That is what we call "Liquid Rock." Battle Mountain’s water is naturally rich in calcium and magnesium. When that water evaporates or gets heated, those minerals turn back into solid rock (scale). It’s not just a cleaning nuisance; it’s actively narrowing your pipes and "eating" your fixtures. Our Rock Shield systems are designed specifically to neutralize these minerals before they hit your faucet.

 It won’t explode, but it is struggling! That sound is caused by a thick layer of mineral sediment at the bottom of the tank. As the burner heats up, air bubbles get trapped under that "rock" layer and "pop" to get out. In Northern Nevada, a water heater without a softener can lose 20% efficiency in just its first year due to this buildup.

 In our climate, insulation is key. Any pipe in a crawlspace or exterior wall is at risk. On nights when we drop below 20°F, leave your cabinet doors open to let room heat reach the pipes, and let a single faucet drip at a "pencil lead" thickness. Moving water is much harder to freeze than standing water.

 If it’s only the shower or a specific faucet, it’s likely a clogged aerator or showerhead filled with "Liquid Rock" scale. If it’s the whole house, your old galvanized pipes might be rusting shut from the inside, or your Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) may have failed due to mineral grit.

Yes. This piping (Polybutylene) was common in the 80s and 90s but is notorious for sudden splits and cracked fittings caused by common water chemicals. Many insurance companies now won't even cover homes with this piping. We recommend a Whole House Repipe to modern PEX to avoid a catastrophic flood while you're away.

This is the most important thing every neighbor should know! Usually, it’s located where the water line enters the home—check your crawlspace entrance, the garage, or near the water heater. If you can’t find yours, text us a photo of your utility area and we’ll help you spot it for free. You don't want to be looking for it during a leak!

We strongly advise against it. The harsh chemicals in those "liquid plumbers" generate intense heat that can soften plastic pipes or damage the seals in your toilet. In older Battle Mountain homes with metal pipes, those chemicals can actually accelerate corrosion and lead to leaks. A simple plunger or a professional drain snake is always a safer bet

 We offer free estimates for major projects, such as Whole House Repipes or Rock Shield installations. For service calls involving troubleshooting, inspections, or limited-access repairs, we charge a professional diagnostic fee. This fee covers the expert's time and specialized tools needed to find the root of your problem. The best part? In most cases, if you choose us to perform the work within 30 days, that fee is deducted from your final bill. It’s our way of saying thanks for keeping it local!

Not sure if your project qualifies for a free estimate? Just text us a photo of the issue (775) 389-7651, and we’ll let you know before we head out.

Often, yes—but for different reasons. While city water has consistent mineral levels, well water in Lander County can vary wildly. You might deal with sand/sediment that destroys faucet cartridges or high iron that stains your tubs orange. We offer well-specific filtration that protects your pressure tank and your home. Call us today for a free hard water and TDS test to see if your home qualifies for our water softener system.

 For well owners, this often points to a failing pressure tank bladder or a pump issue. If you hear your pump "short cycling" (turning on and off every few seconds), call us immediately—fixing the tank is cheap; replacing a burned-out pump is not!

Battle Mountain Plumbing does not service well pumps or provide any electrical services.

 Even if the package says "flushable," wipes are a lie. In our older sewer lines and septic systems, they don't dissolve. They catch on roots or rough pipe edges and create "fatbergs" that back up your whole house. Stick to the 3 P's: Pee, Poop, and (Toilet) Paper.

✔ Local plumber with 28+ years' experience

Serving homeowners in Battle Mountain and Lander County.

✔ Honest diagnosis before repairs

We identify the real plumbing problem before recommending any work.

✔ Text photos for fast help

Snap a picture of your plumbing issue and text it to us for quick guidance.

Call or text (775) 389-7651 for plumbing help in Battle Mountain.