Water Heaters Masters

4.89(
105
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 96% of Angi customers
Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers
63 local quotes requested

We are a small family owned business and our reputation is built one satisfied customer at a time. In a time where finding honest and well trained experts in the plumbing industry is difficult, we pride ourselves in serving you better. We know you have choices and will make every effort to demonstrate that we are the best option for your water heater, tankless water heater, and high efficiency water heater needs. We offer competitive pricing, the best products, and most important great customer service. We also want to do work for your friends and family, so the best endorsement for us is a job well done and a happy customer. We do standard water heater repairs and replacement but also bigger projects like relocation jobs and tankless water heater installations to name a few. Our technicians are highly experienced and have installed thousands of water heaters. Call or text us at 925-817-8342 for a free estimate. We serve residential or commercial customers, including apartments and condos.

"I have what turned out to be a 30 year old water heater replaced by this great company and they did it the same day of the quote. The installer had the water heater I wanted on the truck and did an excellent job of putting in the new unit, cleaning up and even replacing copper flex tubing and installing a new overflow pipe out of copper as well, no additional cost. This company specializes in water heaters and couldn't do any additional work on supply lines and they clearly state that on their website. I didn't need that type of additional work."

David C on September 2018

We are a small family owned business and our reputation is built one satisfied customer at a time. In a time where finding honest and well trained experts in the plumbing industry is difficult, we pride ourselves in serving you better. We know you have choices and will make every effort to demonstrate that we are the best option for your water heater, tankless water heater, and high efficiency water heater needs. We offer competitive pricing, the best products, and most important great customer service. We also want to do work for your friends and family, so the best endorsement for us is a job well done and a happy customer. We do standard water heater repairs and replacement but also bigger projects like relocation jobs and tankless water heater installations to name a few. Our technicians are highly experienced and have installed thousands of water heaters. Call or text us at 925-817-8342 for a free estimate. We serve residential or commercial customers, including apartments and condos.

"I have what turned out to be a 30 year old water heater replaced by this great company and they did it the same day of the quote. The installer had the water heater I wanted on the truck and did an excellent job of putting in the new unit, cleaning up and even replacing copper flex tubing and installing a new overflow pipe out of copper as well, no additional cost. This company specializes in water heaters and couldn't do any additional work on supply lines and they clearly state that on their website. I didn't need that type of additional work."

David C on September 2018


Avatar for Albert Nahman Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling

Albert Nahman Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling

4.45(
686
)
Approved Pro

Albert Nahman Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling

4.45(
686
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
689 local quotes requested
44 years of experience

Albert Nahman Services was founded in 1981 and has been serving Berkeley, CA and it surrounding areas in all their plumbing and HVAC needs. Each of our technicians went through rigorous training so we can guarantee that you will be receiving the proper service. We are also insured and supply a warranty for our parts for five years and up to twenty years on an re-piping or sewer replacement. Call us now to make your appointment!

"The plumbing technicians came out as promised to assess the leak. They were both very courteous and kind and assessed the damage. I am giving three stars because they estimated the cost to be almost 250% higher than what the actual cost was to fix the issue. I am sure there are customers out there that would just accept any bid however, please get multiple beds for these projects, especially when working with this company as they will inflate the cost to take advantage of the situation. I ended up only paying for the $79 estimate."

Kevin C on September 2025

Albert Nahman Services was founded in 1981 and has been serving Berkeley, CA and it surrounding areas in all their plumbing and HVAC needs. Each of our technicians went through rigorous training so we can guarantee that you will be receiving the proper service. We are also insured and supply a warranty for our parts for five years and up to twenty years on an re-piping or sewer replacement. Call us now to make your appointment!

"The plumbing technicians came out as promised to assess the leak. They were both very courteous and kind and assessed the damage. I am giving three stars because they estimated the cost to be almost 250% higher than what the actual cost was to fix the issue. I am sure there are customers out there that would just accept any bid however, please get multiple beds for these projects, especially when working with this company as they will inflate the cost to take advantage of the situation. I ended up only paying for the $79 estimate."

