Different eras, different plumbing
Housing around West Coyote Hills is not all from one period. Older tract homes may have the copper or galvanized supply lines and clay or cast-iron laterals typical of their era, while newer homes are more likely to have plastic supply piping, modern drain materials and more recent water heater installations.
Knowing roughly when your house was built, and what has been replaced since, tells you which of the guides on this site apply most.
Older versus newer homes
Older tract homes
- Copper or galvanized supply lines, sometimes mixed
- Clay or cast-iron sewer laterals
- Slab-on-grade floors common
- Water heaters may have been replaced several times
Newer homes
- Plastic supply piping is more common
- Newer drain and lateral materials
- Pressure regulators and expansion tanks more likely present
- Manufacturer warranties may still apply to equipment
Checks for any home in the area
- Find the build year and any repipe or remodel records
- Locate the main shutoff and water heater shutoffs
- Check water heater strapping, venting and relief valve piping
- Measure water pressure and find any regulator or expansion tank
- Keep equipment manuals and warranty documents together
Who handles what
| Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| Water meter or service | Fullerton's city water utility |
| Gas smell or gas service | Leave; call 911 or SoCalGas from outside |
| Permits and inspections | City of Fullerton; check with the city |
| Plumbing repairs | A licensed plumber checked at cslb.ca.gov |
| Builder warranty questions on newer homes | Your purchase documents |
Common questions
Is my newer home likely to have galvanized pipe?
It is less likely. Check exposed pipe at the water heater and under sinks, or ask a plumber to confirm.
Do newer homes need water heater strapping too?
Yes. California's seismic strapping requirement applies to water heaters regardless of the home's age.
Which utility serves this area?
Homes in Fullerton are served by the city's water utility. Check with the city if you are unsure about your address.
General information for Golden Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.