What’s in Your Water, San Francisco?

San Francisco is known for its culture, food, and innovation — but what about its water? At Garcia Plumbing Company, we’ve launched professional in-home water testing to help homeowners understand exactly what’s coming out of their taps. This blog breaks down the most common contaminants found in SF homes and how they can affect your health, plumbing, and peace of mind.

Why Water Testing Matters

Most people assume their tap water is clean. While San Francisco’s municipal water is generally considered safe, that doesn’t account for what happens to it on the way to your faucet. Aging pipes, copper corrosion, chlorination, and plumbing fixtures can all alter your water quality — and sometimes, the effects are invisible.

Common Water Contaminants in San Francisco

1. Chlorine

Chlorine is used by local municipalities to disinfect water. While effective for killing bacteria, high chlorine levels can lead to dry skin, an unpleasant taste or smell, and even respiratory irritation when showering.

2. Chloramine

Chloramine is a combination of chlorine and ammonia — a more stable disinfectant used by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). However, it’s harder to filter out and may affect kidney patients, fish tanks, and those with sensitive skin.

3. Lead

Lead is one of the most dangerous water contaminants and often enters through old pipes and solder joints. Even low levels can affect children’s brain development and increase risks for adults with heart or kidney issues. There is no safe level of lead in drinking water.

4. Copper

Common in older homes with copper plumbing, elevated copper levels can cause gastrointestinal distress and, over time, damage the liver or kidneys.

5. Hardness (Calcium & Magnesium)

Water hardness refers to the amount of dissolved minerals. While not harmful to health, it causes scale buildup in appliances and pipes, reduces soap effectiveness, and can leave your hair and skin feeling dry.

6. Iron

Iron in water isn’t usually a health threat but can cause rust-colored stains on sinks and tubs, metallic taste, and clogging in appliances like dishwashers or washing machines.

7. pH Imbalance

Water that is too acidic or too alkaline can corrode pipes, leach metals, and create instability in plumbing systems. Ideal drinking water pH is between 6.5 and 8.5.

8. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

TDS measures everything dissolved in your water — minerals, salts, metals, and more. High TDS may mean your water carries excess contaminants or has a flat, unpleasant taste.

How Water Contaminants Affect Your Health

Here’s how some of these contaminants can directly affect your body:

• Chlorine & Chloramine: Dry skin, rashes, eye irritation, respiratory discomfort.

• Lead: Developmental delays, high blood pressure, kidney problems.

• Copper: Stomach cramps, nausea, long-term organ damage.

• Hardness: Skin irritation, brittle hair, reduced water heater efficiency.

What You Can Do About It

The first step is knowledge. Garcia Plumbing now offers professional-grade water testing for $300 — but we’re currently offering it free with any plumbing service call. After testing, we’ll walk you through your results and recommend the best filtration solution for your home and budget.

Filtration System Options We Offer

• Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Systems:</strong> Great for drinking water, removes lead, chlorine, TDS, and more.

• Whole Home Systems: Filters water throughout your house, reducing chlorine, chloramine, sediment, and heavy metals.

• Combo Solutions: Whole home + POU for maximum protection and taste.

Schedule Your Water Test Today

Water quality matters — not just for taste, but for your health and home. Call us today at (415) 333-1737 or visit garciaplumbingcompany.com to book your plumbing service and receive a free water test. We're proud to serve San Francisco and surrounding communities with clean water solutions that work.

How to Clean a Clogged Faucet or Showerhead (And When to Call a Plumber)

If your showerhead sprays unevenly or your faucet water pressure seems low, you’re probably dealing with mineral buildup.
Luckily, cleaning a clogged faucet or showerhead is easier than you think — and can save you money on plumbing repairs!

In this post, the experts at Garcia Plumbing Company explain how to clean your faucets and showerheads, how to prevent future problems, and when it’s time to call a professional plumber for service.

Why Do Faucets and Showerheads Get Clogged?

Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water build up inside your fixtures.
This mineral buildup can clog the small nozzles and aerators that control water flow.

