Plumbing FAQs

General Plumbing FAQs for Columbia & Augusta Homeowners

Plumbing questions come up in every home. Some are quick fixes, others point to bigger problems. At Meetze Plumbing, we have been serving Columbia, Irmo, Lexington, and the rest of the Midlands for decades, and more recently Augusta, Georgia too. These FAQs cover the common issues we hear about every day, with answers based on local experience. These plumbing questions and answers can help you troubleshoot common issues and know when to call Meetze Plumbing.

Identifying Common Plumbing Problems

Why does my water pressure drop suddenly?

It usually means a leak, clog, or a problem with municipal lines. In older homes, hard water and mineral buildup inside pipes are also common causes. If pressure stays low, call a plumber to check it out.

How can I tell if I might have a hidden water leak?

Watch your water bill. A sudden jump can mean water is escaping somewhere. Damp spots, moldy smells, or hearing water run when nothing is on are other warning signs. Meetze Plumbing offers water leak detection, book your service today.

What should I do if I notice a leaky pipe or faucet?

Turn off the nearest water shut-off valve right away to stop the flow. That keeps damage from spreading. Then contact a plumber for repair. Even a small leak in your plumbing can waste gallons of water quickly.

What should I do if my water is discolored?

Rusty or brown water often comes from corroded pipes or sediment. Sometimes it is from municipal flushing. If it lasts more than a short time, call for local plumbing help in Augusta or The Midlands.

Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?

That smell often comes from sulfur or bacteria in the water heater or in well water. A plumber can test and recommend solutions.

Why do my drains make gurgling noises?

Gurgling means air is trapped. It could be a venting issue or a partial blockage. If the noise is consistent, have a plumber inspect it.

Why do I hear banging noises in my pipes (water hammer)?

Water hammer happens when water flow stops suddenly and creates a shockwave. High pressure, trapped air, or loose pipes can be the cause.

Why is my toilet running all the time?

Most often it is a worn flapper, fill valve, or chain. Replacing these usually solves it. If you have already tried that and it still runs, the whole assembly may need replacement.

Why does my garbage disposal keep jamming?

Grease, fibrous foods like celery, or putting too much in at once are the usual causes. Always run water while using the disposal and feed items in slowly.

Everyday Use and Maintenance

How do I unclog a sink or shower drain safely?

Start with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, use a hand-crank drain snake. Skip chemical drain cleaners, they corrode pipes and often fail on stubborn clogs, especially in older plumbing systems.

What should I never flush down the toilet?

• Wipes, even the ones marked “flushable”
• Paper towels or tissues
• Feminine products
• Grease or oils

These items do not break down and can cause blockages or backups.

How can I tell if my plumbing is outdated?

Frequent leaks, rusty colored water, or galvanized pipes are signs the system is due for replacement. Many Midlands plumbing systems still use older materials that corrode over time.

What should I know about water safety in Columbia and Augusta?

Columbia and Lexington homes get chlorinated municipal water, which can affect taste and contribute to scale buildup. Augusta homes on private wells should schedule regular testing for bacteria and minerals.

How do I find my home’s main water shut-off valve?

In Midlands homes, it is usually in a crawlspace, basement, or near an exterior wall. In Augusta, many homes have outside shut offs close to the water meter.

Prevention and Seasonal Care

How can I prevent plumbing emergencies at home?

Schedule regular inspections. Know where your main shut-off valve is. Take care of small problems before they grow. Preventive care is the easiest way to avoid bigger emergencies.

How often should I have my plumbing inspected?

Once a year is best for most homes. Older homes or those already showing problems may need checks more often.

How do I keep my pipes from freezing in winter?

• Insulate exposed pipes
• Let faucets drip during hard freezes
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate

Columbia winters are usually mild, but cold snaps can happen. Augusta homes with crawlspaces are also at some risk when temperatures dip.

How do I protect my plumbing when going on vacation?

Turn off your main water supply. Run faucets to drain the lines. Check appliances and consider leak detection devices for extra protection.

Local Challenges

What are the most common plumbing problems in Columbia and Augusta?

Columbia, Irmo, and Lexington often see hard water buildup, aging pipes, and chlorine taste in municipal water. Augusta homeowners frequently deal with well water sediment, odor issues, and occasional freeze risks in older homes.

When to Call a Professional

When should I call a plumber instead of trying DIY fixes?

Simple fixes like plunging a clogged toilet or tightening a loose faucet handle are usually safe to try on your own. But you should call a plumber if you’re dealing with recurring clogs, sewer backups, leaks that don’t stop, water damage, or any issue involving pipes behind walls or underground. A good rule of thumb: if the repair requires specialized tools, could cause more damage if done wrong, or you’re not fully confident, call a professional.

Trusted Plumbing Help for the Midlands and Augusta

These plumbing FAQs answer many common concerns, but every home is unique. If your question was not covered, reach out to Meetze Plumbing. For more than 40 years, we have been the trusted choice for Columbia plumbing, Irmo plumbing, Lexington plumbing, and Augusta plumbing. From small repairs to emergencies, we provide clear answers and dependable service.

Schedule reliable plumbing services today. Call Meetze Plumbing at (803) 732-3747 or contact us online to get started.