Phone us

07415 323732

Working Hours

M - F: 08:00 to 17:00

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you may find a common questions customers ask, Select a question from the tabs to see the answers provided below each section.

General Questions

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SC Plumbing & Heating was established by Simon Cropper in September 2010.

We are a skilled team which have many years experience in the plumbing and heating industry, with up to date knowledge and skill sets.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We under take a range of works for domestic, landlord and property/estate agencies:

Gas works include:

  • Boiler installation - Natural gas & LPG
  • Boiler servicing - Natural gas & LPG
  • Fires installation - Natural gas & LPG
  • Fires servicing - Natural gas & LPG
  • Hobs & Ranges installation - Natural gas & LPG
  • Hobs & Ranges servicing - Natural gas & LPG
  • Gas safety Certificates for homeowners, landlords and property/estate agencies

Plumbing works include:

  • Unvented cylinder installation
  • Fitting or moving radiators
  • Pipework installation
  • All aspects of bathroom installation (taps, showers, baths, toilets, tiling, flooring etc)
  • Kitchen appliance installation (dishwashers, washing machines, plumbed fridge freezers etc)
  • Kitchen taps, sinks, pipework, drainage etc)
  • Domestic drainage Issues (Blockages, soil stacks & related pipe works etc)
  • Guttering and downpipe installation

See detailed information on each of the services we provide via the Services link at the top of this page.

Or for futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We are based in Oldham, Greater Manchester...

We cover the whole Northwest region on a daily basis, but we can also travel to most parts of the country depending on the scale of your project and needs.

Areas we cover on a regular basis include:

Greater Manchester:

Altrincham, Ashton-under-Lyne, Bolton, Bury Denton, Chadderton, Failsworth, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Shaw, Stockport

Lancashire:

Blackburn. Blackpool. Burnley. Chorley. Lancaster. Ormskirk. Preston.

Cheshire:

Chester, Warrington

Merseyside:

Birkenhead, Kirkby, Liverpool

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We value all of our customers, and strive to meet each customers needs on an individual basis.

Our customers range from:

  • Private domestic customers
  • Private companies
  • Contractors
  • Landlords
  • Property agents
  • Estate agencies

Yes! We are happy to do any small jobs...

From replacing taps, adding/replacing a radiator or a boiler service we will provide you with excellent service.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We cater for jobs & projects of all sizes!

No matter if you are a domestic client, a business, contractor or landlord we have the skills and ability to cover yout individual needs.

From boiler installations to full bathroom renovations your project is safe in our hands.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! Free consultations and qutoes are avaiable on most works required.

However, depending on the size and distance to the job this may not always be feasible!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can arrange a time and location to meet and discuss all you work requirements.

However, depending on the size and distance to the job this may not always be feasible!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can usually accomodate most customers time requirements, including time sensitive projects such as 1st fixes and 2nd fixes. Or if the customer is only avaiable in the evenings or weekends etc

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We are insured for public liability by Royton Insurance brokers, cover for up to 10 million.

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For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We are confident in the quality of our work.

All of our work is guaranteed for a minimum of 1 year!

if in a rare case we need to fix any works or replace any faulty product we have supplied, this will carried out by us.

However if the manufacturing defect or problem with product, that is supplied by the customer, then the customer needs to contact the supplier of the goods. We may be able to assist the customer with information in the rare chance this happens.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can do emergency call outs within a reasonable distance usually up to 20 miles.

However after 6 pm we will only do call outs within a 10 mile distance!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

This depends on the time of the call out and distance travelled, after 6 pm we usually charge up to £60 for out of hours works.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

gas-safe-faq

Yes! We are gas safe registered, with over 30+ years experience in the gas industry.

Please see our gas questions section for further gas questions enquiries, alternativley for futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We do Gas Safety Certificates and boiler servcing for landlords, estate/property agencies.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We offer a range of services suitable for landlords and property agents...

From gas safety certificates, boiler servicing, complete system install to all plumbing fixes and instalations.

More detailed information can be found in our landlord services page.

Or see our Landlords, Property Agents Questions Section for more questions and answers.