• Weak or uneven water pressure

• Water spraying in strange directions

• Dripping even after turning off the handle

• Higher water bills due to slow leaks

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t rush to replace the fixture!
First, try this simple DIY cleaning method.

How to Clean Your Showerhead or Faucet Without Removing It

You’ll need:

• White vinegar

• Plastic sandwich bag

• Rubber band

• Old toothbrush

Step-by-Step:

1. Fill the plastic bag halfway with white vinegar.  
2. Place the bag over the showerhead or faucet spout so it's fully submerged in vinegar.  
3. Secure the bag with a rubber band.  
4. Let it soak for 2 to 4 hours (overnight if heavy buildup).  
5. Remove the bag and scrub the fixture gently with a toothbrush.  
6. Rinse with warm water and test water flow.

Pro Tip: For faucet aerators, unscrew them by hand, soak in vinegar separately, scrub, and reinstall.

In most cases, this will restore full water pressure and fix clogged fixtures without replacing anything.

How to Prevent Hard Water Buildup on Faucets and Showerheads

• Clean showerheads and faucet aerators with vinegar every 6 months

• Install a whole-house water softener if you live in a hard water area

• Wipe down faucets and showerheads after each use

When You Should Call a Professional Plumber

Sometimes mineral buildup causes deeper issues inside plumbing fixtures. If you notice:

• Persistent dripping or leaking faucets

• Low water pressure despite clean nozzles

• Loose or wobbly handles

• Corrosion or visible cracks around fixture bases

It’s time to call a licensed plumber. At Garcia Plumbing Company, we specialize in faucet repairs, fixture replacements, and restoring water flow in homes throughout San Francisco.

Special Offer: Save 10% on Faucet or Showerhead Repairs!

For a limited time, the first 5 customers who book online will receive 10% OFF plumbing service work under $1,000!

[Schedule Faucet or Showerhead Service Now]

Why Homeowners Trust Garcia Plumbing Company

• Over 20+ years of professional plumbing experience

• Fully licensed and insured (License #782787)

• Honest pricing, clear communication, and clean workmanship

• Local service trusted by homeowners throughout San Francisco

Keep your plumbing flowing right — and protect your home’s water system for years to come.

📞 Contact Garcia Plumbing Company Today

The Garcia Plumbing Team
License #782787
O: 415-333-1737
C: 415-613-6475
garciaplumbingcompany@gmail.com
garciaplumbingcompany.com

5 Plumbing Problems to Catch Early This Spring

As San Francisco warms up, it's the ideal season to give your plumbing a check-up. Winter weather can put serious stress on pipes, valves, and drains. A simple spring check-in can uncover small issues before they become major expenses.

1. Leaky Hose Bibs or Outdoor Faucets

Cold temps can crack outdoor plumbing. We’ll inspect for leaks and recommend simple fixes before water damage happens.

2. Water Heater Wear & Tear

Water heaters work hard through winter. A spring check ensures it’s still running efficiently — or flags when it’s time for a replacement.

3. Underground Pipe Shifting

Heavy rains and soil movement can shift old pipes. Our check-in spots early warning signs like pressure changes and pooling.

4. Fixture Functionality

Dripping faucets, slow drains, or toilets that won’t stop running? Small fixes now save water — and headaches — later.

5. Pressure Issues

Unbalanced pressure can signal deeper problems. We test it quickly and flag concerns before they become emergencies.

Book Your FREE Spring Check-In Today

Garcia Plumbing is offering a no-obligation check-up — so you can stay ahead of any issues, stress-free.

Why You Should Clear Drain Blockages Before It’s Too Late

A slow drain might seem minor — but waiting can lead to serious plumbing problems. At Garcia Plumbing, we’ve seen simple clogs turn into full pipe replacements. Here’s why early drain cleaning is essential.

1. Blockages Build Over Time

Hair, grease, soap, and debris don’t go away on their own. They collect slowly — until they stop your drain completely.

