Water Line Replacement in Gardena, CA
If your service line has leaked more than once, is made of aging pipe or has low pressure that repairs haven't solved, replacing the line from the meter to the house may be worth discussing with a provider.
Referral service: Gardena Water Line Pros is not a plumbing contractor. Your call may be connected to an independent, third-party service provider who sets its own availability, pricing and terms. Read our referral disclosure.
When replacement is usually considered
Replacement isn't automatically better than repair. Providers tend to bring it up when:
- The line has had repeated leaks in different spots.
- The pipe is an older material prone to corrosion or failure, such as galvanized steel, or an obsolete plastic.
- Pressure stays low because the inside of the pipe is narrowed by buildup.
- The line is undersized for the home's current needs.
- A repair would mean digging in several places anyway.
For a side-by-side look at both choices, read water line repair vs. replacement.
What a replacement typically involves
- Assessment. The provider checks the existing line's route, depth, material and the meter connection.
- Planning and permits. The provider determines whether a permit or inspection is required by the City of Gardena and arranges it when needed.
- Utility marking. Before excavation, underground utilities should be marked through DigAlert / 811.
- Installation. A new line is installed by open trench, small access pits or, where suitable, a trenchless method.
- Connection and testing. The new line is connected at the meter side and at the house, then checked for leaks. Golden State Water's Rule No. 16 addresses connections at the meter, so the provider may need to coordinate with the utility.
- Restoration. Soil, landscaping or hardscape is restored according to what was agreed in writing.
Common pipe materials
Providers commonly install copper, PEX or polyethylene service lines. Which one is appropriate depends on local code, soil conditions, the connection at the meter and the provider's recommendation. Ask why they recommend a particular material.
Water shut-off during the work
Expect water to be off for part of the job, mainly while the new line is connected. Ask the provider how long that is likely to be for your home.
Trenchless replacement
Some service lines can be replaced with less excavation, for example by pulling a new pipe through the old path. It isn't suitable for every property, and we can't promise that a provider offering it will be available. Read when trenchless may be an option.
Questions to ask about a replacement
- Why replacement rather than a repair, in this case?
- What material and pipe size will you use, and why?
- Is a permit needed, and who handles the inspection?
- What will be dug up, and what restoration is included?
- What warranty, if any, do you provide, and is it in writing?
Not sure whether you have a leak at all? Start with water line leak detection or go back to water service line repair in Gardena.
Talk to a provider about replacing your water line
Call to describe your situation. When a participating provider is available, we'll connect you.
Referral service: Gardena Water Line Pros is not a plumbing contractor. Your call may be connected to an independent, third-party service provider who sets its own availability, pricing and terms. Read our referral disclosure.