Alternatively contact us directly for more information please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We can offer a range of property renovation and maintenance works on small or large projects.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We can answer all further questions or enquiries via the Ask Your Questions form at the bottom of this page. or go to our contact page were you will find our full email address and contact number.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Gas Questions

If you hear hissing, see bubbles on a pipe or smell rotten eggs, The stronger this smell, the more likely it is that you have a gas leak!

If you smell or hear the sound of escaping gas, follow these steps:

  1. Leave the property
  2. From a safe distance call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999 or via textphone (minicom) on 0800 371 787.
  3. Do NOT go back inside your home or building until the gas engineer says it is safe.
  4. Keep others away from the area.
  5. Call us, once the engineers have fixed or isolated the gas leak we can repair or replace any appliances that may have caused the issue!
    07415 323732

If you dont have any of the above obovious signs and still suspect a small gas leak, our engineers would be happy to assist you in checking pipework and appliances for possible issues.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

gas-safe-faq

Yes! We are gas safe registered, with over 30+ years experience in the gas industry.

Please see our gas questions section for further gas questions enquiries, alternativley for futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

If your boiler breaks down, you can try these steps:

Turn off the boiler

Usually a button knob on the boiler or the fuse spur switch the boiler is plugged or wired into...

Contact us

A Gas Safe engineer is the only person who can safely repair your boiler. You can contact us toarrange an appointment. You'll need to provide the make and model of your boiler, as well as any error codes you've found.

Check your insurance

If your boiler is covered by insurance, contact your policyholder to arrange an appointment with an engineer.

Check your warranty

If your boiler is still under warranty, you can make a claim with the manufacturer.

Contact your landlord

If you don't own the property, contact your landlord or estate agent as soon as possible. They may have a preferred engineer or technician to send out.

Keep your home warm

While you wait for your boiler to be repaired, you can use alternative heating methods like an open fire, gas fire, or space heaters. You can also use electric blankets, hot water bottles, and heated wheat bags.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We do Gas Safety Certificates and boiler servcing for landlords, estate/property agencies.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! An annual boiler service is an important yearly examination of your boiler by a Gas Safe Registered engineer who will inspect, test and clean various parts of your boiler.

This guarantees the safe running of the appliance for future use until the next service is due.

For full details see our boiler service page.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please dont hesitate to contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Gas works include:

  • Boiler installation - Natural gas & LPG
  • Boiler servicing - Natural gas & LPG
  • Fires installation - Natural gas & LPG
  • Fires servicing - Natural gas & LPG
  • Hobs & Ranges installation - Natural gas & LPG
  • Hobs & Ranges servicing - Natural gas & LPG
  • Gas safety Certificates for homeowners, landlords and property/estate agencies

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

The time it takes to replace a boiler can vary depending on several factors, including:

Type of work

A simple boiler swap can take 4–8 hours, but changing the type of boiler or moving it can take 1–4 days.

Boiler type

Replacing a boiler with a similar type is quicker than replacing it with a different type, like switching from a conventional boiler to a combi boiler.

Boiler location

Moving a boiler can add half a day to the installation time. The further away the boiler is moved, the more complicated the job and the longer it will take.

Gas safety regulations

Gas Safe legislation requires the gas supply pipe to be 22mm thick, so older systems may need to be upgraded, which can add half a day to the installation.

Flue pipe distance

The distance of the boiler's flue pipe from doors and windows can affect the installation time.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We are an independant company, we have no ties to any particulart manufacturer, meaning we can match the right boiler to the right job, meeting customers needs exactly!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! Two years, but the length can vary depending on the manufacturer, model, and installation:

Standard warranty

Most boilers come with a standard warranty of 1–5 years.

Extended warranty

Many manufacturers offer extended warranties that can last up to 12 years. These can be purchased for an additional cost or by meeting certain installation and maintenance standards.

Premium warranties

Some manufacturers, like Worcester Bosch, Baxi, Vaillant, Ideal, and Viessmann, offer 10-year warranties or guarantees on their premium boiler models.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A combi boiler, or combination boiler, is a single unit that provides both hot water and central heating for a home. Combi boilers are the most common type of boiler and are often installed in homes because they are compact, efficient, and cost-effective.

