Top Plumbing Issues Bixby Knolls Homeowners Should Watch For
Bixby Knolls is one of those neighborhoods that feels like a small town inside a big city. Tree-lined streets, mid-century charm, neighbors who actually wave — it’s a gem in North Long Beach. But let’s be honest… the plumbing in some of these homes? Not quite as charming.
We’re Prodigy Plumbing, Heating & Air, and we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Bixby Knolls keep their water flowing, drains clear, and plumbing systems healthy. If you live in the area, here are a few issues we see all the time — and how to catch them early before they turn into expensive repairs.
1. Slab Leaks That Show Up Out of Nowhere
You wake up and one corner of your floor is warm. No big deal… until your water bill doubles and your hardwood floors start warping.
Slab leaks are a huge problem in Bixby Knolls — especially in homes built before the 1980s. These leaks happen in the copper pipes that run under your foundation and often go unnoticed until serious damage is done.
If you notice any of the following, call us right away:
• Warm spots on the floor
• Random hissing sounds
• Spikes in your water bill
• Low water pressure in the whole house
We use non-invasive leak detection and can often repair it without tearing up your floors.
2. Greasy Sewer Lines (Yes, Even in the Suburbs)
This neighborhood isn’t known for wild restaurant scenes, but the sewer lines still get gunked up — fast. Especially in older homes with clay or cast-iron lines.
If your drains are slow, your toilets gurgle, or the shower starts backing up when the washer runs — it’s not just a clog. It could be tree roots, years of buildup, or a broken section of your main line.
We offer video inspections that take the guesswork out — and we don’t just recommend digging unless we absolutely have to.
3. Old Galvanized Pipes and Water Pressure Drama
One of the biggest surprises for new buyers in Bixby Knolls is how inconsistent the water pressure can be. Some faucets blast like fire hoses, others barely drip.
We often find:
• Galvanized steel pipes that are rusted from the inside
• Failing pressure regulators
• Or partial repipes that weren’t done right
You don’t need to rip out your whole plumbing system — but if you’re dealing with rust stains, yellow water, or uneven pressure, we can fix it in phases.
4. Water Heaters at the End of Their Life
Many homes in this area still have water heaters installed before YouTube existed. You don’t have to wait for them to burst.
If you notice:
• Less hot water than usual
• Smelly or discolored water
• A rumbling noise from the tank
• Or water pooling at the base
… it’s time for a flush, repair, or replacement. We carry new models that are more energy-efficient and fit tight spaces (including tankless options).
Bixby Knolls, We’re Already in the Neighborhood
We’re Long Beach born and raised, and Bixby Knolls is one of our favorite places to work. We’ve handled jobs on San Antonio Drive, Olive Avenue, Roosevelt Road — and probably for your neighbor.
If you’re looking for a trusted Long Beach plumber who actually knows the difference between a simple fix and an upsell — we’re your people.
Need Plumbing Help in Bixby Knolls?
Call Prodigy Plumbing, Heating & Air at (562) 414-0494
Or visit us online: https://prodigyplumbing.com/
We’ll show up on time, fix it right, and never sell you anything you don’t need. Promise.
