Emergency Plumber in Thornton, CO

What happens when you call

The number on this page connects you with an independent plumber who covers Thornton. Expect a few quick questions: what is leaking or backing up, whether the water is off, and where the home is. Thornton stretches from older 1950s to 1970s streets in the south to newer subdivisions toward E-470 and State Highway 7, and the answer helps the plumber guess what kind of piping is involved. Ask about after-hours charges before anyone is sent. Arrival depends on the time and the plumber's schedule, so nothing specific is promised.

What drives the cost

• Time of day. Calls late at night, on weekends or on holidays usually carry a higher charge.
• Access. Opening drywall or a finished basement ceiling adds time compared with a leak in an unfinished utility room.
• The failed part. A cracked fitting is quick; a water heater that has to be replaced is a bigger job.
• Permits. Thornton requires a permit to install or replace a water heater and for plumbing modifications or gas lines. Swapping a fixture does not need one.

Thornton's water, sewer and gas

The City of Thornton provides water and sewer and maintains the wastewater lines, with treatment at Metro Water Recovery. For a water main break, a problem at the meter, or an after-hours sewer issue, the city's Utilities Operations line is 720-977-6500. Thornton water is hard, averaging about 230 mg/L, and the treatment plants do not remove that hardness, so water heaters here often build up scale. A tank that has started rumbling or leaking is worth handling before it lets go.

Housing is newer than in most inner suburbs: the median home was built in 1997 and about 21.9% predate 1980. Emergencies in newer homes tend to involve failed supply hoses, water heaters and frozen hose bibs rather than old cast iron.

Gas: the city says gas service comes from Xcel Energy or United Power depending on location. Xcel's gas emergency line is 1-800-895-2999; if your bill shows another utility, use the number printed there.

Before the plumber gets there

• Keep the main valve closed and open a low faucet to drain the lines.
• Turn off power or gas to a leaking water heater.
• Move rugs, boxes and electronics away from the water.
• Take photos for insurance.
• Clear a path to the water heater, main valve and cleanout.