2. Pressure Buildup Can Damage Pipes

Clogs increase internal pressure. That pressure weakens joints, causes leaks, and even bursts pipes.

3. Sewer Backups Are a Health Hazard

Mainline clogs can send wastewater back into your home. A $200 cleaning can prevent a $5,000+ sanitation nightmare.

4. Early Cleaning = Lower Cost

The sooner you catch it, the faster (and cheaper) the fix. Most clogs take under an hour to clear — and avoid major repairs.

5. Peace of Mind

There’s nothing better than knowing your plumbing is clear and flowing. Especially before guests or big seasonal changes.

Get 10% OFF Drain Cleaning This Month

Book with Garcia Plumbing and save while protecting your home.

Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters: Which Is Right for Your Home?

When it’s time to replace your water heater, one question comes up fast:
Should you install a traditional tank water heater or go tankless?
At Garcia Plumbing Company, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in San Francisco make this exact decision — and in this post, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both, so you can choose with confidence.

What’s the Difference Between Tank and Tankless Water Heaters?

Tank water heaters store and heat a set amount of water — typically 40 to 50 gallons — and keep it hot until you need it.
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand systems, heat water instantly as it flows through the unit, meaning no storage tank is needed.

Pros and Cons of Tank Water Heaters

Pros

• Lower initial cost

• Easier and faster to install

• Reliable for families of 2–4 people

• Readily available parts and units

Cons

• Limited hot water supply (once the tank is empty, you wait)

• Higher energy use due to standby heating

• Larger space required for installation

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Pros

• Endless hot water supply

• Energy-efficient – only heats water when you need it

• Compact design – wall-mounted and space-saving

• Lasts up to 20 years with proper maintenance

Cons

• Higher upfront cost

• May require gas line or venting upgrades

• Requires routine maintenance

Which Is Better for Your San Francisco Home?

The right choice depends on your household size, water usage habits, and budget. Here's a quick breakdown:

Get Expert Help from Garcia Plumbing Company

We’ve installed hundreds of tank and tankless water heaters across San Francisco and can help you choose the system that fits your needs, your space, and your budget.

• All our water heater installs include:

• Removal of your old unit

• Full install, testing, and clean-up

• Inspection and compliance with SF codes

• Our Satisfaction Guarantee

Ready for Hot Water That Works for You?

Click below to schedule your free water heater estimate and take advantage of our $100 OFF promotion – valid until April 30th!

How Often Should You Service Your Water Heater? Everything You Need to Know

Why Traditional Water Heaters Need Regular Maintenance – Avoid Costly Repairs & Extend Lifespan

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Service Your Water Heater Annually

Your traditional tank water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. Every day, it heats and stores water for showers, laundry, dishes, and more. But over time, sediment buildup, corrosion, and worn-out components can cause it to lose efficiency, waste energy, and even fail unexpectedly.

Regular water heater maintenance is essential to keeping your system running efficiently, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring a long lifespan.

At Garcia Plumbing Company, we provide professional water heater flushing, inspections, and tune-ups to keep your unit in top condition.

Signs Your Traditional Water Heater Needs Maintenance

Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until it stops working. However, there are warning signs that your system needs servicing now:

• Rusty or Discolored Water – This could indicate corrosion inside the tank.

• Strange Noises – Popping or rumbling sounds mean sediment buildup is interfering with heating.

• Fluctuating Water Temperatures – If your hot water supply is inconsistent, your heater may be struggling.

• Slow Heating or Running Out of Hot Water Quickly – Sediment buildup can reduce heating efficiency.

• Higher Energy Bills – A poorly maintained water heater uses more energy, increasing your utility costs.

• Leaks or Moisture Around the Tank – Small leaks can quickly turn into major water damage.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a professional water heater service before a breakdown happens.

Why Regular Maintenance is Critical for Traditional Water Heaters

Prevents Sediment Buildup

Over time, minerals and sediment from your water supply settle at the bottom of the tank. This insulates the heating element, making the heater work harder and increasing wear and tear. Flushing the tank annually removes this buildup, restoring efficiency.