Kevin C on September 2025


Avatar for FALCONI & SON'S CONSTRUCTION INC

FALCONI & SON'S CONSTRUCTION INC

5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro

FALCONI & SON'S CONSTRUCTION INC

5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
3 years of experience

FALCONI & SON'S CONSTRUCTION INC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business. you can check my website: http://falconiconstruction.com

"Friendly, professional and 5 star job"

Daniel G on November 2024

FALCONI & SON'S CONSTRUCTION INC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business. you can check my website: http://falconiconstruction.com

"Friendly, professional and 5 star job"

Daniel G on November 2024


Avatar for BEAR Remodeling Inc.

BEAR Remodeling Inc.

4.90(
10
)
Approved Pro

BEAR Remodeling Inc.

4.90(
10
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
150 local quotes requested

Don't wait to create your dream home! ✨ Our new financing options make your remodel projects affordable NOW. 💰 Limited-time rates available—click the link to get started! ➡️https://www.enhancify.com/bear-remodeling-inc **Due to our current installation schedule we have a project minimum* depending on the job size- ask for details as it varies depending on project size- starting at $10 K Please call today to schedule a complimentary consultation 925-567-3021 BEAR Remodeling, Inc. is a family-owned business and a full-service General Contractor that specializes in residential home remodeling projects. Our services include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, room additions, garage conversions, and ADU'S With full licensing, bonding, and insurance, it ensures a reliable and trustworthy experience for its clients. Our team of experienced professionals, which includes both engineers and designers, collaborate in order to deliver exceptional results, consistently exceeding client expectations and transforming homes into stunning spaces. (we do not work with modular/trailer homes or offer handyman services.)

"Working with BEAR Remodeling on our ADU garage conversion has been a great experience! The 3D design has really helped us see the project before work began. The team has stayed organized, finished on time, and delivered exactly what we had imagined. Everything has turned out clean, modern, and built to last. We have happily recommended BEAR Remodeling to anyone looking for reliable remodeling services!"

Ryker H on May 2025

Don't wait to create your dream home! ✨ Our new financing options make your remodel projects affordable NOW. 💰 Limited-time rates available—click the link to get started! ➡️https://www.enhancify.com/bear-remodeling-inc **Due to our current installation schedule we have a project minimum* depending on the job size- ask for details as it varies depending on project size- starting at $10 K Please call today to schedule a complimentary consultation 925-567-3021 BEAR Remodeling, Inc. is a family-owned business and a full-service General Contractor that specializes in residential home remodeling projects. Our services include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, room additions, garage conversions, and ADU'S With full licensing, bonding, and insurance, it ensures a reliable and trustworthy experience for its clients. Our team of experienced professionals, which includes both engineers and designers, collaborate in order to deliver exceptional results, consistently exceeding client expectations and transforming homes into stunning spaces. (we do not work with modular/trailer homes or offer handyman services.)

"Working with BEAR Remodeling on our ADU garage conversion has been a great experience! The 3D design has really helped us see the project before work began. The team has stayed organized, finished on time, and delivered exactly what we had imagined. Everything has turned out clean, modern, and built to last. We have happily recommended BEAR Remodeling to anyone looking for reliable remodeling services!"

Ryker H on May 2025


Avatar for Service Champions Heating & Air Conditioning

Service Champions Heating & Air Conditioning

4.64(
655
)
Approved Pro

Service Champions Heating & Air Conditioning

4.64(
655
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Super punctual
535 local quotes requested
22 years of experience

Service Champions is the leading heating and air conditioning contractor in Northern California servicing homeowners in East Bay, South Bay and Sacramento areas. We can make your home more comfortable and improve the quality of air you and your family breathe. We specialize in maintenance, repair and sales of all brands of air conditioners and heaters, and are experts in indoor air quality improvement through filtration, duct replacement, insulation and hospital grade UV lights. All the air conditioners we install have the new environmentally friendly refrigerant that does not damage the ozone. We also are huge proponents of super high efficient equipment, such as 95% efficient furnaces. This equipment saves homeowners a tremendous amount of money on their utility bills.