Here are some things to know about combi boilers:

Space-saving

Combi boilers don't need a hot water cylinder or cold water storage tank, so they can fit in small spaces like kitchen cupboards or airing cupboards.

Energy efficient

Combi boilers are highly efficient and can save money on bills because they only heat water when it's needed.

Instant hot water

Combi boilers heat water on demand, so you don't have to wait for a tank to heat up.

Disadvantages

Combi boilers may not be suitable for homes with multiple bathrooms or large families because they can only support one shower or bath at a time. They also can't support power showers, and they may not be compatible with solar water heating systems.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A heat-only gas boiler, also known as a conventional or regular boiler, is a central heating system that supplies hot water and heat to a home. They are a popular choice for large homes and businesses that require a constant supply of hot water to multiple outlets.

Here are some things to know about heat-only boilers:

How they work

Heat-only boilers work by heating water in the system and storing it in a hot water cylinder. When hot water is needed, it is drawn from the cylinder and supplied to taps and showerheads.

How they are installed

Heat-only boilers are often installed with a feed and expansion tank in the loft and a cold water storage tank.

Open vent or sealed systems

Heat-only boilers can work on either an open vent or sealed system. An open vent system has a feed and expansion tank that releases excess pressure from water expansion. A sealed system has an expansion vessel instead, which may be located inside the boiler.

Size

The size of heat-only boiler needed depends on the size of the property and its insulation level.

Space

Heat-only boilers require space in the home for the boiler itself, as well as the tanks.

Before buying a new boiler, it is recommended to speak to our boiler expert.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A system boiler is a type of boiler that provides hot water and central heating to a home by heating water from the mains and storing it in a cylinder. System boilers are often used in larger homes with multiple bathrooms or families of four or more.

Here are some things to know about system boilers:

How they work

System boilers are similar to conventional boilers, but they take in water directly from the mains instead of a separate tank. The water is then pumped around the radiators and the hot water cylinder.

Advantages

System boilers have several advantages, including:

Easy installation: System boilers are quicker and easier to install than regular boilers.

Economical: System boilers have lower running costs than some other types.

Compatible with solar energy: Solar panels can be used in conjunction with system boilers.

Consistent water pressure: System boilers maintain a steady water pressure.

How to identify a system boiler

A system boiler has a hot water cylinder but no external pump or cold water storage tank.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A back boiler is a type of boiler that was commonly used in the UK in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s to provide hot water and central heating. It was installed behind a fireplace or gas fire and used the heat generated to produce hot water.

Back boilers are now considered outdated and inefficient, and have been illegal to install in new homes in the UK since 2005. However, it is not illegal to have a back boiler that is already installed in a home.

Some reasons why back boilers are considered outdated and inefficient include:

Efficiency

Back boilers are typically only about 70% efficient, while modern boilers can be up to 98% efficient.

Safety

Back boilers can be dangerous, especially as they age.

Ventilation

Back boilers require open-flued ventilation, which can lead to the accumulation of harmful gases like carbon monoxide.

Remodeling

Back boilers rely on chimney flues for ventilation, which can limit renovation possibilities.

When it comes time to replace a back boiler, it is important to consider alternative boiler solutions.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A flue is a pipe, duct, or opening that carries exhaust gases from a boiler, fireplace, water heater. Flues are also known as vents for boilers and breeching for furnaces and water heaters.

Flues can be made from a variety of materials, such as ceramic, aluminum, or stainless steel, and can be either rigid or flexible. There are two main types of flues used in gas appliances: balanced and conventional.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We can answer all further questions or enquiries via the Ask Your Questions form at the bottom of this page. or go to our contact page were you will find our full email address and contact number.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Heating System Questions

We can fit most above floor wet types of heating systems such as:

  • Pressurised systems
  • Combi boiler systems
  • Conventional heating systems (only used in rare occasions now)

Installing a new heating system can take between one and five days, depending on a number of factors:

Size of the home:

Larger properties may require more equipment and work, which can increase the installation time.

Number of radiators:

The number of radiators in the home can affect the installation time.

Number of heating engineers:

The number of engineers sent to do the job can affect the installation time.

Type of boiler:

The type of boiler being installed can affect the installation time.

Position of the boiler: If the boiler is being moved, this can add to the installation time.

