News Archives - Kokesh Plumbing

How Do I Know When It’s Time to Replace My Water Heater?

Jan 29, 2026

No one enjoys replacing their home appliances, but in many cases it’s best to do so before you have an emergency situation on your hands. Water heaters are integral to a functioning home, but are often out of sight and out of mind until there’s a problem. So, how do you know whether your water heater is ready for retirement or just in need of a repair? Let’s go through some things to look out for:

Age of the Water Heater

To start, most water heaters last for about 10 years or so. How long your water heater lasts depends on a few factors, including frequency of use, the quality of your home’s water supply, and whether it was installed properly. It’s important to have an idea of how old your water heater is so you can prepare for replacement or repairs. If you’re getting close to, or are past, the ten-year mark, the odds are higher that any issues may be a sign your water heater needs to be replaced.

If you inherited your current water heater and aren’t sure how old it is, you should be able to find out from the manufacturer’s label on the unit, or even your property’s inspection documents. Hopefully, you’ll find an installation date somewhere near the label; if not, you should be able to simply type the serial number into Google and find a pretty close estimate of your water heater’s age.

Need help deciphering the info on your water heater? Give us a call, and we can help figure it out. It may be best to set up a free consultation so we can help diagnose any problems with your water heater!

Water Heating Issues

The most obvious sign that something may be wrong with your water heater? You guessed it! Your water isn’t hot. Or maybe it’s only hot for a short while, then back to ice cold? Or does the water only ever get lukewarm? Issues with water temperature can sometimes be an easy fix, but these issues can also point to something more serious. Causes can include something as simple as an incorrect temperature setting, or something a bit more complicated like a faulty heating element or a corroded anode. The size of your tank and its energy source (electric vs. gas) both make a huge difference on how quickly your hot water replenishes as well, so it’s important you have the correct equipment for your household water needs. A 40-gallon electric water heater may serve a 1-2 person home just fine, but may not be the best option for a family of 5!

Leaking

One of the more concerning issues you can face with your water heater is leaking. Because these appliances are often in basements or in closets, you may not notice leaking for as soon as it starts, so it’s important to keep an eye out, especially if you have an older water heater. Leaking is usually a sign that the water heater will need to be replaced, especially if the tank itself is cracked. You will want to call a plumbing professional as soon as possible after you’ve discovered leaking. The first thing you should do if you notice water around your water heater is to shut off the valve that provides cold water to the tank, and either the gas valve or the electricity source, depending on your unit. Draining the tank is your best next step, or at least catching as much water as possible. Calling a certified plumber quickly is very important to prevent further damage to your home and to get hot water restored as fast as possible.

Found your water heater leaking after hours, or on the weekend? We’ve got you covered! Kokesh Plumbing offers around-the-clock emergency services. Just give us a call at 636-391-1233.

Improper Installation

If you are experiencing issues with your water heater, especially if it’s a newer unit, there’s a chance some of it could be due to improper installation. Many property owners and homeowners want to save money by installing their water heater themselves, but improper installation can lead to costly repairs down the line (pun intended.) Some visual signs of an improperly installed water heater include things like a missing T&P (temperature and pressure) relief valve, kinked gas lines, no drain pan installed under the unit, and discolored water. You might also notice performance issues like inconsistent hot water, low water pressure, leaks around connections or the tank, or even strange noises (popping, rumbling) and soot/exhaust smells. If you suspect that your water heater may have been installed incorrectly, we’re happy to provide a water heater consultation free of charge to identify any performance issues and find their root cause.

Next Steps

There can be many issues affecting your water heater’s performance, and we weren’t even able to cover them all in this one article! It may not be time yet for you to replace your water heater, but if you are concerned with your unit’s performance, we would be more than happy to set up a free consultation to find the solution that is best for you. If you are in the market for a new water heater, Kokesh Plumbing specializes in gas water heaters, electric water heaters, tankless water heaters, hybrid/heat pump water heaters, and propane water heaters. We provide your brand new water heater, and our comprehensive installation services also includes obtaining the permit and hauling away your old water heater at no additional cost.

Interested in a consult or an estimate? Give us a call at 636-391-1233, or email us at contact@kokeshplumbing.com.

