Frequently Asked Questions

We serve all of North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, and Delta. Our headquarters are in North Vancouver, and we can usually reach any location in Greater Vancouver within 60 minutes.

Yes. Lord Mechanical LTD is a fully licensed mechanical contractor with the BC Provincial Government. We carry comprehensive general liability insurance and full WorkSafeBC coverage for all employees. We also hold Class B gas fitting certification. You can ask to see our credentials at any time.

We offer free in-home estimates for most major projects including hot water tank replacements, furnace installations, and drainage work. For diagnostic service calls, a modest dispatch fee applies which is credited toward the repair if you proceed with the work.

Several issues can cause this: a faulty thermostat, a broken heating element (electric), a pilot light that's gone out (gas), or sediment buildup in the tank. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. Our technicians can diagnose the issue and provide options during a single visit.

We recommend an annual plumbing inspection for most homes, especially those over 25 years old. This includes checking for hidden leaks, testing water pressure, inspecting valves and shut-offs, and assessing the condition of supply and drain lines. Preventive maintenance can save thousands in emergency repairs.

Low water pressure can result from mineral buildup in pipes, partially closed shut-off valves, failing pressure regulators, or even municipal supply issues. In older North Vancouver homes with galvanized pipes, corrosion is a common cause. We can perform a pressure test and pinpoint the exact source.

Annual furnace servicing is recommended before each heating season (ideally September or October). A professional tune-up includes cleaning burners and heat exchangers, testing safety controls, inspecting the flue, checking gas pressure, and replacing the air filter. Regular servicing extends your furnace's lifespan and maintains manufacturer warranty coverage.

As a general rule, if your furnace is over 15 years old and requires a repair costing more than 50% of a new unit, replacement is usually the better investment. Modern high-efficiency furnaces can reduce your heating bills by 20-40%. We provide honest assessments and never push for replacements when a repair will do.

Tankless (on-demand) water heaters provide endless hot water, use 30-50% less energy than traditional tank units, have a lifespan of 20+ years (vs 10-12 for tanks), and take up minimal wall space. Brands like Navien and Rinnai offer models perfect for Vancouver's incoming water temperatures. The upfront cost is higher but the energy savings pay for themselves.

Trenchless pipe repair (also called pipe relining or CIPP) allows us to repair or replace damaged sewer lines without digging up your yard, driveway, or landscaping. We insert a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe, which hardens to form a brand-new pipe within the old one. It's faster, less disruptive, and often more cost-effective than traditional excavation. Most residential sewer lines are candidates for this method.

Signs of drain tile failure include persistent dampness or water stains on basement walls, musty odors, visible mold growth, pooling water around the foundation after rain, or efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on concrete. In North Vancouver, many older homes have clay or concrete drain tiles that deteriorate over time. We use camera inspections to assess the condition without any digging.

Recurring clogs typically indicate a deeper issue: tree root intrusion in the main sewer line, pipe bellying (sagging), grease buildup, or deteriorating old pipes that catch debris. A single drain cleaning may provide temporary relief, but a camera inspection can reveal the root cause. We can then recommend a permanent solution tailored to your specific situation.

Yes. We provide true 24/7 emergency plumbing services, 365 days a year—including holidays and weekends. When you call our emergency line, you speak to a real person, not a voicemail. For active leaks, burst pipes, sewer backups, or gas leaks, we typically arrive within 60 minutes in the North Vancouver and West Vancouver areas.

First, shut off the main water supply immediately—the shut-off valve is usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home. Then open faucets to drain remaining water and relieve pressure. Move valuables away from the affected area. Call us at (604) 670-3737 and we'll dispatch an emergency technician right away. Do NOT attempt to repair a burst pipe yourself, especially if it involves hot water or gas lines.

A standard 40 or 50-gallon hot water tank replacement in Greater Vancouver typically costs between $1,800 and $3,500, depending on the type (gas, electric, or tankless), brand, and any required code upgrades. We use premium brands like Bradford White, Rheem, and AO Smith. We provide a detailed written quote before starting, so you know exactly what you're paying.

For scheduled appointments within our primary service areas (North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Vancouver), there is no separate travel charge. For diagnostic service calls, a modest dispatch fee applies which covers the technician's time and initial assessment—this fee is credited toward the repair if you proceed with our services.