Fuel type:

Changing the fuel type of the boiler can take longer if it involves extensive electrical and plumbing work.

Installing a new central heating system can cause some disruption to your life for a few days, such as carpets being lifted and surfaces getting messy.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes, you can usually use your existing radiators and pipework when installing a new boiler, as long as they are in good condition and compatible with the new boiler. However, there are some things to consider:

Radiator condition

If your radiators are old, inefficient, or corroded, they could affect the efficiency of your new boiler.

Pipework

If you're replacing a non-combi boiler, you may need to adjust your pipework to fit the new system.

Boiler type

The type of boiler you choose will affect the plumbing and electrics required. For example, a system boiler needs a cylinder to hold water, while a heat only boiler needs a cold-water tank and an expansion tank.

Installation

The installation process and cost depends on the boiler type, existing pipework, and location. If the new boiler can be installed in the same place as the old one, the installation process will be straightforward.

Flush

We may have to flush your heating system while installing the new boiler to clear out sludge and debris.

Our Gas Safe engineer can assess your home to determine the appropriate boiler system and provide an accurate quote.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A conventional heating system is a central heating system that uses a boiler to heat water and provide hot water and heat to a home:

Boiler

A conventional boiler, also known as a regular or heat-only boiler, is a large, powerful system that heats water from a cold water tank in the loft using a heat exchanger. The heated water is then stored in a hot water cylinder and can be pumped through the central heating system or directly to taps.

Tanks

A conventional boiler system typically has three tanks: a cold-water cistern, a feed and expansion cistern, and a hot water storage cylinder. The cold-water cistern is usually located in the loft, and the feed and expansion cistern is typically located next to it.

Pipes

A conventional boiler system has a complex network of pipes that connect all of its parts.

Controls

A conventional boiler system has a pump, a programmer, and a room thermostat. The programmer allows the user to control the heating and hot water separately.

Conventional boilers are a good option for larger homes that have a high demand for hot water, low water pressure, or old radiator systems. They are also a cost-effective option if a property already has an older heating and hot water system. However, they require a lot of space and can be expensive to run.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A pressurised heating system uses mains pressure to move water around a home, typically through a water cylinder. This type of system can provide hot water to multiple taps at once, and has several advantages over conventional systems, including:

Space saving: Pressurised systems can save space compared to conventional systems.

Low maintenance: Pressurised systems can have low maintenance costs.

Reduced wastage: Pressurised systems can reduce wastage.

Here are some other things to know about pressurized heating systems:

Water cylinder

The water cylinder in a pressurised system can be located on the ground floor.

Types of systems

There are two main types of pressurised water tank systems in the UK: unvented cylinders and thermal store cylinder systems.

Pressure gauge

The pressure gauge should read between 0.8 and 1.8 bar when the system is cold.

Bleeding radiators

To bleed a radiator, you'll need a bleed key and an absorbent cloth or tissue.

Sealed systems

Sealed systems use a pressure/expansion vessel to keep the system working at optimum pressures.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A fully pumped system is a modern central heating system that uses a pump to circulate heated water throughout the system. This type of system offers a number of advantages, including:

Better control

Fully pumped systems can be controlled with a cylinder thermostat, room thermostat, and programmer. This allows for more control over the distribution of heat, as well as when and at what temperature it is supplied.

Faster heat-up times

Fully pumped systems heat up much quicker than other systems, which can make them more economical to run.

Boiler position

The boiler no longer needs to be lower than the cylinder.

Backup hot water

If a fully pumped system has a remote hot water cylinder, an electric immersion heater can be used as a backup in case of a fault.

One type of fully pumped system is the upgraded gravity-fed system, where the central heating is fully pumped but the hot water remains gravity-fed. This allows for separate controls for the central heating and hot water, unlike standard gravity-fed systems.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A gravity fed system is a water system that uses gravity to move water through a home's pipes. It's a common type of water system in the UK, especially in older homes.

Here's how a gravity fed system works:

  • Water from the mains supply enters the property and is split into two pipes.
  • One pipe carries water to the cold tap in the kitchen, while the other fills a large cold water storage tank, usually located in the loft.
  • When a tap is opened, water from the tank flows through the pipes to the tap.
  • When a hot water tap is opened, water from the cold water tank flows into the hot water cylinder, which is usually located in an airing cupboard.
  • The water in the hot water cylinder is then heated and forced out through the tap.

