Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains

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Oshawa, ON
Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains

Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains Limited has been serving residents and businesses throughout Durham Region, Ontario since 1955.

We're Durham Region's oldest plumbing company. Contact us for a job estimate today. As Durham Region's oldest plumbing company, Vaillancourt Plumbing & Drains has been serving the plumbing needs of residential and business customers since 1955 — a testament to our customer-centric approach to our business. As founder Ed Vaillancourt says "Service is our business!" Although daily operations have pa

ssed forward to Ed's son, Brian Vaillancourt, Ed still advises, drawing upon his many years of experience and expertise. We are committed to a high-level of quality workmanship and customer care when it comes to your plumbing needs. Our expertise, friendly service and competitive rates will ensure you receive the exact repairs you need.

09/03/2026

Pre-Fall Plumbing Health Check: Why Preventative Service Pays Off

As summer winds down and fall approaches in Ontario, now is a great time to consider a pre-fall plumbing health check. Seasonal temperature changes and heavy rainfall can place extra strain on plumbing systems, and early inspection helps identify small issues before they turn into costly repairs.

A comprehensive check begins with evaluating drain performance. Slow drains, gurgling sounds or minor backups can signal developing clogs or partial blockages that, if left untreated, might lead to full blockages during colder months when the system is less forgiving.

Inspecting the water heater is another key element. Summer usage patterns may leave sediment buildup or stress on heating elements. Ensuring your water heater is operating efficiently before fall can help extend its lifespan and maintain consistent hot water as temperatures drop.

Assessing fixtures, shut-off valves and visible piping also helps catch leaks, corrosion or wear early. Even small drips can add up over time and lead to higher water bills or water damage in hidden areas.

For homes with basement drains, sump pumps and sewer backwater valves, a fall check ensures these systems are ready to handle heavy rain and runoff common in late summer and early autumn.

Taking steps now to evaluate your plumbing helps protect your home through seasonal change, bringing greater reliability, fewer surprises and long-term savings.

08/27/2026

Tree Roots & Sewer Lines: Mid-Season Warning Sign

Summer brings lush greenery to yards across Ontario, but those same trees and shrubs that beautify your property can pose a hidden risk to your plumbing system. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and over time they can grow toward and into sewer lines — especially older clay or concrete pipes with small cracks or joints.

One of the first warning signs of root intrusion is slow draining fixtures throughout the home. If sinks, tubs or toilets take longer than usual to clear, roots may be partially blocking the sewer line. You might also notice gurgling noises when flushing or running water in another part of the house, or even foul odours from floor drains.

In some cases, roots can create more severe blockages that lead to sewer backups, which can damage floors, walls and personal belongings if left unaddressed. Because roots are persistent and can grow deeper over time, mid-season — when soil is warm and moisture is plentiful — is an ideal time to be alert for these issues.

Advanced diagnostic tools like camera sewer inspections can reveal root intrusion early, helping pinpoint the location and extent of the problem. Addressing root invasion sooner rather than later helps keep your sewer system flowing freely throughout the season.

08/20/2026

High Summer Water Bills: Hidden Leak Detection

Summer is peak season for lawns, gardens and outdoor activities, but an unexpectedly high water bill can put a damper on warm weather plans — especially when you can’t pinpoint the cause. In many cases, unusually high usage signals a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

Hidden leaks can occur in several places, including underground supply lines, irrigation systems, toilets, faucets and under slabs. Because they don’t always produce visible signs like puddles or dripping taps, they can go unnoticed for weeks or months. During summer when water use is naturally higher, even a small leak can significantly increase your monthly bill.

One of the first steps in diagnosing a hidden leak is to check your water meter. Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances, then observe the meter. If it continues to move, water may be escaping somewhere in the system.

Other common signs of hidden leaks include unexplained damp spots in your yard, unusually lush patches of grass, rumbling sounds in walls or floors, and persistent low water pressure. Detecting these early helps reduce waste and prevent more serious damage to your foundation or landscaping.

