Plumbing FAQ

Common causes: mineral buildup, hidden leaks, failing pressure regulator (PRV), partially closed shutoffs, or a municipal issue.

If the drop is sudden or isolated to a few fixtures, a targeted diagnostic can save you time and money—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

Usually a worn flapper, chain issue, or faulty fill valve. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons per day.

We can replace the tank internals quickly—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

common culprits are hidden leaks, running toilets, or dripping fixtures. We have also found in some instances, a water heater leak, which would also increase electrical or water bill Check, an easy troubleshoot for leaks is if the city meter spins with all fixtures off.

Need a pro to assess and repair? Call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

Tank: ~8–12 years. Tankless: ~15–20 years with maintenance. Annual flushing and anode checks extend life and efficiency. depending on the location of the heater can extend or reduce its lifespan. If you have a water heater in an attic space that is 10years or older we’d recommend replacing/relocating it to avoid a potential costly leak.

Not sure about replacement timing? We’ll assess brand, age, and condition—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.

Shut off the main immediately, open a downstream faucet to relieve pressure, contain water, and document everything for insurance.

We’re available 24/7 for emergency, we’ll fix the leak and check for related damage—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

Hard water causes scale and shortens appliance life. Filtration improves taste and reduces contaminants. A quick water test can determine if a system is needed at all and if so we can guide you to the right system for your home.

We install whole-home and point-of-use options—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

Annually. Catch small leaks, sediment buildup, anode wear, failing PRVs, and weak hoses before they become costly emergencies or wallet draining leaking appliances.

Book your yearly checkup—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.

• Hair and soap scum buildup in traps.
• Partial blockages or venting issues in branch lines.
• Grease buildup (kitchen drains).

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners; they can damage pipes. For snaking and proffesional drain cleaning, call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

No. They don’t break down like toilet paper and often cause clogs—especially in older piping or low-flow systems.

If you’ve already got a slow toilet or recurring clog, we’ll clear it and inspect the line—call with our sewer camera ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.

• Caused by sudden valve shutoff creating pressure spikes.
• Fixes: secure loose lines, add hammer arrestors, and verify pressure/PRV.

We’ll diagnose and install arrestors where needed—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

• Usually where the main enters the home (crawlspace, utility room, entry closet) or by the meter box outside.
• Ball valve: quarter-turn clockwise to off. Gate valve: turn clockwise until snug.

We can install a new, labeled ball valve for quick shutoffs—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.

• Insulate exposed lines; disconnect exterior hoses; keep heat on; drip vulnerable faucets in a hard freeze.
• If frozen: shut off main, gently warm the area, and never use open flame.

We’ll thaw safely and repair burst sections—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

• Pros: endless hot water, higher efficiency, smaller footprint.
• Cons: higher upfront cost, may need gas line/vent upgrades

We’ll size and quote both options for your usage pattern—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.

• Dry P-traps (unused fixtures), cracked vent pipes, or failed wax rings.
• Running water in seldom-used drains often cures dry traps.

Persistent odor needs a smoke test/inspection—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

• Utility flushing or main breaks can stir sediment—run cold water for a few minutes.
• Persistent discoloration can indicate corroded pipes or a failing anode in the heater.

We’ll trace the source and recommend filtration or repipe options—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.

• PRV is recommended if static pressure exceeds ~80 psi; high pressure damages fixtures and causes water hammer.
• Expansion tank is needed on “closed” systems to absorb thermal expansion from the water heater.

We’ll test pressure, check backflow/PRV, and size components—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500 for a free quote.

• Small, soft food scraps only—run cold water while operating.
• Avoid grease, coffee grounds, fibrous peels (celery, onion skins), eggshell membranes, bones, pits.

Jammed unit or bad smell? We’ll clear, deodorize, or replace as needed—call ARC Plumbing at 919-888-3500.