Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

How long has DeGasperi & Son been in business?

DeGasperi & Son Plumbing & Heating Inc. has been serving local homeowners since 1980. We’re a family-owned company now in its second generation, with more than 45 years of combined experience behind every job we take on.

What areas do you serve?

We work throughout Mahopac, Somers, Yorktown Heights, Shrub Oak, and Croton Falls — plus the rest of northern Westchester and Putnam County. If you’re unsure whether your address falls within our service range, just call and ask.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. Our technicians are fully licensed and insured, and every job we perform meets applicable state and local code requirements. We carry the proper coverage so you’re protected in the unlikely event something goes wrong on the job site.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes. Estimates are free on new work, and we give you the scope and the number before anything starts rather than after. For a diagnostic call on an existing problem, we’ll tell you what the visit costs when you book it.

What are your regular business hours?

Our office is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for scheduling, estimates, and general questions. Call and you’ll reach a person in our Mahopac office rather than an answering service.

Plumbing Questions

What plumbing problems do you see most often in this area?

Older homes throughout Westchester and Putnam counties tend to develop issues with aging galvanized pipe, worn shut-off valves, leaking supply lines, and fixtures that have simply reached the end of their service life. Well water systems in the area can also contribute to mineral buildup inside pipes over time. Our plumbing services page covers the full range of repairs we handle.

How do I know if I need a new water heater or just a repair?

Age is usually the biggest factor. A unit past ten to twelve years old that’s showing rust, inconsistent hot water, or unusual noises is often more cost-effective to replace than repair. We’ll inspect the unit and give you an honest recommendation rather than pushing a replacement you don’t need.

At what point should I stop trying to fix something myself and call a plumber?

Minor clogs and running toilets are often manageable on your own. But if you’re dealing with recurring backups, low water pressure throughout the house, visible water damage, or anything involving the main line, it’s time to bring in a professional before a small issue becomes a costly one.

Do you service well pumps and well water systems?

Yes, many homes in Mahopac and the surrounding towns rely on private wells rather than municipal water. We diagnose and repair well pump issues, pressure tank problems, and related plumbing concerns specific to well-fed systems.

Can plumbing issues affect my water quality?

They can. Corroded pipe, failing pressure tanks, and sediment buildup can all affect taste, clarity, and flow. If you’ve noticed a change in your water, it’s worth having a technician take a look rather than assuming it will resolve on its own.

Heating Questions

What are the signs my heating system needs to be replaced rather than repaired?

Rising energy bills, frequent repairs, uneven temperatures between rooms, and a system older than 12-15 years are all signals that replacement may make more financial sense than continuing to repair. We’ll give you a straightforward comparison of both options.

What can I do to improve my system’s efficiency without replacing it?

Regular filter changes, annual professional cleaning, sealing duct leaks, and keeping outdoor units clear of debris all help. A programmable thermostat can also reduce strain on the system and lower monthly energy use.

Is a boiler or a furnace better for my home?

It depends on your home’s existing infrastructure and your preferences. Boilers heat water and distribute warmth through radiators or radiant floor systems, while furnaces heat and circulate air through ductwork. Homes with existing radiators are usually better candidates for a boiler, while homes with ductwork already in place often stick with a furnace. Our heating services page goes into more detail on both.

How often should my boiler or furnace be serviced?

Once a year, ideally in the fall before heating season. An annual visit catches worn parts, dirty burners, and control issues while they’re still minor, and it’s the single best predictor of whether a system makes it through winter without a call-out. More detail is on our heating services page.

What should I do if my heat stops working in the middle of winter?

Check your thermostat settings and circuit breaker first. If the system still won’t run, call us.

What is radiant heat and is it worth installing?

Radiant heat warms a room through heated elements installed under the floor rather than through forced air or radiators. It provides even, consistent warmth and eliminates the drafts associated with forced-air systems, though installation is more involved and typically suits renovation or new construction projects.

Drain Cleaning Questions

What are the warning signs of a developing drain problem?

Slow-draining sinks or tubs, gurgling sounds from pipes, recurring clogs in the same fixture, and unpleasant odors coming from drains are all early indicators. Catching these early usually means a simpler, less invasive fix. Learn more on our drain cleaning page.

What is hydro jetting and when is it necessary?

Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clear grease, roots, and buildup from inside pipe walls. It’s typically recommended for stubborn or recurring clogs that standard snaking hasn’t resolved, and it also helps prevent future backups by clearing the full diameter of the pipe.

Do you use camera inspections to diagnose drain issues?

Yes. A camera inspection lets us see exactly what’s happening inside the line, whether that’s a root intrusion, a collapsed section of pipe, or simple buildup, so we can recommend the right fix instead of guessing.

Bathroom Remodeling Questions

How long does a typical bathroom remodel take?

Timelines vary depending on the scope of work, but a standard bathroom remodel generally runs a few weeks from demolition to final walkthrough. We’ll give you a realistic timeline specific to your project before work begins. Details are on our bathroom remodeling page.

What’s the process for starting a remodel with your team?

We start with an in-home consultation to discuss your goals and layout, follow with a detailed estimate, then schedule the work once you approve the plan. We keep you informed at each stage so there are no surprises.

What’s the advantage of hiring a plumbing company for a bathroom remodel instead of a general contractor?

Since plumbing and fixture placement drive most of a bathroom’s layout, having a licensed plumbing company handle the remodel means the people planning the space are the same people responsible for making sure the water lines, drainage, and gas connections are done correctly the first time.

Gas Line Questions

Do I need a permit for gas line work?

Most gas line installation, repair, and conversion work requires a permit and inspection under local code. We handle the permitting process as part of the job so you don’t have to navigate it yourself. Visit our gas line services page for more information.

What should I do if I smell gas in my home?

Leave the building first. Don’t switch lights on or off, use a phone inside, or light anything. From a safe distance outside, call your gas utility or 911 — they can shut down a live leak faster than any plumber. Once the utility has made the property safe, we can locate the fault, repair the line, and pressure test it before it goes back into service.

Can you help convert my home from oil to natural gas?

Yes, we handle gas line installation and conversions for homeowners looking to switch heating fuel sources. We’ll walk you through what’s involved, including the new line installation and equipment changes needed to complete the conversion.

Have a question that isn’t covered here? Call DeGasperi & Son Plumbing & Heating at (845) 628-7593, and we’ll be glad to help.