Common FAQ’s

The bottom line is that if it’s an emergency to you, it’s an emergency to us. Contact us as soon as you see the first sign of a plumbing issue that you can’t handle on your own.

Our professionals recommend calling for emergency plumbing services whenever you encounter a plumbing issue that poses an immediate risk to your property, safety, or well-being. For example, such issues could include burst pipes, major leaks, sewer line backups, overflowing toilets, or water heater malfunctions.

Additionally, if you’re unable to control the situation on your own, it’s best to seek professional help as quickly as possible. Immediate action can help prevent further damage and save you from more extensive repairs in the future.

Yes, Viper Services is available all day, every day – whenever disaster strikes. Don’t hesitate to call us at the first sign of a plumbing emergency.

Before the Viper Services crew arrives on the scene, there are a few important steps you can take to mitigate damage and keep the property (and your family) safe.

First, turn off the water supply to the affected area to prevent further leaks or flooding. If there’s an electrical risk, you should also immediately turn off the electricity to the affected area. If it is safe to do so, try to contain any water pooling or spreading.

Next, clear the area around the plumbing emergency to give our professionals clear access. As soon as we arrive, we’ll take over, and you can step back.

Emergency services may come with a higher price tag than traditional services, but Viper Services is committed to keeping our prices clear and reasonable, even in disaster situations. We’ll provide you with an upfront cost estimate so you know exactly what to expect.

In some cases, yes – addressing plumbing emergencies on your own can be dangerous and risky for numerous reasons. Plumbing systems are intricate, and what looks like a simple issue can quickly escalate into something serious if not addressed properly.

If you don’t have the right expertise or tools, you may inadvertently cause further damage or even compromise your safety. To avoid these risks, contact Viper Services from the start. Our team possesses the knowledge, equipment, and experience to handle plumbing emergencies and minimize potential hazards safely.

In some cases, yes – homeowners insurance may cover your particular type of plumbing emergency, especially if it was caused by a sudden or unforeseen event (such as a burst pipe during a frigid South Carolina winter).

However, water damage coverage does tend to vary from policy to policy. You’ll need to review your policy and consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific coverage for plumbing emergencies.

There are a few ways to tell if you’re dealing with a sewer line issue. Most notably, watch out for:

• Foul odors around your property
• Slow-draining sinks and tubs
• Backed-up toilets
• Gurgling noises from drains
• Soggy or sunken spots in your yard
• Unexplained water pooling

If any of these red flags sound familiar, contact Vipers Services today for an accurate diagnosis.

We don’t typically recommend repairing sewer line issues by yourself due to the potential hazards involved. Sewer lines are intricate systems, and they require specialized knowledge, tools, and equipment to diagnose and repair properly.

More concerningly, working with sewage poses significant health risks due to the presence of harmful bacteria and pathogens. Therefore, it’s best to leave sewer line repairs to licensed and experienced plumbing professionals like our team at Viper Services.

In most cases, we are able to use trenchless repair methods to avoid digging and disrupting your backyard. We will likely only need to dig if the damage is extensive or severe.

Contact us immediately if the duration of a sewer line repair depends on the complexity of the issue and how we’ll need to repair it. Some simple repairs, such as clearing a minor blockage, might only take us a few hours to complete. However, more extensive repairs (such as sewer line replacement) might take us several days or more.

To learn what your sewer line repair might cost, contact Viper Services for an estimate. We’ll assess your situation and provide you with an upfront quote.

The cost of sewer line repairs in South Carolina can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the extent of the damage, the location of the sewer line, the type of repair needed, etc.

On average, basic repairs start at a few hundred dollars, but more complex issues (like full sewer line replacements) can easily cost several thousand dollars. To get an accurate estimate, contact our experts at Viper Services for an assessment.

Your sewer line repairs might be covered by your homeowner’s insurance, but it depends on the cause of the damage and the specific terms of your policy.

If the damage is sudden and accidental, there’s a chance that your insurance will cover the repairs. On the other hand, if the damage is due to wear and tear or lack of maintenance, it’s less likely to be covered.

Therefore, you’ll need to review your specific insurance policy and consult with your provider to understand what types of sewer line issues are covered.

Ignoring a sewer line problem can lead to serious consequences for your property and safety. Over time, untreated sewer issues like blockages, leaks, and backups can result in backups, which in turn introduce foul odors, contaminated water supply, structural damage, and potential health hazards to your home.