Extends Water Heater Lifespan

A well-maintained water heater can last 10-15 years or more, while neglected units often fail much sooner. Routine maintenance prevents rust, leaks, and overheating, helping you get the most out of your system.

Reduces Energy Costs

Sediment buildup and faulty components force your heater to work harder, consuming more energy. A properly serviced heater operates efficiently, keeping energy bills low.

Helps Prevent Emergency Breakdowns

Skipping maintenance increases the risk of unexpected failure, leaving you without hot water when you need it most. Regular inspections catch small issues before they become expensive problems.

Protects Your Home from Water Damage

A failing water heater can leak or even burst, causing costly water damage to your home. Preventative maintenance helps identify leaks or weaknesses early, reducing the risk of flooding.

Maintains Manufacturer Warranty

Many water heater manufacturers require annual maintenance for warranty coverage. If your unit fails due to neglect, you could be stuck paying out of pocket for a replacement.

What’s Included in a Professional Water Heater Maintenance Service?

At Garcia Plumbing Company, our comprehensive water heater tune-up includes:

✔ Flushing the Tank – Removes sediment buildup to restore efficiency.
✔ Inspecting & Testing the Anode Rod – Prevents internal tank corrosion.
✔ Checking the Pressure Relief Valve – Ensures safety by preventing excessive pressure buildup.
✔ Inspecting Gas Connections or Electrical Components – Ensures safe and efficient operation.
✔ Testing the Heating Element & Thermostat – Ensures proper water temperature regulation.
✔ Checking for Leaks & Corrosion – Identifies potential issues before they worsen.

How Often Should You Service Your Water Heater?

Experts recommend flushing and servicing your water heater every 12 months to maintain performance and extend its lifespan. However, if you have hard water, you may need servicing every 6-12 months due to increased mineral buildup.

Time for an Upgrade? Get $100 Off a New Water Heater(March 2025)

If your water heater is over 10 years old, inefficient, or requiring frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a newer, energy-efficient model.

Right now, we’re offering $100 off water heater replacements for homeowners looking to upgrade.

Schedule Your Water Heater Service Today

Regular maintenance saves you money, prevents breakdowns, and extends the life of your water heater. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a professional tune-up today.

📅 Book your water heater maintenance with Garcia Plumbing Company today!

📞 Call (415) 333-1737 to schedule your service.
🌐 Visit garciaplumbingcompany.com/contact to request an appointment.

Serving San Francisco, Pacific Heights, Nob Hill, SoMa, Sunset District, West Portal, and beyond.

How Regular Acid Flushes Keep Your Tankless Water Heater Running Efficiently

Why Regular Maintenance & Acid Flushes Are Essential for Tankless Water Heaters

Extend the Life & Efficiency of Your Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are a game-changer for energy-efficient hot water, but just like any other plumbing system, they require regular maintenance to function properly. Over time, hard water minerals, scale buildup, and sediment can clog internal components, reducing efficiency and leading to costly repairs or premature failure.

One of the most important maintenance tasks for a tankless water heater is an acid flush, which removes built-up scale deposits and ensures your system runs efficiently.

At Garcia Plumbing Company, we provide professional acid flush services to keep your Navien, Takagi, Rinnai, and Noritz tankless water heaters in peak condition.

Why Does Your Tankless Water Heater Need Regular Maintenance?

Unlike traditional water heaters with storage tanks, tankless water heaters have small internal heat exchangers that can become clogged with scale buildup, especially in areas with hard water, like San Francisco, Pacific Heights, and the Sunset District.

What Happens Without Maintenance?

❌ Efficiency Drops – Your heater works harder to heat water, wasting energy and increasing utility bills.
❌ Water Flow Decreases – Mineral buildup restricts water flow, leading to lower pressure and slower heating.
❌ Unit Lifespan is Reduced – Without regular flushing, your tankless water heater may fail prematurely.
❌ Warranty May Be Voided – Many manufacturer warranties require annual maintenance, or they won’t cover repairs.

