Learning to manage everything from lawn care to leaking faucets can feel overwhelming for new homeowners. One of the most common questions plumbing professionals hear today is surprisingly simple: “How do I call a plumber?”
According to Bossong Plumbing—serving Washington and parts of Allegheny counties—it’s a question they hear more often than you might think.
“Some people call and say right away, ‘I’ve never done this before,'” says owner Joe Bossong. “They’re not sure what to say or what information we need. That’s totally okay—we walk them through it.”
If you’re a first-time homeowner or just unfamiliar with the process, here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand when and how to call a plumber—and what to expect once you do.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
You don’t need to know the technical cause of the problem to make the call. That’s the plumber’s job. What matters is recognizing that something’s not working the way it should.
Some common signs it might be time to call:
- No hot water or water that’s too hot
- Persistent clogs in sinks or tubs
- Toilets that won’t flush or keep running
- Water spots or damp areas near walls or ceilings
- Unusual sounds in pipes or drains
“If you’ve got a gut feeling something isn’t right, you’re probably correct,” Bossong says. “The sooner you call, the easier—and often cheaper—it is to fix.”
What to Expect When You Call
Calling a plumber isn’t like calling tech support—you don’t need a diagnosis or special lingo. Just be ready to describe what you’re seeing.
Most plumbing companies will ask:
- What’s the problem (even a simple “my shower’s not draining” works)?
- When did you first notice it?
- Is it causing damage or spreading?
- What’s your name, address, and contact number?
After that, the plumber will let you know when someone can come out, what the service process looks like, and if there’s anything you should do in the meantime (like shutting off water).
What Happens During the Visit
The plumber will arrive on appointment day with tools and equipment ready to inspect the issue. They’ll:
- Assess what’s going on
- Explain the problem in plain terms
- Provide repair options and costs
- Complete the work once you approve
Most licensed plumbers also clean up after the job and offer tips to help prevent future problems.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If you’re unsure how something works—or why a repair is needed—ask. Good plumbers understand that not everyone has home maintenance experience and are usually happy to explain.
“We want homeowners to feel confident, not confused,” says Bossong. “There’s no such thing as a dumb question.”
Need a Plumber in Washington or Allegheny County?
Serving communities across Washington and into Allegheny County, Bossong Plumbing is the go-to for homeowners who want honest answers and reliable service—without the pressure.
To schedule a service call or ask a question:
Website: bossongplumbing.com/book-now
Call: 724-470-9674
Email: bossongplumbing@gmail.com
Facebook: Bossong Plumbing