Gravity fed systems are often referred to as low pressure systems because gravity is the only force pushing water through the pipes. The pressure in the system is determined by the height of the cold water tank above the tap. For example, every 10 meters of elevation in the tank provides about 1 bar of water pressure. This means that taps on the ground floor may have more pressure than taps higher up.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! Two years, but the length can vary depending on the manufacturer, model, and installation:

Standard warranty

Most boilers come with a standard warranty of 1–5 years.

Extended warranty

Many manufacturers offer extended warranties that can last up to 12 years. These can be purchased for an additional cost or by meeting certain installation and maintenance standards.

Premium warranties

Some manufacturers, like Worcester Bosch, Baxi, Vaillant, Ideal, and Viessmann, offer 10-year warranties or guarantees on their premium boiler models.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Boiler controls, also known as central heating controls, are a range of devices and settings that help manage a heating system's temperature and timing. They can include:

Thermostats:

Allow users to set the desired temperature

Timers: Schedule when the heating system should turn on and off

Programmers:

Offer more control over the heating system, allowing users to set different temperature levels and schedules

Smart thermostats:

Can connect to the internet and be controlled remotely, and may include features such as learning algorithms to automatically adjust the temperature

Boiler controls can help save energy and money by optimizing heating efficiency. Some features to look out for include:

Frost protection

Holiday mode

24 hour or 7 day mode

Weather compensation: Automatically adjusts the temperature of the hot water going to radiators based on the outside temperature

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

When choosing a boiler for your home, you can consider things like:

Hot water demand

How much hot water you and your family use. Large families or households with multiple bathrooms may need a system boiler, while smaller households may be better off with a combi boiler.

Property size

The size of your property and how much space is available. Combi boilers don't need hot water cylinders, so they take up less space.

Energy efficiency

The boiler's energy efficiency, with A-rated condensing boilers recommended.

Fuel type

The current fuel type and availability.

Compatibility

Whether the boiler is compatible with solar water heating or if it's heat pump ready.

Aftercare

The boiler brand's aftercare, including online support, maintenance plans, and repair value.

The most common type of boiler in UK homes is a condensing gas boiler, with combi/combination boilers being the most popular.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

When choosing a heating system for your home, you can consider things like:

Efficiency

More efficient systems can have lower running costs, even if they cost more initially. ENERGY STAR-certified systems are a good option for efficiency and quality.

Size and insulation

The size of your home and how well it's insulated can help you determine the right heating system.

Fuel type

Whether you want to use gas, oil, or a renewable energy source.

Cost

Electric heating systems can range in price, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping.

Lifestyle

If you're often away from home, you might want a system that can be programmed to turn on and off automatically.

Location

Different types of central heating systems are better suited for different roles or locations.

Sustainability

If you want to reduce your dependence on fossil fuels, you might want to consider a renewable heating system.

You can also use the HACKS calculator from the Energy Saving Trust to review your home's current energy setup and find solutions to make it more energy efficient.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A condensate pipe is a pipe that carries acidic wastewater, or condensate, away from a boiler and into a drainage system or soakaway outside a home.

Condensate pipes are necessary because modern gas boilers recycle heat from waste gases, which results in the formation of condensate. This process is different from older boilers that only extracted heat from burning gases.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A hot water cylinder, also known as a hot water storage tank or immersion tank, is a large, insulated tank that stores hot water for use in a household.

Here are some things to know about hot water cylinders:

How they work

A boiler or other heat source heats the water in the cylinder, which is then stored at a high temperature. When a tap, shower, or bath is turned on, the hot water is mixed with cold water at the outlet to a safer temperature.

Types

There are two main types of hot water cylinders in the UK: vented and unvented. Vented cylinders are traditional copper cylinders that are gravity fed from a cold water tank. Unvented cylinders are considered more modern and are now fairly standard in new-build homes.

Benefits

Hot water cylinders can help lower energy bills by reducing the need to constantly run the heating system. They are also ideal for properties with two or more bathrooms where the demand for hot water is greater than a combination boiler can provide.

