FAQ

Question 1

Is My Problem a Plumbing Emergency?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, plumbing problems seem to never occur at a convenient time. Whether it's the middle of the night or over a holiday weekend, leaks and clogs present themselves at the most inopportune times. If you're debating whether to call your local Mebane emergency plumber, use our questions as a guide: Is more than one faucet, drain, or shower affected? If the problem is secluded to only one pipe, it can likely wait until Monday morning. Does shutting off the water valve make the problem stop? If you can pause the problem temporarily, wait until normal business hours to call the plumber. Has your home's water supply stopped? If your water is completely shut off (and it's not a municipality problem) call the emergency plumber. Is the problem causing flooding inside or outside of your home? If a burst pipe or water main break is causing flooding in or outside of your home, you're dealing with an emergency.

Question 2

What Are the Most Common Plumbing Problems?

Accepted Answer

Mebane and Durham plumbing problems are sure to happen. Even in newer homes, clogged drains or a water leak can show when you least expect it. Whether you're living through the repairs of an older home, or just purchasing a new home and want to be prepared, these are the most common plumbing problems: clogged toilet, clogged bath or shower drain, jammed garbage disposal, leaky faucets, leaky pipes, low water pressure, running toilet, sewage smell in home, sewer system backup, slow draining sink, water heater repair.

Question 3

Is There a Way to Determine the Type of Pipe Material in My Home?

Accepted Answer

Unless plumbing replacement work has been performed, the age of the home is typically a good indicator of the type of pipe material used for your system. Copper: plumbing in homes built from the 1970 into the early 2000s was likely built with copper pipes. These pipes are a bronze color when new and slowly fade to a deep rust or brown color over the years. Copper pipes last about 50+ years. Galvanized Steel: these pipes are a gray metal color and are rarely used anymore. This material is cheaper than copper and was often used in homes leading up to the 1970s. The material was used less when builders discovered it only lasted for about 40 years. PB (polybutylene): this piping is usually marked with "PB2110." These flexible pipes are usually gray but can also be black or blue. PVC (polyvinyl-chloride): the white plastic pipes are most commonly seen under your kitchen or bathroom sinks used as drain pipes. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): plastic tubing that is usually white, red, or blue and used to indicate hot and cold lines. Plumbers use this type of material because of its flexibility. Cast Iron: this pipe has a black finish and was used in homes through the mid-1960s.

Question 4

Can My Damaged Well Pump Be Repaired the Same Day?

Accepted Answer

Quality Services offers multiple options for well repair same day to give you peace of mind that it's done right the first time. Our reliable Mebane plumbers will take the time to inspect the well pump, determine the issues and offer a same-day solution to get the water supply restored to your home quickly.

Question 5

How Do I Avoid Clogged Pipes?

Accepted Answer

The best way to prevent clogged pipes is to be mindful of what you put down your drains and toilet. Clogged pipes can be a major inconvenience, but when left untreated, they can become a costly emergency plumbing need. Whether it's a slow-draining tub or a severe blockage in your main sewer line, addressing the problem immediately will help prevent further damage. Use these tips as a guide: a drain strainer should be used if there is no garbage disposal; after washing dishes, run hot water to rinse away grease; avoid coffee grounds, bones, grease, fruit peels and other fibrous foods in garbage disposal; avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain; clear drain stoppers in shower and bathtub; only flush waste and toilet tissue down toilet; pump septic tank every two to three years; run cold water when using the garbage disposal.

Question 6

What Are the Signs of a Water Leak?

Accepted Answer

Detecting a water leak can be difficult if your home is built on a slab or your pipes run underground. The most common signs of a water leak include: damp or spongy flooring, grass is greener in one part of yard, loss in water pressure, sound of running water coming from walls, unexpected increase in monthly water bill. If you experience any of these issues, contact your Mebane or Durham NC plumber for sewer camera services.

Question 7

Does My Plumbing System Need to Be Cleaned?

Accepted Answer

Constant use of your plumbing system causes your drains and pipes to accumulate grease, fat and debris buildup. The best way to clean your home plumbing system is with a non-toxic Hydro Jetting treatment from your Mebane and Durham NC plumber. Schedule a Hydro Jetting treatment for your home every two to three years.