"Our Service Tech, Alex Peck, arrived on time to perform the annual check up & tune-up of our HVAC System. He was very professional and following the Tune-Up asked if there was any other items that needed done or looked into that he could take care of. His services were very much appreciated and very professional. Lee"

Lain L on September 2025

Service Champions is the leading heating and air conditioning contractor in Northern California servicing homeowners in East Bay, South Bay and Sacramento areas. We can make your home more comfortable and improve the quality of air you and your family breathe. We specialize in maintenance, repair and sales of all brands of air conditioners and heaters, and are experts in indoor air quality improvement through filtration, duct replacement, insulation and hospital grade UV lights. All the air conditioners we install have the new environmentally friendly refrigerant that does not damage the ozone. We also are huge proponents of super high efficient equipment, such as 95% efficient furnaces. This equipment saves homeowners a tremendous amount of money on their utility bills.

"Our Service Tech, Alex Peck, arrived on time to perform the annual check up & tune-up of our HVAC System. He was very professional and following the Tune-Up asked if there was any other items that needed done or looked into that he could take care of. His services were very much appreciated and very professional. Lee"

Lain L on September 2025


Avatar for Better Water Heaters

Better Water Heaters

4.49(
190
)
Approved Pro

Better Water Heaters

4.49(
190
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Super punctual
47 local quotes requested
24 years of experience

We started Better Water Heaters to provide fair pricing and quality service to the customers seeking water heater service or replacement. The truth is, most companies overcharge because they know you need hot water immediately and will probably pay a lot to get it quick. My typical customer is one who has price shopped the competition and have decided most companies either charge way too much or are hard to pin down to a firm price. We understand. You simply need a water heater and don’t want to deal with a sleazy salesman…you want to talk to a plumber….so give us a call and we’ll talk. At Better Water Heaters we do something quite rare in the plumbing business- install water heaters for a fair price. We grow our business one satisfied customer at a time; we don’t take advantage of a plumbing emergency and charge unreasonably. Your referral is important to us that is why we always will work to insure your complete satisfaction. We’re a small company and we keep our overhead low, because of this we don’t need to charge unreasonably. Of course we are licensed, bonded and insured and are very experienced at water heater installation and repair. We are experts in convention water heater repair and replacement, Tankless water heater installation, and other plumbing issues. We are the only water heater installation company in northern California that has earned the prestigious DIAMOND CERTIFICATION. We are also member of the Better Business Bureau. Our advertised prices include a quality water heater, basic installation and disposal of your old unit; Extra parts and labor required to do the job right, are additional. Call us for all your water heating needs. Estimates are always free and we never charge extra for nights, weekends, or holidays.

"Better Water Heater installed our tankless water heater incorrectly, creating a significant safety hazard for our tenant, an African American family of 5 with 3 small children. After a contractor from AHS reviewed the installation, they confirmed multiple issues, including code violations and fire risks. Major Problems with the Installation: Unsafe placement in a closet - The condensate has no proper drainage, which could lead to mold, rust, and fire hazards. Improper use of an evaporator pan - This pan is not intended for water heaters, creating a fire risk in an enclosed space. Oversized unit for our home - The Rinnai RU160iN is designed for larger homes. It's far too big for our 1-bed, 1-bath house, making it inefficient. Insufficient gas line - According to AHS, the gas line is too small to support this oversized unit, which could lead to gas flow issues or even pose a fire hazard. The city won't allow this installation to pass inspection because the gas line doesn't meet the required capacity. Permit/code violations - The installation was done without a permit and violates multiple building codes. When we confronted the company, they insisted their work was done correctly. Their "solution"? If we wanted the job to be done legally, we would have to pay for both the permit, their time working with inspectors, and additional costs to fix their mistakes--$995 for a bigger gas line to support the oversized unit. On top of that, they quoted us $585 for permit costs, even though the city building department told us the permit fee is only $150. Bottom Line: If you want a safe, legal, and code-compliant installation, DO NOT trust Better Water Heater. They cut corners, refuse accountability, and expect customers to pay extra to fix their mistakes."

