Your Essential Plumbing Resource Guide for Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City homeowners and property managers face unique plumbing needs shaped by the region’s seasonal fluctuations, aging infrastructure, and mountainous terrain. Having access to the right plumbing resources can make all the difference when facing a broken pipe, frozen line, or a significant water leak. This Salt Lake City plumbing guide compiles the essential local contacts, water utility details, emergency tips, and code requirements you need to handle plumbing issues with confidence.

Know Your Local Utilities

The Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities manages water service in Salt Lake City. It operates over 1,000 miles of pipe to serve homes and businesses across the region. Whether you are experiencing low water pressure or a service line leak, or you have questions about your water bill, this department is the first point of contact.

• Salt Lake City Public Utilities Customer Service: 801-483-6900
• After-Hours Water Emergency: 801-483-6700
• Website: slc.gov/utilities

This department also manages stormwater and wastewater systems. If you notice a sewer backup or maintenance hole overflow, report it immediately. Delayed action can result in costly home damage and public health risks.

Emergency Plumbing Numbers in Salt Lake City

Plumbing emergencies can happen without warning, which is why it's a good idea to keep these plumbing resources on hand. Fast access to qualified help is key when water damage or loss of service threatens your home. Alongside public utilities, homeowners should keep contact info for local professionals who respond 24/7, 365 days a year.

• Gas Leak or Odor: Call Dominion Energy at 800-767-1689
• Water Line Breaks: Salt Lake City After-Hours Emergency at 801-483-6700
• Sewer Overflow or Backup: 801-483-6700

You should also have a professional plumbing company, such as Roto-Rooter, on speed dial. Trusted and recommended since 1935, Roto-Rooter’s plumbers are available around-the-clock to handle backups, clogs, leaks, sump pump issues, and frozen pipes.

Salt Lake City Plumbing Codes You Should Know

Salt Lake City follows the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code with additional local amendments. These codes keep your plumbing safe and efficient. Homeowners and property managers should be aware of the following:

• You must secure water heaters with straps to meet earthquake safety standards.
• You must install backflow prevention on irrigation and sprinkler systems.
• New or replaced sewer lines require a city inspection.
• Sump pump discharge must drain away from the foundation, not into the sanitary sewer.

Most major projects, such as those involving the relocation of drain lines or the upgrade of sewer connections, require a permit. You can learn more or apply online through Salt Lake City’s Building Services Division. If you are unsure if your job needs a permit, a licensed contractor or experienced plumbing technician can help clarify the rules.

Common Plumbing Issues in Salt Lake City

Older neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, such as The Avenues and Sugar House, often feature historic homes with original or outdated plumbing. Common problems include:

• Galvanized steel piping that corrodes and reduces flow
• Tree roots in sewer lines, especially in homes with older clay pipes
• Basement flooding from heavy snowmelt and summer storms
• Frozen pipes in winter due to shallow lines or poor insulation

Roots are especially aggressive in dry soil conditions. They spread out like a net in search of moisture, cracking into older sewer lines and forming blockages. In many cases, professional drain cleaning or trenchless sewer repair is the best solution.

Tips for Preventing Plumbing Problems

A proactive approach can help you avoid most plumbing disasters. Many homeowners wait until they notice a visible leak or foul odor before taking action. Routine checks and seasonal prep can reduce the risk of significant damage.

• Insulate exposed pipes before cold weather hits.
• Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment.
• Install backwater valves if your home is at risk for sewer backups.
• Schedule annual plumbing inspections to detect minor issues early.

Make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. If your home has a sump pump, test it periodically by pouring water into the pit. If it fails to engage, call a professional to inspect the float switch or replace the unit.

Where to Buy Plumbing Supplies in Salt Lake City

For those who prefer to handle minor fixes themselves, several plumbing supply stores and home improvement centers stock the fittings, tools, and replacement parts needed for most residential projects.

• Standard Plumbing Supply – 3101 S Main St, Salt Lake City
• Ferguson Plumbing Supply – 150 W 2100 S, Salt Lake City
• The Home Depot – Multiple locations throughout the metro area

These stores also carry frost-proof hose bibs, pipe insulation, water alarms, and sump pump battery backups — all functional upgrades for homes in this climate.

Work With a Trusted Salt Lake City Plumbing Company

No matter how prepared you are, some jobs require expert tools and training. Drain line breaks, slab leaks, and sewer backups demand fast attention and professional-grade solutions. For trusted results, contact a plumbing company with experience serving homes and infrastructure in the Salt Lake City area.

Roto-Rooter’s plumbers understand the terrain, the seasonal challenges, and the local code requirements that affect plumbing performance here. From deep snaking and video inspection to trenchless pipe replacement, we use advanced tools to restore your system with minimal disruption.

For emergency service or to schedule preventive maintenance, call Roto-Rooter at 800-768-6911 or book online 24/7, 365 days a year.