When a pipe bursts, the water heater fails, or your sewer line acts up, the last thing you need is a scramble to find a reliable expert. In San Pedro, knowing who to call for the "Best Plumber in San Pedro" isn't just about fixing a leak; it's about peace of mind, property protection, and ensuring your home or business runs smoothly. We've done the deep dive, vetting 69 local service providers using over 25 variables—from licensing and user reviews to old-fashioned mystery shopping—to curate a list of 47 top contenders, and ultimately, select the 15 plumbers who truly stand out.
Here’s your definitive guide to San Pedro’s plumbing elite, designed to arm you with the knowledge and contacts you need for any plumbing challenge.
At a Glance: What You Need to Know
- Top 15 Vetted Plumbers: We've rigorously screened and selected 15 premier plumbing services in San Pedro.
- Core Selection Criteria: Licensing, stellar user reviews, and hands-on mystery shopping were key.
- Comprehensive Services: From 24/7 emergency calls to advanced trenchless sewer repair, gas line work, and water heater installations, San Pedro’s best cover it all.
- Longevity & Expertise: Many of these companies boast decades of experience serving the local community.
- Empowering Your Choice: This guide offers practical advice on what to look for, questions to ask, and common issues these pros tackle.
Why Finding the Right Plumber in San Pedro is Crucial
San Pedro, with its unique mix of historic homes, bustling commercial districts, and waterfront properties, presents a specific set of plumbing challenges. Older infrastructure can mean aging pipes and sewer lines, while coastal proximity might bring its own issues. When you're dealing with anything from a dripping faucet to a major sewer backup, you need a local expert who understands these nuances and can respond swiftly and effectively.
Our selection process was exhaustive precisely because your choice matters. We started with a broad list of 69 providers, then narrowed it down to 47 curated companies, evaluating them on more than two dozen critical factors. From that rigorous assessment, we handpicked 15 that consistently demonstrated excellence in service, reliability, and customer satisfaction. These aren't just names; they are proven professionals ready to tackle your plumbing needs.
San Pedro's Premier Plumbing Services: The Top Local Choices
When plumbing problems strike, you want a trusted name. Here's a closer look at San Pedro's top plumbing companies, highlighting their specialties and what makes them stand out:
1. Power Rooter & Plumbing
A true cornerstone in the community, Power Rooter & Plumbing is a family-owned business with over three decades of experience. They are your go-to for both residential and commercial needs, offering 24-hour emergency services. From persistent leaks and stubborn clogged drains to broken sewer lines, temperamental water heaters, and critical gas line issues, they handle it all. Their expertise also extends to advanced solutions like TV sewer inspections, thorough drain cleaning, and complete repiping services.
2. 911 Sewer Specialists
As their name suggests, 911 Sewer Specialists are the experts you call when sewer problems become an emergency. This family-owned business focuses specifically on residential property owners, providing comprehensive sewer solutions. Their services include robust drain cleaning, high-power hydro-jetting, and advanced trenchless pipe solutions like pipe bursting, descaling, and NuFlow certified pipe lining. They're also adept at sewer odor detection, sump pump repair and installation, and crucial sewer camera inspections.
3. True Rooter & Plumbing
Serving San Pedro since 2013, True Rooter & Plumbing covers the full spectrum of residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing needs. Their skilled plumbers install and repair everything from septic tanks and showers to sinks, sump pumps, urinals, and water heaters. They’re problem-solvers, tackling issues like backflow, persistent clogs, cracks, leaks, and low water pressure with efficiency. For tough blockages, they rely on powerful hydro jetting techniques.
4. Bob & Marc Plumbing
A venerable name in the San Pedro metro area, Bob & Marc Plumbing has been serving commercial, industrial, and residential properties for over 50 years. Their longevity speaks volumes about their reliability and expertise. They excel in the installation, repair, and replacement of shower systems, drains, faucets, garbage disposals, and gas valves. Beyond the standard, they offer specialized services like backflow testing and certification, line cleaning, grease trap installation, sewer inspections, and intricate slab leak detection. Plus, their 24/7 emergency service ensures help is always just a call away.