Han-Shen Y on February 2025

We started Better Water Heaters to provide fair pricing and quality service to the customers seeking water heater service or replacement. The truth is, most companies overcharge because they know you need hot water immediately and will probably pay a lot to get it quick. My typical customer is one who has price shopped the competition and have decided most companies either charge way too much or are hard to pin down to a firm price. We understand. You simply need a water heater and don’t want to deal with a sleazy salesman…you want to talk to a plumber….so give us a call and we’ll talk. At Better Water Heaters we do something quite rare in the plumbing business- install water heaters for a fair price. We grow our business one satisfied customer at a time; we don’t take advantage of a plumbing emergency and charge unreasonably. Your referral is important to us that is why we always will work to insure your complete satisfaction. We’re a small company and we keep our overhead low, because of this we don’t need to charge unreasonably. Of course we are licensed, bonded and insured and are very experienced at water heater installation and repair. We are experts in convention water heater repair and replacement, Tankless water heater installation, and other plumbing issues. We are the only water heater installation company in northern California that has earned the prestigious DIAMOND CERTIFICATION. We are also member of the Better Business Bureau. Our advertised prices include a quality water heater, basic installation and disposal of your old unit; Extra parts and labor required to do the job right, are additional. Call us for all your water heating needs. Estimates are always free and we never charge extra for nights, weekends, or holidays.

"Better Water Heater installed our tankless water heater incorrectly, creating a significant safety hazard for our tenant, an African American family of 5 with 3 small children. After a contractor from AHS reviewed the installation, they confirmed multiple issues, including code violations and fire risks. Major Problems with the Installation: Unsafe placement in a closet - The condensate has no proper drainage, which could lead to mold, rust, and fire hazards. Improper use of an evaporator pan - This pan is not intended for water heaters, creating a fire risk in an enclosed space. Oversized unit for our home - The Rinnai RU160iN is designed for larger homes. It's far too big for our 1-bed, 1-bath house, making it inefficient. Insufficient gas line - According to AHS, the gas line is too small to support this oversized unit, which could lead to gas flow issues or even pose a fire hazard. The city won't allow this installation to pass inspection because the gas line doesn't meet the required capacity. Permit/code violations - The installation was done without a permit and violates multiple building codes. When we confronted the company, they insisted their work was done correctly. Their "solution"? If we wanted the job to be done legally, we would have to pay for both the permit, their time working with inspectors, and additional costs to fix their mistakes--$995 for a bigger gas line to support the oversized unit. On top of that, they quoted us $585 for permit costs, even though the city building department told us the permit fee is only $150. Bottom Line: If you want a safe, legal, and code-compliant installation, DO NOT trust Better Water Heater. They cut corners, refuse accountability, and expect customers to pay extra to fix their mistakes."

Han-Shen Y on February 2025


Avatar for Unique Home Design & Remodeling

Unique Home Design & Remodeling

New on AngiNew on Angi
Approved Pro

Unique Home Design & Remodeling

New on AngiNew on Angi
Approved Pro
366 local quotes requested
42 years of experience

Unique Home Design & Remodeling is a leader in providing value-added construction services to our customers by creating a successful partnership throughout the construction process. Our pledge is to establish lasting relationships with our customers by exceeding their expectations and gaining their trust through exceptional performance by every member on our construction team. Unique Home Design & Remodeling's mission is to accomplish full customer satisfaction in every area possible from color selection to project completion. Unique Home Design & Remodeling's main focus is to provide our future clients with a professional home improvement experience. We vow to our customers with the highest level of quality construction services at fair market and competitive prices. To ensure the longevity of our company through repeat and referral business achieved by customer satisfaction in all areas including timeliness, attention to detail and service-minded attitudes.

Unique Home Design & Remodeling is a leader in providing value-added construction services to our customers by creating a successful partnership throughout the construction process. Our pledge is to establish lasting relationships with our customers by exceeding their expectations and gaining their trust through exceptional performance by every member on our construction team. Unique Home Design & Remodeling's mission is to accomplish full customer satisfaction in every area possible from color selection to project completion. Unique Home Design & Remodeling's main focus is to provide our future clients with a professional home improvement experience. We vow to our customers with the highest level of quality construction services at fair market and competitive prices. To ensure the longevity of our company through repeat and referral business achieved by customer satisfaction in all areas including timeliness, attention to detail and service-minded attitudes.