If you want to prevent these severe risks, contact an emergency plumber for sewer line repair services as soon as possible.

Professional drain cleaning ensures every bit of the accumulated buildup is removed. At-home methods can suffice in some situations, but they won’t eradicate the debris as effectively.

At Viper Services, we recommend scheduling drain cleaning annually to ensure that your water is flowing well. This is the best way to spot and address buildup before it becomes a serious issue.

• Slow drainage
• Gurgling sounds
• Foul odors
• Water backups
• Recurring clogs

These indicators suggest that debris and buildup are impeding proper water flow and likely need professional intervention. Contact our team if any of these red flags are present in your home.

At Viper Services, we recommend getting your air conditioning system inspected at least once annually. This prevents your system from falling into serious disrepair or incurring hefty replacement fees.

In South Carolina, it’s best to schedule this inspection in early spring before you begin using the system in earnest. That way, you’ll be aware of any potential problems before you really need to keep your home cool.

This answer can vary from client to client. AC repair costs tend to vary significantly depending on a range of factors, including the:

• Type of air conditioner
• Parts that need to be fixed or replaced
• Level of complexity involved in repairs

Regardless of your specific AC problem, know that Viper Services is committed to keeping your costs reasonable and transparent. Reach out today to learn what your estimated repair price might be.

Whether or not your warranty will cover your AC repairs depends on the manufacturer’s terms, which differ significantly from company to company. Before giving us a call, familiarize yourself with your warranty’s specifics to understand if any repairs or services are eligible for coverage.

The cost-effectiveness of repairing versus replacing an air conditioner depends on many factors, including the:

• Extent of the issue
• Age of the unit
• Unit’s efficiency
• Estimated repair costs

Generally, replacing the AC might be a better long-term investment for efficiency and reliability if the repair cost is more than 50% of a new unit’s price.

Whatever your case might be, trust that our technicians will recommend the most cost-effective solution might be. We do our best to help you avoid expensive replacements unless they are entirely necessary and financially advisable.

At Viper Services, we recommend getting your heating system inspected at least once per year. Keeping up with regular inspections and maintenance ensures you don’t run into serious problems later on down the road (and during the coldest part of the year).

This is especially important in states like South Carolina, where temperatures can drop below freezing in certain months. Try to schedule your next system inspection during the summer months or in early autumn before you start heating your home daily.

For information on annual heating system inspections, reach out to Viper Services today.

Heating repair costs can vary significantly, depending on a range of factors – the type of system, the complexity of the issue, the time of year, etc. Some repairs might cost as little as $200, but others can climb higher than $900.

If you wind up needing to replace your entire heating system, you’re likely looking at a price tag that’s in the thousands.

Don’t worry – at Viper Services, we provide upfront, honest estimates for your service cost. We’ll never pressure you to make unnecessary repairs, and we’ll always guide you toward the most cost-effective solution for your situation.

The answer to that question depends on many things, including the age of your current system and its level of efficiency. If the repair cost approaches or exceeds 50% of the cost of a brand-new heater, you might be better off splurging on a replacement system.

However, if the repairs are relatively minor and the system is only a couple of years old, you’ll likely want to avoid an expensive replacement if possible.

The duration of a repair appointment depends on many things – the complexity of the repair, the type of the system, the availability of resources, etc. Something like replacing a furnace part may only take a few hours, but installing a whole new central heating system can easily take a week.

To learn how long your heating repair will take, contact Viper Services. We’ll provide you with an upfront timeline based on your specific needs.

It depends. Some manufacturers include certain repairs in their warranties, but others do not. Before giving us a call, familiarize yourself with your system’s warranty to understand what may or may not be covered.

Heating system lifespans tend to vary depending on the type of system. For instance, boilers and furnaces can easily last up to 20 years, but central heating systems can last at least 25 years. Regardless of the system type, the better you maintain yours, the longer it will last.

The plug falls out of the outlet without touching it, or the outlet is not secure and will move easily when touching it. When the outlet is warm or hot to the touch, you need to immediately take care of the issue by unplugging the device and calling Viper Services. Any time your electrical work is hot to the touch, it can result in a fire.

There are several signs that can indicate that an electrical outlet needs to be replaced. Here are some things to look out for:

1. Burn marks: If you notice any burn marks around the outlet, it could be a sign of overheating, which can be a fire hazard.

2. Loose outlet: If the outlet feels loose or wobbly, it could indicate that the connections are loose or the outlet is worn out.