Question 8

Why Should You Call a Plumber to Unclog Your Drains?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners often use DIY methods to clean drains. The problem with the store-bought DIY methods is that they're not strong enough to clean the drain completely. The chemical-ridden solution will simply push the clog further into the pipe, potentially causing a more severe issue. DIY methods of drain cleaning like drain snaking your drain with a wire hanger and pouring harsh chemicals down your drain never come without consequence. Your drains are an essential part of your property that should be taken care of with precision and accuracy. Using at-home methods of drain cleaning involve unnecessary guesswork that only temporarily mask your plumbing problems instead of solving them all together. Snaking your drain on your own only reaches surface clogs and blockages and not deeper ones within your pipe that could be causing the actual problems. In addition, chemical drain cleaners use toxic ingredients that create a slime and sludge within your pipes that can stay within your pipe for long periods of time. Instead of trying to fix your plumbing problems on your own, call your team of local Mebane plumbing experts at Quality Services.

Question 9

What Is Hydro Jetting Drain Cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning your drain with Hydro Jetting is an environmentally friendly way to ensure your pipes and drains are clear of years of debris and buildup. By forcing water through your pipes at nearly 4000 PSI, the Quality Services Mebane plumbers team can remove buildup, debris, and tree roots. The water is sprayed at an extremely high pressure and flushes away the debris, allowing water and waste to flow through your plumbing freely.

Question 10

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Burst Pipe Damage?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance companies will cover damage caused by leaking or burst pipes if the damage wasn't preventable. There are steps you can take to avoid broken pipes or leaking appliances: ensure tubs and showers are caulked and sealed properly; inspect for leaking faucets indoors and outside; insulate pipes if you live in a cold climate; routinely inspect appliance hoses on your dishwasher or washing machine and replace as needed.

Question 11

Do I Need a New Toilet?

Accepted Answer

If you continuously have problems with your toilet, it may be time to replace it. A few signs that it's time to replace your toilet include: age (toilets 10 years or older aren't energy efficient), continuous clogs, multiple flushes after each use, and ongoing leaks.

Question 12

Is It Time for a New Water Heater?

Accepted Answer

Routine maintenance will help extend the life of your water heater, but the typical unit lasts 8 to 12 years. If you have a traditional tank, draining the water heater once yearly will help rid the unit of sediment and minerals that can settle at the bottom. Call a water heater repair company in Durham NC or Mebane plumber if your unit shows signs of trouble but isn't advanced in age. A simple repair or draining could restore the unit to optimum performance.

Question 13

How Can I Tell If Tree Roots Are Invading My Plumbing?

Accepted Answer

Invasive tree roots can cause extensive damage to your entire plumbing system. The roots can create blockage and leaks that increase your monthly water bill and decrease your water pressure. The fastest way to determine if your plumbing problems are caused by tree roots is through a Mebane or Durham sewer camera inspection. The Quality Service Mebane plumbers team will feed a high-definition camera through your pipes to locate the root problem. To avoid tree root invasion, try one of these methods: Tree Removal — the cost of tree removal will be minimal compared to constantly repairing your plumbing. If the tree continues to be a problem, have it professionally removed. Root Barrier — install a root barrier around any new trees by digging an 18 to 24-inch trench around the root zone. The barrier will keep the roots from invading your pipes. Routine Plumbing Maintenance — have a camera inspection performed every two to three years to detect invasive roots. You can spot small plumbing concerns before they become expensive repairs. Sewer Line Cleaning — Hydro Jetting is an environmentally friendly way to clean your pipes. The intense water pressure can cut through clogs, debris and tree roots.

Question 14

How Do I Prevent Pipes from Freezing?

Accepted Answer

Prevent frozen pipes by following these pipe insulation steps: run heating cable along the pipes before covering with insulation — the cable will keep the pipes at a constant temperature; inspect the outside of your home looking for visible cracks near the foundation or basement and use spray foam or caulking to fill cracks; shut off the water valves to your outdoor faucets, allow excess water to drain, then cover the faucets with an insulated dome to prevent freezing; allow the warm air in your home to reach the pipes beneath your sinks by opening the cabinet doors; have your HVAC system checked annually to prevent your heating system from crashing during the winter months, as the freezing temperatures can quickly affect your pipes; allow a small, slow drip to come from your faucets — running the water even a minimal amount will help prevent frozen pipes.

Question 15

How Do I Unclog a Toilet?

Accepted Answer

A clogged toilet is a common plumbing problem that can be easily remedied if dealt with immediately. Leaving the problem untreated could put your family's health at risk if waste begins to back up into your home. If your toilet isn't flushing, try removing the clog with one of these methods: Plunger — seal the plunger around the toilet drain and plunge rapidly several times. If the plunger doesn't release the clog, try a plumbing snake. Plumbing auger — a plumbing snake can be pushed through the toilet drain to grab a clog. If neither of these methods work and the water from the toilet is not releasing, call a Mebane or Durham plumber immediately.