Avatar for Dream Build Services LLC

Dream Build Services LLC

5.00(
8
)
Approved Pro

Dream Build Services LLC

5.00(
8
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
193 local quotes requested
1 years of experience

We specialize in all phases of remodeling for your home, business, bathrooms, kitchens, finishing basements, and more! We offer a diverse range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of every customer. We take a personalized approach to each project. We work closely with our clients to understand their vision, preferences, and budgetary requirements. We strive to exceed expectations by delivering exceptional service, great quality work, and professionalism on every job. Read more below on all the services we offer and contact us with any questions or to schedule a free estimate today!

"Dream Build Services LLC was great to work with. They communicated clearly and set expectations during the project. They finished on time and on a very reasonable budget. We love our bathroom and bedroom remodel and would definitely work with them again. "

Deborah L on October 2025

We specialize in all phases of remodeling for your home, business, bathrooms, kitchens, finishing basements, and more! We offer a diverse range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of every customer. We take a personalized approach to each project. We work closely with our clients to understand their vision, preferences, and budgetary requirements. We strive to exceed expectations by delivering exceptional service, great quality work, and professionalism on every job. Read more below on all the services we offer and contact us with any questions or to schedule a free estimate today!

"Dream Build Services LLC was great to work with. They communicated clearly and set expectations during the project. They finished on time and on a very reasonable budget. We love our bathroom and bedroom remodel and would definitely work with them again. "

Deborah L on October 2025


"We love our new kitchen and flooring, and new powder room! Al is extremely professional. He takes time to ensure everything is done beautifully. He communicates well to make sure that all expectations are accurate. Payment schedule is clear and concise. He is helpful in providing options and suggestions for complications that arise or just for choosing paint color or tile layout. We would trust Al to do any project that is needed. His work really is impeccable."

Debbie K on January 2025

Licensed General Building Contractor with over 30 years in the building trades, I'm focused on providing bathroom remodels and custom home improvement services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction.

"We love our new kitchen and flooring, and new powder room! Al is extremely professional. He takes time to ensure everything is done beautifully. He communicates well to make sure that all expectations are accurate. Payment schedule is clear and concise. He is helpful in providing options and suggestions for complications that arise or just for choosing paint color or tile layout. We would trust Al to do any project that is needed. His work really is impeccable."

Debbie K on January 2025


Avatar for My Construction Group

My Construction Group

4.82(
182
)
Approved Pro

My Construction Group

4.82(
182
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Terrific value
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
184 local quotes requested

We Stand Behind Our Work, Quality, Brand and Commitment Located in San Jose, My Construction Group is your one source for construction needs, and quality design. Our experienced team and project managers will listen and help you focus on your goals, create an innovative design or renovate on matching your vision, and take all the worry and stress out of the process for you. Our team of professional contractors and project managers oversee and manage each project efficiently through on-site preparation, on-time scheduling, accurate budgeting and cost management. In addition, our goal is to assure quality building services while maintaining consistent client communication throughout each project. My Construction Group is a leading home remodeling company, interested in making the best and most remarkable construction in California. Please click or copy the link to see our new construction project https://youtu.be/1teqJZQhzBA

"Our experience is identical to what other reviewers shared. And yes, you should run from this company as fast as you can. Do not buy what Abraham shared that the payment must be made when the inspection is passed. Check the Business and Professions code yourself, the payment only needs to be made when the job is completed. It is very COMMON that the job is not even done or poorly performed even the inspection is passed. Here are the issues that multiple families including us run into with this company:: The project was delayed for over 9 months. No one manages the job. He often employs young men from his own Jewish community. They are enthusiastic but had no prior experience. The worse part is that they don't get paid. Two of them even set up a new construction business knowing Abraham will never pay them. Subcontractors can put your house on lien also. Many reviews you see on Yelp, Google, Angi are NOT genuine. Even the references are fake with hindsight, we were given 2 references. One reference shared the exact same accent as the PM. The other reference was initially happy with their work, but then reached out to us and shared a similar horror story with them like what we experienced. You will lose a lot of $$$ on materials as the subcontractors will somehow leave a thousand dollars worth of quartz at home. Maybe they want to compensate for the money Abraham owed them? Let me tell you, reordering materials is not fun."