3. Flickering or dimming lights: If you notice that the lights flicker or dim when you plug something into the outlet, it could be a sign of a loose connection or a faulty outlet.

4. Hot to the touch: If the outlet feels hot to the touch, it could indicate that the wiring or connections are overheating, which can be a fire hazard.

5. Age:If the outlet is old, it may not be able to handle the power demands of modern electronics and appliances, and it may need to be replaced.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have a licensed electrician inspect the outlet and determine if it needs to be replaced. Don’t attempt to replace an outlet yourself, as electrical work can be dangerous and should only be performed by a trained professional.

If you are installing any new appliance, you should always consider getting a new circuit. This can be anything from installing new generators, dishwashers, refrigerators, heaters, pools, and hot tubs. A new circuit installation can ensure that you won’t overload your electrical panel or not have enough power to run your appliances.

There are several reasons why you might need a new electrical circuit in your home:

1. Increased power demand:If you have added new appliances or devices that require a lot of power, your existing electrical circuits may not be able to handle the increased demand. Adding a new circuit can help distribute the load and prevent overloading.

2. Home renovation or addition: If you are remodeling or adding to your home, you may need to add new electrical circuits to accommodate the new space or electrical needs.

3. Safety concerns: If your electrical system is outdated or not up to code, adding a new circuit may be necessary to ensure the safety of your home and its occupants.

4. Electrical faults: If you are experiencing electrical issues, such as flickering lights, tripping breakers, or other electrical problems, adding a new circuit may help to alleviate the problem.

5. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient home: If you are upgrading to more energy-efficient appliances or lighting, you may need to add new circuits to handle the increased demand or to take advantage of new energy-saving technologies.

It is important to note that any electrical work in your home should be performed by a licensed and qualified electrician to ensure that it is done safely and up to code.

Sometimes, the fix can be as simple as moving a frequently used item or small appliance to a different, less used area. If this is a constant problem, you should definitely consider getting a new electrical circuit installed to be able to handle your home’s electrical demands.

This means your breaker is overheating and probably needs to be replaced. Call Viper Services for help upgrading your electrical panel before any serious problems arise!

Viper Services is licensed to do residential & commercial electrical work in South Carolina.

If you have an electrical emergency, it is important to take immediate action to prevent injury or damage to property. Here are the steps you should take:

1.Turn off the power: If there is an electrical emergency, immediately turn off the power to the affected area or device. If you are unable to do this, turn off the main power supply to your home or business.

2.Evacuate the area: If there is a fire or other immediate danger, evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services.

3. Call an electrician: Contact a licensed electrician as soon as possible to assess and repair the problem. Do not attempt to fix the problem yourself unless you are a licensed electrician.

4. Stay away from the affected area: Do not touch any electrical equipment or wires that are damaged or exposed.

5.Follow safety guidelines: Follow any safety guidelines provided by the electrician or emergency services personnel.

Remember, electrical emergencies can be dangerous, so it is important to take them seriously and act quickly.

The frequency of electrical inspections depends on several factors, including the age of your home, the type of electrical system you have, and the amount of electrical usage. However, it is generally recommended to have your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician at least once every 5 to 10 years.

If you notice any signs of electrical problems, such as flickering lights, sparking outlets, or tripping circuit breakers, you should have your electrical system inspected immediately. Additionally, if you are purchasing a new home or renovating an existing one, it is recommended to have the electrical system inspected before moving in or starting the renovation.

Regular electrical inspections can help identify and prevent potential electrical hazards, such as overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, and outdated electrical components. This can help ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical system and prevent costly repairs in the future.

The electrical panel is the central hub that controls the distribution of electricity throughout your home. It is responsible for regulating the flow of electricity to various circuits and ensuring that your home’s electrical system operates safely and efficiently.

Here are some signs that you may need an electrical panel upgrade:

1.Frequent circuit breaker trips: If your circuit breaker frequently trips, this may indicate that your electrical panel is overloaded or outdated.

2. Flickering or dimming lights:>If your lights flicker or dim frequently, this may indicate that your electrical panel is not providing enough power to your home.

3. Burning smell or buzzing sound: If you notice a burning smell or buzzing sound coming from your electrical panel, this could indicate a serious electrical issue.

4. Outdated electrical panel: If your electrical panel is over 20 years old or uses outdated technology, it may not meet modern electrical safety standards and should be upgraded.

