Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Slater, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated business based directly in Slater. They are known for prompt, reliable service and deep community ties. They offer a full suite of plumbing and HVAC services for both residential and commercial customers, with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and emergency response.
A well-established plumbing contractor from the nearby city of Ames, they specialize in advanced leak detection and a wide range of residential and commercial services. Their larger team and specialized equipment make them a go-to for complex issues like slab leaks and sewer line problems.
Serving the broader Central Iowa region, this provider has a strong reputation for professional and courteous service. They offer comprehensive plumbing solutions, including 24/7 emergency services, and are known for their upfront pricing and quality workmanship on everything from minor repairs to major installations.
** The plumbing market serving Slater, Iowa, is characteristic of a small town in a rural region. The local presence consists of a single, highly-trusted, community-based provider (**Slater Plumbing & Heating**), which handles the majority of day-to-day needs. For more specialized services or when the local provider is at capacity, residents and businesses reliably turn to established contractors from the larger neighboring hubs of **Ames** and **Ankeny**. The competition level is moderate; while there are few physical storefronts in Slater itself, customers have several excellent regional options. Service quality is generally high across these providers, with a strong focus on personal service, reliability, and trustworthiness typical of the Midwest. Pricing is competitive and transparent, with average service call fees ranging from $75 - $150, plus parts and labor. Emergency and after-hours services typically command a premium. The market is stable, relying heavily on word-of-mouth referrals and long-standing community relationships.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Slater regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Slater, Iowa.
Slater's harsh winters, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, pose a significant risk of frozen and burst pipes, especially in uninsulated crawl spaces or exterior walls. Homeowners should schedule a fall inspection to have exposed pipes insulated, outdoor faucets (hose bibs) winterized, and learn how to locate and shut off the main water valve. It's also wise to keep cabinet doors open on cold nights to allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks.
Costs vary based on job complexity and materials, but local averages provide a guide. A standard 50-gallon water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 installed, including disposal of the old unit. Professional drain cleaning for a main line clog often costs between $200 and $500. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes labor, parts, and any potential trip fees for service calls to rural Story County addresses.
Yes, all plumbing work in Slater must comply with the Iowa State Plumbing Code, which is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This is especially important for major work like adding a bathroom, replacing a sewer line, or installing a new water heater, which may require a permit from the City of Slater. A licensed plumber will handle this permitting process, ensuring your system is safe, up to code, and passes any necessary inspections.
Prioritize plumbers who are licensed, insured, and have a physical local presence in Central Iowa, ensuring they understand regional issues like hard water and frost depths. Check for verified reviews from Slater or nearby towns (like Huxley or Ames) and ask about their emergency service availability, especially during winter storms. Membership in local organizations like the Slater Area Chamber of Commerce can also indicate community commitment.
The property owner is responsible for the sewer lateral—the pipe from your house to the city's main sewer line in the street. Shifting soils due to Iowa's freeze-thaw cycles and invasive tree roots are common causes of blockages or breaks in this private line. You should first call the City of Slater Public Works to check if the public main is clear. If it is, you will need to hire a local plumber with sewer camera inspection capabilities to diagnose and repair the private lateral.