A newer neighborhood nearby

Amerige Heights is a planned community in Fullerton, close to Sunny Hills, built far more recently than the mid-century tracts around it. Newer homes were plumbed with more modern materials and generally have not had the decades of wear that older houses have.

That does not mean no plumbing problems. Hard water still scales fixtures and water heaters, original water heaters and fixture parts reach the end of their lives, and supply hoses and valves still wear out.

Older Sunny Hills homes versus newer Amerige Heights homes

Typical older home

  • Possible galvanized or original copper lines.
  • Clay or cast-iron sewer laterals.
  • Concerns: corrosion, slab leaks, roots.

Typical newer home

  • More modern supply and drain materials.
  • Newer sewer connections.
  • Concerns: water heaters, fixtures, hoses, hard-water scale.

Common items as newer homes age

  • Original water heater approaching replacement; check strapping and relief valve piping.
  • Faucet cartridges and toilet parts worn by hard water.
  • Washing machine and ice maker supply lines.
  • Pressure regulator performance.
  • Irrigation leaks showing up on the water bill.

A simple yearly routine

  1. Meter test.Confirm no water moves with everything off.
  2. Fixture care.Clean aerators and showerheads, and dye-test toilets.
  3. Water heater look.Check for leaks, straps and noises.
  4. Appliance hoses.Inspect washer and refrigerator lines.

Who to contact

Water utility
City of Fullerton
Permits
Check with the City of Fullerton
Community rules
Check any HOA requirements before exterior work
Gas
SoCalGas; leave and call 911 from outside if you smell gas
Map of Amerige Heights. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

Do newer homes get slab leaks?

Any home with pipes under a slab can, but newer materials have had less time to wear.

Is hard water a problem in newer homes too?

Yes. Fullerton's hard water affects fixtures and water heaters regardless of the home's age.

Do I need HOA approval for plumbing work?

Interior repairs usually do not, but check your community's rules for anything exterior.

General information for Sunny Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.