Click Here to Learn More About Our Water Heater Services

Making A Difference with St. Louis Area Diaper Bank

Dec 15, 2025

Coming Together to Support Families in Need

At Kokesh Plumbing, giving back has always been about more than just writing a check—it’s about showing up for our neighbors when they need support the most. Recently, we were honored to be featured by First Alert 4 for serving as a drop-off location for the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank, helping address the growing diaper need affecting families across the St. Louis region.

Diaper need is a challenge many families quietly face. Diapers are not covered by SNAP or WIC benefits, and the cost adds up quickly, especially for new parents, single-parent households, and families already stretched thin. When access to basic necessities like diapers is limited, it can impact a child’s health, a caregiver’s ability to work, and overall family stability.

After opening our doors as a donation site, the response from our community was nothing short of incredible. Neighbors, customers, and local supporters stopped by with diapers, wipes, and supplies, all with the same goal: helping local babies and families stay clean, healthy, and cared for. The generosity we witnessed reinforced why we’re so proud to be rooted in Ballwin and the greater St. Louis area.

Being able to provide a convenient place for donations is just one small way we can use our space and platform to support organizations doing essential work. The St. Louis Area Diaper Bank continues to ensure families receive the supplies they need, and we’re grateful to play a role in connecting that mission with a community eager to help.

A Community That Shows Up

One of the most meaningful parts of this experience has been seeing how many people care deeply about their neighbors. From individual donations to larger contributions, every act of generosity has mattered.

We’d like to offer a special acknowledgement and thank you to Tequila Grey, Ballwin Alderwoman, who stopped by with a generous donation to support the Diaper Bank as well. Moments like this remind us how powerful it is when local leaders, businesses, and residents come together with a shared purpose.

We’re proud to be part of a community that looks out for one another, steps up when there’s a need, and proves that even small actions can make a big difference. Thank you to everyone who donated, shared the message, and helped support families during this critical time—we’re truly grateful to serve such a caring community.

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Kokesh Plumbing Named a 2025 Neighborhood Favorite

Nov 24, 2025

Thank You, St. Louis, for Trusting Us With Your Homes and Community

We’re excited and deeply honored to share that Kokesh Plumbing has been voted a 2025 Neighborhood Favorite on Nextdoor! Being chosen by the people who live, work, and raise families here means more than awards or badges ever could. It’s a reflection of trust, something our family has valued for over 130 years.

As we celebrate this moment, we wanted to highlight a few things that help define who we are as your local, family-owned plumbing team:

24-Hour Emergency Service

Plumbing problems don’t wait for business hours and neither do we.
Whether it’s a leaking water heater, burst pipe, sewer backup, or any “middle-of-the-night” surprise, our team is ready when you need us most.

📞 If you ever need emergency service, call us anytime at 636-391-1233.

Your safety, comfort, and peace of mind will always be our priority.

Community Giveback

Being a neighborhood favorite isn’t just about plumbing it’s about being good neighbors.
Throughout the year, Kokesh Plumbing organizes and participates in donation drives that support families across the St. Louis region. Food drives, school supply collections, diaper donations, holiday assistance… if it helps our community, we’re proud to be part of it.

👉 View the organizations we support and how we give back here.

Your Recommendations Mean Everything

Some of the greatest compliments we receive are referrals. When you tell a friend, neighbor, or family member, “You should call Kokesh.”

These recommendations, along with your thoughtful online reviews, help us continue to grow and proudly serve the homes around us.

👉 Read and share your experience on Google Reviews.
We appreciate every single one.

Your Local Go-To Plumber for Over 130 Years

Our story began in 1895, and through five generations, Kokesh Plumbing has remained committed to craftsmanship, honesty, and treating every customer like a neighbor, because you are.

Being rooted in this community for more than a century is something we never take for granted. Each home we service, each sink we repair, and each remodel we help bring to life is a continuation of a legacy we’re proud to carry forward.

Heartfelt Thank You

Being named a 2025 Neighborhood Favorite is a milestone, but it’s also a reminder of why we do what we do. You welcome us into your homes, trust our expertise, and support our small business in countless ways.

