The Best Plumbing Contractors in UNM, NM

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

#1

Mister Waterheater & Plumbing

4.8
(280 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, locally-owned company known for its rapid response times and exceptional customer service. They specialize in water heater services but offer a full suite of residential and commercial plumbing solutions. Their technicians are known for being clean, professional, and knowledgeable.

6101 Jefferson St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109 (Serves the UNM area)

Specialties & Features

Water heater installation and repair
Emergency plumbing repairs
Drain cleaning

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

TLC Plumbing & Utility

4.7
(250 reviews)
Verified

One of the largest and most established plumbing companies in New Mexico. TLC has a strong reputation for handling complex commercial and residential projects, including new construction and large-scale repairs. They operate a 24/7 emergency service line and have multiple licensed master plumbers on staff.

10700 Bell Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123 (Serves the entire Albuquerque metro, including UNM)

Specialties & Features

Commercial plumbing services
Pipe installation and replacement
Bathroom and kitchen plumbing

Business Information

Years in Business:30 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Plumbers by ABC

4.6
(180 reviews)
Verified

A trusted family-owned business with a long history in the Albuquerque community. They are praised in customer reviews for their honesty, fair pricing, and thorough work. They offer a wide range of services from minor faucet repairs to major sewer line replacements.

500 Arno St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102 (Located near and frequently serves the UNM area)

Specialties & Features

Leak detection and repair
Sewer services
Residential plumbing repairs

Business Information

Years in Business:25 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in UNM

** The plumbing market in the UNM area of Albuquerque is competitive and features a mix of large, long-standing companies and smaller, highly-specialized local contractors. The average quality of service is high, with many providers holding state licenses and boasting strong community reputations built over decades. Due to the age of many homes in the neighborhoods surrounding the university, services like drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and pipe replacement are in high demand. The presence of commercial properties and multi-unit student housing also drives a need for robust commercial plumbing services. Pricing is typical for a metropolitan area, with emergency call-out fees generally ranging from $100-$200, and hourly labor rates between $80-$150. The competition helps keep prices reasonable, and many top-rated companies offer upfront, flat-rate pricing to provide cost certainty to their customers. Consumers in this market tend to value responsiveness, clear communication, and warranties on workmanship.

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 UNM regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in UNM

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in UNM, New Mexico.

1How do Albuquerque's hard water and the high mineral content in the UNM area affect my plumbing, and what services should I consider?

The hard water in Albuquerque and the UNM area, rich in calcium and magnesium, leads to significant scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, and fixtures. This reduces water pressure, decreases appliance efficiency, and shortens their lifespan. Local plumbers often recommend and install whole-house water softeners or point-of-use conditioners, and performing regular descaling services is a crucial preventative maintenance step for homeowners here.

2What are common seasonal plumbing issues for UNM-area homes, and when should I schedule preventative maintenance?

The two key seasonal concerns are winter freezes and monsoon season. Despite the generally mild climate, overnight temperatures can dip below freezing, making pipe insulation and faucet dripping critical for homes, especially older ones near campus. In late summer, heavy monsoon rains can overwhelm drainage systems and sewer lines. The best times for preventative maintenance are early fall (to winterize) and late spring (to check drainage before monsoons).

3Are there specific local regulations or rebates in Albuquerque/Bernalillo County that affect plumbing upgrades?

Yes, the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority (ABCWUA) has strict water conservation ordinances that impact plumbing. For example, there are regulations on toilet flush volumes and restrictions on irrigation systems. Importantly, the ABCWUA frequently offers rebates for upgrading to WaterSense-labeled fixtures like high-efficiency toilets and smart irrigation controllers, which can significantly offset installation costs for UNM homeowners.

4What should I look for when choosing a reliable plumber serving the UNM neighborhood?

Always verify that the plumber is licensed by the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) and carries full insurance. For the UNM area's mix of historic and modern homes, seek a provider with experience in both older pipe materials (like galvanized steel) and current PEX/CPVC systems. Check for strong local reviews mentioning responsiveness, as emergency issues like a burst pipe need quick service to minimize damage to your property.

5Why are sewer line problems particularly common in older neighborhoods around UNM, and what are the signs and solutions?

Many homes in the UNM area have original sewer lines made of clay tile or cast iron, which are prone to cracking from soil shifting in our expansive clay and intrusion from thirsty tree roots. Signs include multiple slow drains, gurgling toilets, and sewage odors. Solutions range from hydro-jetting for roots to trenchless pipe lining (cured-in-place pipe), which is often ideal for minimizing disruption to mature landscaping and paved surfaces common in these neighborhoods.