Early identification and repair of hidden leaks can make a dramatic difference in summer water bills and help preserve your home’s plumbing health.

08/13/2026

Leaving for Vacation? Plumbing Shut-Off Tips

Heading out for a well-deserved vacation this summer? Before you lock the door and hit the road, taking a few plumbing precautions can help protect your home from unexpected water damage while you’re away.

One of the most effective steps is to shut off the main water supply. Turning off the main valve prevents water from flowing into your home, reducing the risk of leaks, burst pipes or appliance malfunctions causing damage while you’re gone. Be sure to open a faucet on the lowest level after shutting off the supply to relieve pressure in the lines.

If you won’t be completely isolating the home — for example, you’re leaving pets or plants behind — consider at least shutting off water to individual fixtures such as the washing machine, dishwasher and toilets. This helps minimize risk while still allowing essential systems to function.

Check that your sump pump and battery backup are operating properly, especially during spring and summer when heavy rain can occur. A non-functioning sump pump during a storm could result in basement flooding.

Another wise measure is to set the thermostat to a temperature that protects against humidity and mould, and have a trusted neighbour or friend check the home periodically.

Taking these simple plumbing precautions before vacation helps ensure you return to relaxation — not an emergency repair.

08/06/2026

Well Pump Maintenance for Rural Properties

For many rural Ontario homeowners, a private well and pump system supplies household water. Unlike municipal services, well systems require regular attention to ensure reliable performance, water quality and longevity. Without proper maintenance, well pumps can fail unexpectedly, leading to inconvenience and expensive repairs.

One important step is monitoring water pressure and flow. Weak flow, sputtering faucets or fluctuating pressure can signal wear, sediment buildup or an ageing pump. Tracking these changes helps catch issues early.

Seasonal checks of the pressure tank are also essential. Proper air pressure supports steady water delivery and reduces strain on the pump. A waterlogged or imbalanced tank can cause frequent cycling, shortening the pump’s lifespan.

Keep the wellhead area clear of debris and contaminants. Ensure the well cap is secure and avoid standing water, chemicals or heavy vegetation nearby to help protect water quality.

Annual testing for bacteria and mineral content is another smart practice, as changes in water composition can affect both health and plumbing components.

Routine well pump maintenance supports consistent water supply and protects the plumbing system in rural homes, providing added reliability throughout the year.

07/30/2026

Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater: Is It Worth It?

As homeowners in Ontario consider updates to improve comfort and efficiency, one upgrade that often comes up is a tankless water heater. Unlike traditional tank systems that store and heat a large volume of water, tankless models heat water on demand — meaning you only use energy when hot water is needed.

One of the main advantages of a tankless system is energy efficiency. Because there is no standing volume of heated water waiting in a tank, standby heat loss is reduced. This can lead to lower energy bills over time, especially in households with lower overall hot water usage.

Tankless heaters also tend to have a longer lifespan, often lasting up to 20 years or more, compared with the 10–15-year average for traditional tanks. Their compact design saves space, which can be especially beneficial in smaller mechanical rooms or basements.

However, tankless systems come with higher upfront costs and may require upgrades to your home’s gas line or electrical system. They also deliver hot water at a limited flow rate, which can be a consideration for larger households with simultaneous demands.

Whether upgrading to tankless is worth it depends on your household size, hot water needs, energy goals and budget. For many, the efficiency, longevity and continuous hot water supply make tankless systems a compelling option for modern homes.

07/23/2026

Protecting Your Plumbing During Backyard Gatherings

Summer backyard gatherings are a highlight of the season in Ontario, but more guests and increased activity can put unexpected strain on your home’s plumbing. Being mindful of how your system responds during busy outdoor events helps prevent clogs, backups and costly repairs.

One key area to watch is the kitchen sink, especially if food preparation is happening outdoors or if you’re bringing in extra dishware. Grease, food scraps and fibrous scraps should never go down the drain. These materials can stick to pipe walls and attract other debris, leading to stubborn blockages over time.