From our family to yours—thank you for another year of trust, partnership, and community.
We’re proud to serve you and look forward to helping keep your homes safe, comfortable, and functioning beautifully for years to come.

Building Skills for Life: Kokesh Plumbing Hosts Plumbing Clinic for Scouting America

Sep 29, 2025

Back in April, Kokesh Plumbing had the privilege of hosting a Plumbing Clinic for the Scouting America at our Ballwin, MO headquarters. It was an inspiring day filled with curiosity, learning, and hands-on practice as Scouts explored the world of plumbing.

Teaching Plumbing Basics

During the clinic, our experienced plumbers introduced the Scouts to the fundamentals of plumbing: from identifying common tools and pipe materials to understanding how water moves through a home. The Scouts had the chance to get hands-on experience, practicing basic skills like tightening fittings, learning about water conservation, and seeing how plumbing systems impact everyday life.

Skills That Last a Lifetime

Beyond the pipes and fittings, this clinic was about more than plumbing. It was about teaching practical skills that Scouts can carry with them throughout their lives. Understanding how to address small plumbing issues, prevent water waste, and value craftsmanship instills confidence and responsibility that will serve them well into adulthood.

Investing in the Next Generation

We believe in giving back to the community and sharing our passion for the trade with the next generation. Hosting this clinic allowed Kokesh Plumbing to showcase the importance of skilled trades, while encouraging young people to see plumbing as both a practical life skill and a potential career path.

We’re proud of the Scouts who participated and grateful to have been part of their journey. At Kokesh Plumbing, we look forward to hosting more educational opportunities that connect our expertise with the community.

Pilot Light Out? How to Safely Relight Your Water Heater and When to Call a Plumber

Sep 22, 2025

Have you ever suddenly noticed that you don’t have cold water throughout your home, only to find that your water heater pilot light has gone out? Kokesh Plumbing understands how that feels and would like to offer some steps that you can take to see if you can get your pilot light back up and running.

If your gas pilot light goes out, here’s what to do, starting with making sure that you put safety first:

1. Detect Gas Leaks:

Smell for gas: Natural gas has a distinct “rotten egg” odor. If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light.

Turn off the gas supply to the appliance.
Leave the house immediately.
Do not turn on or off any electrical switches, lights, or appliances, as this could create a spark.
Once you are in a safe place, call Spire to get them out to check the gas out in your home.

No gas smell: If you don’t smell gas, you can proceed to try and relight it.

2. Wait 5-10 Minutes:

Even if you don’t smell gas, it’s a good practice to turn the gas control valve to the “OFF” position (if applicable) and wait at least 5 to 10 minutes for any residual gas to dissipate.

3. Locate the Pilot Light and Instructions:

Consult your appliance’s manual: This is the best source for specific instructions on how to relight your particular water heater, or other gas appliance. The instructions are often also affixed to the inside of the burner compartment door.
Find the pilot light: It’s usually a small tube or opening near the main burner.

4. Relighting the Pilot Light (General Steps):

Turn the gas control knob to “PILOT”: This allows a small amount of gas to flow to the pilot light.
Press and hold the reset button (if present): This manually opens the gas valve to the pilot.
Ignite the pilot light: While holding the reset button, use a long lighter or a long match to ignite the pilot. Hold the flame to the pilot opening until you see a steady blue flame.
Continue holding the reset button: Once the pilot is lit, continue to hold the reset button down for 20-60 seconds. This allows the thermocouple (a safety device that senses the pilot flame) to heat up and generate enough electrical current to keep the gas valve open.
Release the reset button: Slowly release the reset button. The pilot light should remain lit. If it goes out, repeat the process.
Turn the gas control knob to “ON”: Once the pilot light is burning steadily, turn the gas control knob to the “ON” position. Your appliance should now be ready to operate normally.
Replace access panels: Secure any panels you removed.