Factors to consider

The right hot water cylinder for your home depends on how much hot water you need, how quickly you need it, and how many bathrooms you have. It also depends on the type of boiler installed on your property.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We are an independant company, we have no ties to any particulart manufacturer, meaning we can match the right boiler to the right job, meeting customers needs exactly!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We are confident in the quality of our work.

All of our work is guaranteed for a minimum of 1 year!

if in a rare case we need to fix any works or replace any faulty product we have supplied, this will carried out by us.

However if the manufacturing defect or problem with product, that is supplied by the customer, then the customer needs to contact the supplier of the goods. We may be able to assist the customer with information in the rare chance this happens.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We can answer all further questions or enquiries via the Ask Your Questions form at the bottom of this page. or go to our contact page were you will find our full email address and contact number.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Plumbing Questions

A stopcock, also known as a stop valve or stop tap, is a valve that controls the cold water supply in your home. You can usually find your stopcock in one of the following locations:

  • Inside your home: Typically found under the kitchen sink, but it may also be in an airing cupboard, under the stairs, in a bathroom, or in a garage or cellar.
  • Outside your home: Usually located in the public footpath, driveway, garden, or grass verge.
  • Shared water supply: If you share a water supply with your neighbors, you may have a communal stop valve located where the water supply enters the building.

If you can't find your stopcock, you can try asking your neighbor where theirs is, especially if your properties were built around the same time. You can also contact your local water supplier.

When turning the stopcock, turn it slowly clockwise to close and anti-clockwise to open. Forcing the stopcock can damage it.

Can't shut off your stop valve, is it dripping or seized? Call our plumbing engineer today to fix ASAP

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can arrange a time and location to meet and discuss all you work requirements.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We fit all bathroom appiances all the way up to full bathroom installations and renovations, including rip out, fitting and tiling works!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We are confident in the quality of our work.

All of our work is guaranteed for a minimum of 1 year!

if in a rare case we need to fix any works or replace any faulty product we have supplied, this will carried out by us.

However if the manufacturing defect or problem with product, that is supplied by the customer, then the customer needs to contact the supplier of the goods. We may be able to assist the customer with information in the rare chance this happens.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! There are many types of showers available, we can fit:

Electric showers

These are common in homes and work similarly to a kettle, using a heating element instead of hot water from a boiler.

Mixer showers

These are the most common type of shower in the and mix hot and cold water from the hot water tank and the loft tank to create the desired temperature.

Digital showers

These are a type of smart shower with a thermostat in the shower valve and a control panel in another part of the bathroom. They combine hot and cold water to create a pre-set temperature.

Eco showers

These limit the flow of water while maintaining the temperature, and can reduce the amount of water used by up to 50%

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Installing an electric shower can be as quick as 2 hours but it may take around a day if new wiring is required. The plumbing is relatively straightforward because an electric shower only needs a cold water supply.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

The time it takes to fit a shower can vary depending on the type of shower and the work that needs to be done:

Shower tray

Installing a new shower tray can take around eight hours, including replacing the shower unit, tiling, and switching.

Walk-in shower

Fitting a walk-in shower can take three to four days, but it can be done in a day if the existing shower is being replaced and all the plumbing and electrics are already in place.

Power shower

Installing a power shower from scratch or replacing a different type of shower can take no more than a day. If the shower is replacing another power shower and the wiring and pipework are already in place, it can take a couple of hours.

Tile and tray shower

Installing a traditional tile and tray shower can take up to four working days. This includes the time it takes to install the tiles, which can take three to seven hours, and the time it takes for the mortar and grout to set, which can take 24–48 hours.

Custom design

A custom design shower can take a few days to a few weeks to prepare.

Other factors that can affect the time it takes to fit a shower include: The size of the bathroom, and whether materials need to be sourced or imported.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can replace and fit new taps in your bathroom, kitchen, utility and garden.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Your water bill may be high due to leaks,

If you have a leaking tap, toilet, or pipe, your water usage will increase.

Contact our engineers today to check and replace any leaking appliances you may have.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

There are a number of reasons why pipes might bang, including:

High water pressure

When water pressure is too high, pipes can shake and make a knocking sound. This is most noticeable when water is running.