Jaqueline R on May 2025

We Stand Behind Our Work, Quality, Brand and Commitment Located in San Jose, My Construction Group is your one source for construction needs, and quality design. Our experienced team and project managers will listen and help you focus on your goals, create an innovative design or renovate on matching your vision, and take all the worry and stress out of the process for you. Our team of professional contractors and project managers oversee and manage each project efficiently through on-site preparation, on-time scheduling, accurate budgeting and cost management. In addition, our goal is to assure quality building services while maintaining consistent client communication throughout each project. My Construction Group is a leading home remodeling company, interested in making the best and most remarkable construction in California. Please click or copy the link to see our new construction project https://youtu.be/1teqJZQhzBA

"Our experience is identical to what other reviewers shared. And yes, you should run from this company as fast as you can. Do not buy what Abraham shared that the payment must be made when the inspection is passed. Check the Business and Professions code yourself, the payment only needs to be made when the job is completed. It is very COMMON that the job is not even done or poorly performed even the inspection is passed. Here are the issues that multiple families including us run into with this company:: The project was delayed for over 9 months. No one manages the job. He often employs young men from his own Jewish community. They are enthusiastic but had no prior experience. The worse part is that they don't get paid. Two of them even set up a new construction business knowing Abraham will never pay them. Subcontractors can put your house on lien also. Many reviews you see on Yelp, Google, Angi are NOT genuine. Even the references are fake with hindsight, we were given 2 references. One reference shared the exact same accent as the PM. The other reference was initially happy with their work, but then reached out to us and shared a similar horror story with them like what we experienced. You will lose a lot of $$$ on materials as the subcontractors will somehow leave a thousand dollars worth of quartz at home. Maybe they want to compensate for the money Abraham owed them? Let me tell you, reordering materials is not fun."

Jaqueline R on May 2025

...
Showing 1-10 of 230
Plumbing questions, answered by experts

A sewer cleanout typically looks like a white or gray PVC pipe with a removable cap. It's often located either in your yard or basement, depending on your home's plumbing configuration. The cleanout pipe is designed to provide easy access to your sewer system for maintenance and inspections. It may be flush with the ground or slightly elevated, making it distinguishable from other pipes. When you remove the cap, you can access the sewer line directly or determine its direction, which can be helpful when you need to locate your sewer line from your house to the street.

There are several reasons why you might not get enough water pressure in your house. For one, you might have leaky pipes—a common cause of low water pressure—that divert water flow from the places you need it (like your faucets and showers). Blocked pipes, faulty fixtures, and closed valves are three more possible culprits. In other cases, your low water pressure might be the result of a local water supply issue.

Just as frozen pipes can cause a blocked sink that won’t drain, frozen toilet pipes can block water from flushing down the drain pipe and prevent the tank from refilling, depending on which lines are frozen. To clear a frozen drain pipe, you can fill the toilet tank or bowl with warm water and flush, allowing the water to thaw the pipe as it rushes through.

The air admittance valve, or AAV, is a spring-loaded mini-vent that sits right next to your washer. It acts in place of a standard vent stack connection, opening to let air into the drain whenever pressure builds up. It otherwise stays closed to prevent sewer gas from escaping into your home. This gives the washer’s plumbing system the air it needs when water enters or drains.

Yes, you can turn your water back on after you hire an emergency plumber and this professional completes the repairs. Your plumber probably will turn on the water for you, just to test the repairs and look for any other problems. Otherwise, if the plumber doesn’t turn it back on, it’s safe to do it yourself. Open the valve or knob slowly to prevent an unwanted rush of air from getting into your pipes.

The Oakland, CA homeowners’ guide to plumbing services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.