💡 An annual acid flush is the key to preventing these issues and keeping your water heater running like new!

What is an Acid Flush & Why is It Necessary?

An acid flush (also called a descaling service) is a process where a safe, professional-grade cleaning solution is circulated through the water heater to dissolve hard water scale buildup and mineral deposits.

Benefits of an Acid Flush for Your Tankless Water Heater

✔ Removes Limescale & Hard Water Deposits – Keeps water flowing freely and prevents clogs.
✔ Restores Heating Efficiency – Helps your heater operate at peak performance without overworking.
✔ Lowers Energy Bills – An efficient heater uses less energy, saving you money.
✔ Extends Equipment Life – Prevents premature breakdowns, saving you from costly replacements.
✔ Protects Your Warranty – Many manufacturers require annual maintenance for coverage.

🏠 A simple annual maintenance flush can save you thousands in repairs and energy costs!

How Often Should You Get an Acid Flush?

💡 For most homeowners, an annual flush is recommended.

However, if your home has hard water, you may need an acid flush every 6-12 months to prevent mineral buildup from affecting performance.

Signs That Your Tankless Water Heater Needs a Flush ASAP

🚩 Reduced hot water flow or pressure
🚩 Fluctuating water temperature
🚩 Loud noises coming from the unit
🚩 Error codes on the digital display

🔧 If you notice any of these issues, it’s time for a professional acid flush!

Additional Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Services

In addition to an acid flush, Garcia Plumbing Company offers:
🔹 Filter Replacement – Ensures clean, debris-free water enters the unit.
🔹 Condensate Neutralizer Replacement – Prevents acidic condensation from damaging pipes and drains.
🔹 Gas Line & Burner Inspection – Ensures safe and efficient operation.
🔹 Full System Check-Up – We inspect, clean, and test all components for optimal performance.

Schedule Your Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Today!

At Garcia Plumbing Company, we specialize in tankless water heater maintenance, repairs, and installations for top brands like Navien, Takagi, Rinnai, and Noritz.

We proudly serve San Francisco, Pacific Heights, Nob Hill, West Portal, SoMa, Mission Bay, Sunset District, Sausalito, Tiburon, and Berkeley.

Call us today at (415) 333-1737 to schedule your acid flush!
Request a free quote at garciaplumbingcompany.com/contact

Keep your tankless water heater running efficiently—schedule your annual acid flush today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does an acid flush work?

An acid flush involves circulating a professional descaling solution through the water heater to remove limescale and mineral deposits. This restores efficiency and prevents clogs in the heat exchanger.

How do I know if my tankless water heater needs maintenance?

If you notice fluctuating temperatures, low water pressure, or error codes, your system likely has scale buildup that needs to be removed with an acid flush.

Do I need a professional plumber for an acid flush?

Yes! A professional ensures the correct solution, flow rate, and time duration to protect your water heater. DIY acid flushes can damage internal components if done incorrectly.

Book Your Service Today!

Call Garcia Plumbing Company at (415) 333-1737
Request a Free Quote at garciaplumbingcompany.com/contact

Don’t wait until your water heater fails—protect your investment with a professional acid flush today!

Why Every Home Needs a Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve & Earthquake Gas Valve

Protect Your Home: Why You Need a Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve & Earthquake Gas Valve

The Best Plumbing Upgrades for Homeowners in San Francisco

As a homeowner in San Francisco, water leaks and gas line safety should be top concerns. A single burst pipe or gas leak after an earthquake can lead to thousands of dollars in property damage and major safety risks. That’s why installing a Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve and an Earthquake Gas Shut-Off Valve is one of the best investments you can make.

These advanced safety devices prevent flooding, gas leaks, and potential disasters—giving you peace of mind and potential home insurance discounts.

