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San Francisco Plumbing Services

San Francisco
Plumbing & Heating Services

Expert plumbing, radiant heating, and boiler services throughout San Francisco. We understand the city's unique challenges: high water pressure, tight Victorian layouts and strict building codes.

What Makes SF Plumbing Unique

The Pressure Problem

The city is constantly working on streets and pipes. When they do, water pressure in your neighborhood can change dramatically without warning.

These updates often happen without warning. You might not know your water pressure has spiked until you start seeing leaks or dripping faucets.

Ideal water pressure: 65 PSI
Maximum safe pressure: 80 PSI (anything higher needs a pressure reducing valve)
What we often see in SF: 130-140 PSI

Why High Pressure is a Risk:

  • It pushes your fixtures to their limit, even if they are rated for higher pressure.
  • It wears out gaskets and seals much faster, leading to drips and leaks.
  • Many appliances (like water filters) have strict pressure limits to avoid damage.
  • Overall, high pressure shortens the life of your entire plumbing system.

Because San Francisco is so hilly, water pressure can vary wildly from one street to the next. Gravity adds pressure, so homes at the bottom of a hill often face higher pressure than those at the top.

Constant Infrastructure Work

Construction is a constant in SF. Whether it's sewer, electrical, or water lines, this work can affect the water service entering your home. We test pressure on every single service call to catch changes before they cause damage.

Space Constraints

San Francisco homes often have limited space. That's why tankless water heaters are so popular here. We are experts at working in compact mechanical rooms, tight crawl spaces, and the unique layouts of Victorian flats.

How We Serve San Francisco Differently

Pressure Testing on Every Call

Most plumbers only check pressure if there's a clear problem. We check it on every visit. This simple step can save you thousands in future repairs.

  • Is your pressure above the safe limit of 80 PSI?
  • Do you have a "closed system" that needs expansion protection?
  • Are there signs of stress on your pipes?

SF Code Compliance

San Francisco has strict plumbing codes for major work. We handle all the permits and inspections, ensuring your project is safe and legal.

  • Earthquake shutoff valves for gas lines
  • Seismic strapping for water heaters
  • Proper venting for tight spaces

Understanding Thermal Expansion

When water heats up, it expands. In many homes, this extra water can push back into the city main. But if your home has a "check valve" (a one-way valve), that extra water is trapped inside your pipes.

This trapped pressure stresses your plumbing system. It's like over-inflating a balloon. Eventually, something has to give.

Common Signs of this Issue:

  • • Fluctuating hot water temperatures in the shower
  • • Faucets that drip or leak frequently
  • • Appliances failing sooner than expected

Complete Services in San Francisco

Boiler Services

Perfect for SF homes with radiant heating systems or high hot water demand.

  • • High-efficiency installations
  • • Emergency repair service
  • • Annual maintenance
  • • All brands serviced
Learn more →

Radiant Heating

Popular in Sunset District ADUs, garage conversions, and new construction.

  • • ADU installations
  • • Above-garage additions
  • • Remodel integration
  • • Service & repair
Learn more →

Water Heaters

Tankless is popular in SF for space savings. Same-day installation available.

  • • Storage tank, tankless, heat pump
  • • 24/7 emergency repair
  • • Proper sizing for your needs
  • • Space-saving solutions
Learn more →

System Evaluation & Testing

  • Water pressure testing (on every call)
  • Check valve inspection
  • Thermal expansion evaluation
  • Visual system inspection
  • Sewer lateral camera inspection
  • Leak detection device installation

Serving All San Francisco Neighborhoods

We know the city, the building types, and the unique challenges of each area.

Sunset District
Richmond District
Marina District
Russian Hill
Pacific Heights
Noe Valley
Mission District
Castro
SOMA
Haight-Ashbury
Potrero Hill
...and all others

Plumbing Tips for San Francisco Homeowners

Check Your Pressure Regularly

This is especially important if you've recently moved in or haven't checked it in a few years. City infrastructure updates can change your pressure levels without you knowing. Catching high pressure early prevents expensive leaks later.

Maximize Your Space

When replacing a water heater or boiler, consider how much space you're using. Tankless water heaters and "combi" boilers (which handle both heating and hot water) are excellent for freeing up room in SF homes.

Respect Older Plumbing

Victorian homes and historic buildings often have old, fragile pipes. We have years of experience working with these delicate systems to make repairs without causing new damage.

Planning an ADU?

If you're building an In-Law unit or converting a garage (especially in the Sunset), consider radiant floor heating. It's efficient, saves space, and is much easier to install during the initial build.

Why Choose Us in San Francisco

Local Expertise

With over 20 years in the city, we know the neighborhoods, the codes, and the specific challenges SF homes face.

Preventative Testing

We test pressure on every call. While others wait for a pipe to burst, we look for the root cause to prevent accidents before they happen.

Clear Communication

We explain exactly what you need and why. No confusing jargon, just honest advice.

Reliable Service

We know city logistics can be tough. We plan ahead to ensure we arrive on time and complete your repair or installation efficiently.

Need a Plumber in San Francisco?

We'll test your water pressure, assess your plumbing needs, and provide clear, practical solutions. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Serving All San Francisco Neighborhoods • Licensed & Insured • 20+ Years Experience