5. Home renovation: If you are planning a home renovation or adding new appliances that require more power, you may need an electrical panel upgrade to accommodate the increased demand.

Upgrading your electrical panel can improve the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system and prevent electrical hazards such as electrical fires and electrical shocks. It is important to have your electrical panel inspected by a licensed electrician to determine if an upgrade is necessary.

Living in a house with electrical issues can be dangerous and pose serious risks to your safety and the safety of your home. Therefore, it is important to address any electrical issues as soon as they are identified.

If you are experiencing electrical issues in your home, such as flickering lights, tripping circuit breakers, or outlets that do not work, it is recommended that you contact a licensed electrician to inspect your electrical system. Do not attempt to fix electrical issues yourself, as this can be dangerous and potentially cause further damage.

Some common electrical issues that can be hazardous and require immediate attention include:

1. Flickering or dimming lights

2. Electrical shocks when touching electrical devices or appliances

3. Overheated electrical outlets or devices

4. Burning smell or smoke coming from electrical devices or outlets

5. Outdated electrical panel or wiring

In summary, it is not safe to live in a house with electrical issues, as these issues can pose serious risks to your safety and the safety of your home. It is important to address any electrical issues as soon as they are identified by contacting a licensed electrician.

Preventing electrical problems in your home is important for the safety of you and your family. Here are some tips to prevent electrical problems in your home:

1. Hire a licensed electrician for electrical work: A licensed electrician can help ensure that your home’s electrical system is installed and maintained safely and up to code.

2. Avoid overloading electrical outlets: Overloading electrical outlets by plugging too many devices or appliances can cause electrical fires. Use power strips with surge protectors to help prevent overloading.

3. Use the correct wattage bulbs: Using light bulbs with wattage that is too high for a light fixture can cause electrical problems such as overheating and fire hazards.

4. Keep electrical devices and appliances away from water: Water can cause electrical shocks and damage electrical devices and appliances. Keep electrical devices and appliances away from water sources such as sinks, bathtubs, and pools.

5. Check electrical cords and wires: Damaged electrical cords and wires can cause electrical problems, such as electrical shocks and fires. Check electrical cords and wires regularly and replace any that are damaged.

6. Upgrade outdated electrical panels and wiring:Outdated electrical panels and wiring can cause electrical problems such as electrical fires and electrical shocks. Consider upgrading your home’s electrical system to ensure it meets modern safety standards.

By following these tips, you can help prevent electrical problems in your home and ensure the safety of you and your family.

Yes, electrical repairs can improve the energy efficiency of your home. Energy efficiency is all about using less energy to achieve the same results, and there are several electrical repairs that can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your energy bills. Here are some examples:

1. LED Lighting Upgrades: LED lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Replacing your old light bulbs with LED lights is an easy way to improve energy efficiency.

2. Smart Thermostat Installation: Smart thermostats can help regulate the temperature in your home and reduce your energy consumption. They can be programmed to adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences, helping you save money on your energy bills.

3. Electrical Panel Upgrades: Upgrading your electrical panel can help optimize your home’s energy consumption by providing a more efficient distribution of electricity throughout your home.

4. Electrical Wiring Upgrades: Faulty or outdated electrical wiring can cause energy waste and inefficiencies. Upgrading your electrical wiring can improve energy efficiency and reduce the risk of electrical hazards.

5. Power Strip Installation: Power strips with built-in surge protectors can help prevent energy waste and lower your energy bills by shutting off power to electronics and appliances that are not in use.

By making these electrical repairs and upgrades, you can help improve the energy efficiency of your home and save money on your energy bills. It is recommended to hire a licensed electrician to perform electrical repairs and upgrades to ensure they are done safely and up to code.

Viper Services offers a one-year guarantee on all parts and labor.

There are several types of upgrades that can be done to home electrical systems. These upgrades can improve the safety, functionality, and energy efficiency of your home’s electrical system. Here are some examples:

1. Electrical Panel Upgrade:An electrical panel upgrade involves replacing an outdated or overloaded electrical panel with a new one that can handle the electrical needs of your home.

2. Electrical Wiring Upgrade:An electrical wiring upgrade involves replacing outdated or damaged wiring with new, safe, and efficient wiring.

3. GFCI Outlet Installation: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets provide additional safety features that can help prevent electrical shocks and electrocution.

4. Surge Protector Installation:Surge protectors can help prevent electrical damage to your electronics and appliances by protecting them from power surges and spikes.

