Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Ray, North Dakota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing, local family-owned business deeply integrated into the Ray community. They are known for their reliability, personalized service, and deep understanding of both residential and commercial plumbing systems common to the region. They offer 24/7 emergency services and are a trusted name for installations, repairs, and maintenance.
Located in the nearby city of Tioga, this provider is a key service operator for the entire region, including Ray. They have built a strong reputation for professional and efficient service, particularly for more complex installations and new construction projects. Their team is certified and well-equipped for a wide range of plumbing needs.
Based in Williston, this is a larger, more modern plumbing company that serves a wide radius, including Ray. They are highly reviewed for their prompt response times, use of advanced technology like video pipe inspection, and professional customer service. They are a go-to for complex issues like leak detection and major sewer line projects.
** The plumbing market in Ray, North Dakota, is characteristic of a small, rural community. The local competition is limited, with one or two long-standing, family-operated businesses like **Ray Plumbing & Heating** forming the core of the immediate market. Due to the small population, the market is heavily reliant on established reputation and word-of-mouth. For more specialized services or when local providers are at capacity, residents and businesses typically turn to reputable contractors from nearby hubs like **Tioga** and **Williston**. The level of service quality from these regional providers is generally high, as they operate in a competitive environment and rely on positive reviews and referrals. Pricing is moderate to moderately high, reflecting the rural location, the potential for travel time for contractors, and the high demand for skilled trades in Northwestern North Dakota. Emergency service call-outs, especially after hours, will typically command a premium rate, which is standard for the industry in this region.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ray regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Ray, North Dakota.
Ray's harsh winters, with temperatures often well below freezing, make frozen and burst pipes a primary concern. The most critical preventative steps include insulating pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses before winter, and knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve for emergencies. It's also wise to let a small trickle of water run from faucets during extreme cold snaps to keep water moving in vulnerable lines.
Service call fees in Ray and surrounding Williams County typically range from $75 to $150, with hourly labor rates between $80 and $120. For common jobs, expect to pay $150-$350 for a toilet repair or replacement, $200-$600 for a water heater repair, and $1,000-$3,000+ for a full water heater installation, with higher-end models costing more. Always request a detailed, written estimate that separates parts and labor before work begins.
The ideal times are late spring and early fall. Winters are extremely busy for plumbers with emergency freeze-ups, and summer is peak season for outdoor projects and well service. Scheduling during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) often provides more availability and potentially quicker service for projects like drain cleaning, fixture upgrades, or repiping planning.
Yes, North Dakota state law requires that all plumbing work be performed by a licensed plumber. In Ray, any significant work likely requires a permit from the city or Williams County to ensure it meets state plumbing code, which includes specific rules for freeze protection and well/septic systems common in rural areas. A reputable local plumber will handle this permitting process for you.
Well systems require specific knowledge of pumps, pressure tanks, and water quality testing, while septic systems need careful usage to avoid backups and require regular pumping every 3-5 years. It's crucial to hire a plumber experienced with these rural systems, as they understand local water table issues and soil conditions for drain fields. Never use chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your septic tank's bacterial balance.