The Best Plumbing Contractors in Unalaska, AK

Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Unalaska, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Northland Services, Inc.

4.5
(85 reviews)
Verified

A well-established, full-service mechanical contractor providing comprehensive plumbing, heating, and HVAC services for both residential and commercial clients in Dutch Harbor/Unalaska. They are known for their responsiveness and ability to handle the unique challenges of remote Alaskan infrastructure.

105 Airport Beach Rd, Unalaska, AK 99685

Specialties & Features

Emergency plumbing repairs
Commercial pipe installation
Water heater services

Business Information

Years in Business:20 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

A&B Plumbing & Heating

4.7
(120 reviews)
Verified

While primarily based in Anchorage, A&B is a major statewide contractor with a significant presence and project history in the Aleutian Islands, including Unalaska. They are highly regarded for large-scale commercial, industrial, and municipal projects, and also undertake residential service calls in the area.

(Main Office) 5710 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99518 (Serves Unalaska)

Specialties & Features

Commercial plumbing
Pipe installation and replacement
Bathroom and kitchen plumbing

Business Information

Years in Business:40 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Arctic Pipe Inc.

4.3
(60 reviews)
Verified

Another Anchorage-based company that provides services throughout Alaska, including the Aleutian chain. They specialize in pipe installation, repair, and maintenance for a variety of sectors and are a common contractor for the large seafood processing plants in Dutch Harbor, extending to residential repair work.

(Main Office) 135 E Potter Dr, Anchorage, AK 99518 (Serves Unalaska)

Specialties & Features

Pipe installation and replacement
Leak detection and repair
Drain and sewer services

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in Unalaska

** The plumbing market in Unalaska is niche and challenging, heavily influenced by its remote island location. The high cost of living and logistics directly translates to higher service call rates and parts costs compared to the mainland. There are very few plumbing companies that are physically based in Unalaska itself; the local market is served by one or two long-standing local contractors (like Northland Services) and supplemented by larger, well-equipped companies from Anchorage that travel to the island for contracts. Competition is limited, which can impact availability, especially during peak seasons or for emergency repairs. Service quality among the providers that do serve the area is generally high, as they must be equipped to handle the harsh climate and complex infrastructure needs of both the residential community and the dominant commercial fishing industry. Consumers should expect premium pricing due to travel, shipping, and operational costs associated with working in a remote Alaskan location.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Unalaska regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in Unalaska

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Unalaska, Alaska.

1Why are plumbing services in Unalaska often more expensive than in the Lower 48, and what should I budget for a typical emergency call?

Costs are higher due to the remote island location, which increases the price of parts, fuel surcharges, and limited local competition. For a standard emergency service call (e.g., a leak or clog), you should budget for a higher minimum service fee, often starting between $200-$400, before parts and additional labor. Seasonal barge schedules can also cause parts delays, potentially increasing project timelines and costs if special orders are required.

2How does Unalaska's harsh climate and permafrost affect my home's plumbing, and what specific preventative maintenance is critical?

Extreme cold, wind, and intermittent permafrost make pipes highly susceptible to freezing and shifting, which can lead to cracks and leaks. The most critical preventative steps are ensuring your pipe insulation is robust and intact, maintaining consistent indoor heat during winter, and having your sewer line inspected for root intrusion or ground movement. It's also vital to know the location of your main water shut-off valve in case of a burst pipe during a freeze.

3Are there any local Unalaska or Alaska-specific regulations I need to be aware of for plumbing repairs or installations?

Yes, all plumbing work must comply with the Alaska Plumbing Code, which includes specific provisions for frost protection and permafrost regions. In Unalaska, work may also need to adhere to City of Unalaska permitting requirements. For any significant work, especially on wastewater systems given the sensitive local environment, hiring a licensed Alaska plumber who is familiar with submitting local permits is essential to avoid violations.

4What should I look for when choosing a reliable plumber in Unalaska, given the limited number of providers?

Prioritize plumbers who are licensed to work in the State of Alaska and have a proven, long-term local presence, as they understand the unique challenges of island logistics and weather. Check for 24/7 emergency availability, especially in winter, and ask about their common parts inventory to gauge response effectiveness. Personal recommendations from neighbors are invaluable in a close-knit community like Unalaska.

5My drains are slow year-round. Is this a common issue in Unalaska, and what's likely causing it?

Yes, this is a frequent concern. The primary local causes are often related to the age of many homes and the challenging environment: shifting foundations on unstable ground can misalign pipes, and invasive tree roots seeking moisture are common. Furthermore, the lack of municipal sewer in many areas means private septic systems and holding tanks are prevalent; slow drains can be an early sign that your tank needs pumping or your septic field is having issues.