5. Lighting Upgrades: Upgrading your home’s lighting to more energy-efficient options, such as LED lights, can help reduce energy consumption and lower your energy bills.

6. Smart Home Upgrades: Smart home upgrades, such as smart thermostats and smart lighting systems, can help regulate the temperature and lighting in your home, improving energy efficiency and reducing your energy bills.

7. Electrical Outlet Upgrades: Upgrading electrical outlets can include adding more outlets, upgrading to USB outlets, or installing outlets with built-in surge protectors.

It is important to note that electrical upgrades should be done by a licensed electrician to ensure that they are done safely and up to code. A licensed electrician can assess your home’s electrical system and recommend upgrades that can improve its safety, functionality, and energy efficiency.

Whether or not an electrical upgrade is necessary for your home remodel depends on the specific details of your project. However, in many cases, an electrical upgrade may be necessary to ensure that your home’s electrical system can safely and efficiently handle the increased electrical load that comes with a remodel.

Here are some examples of when an electrical upgrade may be necessary:

1. Adding new rooms or areas:If you are adding new rooms or areas to your home, such as a home office or an extra bedroom, you will likely need to upgrade your electrical system to accommodate the increased electrical demand.

2. Upgrading appliances: If you are upgrading your appliances to more energy-efficient models or installing high-powered appliances like a hot tub or sauna, an electrical upgrade may be necessary to ensure that your electrical system can handle the increased load.

3. Adding lighting or electrical outlets: If you are adding new lighting or electrical outlets to your home, an electrical upgrade may be necessary to ensure that your electrical system can handle the increased load and that the new additions are installed safely and up to code.

4. Updating wiring: If your home has outdated wiring, it may need to be updated during a remodel to ensure that it is safe and up to code.

In general, it is recommended to consult with a licensed electrician before starting a home remodel to determine if an electrical upgrade is necessary. A licensed electrician can assess your home’s electrical system and help you plan for any necessary upgrades to ensure that your remodel is safe and up to code.

In general, it is not recommended to DIY home electrical projects. Working with electricity can be dangerous, and improper installation or repairs can lead to electrical shock, electrocution, and even electrical fires.

Here are some reasons why it is best to hire a licensed electrician for home electrical projects:

1. Safety: Electricians are trained to work with electricity safely and know how to protect themselves and others from electrical hazards. Improper installation or repairs can lead to electrical shock, electrocution, and even electrical fires.

2. Code Compliance: Electrical work must be done in compliance with local building codes and regulations to ensure that it is safe and up to standard. Licensed electricians are knowledgeable about these codes and regulations and can ensure that the work is done properly.

3. Liability: If you DIY electrical work and it leads to property damage or injury, you may be liable for any damages. Hiring a licensed electrician can help mitigate these risks as they are insured and can provide warranties for their work.

4. Complexity: Electrical work can be complex, and a small mistake can have significant consequences. Licensed electricians have the knowledge and experience to troubleshoot complex issues and ensure that the work is done properly.

In general, it is best to hire a licensed electrician for home electrical projects to ensure that the work is done safely and up to code. While DIY projects may seem like a cost-effective solution, the risks and potential hazards associated with electrical work can far outweigh the benefits.

A hot light switch can indicate a potential problem with your home’s electrical system and should be addressed immediately. Here are some common reasons why a light switch may be hot:

1. Overloaded Circuit: If a circuit is overloaded, it can cause the switch to become hot. An overloaded circuit occurs when too many devices or appliances are connected to a single circuit, causing it to draw more current than it is designed to handle.

2. Loose Wiring: Loose or damaged wiring connections can cause a switch to become hot. The heat generated by the current flowing through the loose connection can cause the switch to heat up.

3. Faulty Switch: A faulty or damaged switch can cause it to become hot. If the switch is old, damaged, or worn out, it may not be able to handle the electrical load and can heat up.

4. Bad Breaker:If the switch is connected to a bad breaker, it can cause it to heat up. A bad breaker can cause the switch to receive too much voltage or too little voltage, leading to overheating.

5. Dimmer Switch: A dimmer switch may generate heat due to the way it works. Dimmer switches regulate the amount of electricity flowing through a circuit by creating resistance. This resistance can generate heat, causing the switch to become hot.

If you notice that your light switch is hot, it is important to turn off the circuit immediately and call a licensed electrician to investigate the issue. Hot switches can be a potential fire hazard, and it is important to address the issue promptly to ensure the safety of your home and family.