Why Pilot Lights Go Out (and When to Call a Kokesh Plumbing):

If your pilot light keeps going out, or you’re unable to relight it, there’s likely an underlying issue that requires professional attention. Common reasons include:

Faulty or dirty thermocouple: This is the most common culprit. A dirty or malfunctioning thermocouple won’t sense the flame, causing the gas valve to close as a safety measure. Kokesh Plumbing can clean or replace it.
Clogged pilot gas tube/orifice: Dirt or debris can restrict the gas flow to the pilot, causing a weak flame that easily extinguishes.
Drafts: Strong air currents or drafts around the appliance can blow out the pilot light. Check for open windows, doors, or issues with your venting.
Faulty gas valve/pilot control: The valve that controls gas flow to the pilot can malfunction.
Gas supply issues: There might be an issue with the gas pressure to your home or appliance. If multiple gas appliances are affected, call Spire.
Condensation: In some cases, water dripping from condensation can extinguish the pilot light.
Air in the gas line: This is less common but can prevent the pilot from staying lit.

When to Call a Kokesh Plumbing:

You smell gas. (Always the top priority!)
The pilot light won’t relight after several attempts.
The pilot light lights but keeps going out.
The flame is weak, flickering, or yellow/orange (a healthy pilot flame should be blue). This can indicate incomplete combustion and potentially carbon monoxide.
You’re unsure or uncomfortable with any step of the relighting process.
Your appliance is old and you suspect a faulty component.

Always prioritize your safety when dealing with gas appliances. If you have any doubts, please give us a call at 636-391-1233, so that one of our licensed plumbers can come out and help you with any gas or pilot issues you may be having!

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Why You Should Hire a Licensed Union Plumber Instead of a Handyman

Aug 18, 2025

When you have a plumbing problem, it’s important to decide whether to hire a handyman or a licensed union plumber. While handymen may be less expensive, they may not have the necessary skills and experience to handle complex plumbing problems. Licensed union plumbers, on the other hand, are highly trained and experienced, and they are committed to providing their customers with the highest quality service.

What is a Union plumber?

Union plumbers are licensed plumbers who belong to a union. Unions provide their members with a number of benefits, including:

Training: Union plumbers are required to complete a comprehensive apprenticeship program. This ensures that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job right.
Experience: Union plumbers typically have more experience than handymen. This is because they are required to work through the Union’s apprentice program, which the Union and plumbing shops work together for 5 years to give the apprentices a chance to learn and grow both hands on and in the classroom.
Benefits: Union plumbers typically receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement savings plans, and paid time off. This allows them to focus on their work without having to worry about financial matters.

Here are some of the benefits of hiring a licensed union plumber:

Expertise: Licensed union plumbers have the training and experience to handle all types of plumbing problems, from simple repairs to complex installations.
Safety: Licensed union plumbers are committed to safety, and they follow all applicable safety codes and regulations.
Reliability: Licensed union plumbers are reliable and accountable. They will show up on time and complete your job on schedule.
Guarantee: Licensed union plumbers typically offer a guarantee on their work, so you can be confident that your repairs or installation will be done to your satisfaction.

While handymen may seem to cost less on the front end, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. Hiring a handyman to fix a plumbing problem may save you money upfront, but it could cost you more in the long run if the problem is not fixed properly.

Union-Plumber-Sink-Repair-St-Louis-Missouri

Here are some specific examples of plumbing problems that should only be handled by a licensed union plumber:

Gas leaks: Gas leaks can be very dangerous, and they should only be repaired by a qualified plumber.
Water leaks: Water leaks can damage your home and lead to mold and mildew growth. A licensed plumber can quickly and efficiently identify and repair water leaks.
Sewer line problems: Sewer line problems can be messy and expensive to repair. A licensed plumber has the experience and equipment to repair sewer line problems quickly and efficiently.
Water heater installation: Water heater installation can be complex and dangerous. A licensed plumber can safely and correctly install your new water heater.
Repiping: Repiping is a major plumbing project that should only be handled by a licensed plumber. A licensed plumber can ensure that your repiping project is done to code and that it will last for many years to come.

When deciding whether to hire a handyman or a licensed plumber, it is important to consider the factors listed above. If you have any doubts, it is always best to err on the side of caution and hire a licensed plumber.

Kokesh Plumbing is a proud union plumbing company. We employ licensed union plumbers who are highly skilled and experienced in all aspects of plumbing repair and installation. If you have a plumbing problem, please contact Kokesh Plumbing today. We will be happy to help you get your plumbing system back in working order.