If you are looking for plumbers that work on mobile homes near you, then you have come to the right place. We provide professional mobile home plumbing repair, repiping, installation, and pipe hook up services in Mettawa, IL. Call now for a free estimate.
Common Mobile Home Plumbing Problems
Mobile homes face unique plumbing challenges due to their compact layout and often simplified infrastructure. Here are some of the most common mobile home plumbing issues:
1. Sewer Smell in Mobile Home
If your mobile home smells like the sewer, it may be caused by a dry or broken P-trap, damaged venting, or a cracked drainpipe. When traps dry out or vent pipes get clogged, sewer gases can seep back into your living space. Check under sinks and tubs to ensure water is present in the traps and inspect for any disconnected pipes.
2. Air Flow and Ventilation Problems
Proper air flow is essential for both plumbing and HVAC systems. Poor ventilation in a mobile home can cause negative pressure in the plumbing system, which leads to the following issues: gurgling drains, slow water flow, or even sewer gas backup. Air admittance valves (AAVs) are often used in mobile homes and can fail over time.
3. Sewer Line Problems
Sewer lines in mobile homes are typically made of lightweight plastic that can shift or become misaligned, especially if the home is not on a stable foundation. Tree roots, ground movement, or improper installation can all lead to backups, slow drains, or foul odors.
4. Mobile Home Drainage System Issues
Drainage systems in mobile homes are vulnerable to clogs and poor slope. Pipes need to be angled correctly to allow gravity to move waste efficiently. If not, you may notice frequent backups in sinks, tubs, or toilets.
5. Water Leak Under Mobile Home
Leaks under a mobile home are often caused by cracked pipes, worn-out fittings, or freezing temperatures. These leaks can go unnoticed for weeks and lead to mold, rot, or structural damage. If you hear dripping or see water pooling under your home, calling us for an inspection is essential.
6. Low Water Pressure in Mobile Home
Low water pressure can be caused by clogged aerators, sediment buildup in the lines, or a failing pressure regulator. Mobile homes often use smaller-diameter piping, which is more susceptible to pressure issues than piping that’s commonly used in a home.
7. No Hot Water in Mobile Home
If you’re not getting hot water, it could be due to a faulty water heater element, a tripped breaker, or sediment buildup in the tank. Electric water heaters in mobile homes are typically compact and may need more frequent maintenance than standard models.
8. Frozen Pipes in Cold Weather
Mobile homes are more susceptible to frozen pipes due to their exposed underbellies and minimal insulation. Signs of frozen pipes include no water flow, bulging lines, or frost accumulation.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Plumbing in a Mobile Home?
The cost for a complete mobile home plumbing replacement including replacing supply lines, drainpipes, and fixtures typically ranges from $2,000 to $6,000. That being said, Double-wide or larger mobile homes may exceed $8,000. Prices can be on the higher side if extensive labor is involved or if it’s difficult to access the area underneath the mobile home.
How Much Does It Cost to Hook Up Water to a Mobile Home?
Hooking up water to a mobile home typically costs $500 to $2,000, and the price varies mainly based on the following factors:
Distance from main water line: Longer runs of pipe increase material and labor costs.
Permits and inspections: Some municipalities require permits, which can add $100 to $300.
Underground work: If trenching or digging is needed, this will cost extra.
Connection materials: PEX is commonly used for affordability and flexibility, while copper or CPVC may cost more.
For homes in mobile home parks, the hookup may already exist, lowering the cost significantly.
Where Is the Main Drain Located in a Mobile Home?
The main drain in a mobile home is usually located under the center or back of the home where all drain lines come together and connect to the sewer or septic system. The main drain pipe is usually found under the bathroom or utility room, exiting through the belly of the home, or near the water heater or kitchen.
How Does Plumbing Work in a Mobile Home?
While plumbing in a mobile home operates similarly to regular homes, there are some differences in layout, materials, and accessibility. Here’s how it typically works:
1. Water Supply System
Freshwater enters the mobile home through a main water line connection, which may be hooked up to a municipal water source or a private well. From there, it branches off through a network of pipes (usually PEX, CPVC, or older polybutylene) to individual fixtures like sinks, showers, and appliances. A water heater (typically electric) is used as well.
2. Drainage and Waste System (DWV)
Mobile homes use a Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) system that relies on gravity to move wastewater out of the home. Vent pipes help maintain proper air pressure to keep water flowing and block sewer gases. Since the home is elevated, drain lines run under the floor and connect to a main sewer or septic line.
3. Venting Differences
Unlike traditional homes that use rooftop vent stacks, mobile homes often use air admittance valves (AAVs). These allow air into the drainage system without letting sewer gases escape.
4. Pipe Access and Maintenance
One major difference between mobile homes and regular homes is accessibility. Most plumbing lines in mobile homes run under the subfloor and can be accessed through the crawl space or skirting. This makes repairs easier in some cases, but also exposes pipes to freezing or leaks if not properly insulated.
6. Insulation and Freeze Protection
Because mobile homes have limited subfloor insulation, plumbing systems are vulnerable to freezing. Heat tape and pipe insulation are commonly installed around water supply lines to prevent burst pipes during cold weather. Proper skirting also helps by keeping the underbelly temperature more stable.
5. Mobile Home-Specific Fixtures
Mobile homes often use slightly smaller sizes and types of faucets, tubs, and toilets.
Mobile Home Sewer Line Installation Services
Installing a sewer line for a mobile home involves connecting the home’s drainage system to a municipal sewer system or a septic tank. This process must be done correctly to ensure that it’s code-compliant and that it works properly. Our team can handle this for you with no issues.
Mobile Home Heat Tape Installation Services
We provide mobile home heat tape installation services to help protect your plumbing system during freezing weather.
Our service includes:
– Inspecting your existing pipes and insulation
– Installing UL-rated heat tape on exposed water lines under your mobile home
– Securing and insulating the tape
– Testing the system to ensure it’s working properly
Mobile Home Water Heater Repair Services
Mobile home water heaters are typically smaller and built to HUD specifications, making them different from standard residential units.
Common Water Heater Problems:
– No hot water or water not heating fully
– Leaking tank or connections
– Pilot light won’t stay lit (for gas units)
– Tripped breaker or faulty thermostat (for electric units)
– Rusty or discolored hot water
Our Repair Services Include:
– Diagnosing electric and gas water heater issues
– Replacing heating elements, thermostats, or gas valves
– Fixing leaks, connections, and pressure relief valves
– Ensuring proper venting and HUD compliance
– Full unit replacement if the heater is beyond repair
Mobile Home Water Line Repair and Replacement
Water line issues are common in mobile homes due to their exposed piping, compact layouts, and temperature fluctuations.
Our Services Include:
Leak Detection: We locate the exact source of leaks using visual inspection and pressure testing.
Pipe Repair or Replacement: We use durable materials like PEX for long-lasting repairs and can replace damaged sections without overhauling the entire system.
Insulation and Protection: We rewrap exposed lines with proper insulation and install heat tape if needed to prevent future freeze-related damage.
System Testing: After repairs, we pressurize and test the entire system to ensure no other issues exist.