Blockages and sludge build up

Wear and tear in pipes can cause debris to build up, which can slow down draining water and create sludge. This sludge can circulate through the pipes and cause water hammering.

Faulty valves

A misfiring valve can quickly shut off the flow of water, which can cause banging sounds.

Clogged air chambers

Air trapped in the pipes, also known as airlocks, can create a loud banging, knocking, or clunking sound.

Loose fittings

Loose pipes can sway and rattle, which can cause them to hit walls and objects, creating loud banging sounds.

Poorly insulated pipes

If steam pipes aren't fully insulated, steam can condense along the sides, causing a banging or hammering sound.

Solenoid valves

When these electrically operated valves close the water instantly, it can shock the pipes and cause water hammering.

Water hammer arrestors

These can help with water hammer when appliances like washers or ice makers are in use.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Water can leak through a ceiling light fixture for a number of reasons, including:

Plumbing leak

A leaky pipe above the light fixture can cause water to drip down onto it.

Condensation

If a light fixture isn't properly ventilated, condensation can form on the inside, which can eventually lead to water leaks.

Roof leak

Water can enter through a damaged or poorly sealed roof and make its way down to the light fixture. This can happen after heavy rain or a storm.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A sink may drain slowly for a number of reasons, including:

Buildup of debris

Hair, soap scum, grease, and other debris can build up in the pipes and slow down drainage.

Food waste

Food waste can build up in the pipes over time, narrowing the pipe and slowing down the flow.

P-trap issues

Grease, food, and other debris can get stuck in the P-trap, which is the elbow-shaped pipe under the sink.

Poor installation

Poorly installed plumbing or piping can cause a sink to drain slowly.

Blocked drains

Heavy rainfall or storms can cause blocked drains, even if there are no obvious blockages in the pipes.

If you are unsucessful in unblocking your sinks or bathroom basins, call our engineer today to fix ASAP

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Toilets can get blocked for a number of reasons, including:

  • Material build-up: This can be caused by flushing too much toilet paper, or flushing items that shouldn't be flushed, such as wet wipes, paper towels, or sanitary products.
  • Limescale: This can build up over time.
  • Small items: Children's toys, deodorant blocks, bottles, and sanitary products can drop into the toilet and cause a blockage.
  • Plumbing issues: A blocked plumbing vent or backed up main sewer line can cause more serious blockages.
  • Tree roots: Tree roots can infiltrate the sewer line.

To prevent blockages, you can: Keep items away from the toilet, Avoid flushing sanitary products and wipes, Regularly clean the bowl and surrounding area, and Keep your toilet lid shut.

If you are unsucessful in unblocking your toilet, call our engineer today to fix ASAP

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A toilet may keep running for a number of reasons, including:

Flapper

The flapper may be damaged, stuck in the open position, or not sealing correctly. You can check for damage by lifting the tank lid and looking for cracks. If you don't see any cracks, you can add food coloring to the tank to see if it appears in the bowl. You can also try adjusting the flapper chain length. If the flapper is damaged, you may need to replace it.

Fill valve

The fill valve may be faulty.

Inlet valve

The inlet valve may have a faulty seal. You can try cleaning the seal with descaling fluid or vinegar.

Overflow tube

The refill tube may be too long or not positioned correctly in the overflow tube. This can cause water to build up and overflow into the bowl.

Water level

The water level in the toilet may be too high, causing residual water to drain into the overflow tube.

In all instances this wastes water and increases water bills, call our engineer today to fix this ASAP.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

A toilet that backs up into a shower or bathtub is usually caused by a blockage in the sewer line. This could be due to a number of reasons, including:

Tree roots: When trees need water, they can penetrate weak or leaky pipes.

Clogged objects: Items flushed down the toilet, such as toys, feminine hygiene products, food, paper towels, and baby wipes, can build up and cause a clog.

Hair: Hair from showering can build up in the drain.

Pipe scale: A mineral deposit that can build up in pipes, usually made of calcium or magnesium.

Grease: Grease, fat, and oil can build up in drainage systems.