At Garcia Plumbing Company, we specialize in professional installation of Moen Smart Valves and Earthquake Gas Valves in San Francisco, Pacific Heights, Nob Hill, West Portal, Sausalito, Tiburon, and beyond!

What is a Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve?

A Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve is an advanced plumbing device that monitors your home's water system in real time, detects leaks, and automatically shuts off water to prevent flooding.

Benefits of Installing a Moen Smart Water Valve

✔ Real-Time Leak Detection & Alerts – Get instant notifications via the Moen app if a leak is detected—even when you're on vacation.
✔ Remote Water Shut-Off – Turn off your water supply from anywhere using your smartphone.
✔ Protects Against Costly Water Damage – Prevents expensive repairs caused by leaks and pipe bursts.
✔ Reduces Water Bills – Tracks water usage and helps you cut down on wasted water.
✔ Home Insurance Benefits – Some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with smart leak detection devices.

🏠 A Moen Smart Valve is your home's first line of defense against expensive water damage.

What is an Earthquake Gas Shut-Off Valve?

For homeowners in San Francisco, where earthquakes are a reality, a Seismic Earthquake Gas Shut-Off Valve is a critical safety device. This valve automatically shuts off the gas supply when seismic activity above 5.4 magnitude is detected—preventing gas leaks, fires, or explosions.

Benefits of Installing an Earthquake Gas Valve

✔ Prevents Gas Leaks & Fires – Stops gas flow immediately after an earthquake, preventing dangerous leaks.
✔ Automatically Shuts Off Gas in a Quake – No manual shut-off needed—works instantly for safety.
✔ Complies with San Francisco Safety Codes – Many California cities require earthquake valves on new gas installations and home sales.
✔ May Lower Home Insurance Costs – Some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with safety shut-off valves.
✔ Increases Home Value – Adds an extra layer of protection that can attract future buyers.

💡 For homes in earthquake-prone areas, an earthquake shut-off valve is a smart and necessary upgrade.

Why You Should Install Both for Ultimate Home Protection

While both devices serve different purposes, installing both the Moen Smart Water Valve and an Earthquake Gas Shut-Off Valve provides maximum protection against two of the most common and costly home disasters:

Moen Smart Valve – Stops leaks and prevents flooding before major damage occurs.
Earthquake Gas Valve – Prevents gas leaks, fires, and explosions after a seismic event.

💡 Together, these smart plumbing upgrades can protect your home and help you save on costly repairs.

Get Professional Installation from Garcia Plumbing Company

At Garcia Plumbing Company, we specialize in:

✔ Professional Installation of Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valves
✔ Earthquake Gas Valve Installation & Testing
✔ Home Plumbing Safety Upgrades in San Francisco

We proudly serve homeowners in:
📍 San Francisco, Pacific Heights, Nob Hill, West Portal, SoMa, Mission Bay, Sunset District, Sausalito, Tiburon, and Berkeley.

Call us today at (415) 333-1737 to schedule your installation!
Request a free quote at garciaplumbingcompany.com/contact

Protect your home and prevent disasters—install a Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve & Earthquake Gas Valve today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does a Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve work?

The Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valve connects to your home’s main water line and continuously monitors water pressure and flow. If it detects a sudden drop in pressure or unusual activity, it will alert you through the Moen app and automatically shut off your water supply to prevent flooding.

Do I need a permit to install an earthquake gas shut-off valve?

In many San Francisco neighborhoods, earthquake shut-off valves are required by law on new gas installations and home sales. We handle the permit application and scheduling of inspections to ensure everything is code-compliant.

Can I get a discount on my home insurance by installing these valves?

Yes! Many insurance providers offer discounts to homeowners who install Moen Smart Water Shut-Off Valves and Earthquake Gas Valves. Check with your insurance company to see if you qualify for lower rates on your homeowner’s policy.

Book Your Installation Today!

Call Garcia Plumbing Company at (415) 333-1737
Request a Free Quote at garciaplumbingcompany.com/contact

Don’t wait until disaster strikes—protect your home today with smart plumbing safety solutions!