Business Details
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services
Trusted Plumbing & Rooter Services in Portland
Carsten Plumbing & Rooter was founded by Chris Carsten, a licensed plumber with extensive experience across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Our expertise spans service plumbing, remodels, and new construction, with a focus on historic properties and high-end systems. We prioritize courtesy, integrity, and technical proficiency, offering transparent pricing and upfront quotes. Our team consists of licensed plumbers and trained technicians, ensuring quality work for tasks ranging from drain clogs to whole-house repipes. We serve Portland and surrounding areas, including Clackamas, Oregon City, and Gresham. With a background in major plumbing companies, we deliver competitive pricingup to 35% less than large rooter firmswithout compromising standards. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in our spotless service records and repeat clientele. We specialize in emergency repairs, preventative maintenance, and water pressure solutions, adhering to industry codes and safety protocols. Our goal is to provide reliable, cost-effective plumbing solutions while maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards.
Services
Toilets & Faucets
Water Heaters
Drain Cleaning
Leak Repairs
New Construction
Highlights and features
- We employ licensed plumbers and trained technicians, not unlicensed laborers.
- All prices are quoted upfront before work begins.
- Our rates are up to 35% lower than major rooter companies.
- Owner Chris Carsten brings 20+ years of regional plumbing expertise.
- We serve Portland, Clackamas, Oregon City, and surrounding areas.
Associations and certifications
- CCB 194308
What people say
Professional, on-the-ball tradesperson
Fair cost
Quick and courteous
Doesn't break the bank
Spotless service records
Services
Drain Cleaning
Our drain cleaning specialists use advanced rooter equipment and video inspections to clear blockages in residential and commercial plumbing systems. We handle everything from minor clogs to complete sewer line obstructions, restoring proper flow while minimizing property disruption. Our technicians identify root causes of recurring clogs, providing lasting solutions that prevent future issues.
Water Heaters
We offer comprehensive water heater services including repair, maintenance, and replacement for both traditional tank systems and tankless models. Our technicians diagnose heating inefficiencies, fix leaks, and ensure optimal temperature regulation. We install energy-efficient units that reduce utility costs while maintaining reliable hot water supply for residential and commercial properties.
Leak Repairs
Our leak detection and repair service addresses slab leaks, pipe bursts, and hidden water losses using non-invasive diagnostic tools. We specialize in locating and fixing leaks without unnecessary demolition, preserving property integrity. Emergency leak repairs are available 24/7 to prevent water damage escalation and structural compromise.
Toilets & Faucets
We repair and replace toilets, sinks, faucets, and garbage disposals with precision installation of quality components. Our services include fixing running toilets, leaky faucets, and clogged disposals while ensuring proper water flow and conservation. We work with all major brands and can upgrade outdated fixtures to modern, water-efficient models.
New Construction
Our new construction plumbing services cover complete system design and installation for residential and commercial buildings. We handle remodels, additions, and re-pipes with code-compliant materials and techniques. Our team coordinates with contractors to ensure seamless integration of plumbing systems in new developments and major renovation projects.
People
Chris Carsten
Owner-Operator
Chris Carsten founded Carsten Plumbing & Rooter after gaining 20+ years of experience with major regional plumbing companies. He holds licenses in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, specializing in service plumbing, remodels, and historic property systems. His expertise includes high-end residential and commercial projects, with a focus on ethical business practices and customer education.
Questions
What plumbing services do you offer?
We provide full-service plumbing including drain cleaning, water heater repairs, leak detection, fixture repairs, and new construction plumbing. Emergency services are available for urgent issues.
Do you serve areas outside Portland?
Yes, we serve Clackamas, Oregon City, Gladstone, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Gresham, Troutdale, and surrounding communities in the Portland metro area.
Are your plumbers licensed and insured?
All our technicians are licensed professionals with current certifications. We carry full insurance coverage for all plumbing work performed at residential and commercial properties.
How do your prices compare to other plumbing companies?
Our rates are up to 35% lower than major rooter companies while maintaining higher service standards. We provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges.
Do you offer emergency plumbing services?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services for urgent issues like burst pipes, severe leaks, and complete drain blockages requiring immediate attention.
What preventative maintenance services do you recommend?
We recommend annual plumbing inspections, water pressure testing, and main shut-off valve checks. Our team provides maintenance tips to prevent costly emergencies and extend system lifespan.
Reviews (18)
Blake Mitchell
Apr 05, 2022
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Chris at Carsten Plumbing did an absolute awesome job. Very efficient, personable, knowledgeable and the pricing was much lower than other quotes. I HIGHLY recommend using Carsten over all other competitors. I'd give him 10 stars, however it only goes up to 5. Service: Water heater repair
David Payne
May 23, 2021
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Chris is very professional and does excellent work. I will continue to hire him for all of my plumbing needs in the future.
Daniel Rodriguez
May 05, 2021
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Simply the best last minute repair of a leaking pipe that was very difficult to access--yet Chris found a way to easily find it, fix it and show me how to tighten it from now on! What plumber does that? Carsten Plumbing & Rooter does that-- use him, you will not be disappointed! Services: Faucet repair, Plumbing pipe repair
John Andrews
Dec 25, 2020
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Chris has been taking care of all my plumbing needs in my personal home and in my rentals. He has been invaluable! Services: Install water heater, Find & repair leak, Install shower, Install toilet, Repair faucet, Repair shower, Unclog drain, Install garbage disposal
Eric Squires
Jul 22, 2020
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Chris Carsten has done perfect work for me twice. He came today on short notice and replaced a failed galvanized pipe with the newer pex pipe. Great communication and an easygoing manner makes his visits more like a good friend coming over to help in a pinch than anything else. Straight shooting and good on cost containment, both hallmarks of Chris. I recommend him, he earned my trust. THANKS Chris!