5. Camco Rooter
With over two decades of service and a collective experience exceeding 75 years, Camco Rooter brings a wealth of knowledge to San Pedro’s residential and commercial clients. Their plumbers are masters of diagnosis, service, repair, and installation for a wide array of plumbing issues, including stubborn clogged drains, complete water heater replacements, and fixture repairs. You're leveraging deep, hands-on experience with Camco.
6. Clear All Rooter
Clear All Rooter is a versatile local plumbing company addressing the needs of both residential and commercial clients. They handle installations of new toilets, bathtubs, showers, sinks, and other fixtures with precision. Their services extend to full repiping, advanced camera inspections, whole-house water filtration systems, heating systems, and water heater services. For sewer and drain issues, they offer hydro-jetting, smoke testing for leak detection, and efficient trenchless sewer repairs.
7. Good Guy Plumbing
A family-owned business with over 25 years of experience, Good Guy Plumbing lives up to its name by serving residential property owners with integrity. Their technicians are adept at installing earthquake shut-off valves, repairing gas lines, replacing damaged pipes, clearing drainage systems, inspecting water treatment systems, and pinpointing slab leaks using sophisticated sewer cameras. They focus on proactive solutions and lasting repairs.
8. Kizen Plumbing
Since 1994, Kizen Plumbing has been a reliable partner for property owners in San Pedro, offering comprehensive cleaning, maintenance, and repair services. They specialize in fixing blockages, leaks, low water pressure, and sewage backups using modern methods like CIPP (Cured-In-Place Pipe) relining and hydrojetting. Their use of video inspection cameras ensures accurate diagnosis. Kizen Plumbing also proudly offers special pricing for veterans and seniors, demonstrating their commitment to the community.
9. Southlane Plumbing
For over 30 years, Southlane Plumbing has been a trusted resource for local homeowners and businesses alike. Their technicians are skilled at resolving a diverse range of problems, from gas leaks and frozen pipes to water heater malfunctions, kitchen faucet repairs, and garbage disposal issues. They also expertly handle corrosion pipe replacement, thorough drain cleaning for water contamination, stubborn unclogging, and urgent emergency repairs, day or night.
10. High Speed Rooter & Plumbing
With more than a decade of experience, High Speed Rooter & Plumbing provides efficient solutions for residential and commercial clients. Their common services include the installation of garbage disposal units, comprehensive sewer line repairs, and thorough drain cleaning. The team is also equipped to repair gas and main water lines, respond to 24/7 emergency calls, and provide septic tank pumping services. As a proud member of PHCC (Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association), they uphold industry standards.
11. Big League Plumbing & Rooter Inc.
This family-owned business is dedicated to providing high-quality plumbing services across San Pedro. Big League Plumbing & Rooter Inc. excels in drain cleaning, water heater installation and repair, detailed sewer inspection and repair, toilet repairs, pipe installation and repiping, and specialized commercial plumbing services. Their comprehensive approach ensures all aspects of your plumbing system are covered.
12. The Drain Guys
Serving San Pedro and surrounding areas like Garden Grove, Harbor City, and Los Angeles, The Drain Guys are experts in keeping your systems flowing smoothly. They repair crucial fixtures like faucets, garbage disposals, pipes, sinks, toilets, and water heaters. Beyond repairs, they also install, maintain, and replace bathtubs, showers, drains, gas lines, septic tanks, and water filters, making them a versatile choice for home and business owners.
13. Rhino Rooter
Rhino Rooter is a locally owned business committed to serving San Pedro’s residential and commercial clients with robust plumbing solutions. They expertly repair toilets, faucets, sinks, and recirculation pumps. Beyond fixture repairs, they’re adept at fixing leaks, clearing drains, and performing efficient trenchless sewer repairs. With hydro-jetting capabilities and 24/7 emergency service, Rhino Rooter is ready for any challenge.
14. Tony's Plumbing, Inc.
Though based in Los Angeles, Tony's Plumbing, Inc. has been a consistent presence in San Pedro for over two decades. Their general plumbing services cover faucets, garbage disposals, hot water heaters, pipes, and drains. What sets them apart is their involvement in new construction and renovation projects for bathrooms and kitchens, offering a blend of repair expertise and installation vision. They also provide reliable drain cleaning and repiping services.
