Frequently Asked Questions
At Royal Flush Plumbing, we know homeowners have plenty of questions before scheduling service. This FAQ page brings together answers about our service areas, plumbing solutions, pricing, company background, and financing so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
General Plumbing Services
Royal Flush Plumbing provides reliable plumbing solutions across Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood, and the greater Pierce County region. Whether you’re a homeowner or managing a small business property, our licensed and insured team is equipped to handle a wide range of needs. From everyday maintenance to urgent plumbing calls, this section answers common questions about where we work, who we serve, and how we respond when emergencies arise.
What areas do you serve in Pierce County and beyond?
We serve Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood, Kent, Federal Way, Seattle, and surrounding Pierce and King County communities.
Unsure if you're in our coverage area? Give us a call!
Do you handle both residential and commercial plumbing?
Yes. While most of our work is residential, we also support light commercial and property management needs.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State?
Yes. Our license number (ROYALFP787R1) is displayed on our site and all work is completed to state and local standards.
Do you provide emergency plumbing services?
We offer same-day service during business hours and do our best to accommodate urgent calls.
How quickly can a plumber arrive once I request service?
Most service requests can be scheduled within 24–48 hours, and often sooner for urgent needs. Please call for the most up to date availability.
Do you work with property managers or multi-unit buildings?
Yes, we regularly assist landlords, HOAs, and property managers with ongoing plumbing maintenance and repairs.
Common Plumbing Questions
Homeowners often want to know what sets us apart and how we approach common requests. This section covers best practices, the scope of our services, and how we can help with everyday plumbing needs without diagnosing individual issues online.
What types of plumbing services do you specialize in?
We cover everything from faucet and fixture installation to drain cleaning, repiping, remodel support, and water heater services. If water runs through it, we do it!
Can you help with kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects?
Yes, we coordinate with homeowners and contractors to install sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, and water lines.
Do you install water-efficient fixtures and appliances?
Absolutely. We install low-flow toilets, faucets, and other water-saving fixtures that reduce waste and utility bills.
What are the benefits of hiring a licensed plumber instead of DIY fixes?
Licensed plumbers ensure compliance with code, protect your home from costly mistakes, and provide warranty-backed work. Don't gamble on your plumbing!
Do you handle both small repairs and large projects?
Yes. From a dripping faucet to full-home repiping, we provide solutions scaled to your needs.
What makes your team the right choice for plumbing upgrades?
Our veteran-owned, family-run team brings technical expertise and a customer-first mindset to every project.
Common Drain Cleaning Questions
Blocked drains are the most common plumbing headache we see in Tacoma. To help you separate fact from fiction (and avoid damaging your pipes), here are the answers to the most frequent drain questions we receive.
Why does my kitchen sink smell like rotten eggs?
That smell is usually caused by rotting food and grease (bio-film) stuck inside your drain pipe or garbage disposal, even if water is still flowing. In some cases, it can also mean your "P-trap" has dried out or a vent pipe on the roof is clogged, pushing sewer gas back into your home. A professional drain cleaning can scrub away the odor-causing bacteria that simple rinsing can't reach.
Is "Hydro Jetting" safe for my old pipes?
Yes, when performed by a licensed professional. Before we jet, we typically perform a camera inspection to assess the condition of your pipes. Hydro Jetting is actually safer for many older pipes than mechanical snaking because it uses water pressure to clean rather than a metal cable that can scrape or puncture corroded metal. It is the most effective way to restore flow to aging sewer lines.
Can tree roots really grow inside my sewer pipes?
Absolutely. In the Pacific Northwest, root intrusion is the #1 cause of main sewer line backups. Roots from Douglas Firs and Maples seek out the moisture in your pipes, entering through tiny cracks in older clay or concrete lines. Once inside, they grow into a thick mat that catches toilet paper and waste. We use heavy-duty cutters and hydro jetting to slice through these roots and clear the line.
Why does my toilet bubble when I take a shower?
This is the classic "Gurgle Effect," and it is a major red flag. It means air is trapped in your plumbing system because water cannot exit fast enough. This almost always indicates a blockage deep in your main sewer line, not just the toilet or shower drain itself. If you hear this sound, stop using water and call a plumber immediately to prevent a sewage backup.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners (like Drano) on a clog?
We strongly advise against it. Chemical cleaners rely on caustic acid to generate heat and melt the clog. This heat can warp PVC pipes and eat through the glue or gaskets in your plumbing system. Worse, if the chemical fails to clear the clog, it leaves a pool of hazardous acid in your sink that our plumbers have to navigate safely. Mechanical cleaning is always safer and more effective.
How often should I have my drains professionally cleaned?
For most homeowners, an "as-needed" basis is fine. However, if you live in an older home with known root issues, or if you run a restaurant/commercial kitchen, we recommend a preventative maintenance schedule every 12 to 18 months. This proactive approach (usually a quick Hydro Jet) prevents emergency backups and extends the life of your sewer line.
Service & Pricing
Clear, upfront pricing matters. We want customers to understand how our estimates work, what type of pricing model we use, and which payment methods are accepted before any work begins. This section explains our approach to estimates and the payment options available to make your plumbing service smooth and predictable.
Do you provide free estimates for plumbing work?
Yes. We provide upfront estimates before beginning any service so there are no surprises.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Financing options are also available for larger projects.
Do you offer warranties on your plumbing work?
Yes. We stand behind our workmanship and materials with service guarantees.
Can I get a written estimate before work begins?
Absolutely. Written estimates are available so you have clear expectations.
Do you offer discounts for first-time or returning customers?
Yes. We provide special offers, including military discounts and first-time customer deals.
Looking for FAQs About Financing?
About Royal Flush Plumbing
As a veteran-owned, family-run company, Royal Flush Plumbing takes pride in delivering trustworthy service to our neighbors. Our motto — Don’t Gamble on Your Plumbing — reflects our promise to provide dependable, professional work every time. This section introduces our company background, values, and community ties so you know who you’re inviting into your home.
Is Royal Flush Plumbing family-owned and veteran-operated?
Yes, we are proud to be a locally owned and veteran-operated plumbing business.
How long have you been serving Pierce County?
Our team has years of experience serving Tacoma and the surrounding South Sound region. We have been helping our neighbors with their plumbing since 2022.
Do you have customer reviews or references available?
Yes. You can view testimonials on our website or request references from satisfied customers.
What makes Royal Flush different from other local plumbers?
We combine the reliability of a larger company with the personal touch of a family-owned business.
How can I schedule a service appointment with your team?
Call us directly, use our online request form, or send us an email to schedule your plumbing service.
Still Have Questions?
If your question isn’t answered here, our team is only a call or click away. Reach out to us directly to discuss your plumbing needs or request service online today. We’re committed to clear communication, reliable workmanship, and long-term solutions for your home.