Blocked vent pipe: If the vent pipe is blocked, air can't pass through it and can come up through the toilet drain, causing it to bubble

If you're experiencing a toilet or shower backup, you can try using a drain snake to unclog the drain line. However, if this doesn't work, you can call our plumbing engineers today to fix this ASAP

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

There are a few reasons why your taps might be dripping, including:

Worn-out rubber seal: A worn-out rubber seal inside the tap is a common cause of dripping taps.

O-ring problems: If the small rubber tube under the faucet handle is loose or torn, water can drip from beneath the handle.

High water pressure: If the water pressure in your home is too high, it can cause water to drip from your taps.

Damaged or loose washer: A dripping tap is usually caused by a damaged, loose, or stiff washer.

Corroded valve seat: The valve seat at the bottom of the faucet's mechanism can corrode over time, causing water to drip around the handle.

Limescale buildup: Rubber seals can build up limescale over time, causing them to become loose and leaky.

To fix a dripping tap, you can try replacing the washer or seal. You can also check the tap seat by running your finger inside the tap to see where the leak is coming from.

If the dripping tap becomes serious, you can turn off the water supply using the stop tap.

Need tap replacing? Call our plumbing engineer today to fix ASAP

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We can answer all further questions or enquiries via the Ask Your Questions form at the bottom of this page. or go to our contact page were you will find our full email address and contact number.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Landlords, Property Agents Questions

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Yes! We are gas safe registered, with over 30+ years experience in the gas industry.

Please see our gas questions section for further gas questions enquiries, alternativley for futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We do Gas Safety Certificates and boiler servcing for landlords, estate/property agencies.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We offer a range of services suitable for landlords and property agents...

From gas safety certificates, boiler servicing, complete system install to all plumbing fixes and instalations.

More detailed information can be found on the services > landlord services link at the top of the page.

Alternatively contact us directly for more information please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can do all your plumbing, gas services and occasional maintenance works.

See our services section links at the top of the page for more detailed information on the complete range of services we can provide you with.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We are based in Oldham, Greater Manchester...

We cover the whole Northwest region on a daily basis, but we can also travel to most parts of the country depending on the scale of your project and needs.

Areas we cover on a regular basis include:

Greater Manchester:

Altrincham, Ashton-under-Lyne, Bolton, Bury Denton, Chadderton, Failsworth, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Shaw, Stockport

Lancashire:

Blackburn. Blackpool. Burnley. Chorley. Lancaster. Ormskirk. Preston.

Cheshire:

Chester, Warrington

Merseyside:

Birkenhead, Kirkby, Liverpool

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! Free consultations and qutoes are avaiable on most works required.

However, depending on the size and distance to the job this may not always be feasible!

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We can usually accomodate most customers time requirements, including time sensitive projects such as 1st fixes and 2nd fixes. Or if the customer is only avaiable in the evenings or weekends etc

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Landlords, Property Agents Questions

Yes! We are happy to do any small jobs...

From replacing taps, adding/replacing a radiator or a boiler service we will provide you with excellent service.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We are confident in the quality of our work.

All of our work is guaranteed for a minimum of 1 year!

if in a rare case we need to fix any works or replace any faulty product we have supplied, this will carried out by us.

However if the manufacturing defect or problem with product, that is supplied by the customer, then the customer needs to contact the supplier of the goods. We may be able to assist the customer with information in the rare chance this happens.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

Yes! We are insured for public liability by Royton Insurance brokers, cover for up to 10 million.

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For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

If we are on location doing our main jobs we can also do other small maintenance jobs and repairs to properties whilst we are already there, for more details contact us voa email or phone.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

We can answer all further questions or enquiries via the Ask Your Questions form at the bottom of this page. or go to our contact page were you will find our full email address and contact number.

For futher information, or to book an appointment please contact us online HERE or call us on: 07415 323732

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Ask Your Questions

Can't find an answer to yout question? Fill out the form below and we will get back to you ASAP! We are here to help!

Want to make a works enquiry and/or book an appointment? please click to go to our contact page HERE

In a hurry? Speak to a real person about any questions, enquiries and appointments, call us directly for a quicker answer: 07415 323732

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Established in 2010, Simon and his team of colleagues have over 30+ years of experience in the plumbing and heating industry.

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Phone us

07415 323732

Address

Oldham, Greater Manchester