Francine Marie
Jun 08, 2020
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Chris has been our plumber for around 15 years for both our residence and our rental. They are both older homes with older plumbing. Chris thru the years has been amazing to work with. Excellent plumber with amazing detective skills which only comes with years of experience! A pleasure to work with, trustworthy and an amazing plumber! Doesn't get any better in my opinion!
Francine M.
Oct 17, 2019
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Chris has been our plumber for around 15 years for both our residence and our rental. They are both older homes with older plumbing.
Chris thru the years has been amazing to work with. Excellent plumber with amazing detective skills which only comes with years of experience! A pleasure to work with, trustworthy and an amazing plumber! Doesn't get any better in my opinion!
Chris thru the years has been amazing to work with. Excellent plumber with amazing detective skills which only comes with years of experience! A pleasure to work with, trustworthy and an amazing plumber! Doesn't get any better in my opinion!
Igor Zelen
Aug 23, 2019
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I've used Chris on my last project and words can't express how smoothly the job went and his understanding of the profession.he has done an amazing job for me, on time and at a very reasonable rate. Thanks Chris and I will be happy to hire you again on my next project.
Missy Stevens
Aug 18, 2019
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Discovered Chris about 4-1/2 years ago. We moved into a house in a new yown. Systematically, everything died, broke or leaked. With no one to ask for referrals I google-searched plumbers and read reviews. Chris's reviews were all 5 star with great comments. He responded immediately to my message. Chris has been so kind, professional and fair. He has done an amazing job on every project. He's punctual and communicates his ETA. His work is excellent and leaves the area clean. Prices are incredibly fair. It's hard to find someone who is a true craftsman that you can trust. I wish I could give more stars - 5 isn't enough.
Julianna Winter
Nov 02, 2018
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Do you need a plumber? Call Chris with Carsten Plumbing and Rooter! I have called many plumbers, and they are all rude, talk to you and ask you questions like you are a plumber and make you feel insecure, and rip you off with unreal prices. Not Chris. He is kind, helpful, and affordable. Save yourself time calling around and just start with Chris. You will be happy you did!
Courtnie Arnell
Aug 24, 2018
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Thank you so much! I called around to multiple plumbers and Chris was the third one to come to my house. He was kind, not pushy, and incredibly helpful. You also cannot beat his price! I would highly recommend.
Christen G.
Sep 19, 2017
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I called this business and left a message about getting my garbage disposal fixed. I got a call back from the owner, Chris, within the hour! He gave me two quotes: one for cleaning and one for a replacement (should he have to go that route). He was able to fit me in first thing the following day! Chris arrived on time, was able to clean my disposal quickly and I paid the exact price I was quoted the day before.
Scott Kinmartin
Mar 11, 2017
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I had a waterline burst in the ceiling of my garage and I panicked until Chris returned my call quickly and walked me through the proper procedures to turn the water off, turn off the outdoor faucet valve, etc. and resolve the aggressive leak. I was able to text him pictures of my unit and get immediate step-by-step help before he could check out the faulty pipe(s) in person. It sure helped prevent serious damage and put me at ease after his prompt assistance. Such excellent help!
Jeff S.
Sep 20, 2013
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This fella is fantastic. Had a plumbing emergency, read his reviews and gave him a call. Not only did he move things around so he could come right over but he charged a VERY fair fee. Competent, Courteous and Professional. I wish more people ran their business like Mr Carsten. I won't hesitate to refer him and use him in the future!
Jim
We bought a 44 year old house,as it turns out needs a lot of fixing up. We have had this carsten plumbing solve a problem that another "big name" company wanted to charge us over 5 grand to do. Carsten didn't rip us off and only charged us a couple hundred because that was all that was needed. Since then we have had our kitchen plumbing replaced, I don't even bother getting bids from other guys any more. Also this guy is the kind of person that you feel ok about having in your house and around your family!!!
Brad S.
Rare to find someone with good customer service skills, uncommon good sense, and superior competence. Chris manages all three with ease.
Got three estimates for replacing the outside water line. The first two started off with, "well, it's complicated..." and one stated a prohibitively high price. Chris showed up and within ten minutes declared it simple and had some additional suggestions, which solved some other minor problems, and, didn't cost extra. Highly recommended.
Got three estimates for replacing the outside water line. The first two started off with, "well, it's complicated..." and one stated a prohibitively high price. Chris showed up and within ten minutes declared it simple and had some additional suggestions, which solved some other minor problems, and, didn't cost extra. Highly recommended.
Laura Kurtz
Courteous, professional, competent, and affordable. Highly recommended! FYI, they give a discount if you pay in cash.
Scott Kinmartin
I had a waterline burst in the ceiling of my garage and I panicked until Chris returned my call quickly and walked me through the proper procedures to turn the water off, turn off the outdoor faucet valve, etc. and resolve the aggressive leak. I was able to text him pictures of my unit and get immediate step-by-step help before he could check out the faulty pipe(s) in person. It sure helped prevent serious damage and put me at ease after his prompt assistance. Such excellent help!