Question 16

What causes frequent drain clogs?

Accepted Answer

Grease, hair, soap buildup, foreign objects, or aging pipes. Recurring clogs usually indicate a deeper blockage in your main line.

Question 17

Is chemical drain cleaner safe?

Accepted Answer

Most chemical cleaners damage pipes and fixtures. Professional mechanical clearing is safer and more effective.

Question 18

How do I know if I have a hidden leak?

Accepted Answer

Watch for unexplained high water bills, damp spots, musty odors, or the sound of running water behind walls.

Question 19

Why does my water heater run out of hot water quickly?

Accepted Answer

Sediment buildup, failing heating elements, thermostat issues, or an undersized tank can cause shortages.

Question 20

How often should my septic tank be pumped?

Accepted Answer

Most homes need pumping every 3–5 years depending on tank size and household usage.

Question 21

What should I do if I have a plumbing emergency?

Accepted Answer

Turn off your main water supply immediately, avoid using any fixtures, and contact our emergency plumbing team. Quick action prevents flooding and mold.

Question 22

Why is my water pressure low?

Accepted Answer

Low pressure often comes from clogged aerators, failing pressure regulators, hidden leaks, or municipal supply issues. We diagnose the exact cause on-site.

Question 23

Should I repair or replace old plumbing?

Accepted Answer

If your pipes are corroded, leaking repeatedly, or over 40 years old, replacement is typically the best long-term solution.

Question 24

What are signs my septic system is failing?

Accepted Answer

Slow drains, sewage odors, soggy yard patches, gurgling pipes, or sewage backups.

Question 25

What should I avoid putting down the drain?

Accepted Answer

Grease, oils, coffee grounds, chemicals, wipes, feminine products, and excessive food waste.

Question 26

Do septic additives work?

Accepted Answer

Most additives are unnecessary. Proper maintenance and regular pumping are far more effective.

Question 27

Can I use household chemicals with a septic system?

Accepted Answer

Avoid harsh cleaners—they kill the beneficial bacteria your system needs to function properly.

Question 28

Is flushing wipes safe for septic?

Accepted Answer

No. Even “flushable” wipes cause clogs and shorten your system’s lifespan.

Question 29

Why do drains gurgle when the septic tank is full?

Accepted Answer

Gurgling indicates restricted flow or tank overload and often means pumping is needed.

Question 30

Why do my lights flicker?

Accepted Answer

Loose wiring, overloaded circuits, failing switches, or utility supply fluctuations.

Question 31

Why do outlets feel warm?

Accepted Answer

Warm outlets may indicate overloaded circuits or failing wiring and should be inspected immediately.

Question 32

Are estimates free?

Accepted Answer

Most standard service estimates are free or low-cost.

Question 33

Do you offer emergency services?

Accepted Answer

Yes—Plumbing, Septic, and Electrical issues require urgent response. Emergency availability varies by location.

Question 34

What causes a circuit breaker to trip?

Accepted Answer

Overloaded circuits, short circuits, or faulty appliances.

Question 35

Can I DIY electrical repairs?

Accepted Answer

Most electrical work requires a licensed electrician for safety and code compliance

Question 36

What are GFCI outlets and why are they required?

Accepted Answer

GFCI outlets prevent electrical shock in wet areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces.

Question 37

Is aluminum wiring dangerous?

Accepted Answer

It can be hazardous if not properly maintained. Professional inspection is recommended.

Question 38

Do you offer maintenance plans?

Accepted Answer

Routine inspections help prevent costly repairs across plumbing, septic, and electrical systems. Check out our membership options. https://www.getqualityservicetoday.com/service-partner-membership-plan/

Question 39

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Our service areas in North Carolina cover a wide stretch of towns, suburbs, and growing communities where homes range in age, layout, and design. Our service coverage includes Mebane and several surrounding communities. Here is our complete list of service areas. https://www.getqualityservicetoday.com/locations/

Question 40

Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel?

Accepted Answer

Upgrades are needed for frequent breaker trips, home additions, EV chargers, or outdated fuse boxes.

Question 41

Are your technicians licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our technicians are licensed and insured to ensure safety, compliance, and quality workmanship.

FAQs

Our Most Common Questions