15. Drain Force Plumbing
Drain Force Plumbing offers targeted and effective plumbing solutions for both commercial and residential clients in San Pedro. Their team of experienced contractors is skilled in unclogging drains, repairing leaky sewer lines, and installing modern tankless water heaters. They specialize in powerful hydro jetting using advanced van-mounted systems and perform precise sewer line camera inspections to diagnose issues accurately.
Beyond the List: What to Look for in Your San Pedro Plumber
While our curated list gives you a fantastic starting point, knowing how to evaluate a plumber ensures you make the best decision for your specific needs.
Licensing & Insurance: Your Non-Negotiables
Always, always verify that your plumber is licensed and insured. In California, plumbing contractors must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). A license confirms they meet state standards for skill and knowledge. Insurance, specifically liability insurance and workers' compensation, protects you from financial responsibility if an accident occurs on your property or a worker gets injured. Don't risk it with an unlicensed or uninsured professional.
Experience & Specialization: Matching the Pro to the Problem
Does your plumber have a track record with your particular issue? A general plumber is great for routine clogs, but a complex slab leak, a faulty sewer line, or a new tankless water heater installation might require someone with specialized experience.
- Decades of Service: Companies like Bob & Marc Plumbing (50+ years) and Power Rooter & Plumbing (30+ years) offer deep institutional knowledge.
- Specific Expertise: If you have severe sewer issues, 911 Sewer Specialists or Drain Force Plumbing, with their hydro-jetting and trenchless technologies, might be ideal.
- Emergency Response: For critical, sudden problems, firms offering 24/7 emergency service (Power Rooter, Bob & Marc, High Speed Rooter, Rhino Rooter, Southlane) are essential.
Reputation & Reviews: Interpreting Online Feedback
Online reviews offer a window into a company's customer service, professionalism, and problem-solving abilities. Look for patterns:
- Consistent Positives: High ratings across multiple platforms (Yelp, Google, Nextdoor) indicate reliable service.
- Specific Compliments: Do people praise their punctuality, clear communication, or fair pricing?
- Response to Negatives: How does the company handle criticism? A professional, constructive response can be a sign of a company committed to improvement.
- Local Mentions: Look for reviews that specifically mention San Pedro residents or businesses.
Emergency Availability: When Disaster Strikes
Plumbing emergencies don't stick to business hours. A burst pipe at 2 AM or a backed-up toilet on a holiday requires immediate attention. Many of San Pedro's top plumbers, including Power Rooter & Plumbing, Bob & Marc Plumbing, High Speed Rooter & Plumbing, Rhino Rooter, and Southlane Plumbing, offer 24/7 emergency services. This can be a lifesaver, literally preventing thousands of dollars in water damage.
Pricing & Transparency: Understanding the Estimate
Before any work begins, get a clear, written estimate. This should detail the scope of work, parts, labor, and any potential additional costs. A reputable plumber will be transparent about their pricing structure—whether it's an hourly rate, a flat fee for specific jobs, or a diagnostic charge. Be wary of estimates that seem too low, as they might indicate hidden fees or shortcuts.
Modern Technology: Efficiency and Effectiveness
Today’s plumbing isn't just wrenches and pipes. Advanced tools can save time, money, and damage to your property:
- Hydro-Jetting: For serious clogs and drain cleaning, high-pressure water jets (offered by 911 Sewer Specialists, True Rooter, Clear All Rooter, Kizen Plumbing, Rhino Rooter, Drain Force) are far more effective than traditional snaking.
- Sewer Camera Inspections: Companies like Power Rooter, 911 Sewer Specialists, Good Guy Plumbing, Kizen Plumbing, and Clear All Rooter use cameras to precisely locate blockages, cracks, or tree roots without invasive digging.
- Trenchless Sewer Repair: For damaged sewer lines, trenchless methods (911 Sewer Specialists, Clear All Rooter, Kizen Plumbing, Rhino Rooter) can repair or replace pipes with minimal disruption to your yard, saving you landscaping costs.