Bathrooms are another spot where plumbing can feel the pressure. Higher usage during a party can lead to slow drains or even gurgling sounds, which may indicate partial clogs in your drains. Running water routinely to maintain flow and avoiding flushing non-flushable items — such as wipes or paper towels — helps keep sewer lines moving freely.

Outdoor taps and hose connections see more use during summer barbecues and pool filling. Keeping hoses and fittings in good condition, and ensuring proper shut-off after use, prevents unnecessary leaks and water waste.

Even small precautions, like checking that drains are clear before guests arrive and avoiding overloading garbage disposals, can protect your plumbing system and keep your summer gatherings worry-free.

07/16/2026

Summer Sewer Smells: Why They Happen & How to Fix Them

Warm weather and increased outdoor activity are hallmarks of summer in Ontario, but along with the sunshine can come one unwelcome guest: sewer odours inside your home. Understanding why these smells occur and how to address them can help keep your living space fresh all season long.

One common cause of sewer smells is evaporated water traps. Plumbing traps — the curved section of pipe under sinks, showers and floor drains — rely on a small amount of standing water to block sewer gases. In homes with less frequent use of certain drains, particularly in summer cottages or guest bathrooms, that water can dry out, allowing odours to enter the home.

Another potential source is a partial blockage in your drain or sewer line. Grease, hair, soap scum and debris can build up over time and restrict proper flow, causing sewer gas to back up into fixtures.

Issues with the venting system can also lead to odours. Plumbing vents let air enter the drain system, helping wastewater flow and preventing negative pressure that can pull water out of traps.

Fixing summer sewer smells typically starts with re-filling dry traps by running water through all drains, clearing any obstructions, and ensuring proper venting. In more complex cases, addressing deeper blockages or sewer line problems can restore proper flow and eliminate odours for good.

07/09/2026

Signs Your Water Heater Is Nearing the End

A reliable hot water supply is essential in every Ontario home, but water heaters don’t last forever. Understanding the early warning signs that your water heater may be nearing the end of its service life can help prevent unexpected cold showers and costly emergency repairs.

One of the most common indicators is age. Most conventional tank water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. If your unit is in this age range or older, its efficiency and reliability are likely declining.

Another sign is rusty or discoloured water. Brown or reddish water that appears when hot water is running may indicate corrosion inside the tank. Over time, internal rust can lead to leaks and complete tank failure.

Unusual noises from the tank — such as popping, rumbling or banging — are often caused by sediment build-up on the bottom of the tank. This sediment reduces heating efficiency and increases stress on components.

Fluctuating water temperatures or a noticeable decline in hot water supply can also suggest the heating element or thermostat is failing. Additionally, visible leaks around the tank or pooling water at the base are serious signs that the tank’s structural integrity is compromised.

Recognizing these signs early gives you time to plan for replacement rather than facing abrupt loss of hot water or potential water damage in your home.

07/02/2026

Water Softener Systems: Do You Need One in Ontario?

Hard water is common in many parts of Ontario, and while it isn’t harmful to your health, it can affect your plumbing, appliances and daily routines. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can build up over time and create scale inside pipes, fixtures and water-using appliances.

A water softener system can help reduce these minerals by replacing them with softer ions, typically sodium or potassium, resulting in smoother water that is easier on pipes and surfaces.

One of the main benefits of softened water is reduced scale buildup in hot water tanks, dishwashers, washing machines and plumbing lines. This can extend the lifespan of equipment and improve overall efficiency by allowing appliances to heat water with less resistance.

In homes without softeners, mineral buildup can lead to reduced water flow, clogged aerators, cloudy glassware and a need for more frequent cleaning of fixtures and showerheads. Some people also prefer the feel of softened water on skin and hair.

Evaluating whether a water softener is right for your home depends on the hardness of your local water supply and your personal preferences. In areas with particularly high mineral content, softening systems may offer long-term benefits, both for your plumbing infrastructure and everyday convenience.

Address

27 Warren Avenue
Oshawa, ON
L1J4E9

Website

https://www.vaillancourtplumbing.ca/

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