Common Plumbing Problems in San Pedro (and How These Pros Handle Them)
Knowing the common issues helps you explain your problem clearly and understand the solutions offered.
Clogged Drains: More Than Just a Hairball
From slow-draining sinks to completely blocked shower drains, clogs are frequent.
- Basic Clearing: Snaking is often effective for simple clogs.
- Hydro-Jetting: For severe grease buildup, tree roots, or persistent blockages, high-pressure hydro-jetting (offered by most top companies) clears lines completely, often preventing future clogs.
Leaky Pipes & Slab Leaks: The Silent Destroyers
A small leak can lead to huge problems: water damage, mold, and inflated water bills. Slab leaks, where pipes leak under your home's concrete foundation, are particularly insidious and require specialized detection tools.
- Detection: Professionals use acoustic listening devices, thermal imaging, and pressure tests to pinpoint leaks. Good Guy Plumbing and Bob & Marc Plumbing are noted for their slab leak detection.
- Repair: This can range from simple patch fixes to re-routing sections of pipe, or even full repiping.
Water Heater Issues: Cold Showers Are No Fun
Whether it's a lack of hot water, strange noises, or leaks from the tank, water heater problems are disruptive.
- Repair vs. Replacement: Pros can diagnose if a repair is feasible or if a new unit (traditional or tankless) is more cost-effective. Power Rooter, True Rooter, Camco Rooter, Clear All Rooter, Southlane Plumbing, Big League Plumbing, The Drain Guys, and Tony's Plumbing all handle water heater services.
- Maintenance: Regular flushing and anode rod inspection can extend your water heater's life.
Sewer Line Problems: A Mess You Can't Ignore
Backed-up toilets, foul odors, or lush spots in your yard can signal a compromised sewer line.
- Inspection: Camera inspections (offered by many, including Power Rooter, 911 Sewer Specialists, Good Guy Plumbing, Kizen Plumbing, Drain Force) are crucial for diagnosis.
- Repair/Replacement: Solutions range from trenchless methods (911 Sewer Specialists, Clear All Rooter, Kizen Plumbing, Rhino Rooter) to traditional excavation, depending on the damage.
Gas Line Repair: Safety First
Gas line issues, even minor ones, are extremely serious due to explosion and carbon monoxide poisoning risks. Never attempt to fix these yourself.
- Immediate Action: If you smell gas, evacuate, call the gas company, then call a professional plumber certified for gas line work.
- Expert Repairs: Companies like Power Rooter, Bob & Marc Plumbing, Good Guy Plumbing, High Speed Rooter, and The Drain Guys handle gas line installation and repair, ensuring safety and compliance.
Asking the Right Questions Before You Hire
Once you've narrowed down your choices, a quick conversation can solidify your decision. Here are essential questions to ask:
- Are you licensed and insured? (Always verify their license number with the CSLB).
- What is your experience with [my specific problem]?
- Can you provide a detailed, written estimate before starting work?
- Do you offer a warranty on your parts and labor? If so, for how long?
- What are your emergency service fees, if any, outside of regular hours?
- How long do you expect the job to take?
- What steps do you take to protect my property during the repair?
- Do you use subcontractors, or are all your technicians employees?
- Are there any potential additional costs I should be aware of?
- What payment methods do you accept?
Making Your Decision: Your Next Steps
Choosing the best plumber in San Pedro doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You now have a solid list of highly vetted professionals and the criteria to make an informed choice.
- Identify Your Need: What's the specific problem? Does it require emergency service or a specialized skill?
- Consult Our List: Refer to the detailed descriptions above to find plumbers whose strengths align with your needs.
- Get Multiple Quotes: For non-emergency situations, contact 2-3 plumbers from our list for estimates. Compare not just price, but also their proposed solutions, professionalism, and warranty.
- Check Current Reviews: While we've done extensive vetting, a quick check of recent online reviews can give you the very latest customer sentiment.
- Trust Your Gut: After speaking with them, choose the plumber who instills the most confidence through clear communication, transparency, and a professional demeanor.
Your home or business deserves top-tier plumbing service. With this guide, you’re equipped to find the perfect professional in San Pedro, ensuring reliable solutions and lasting peace of mind.