FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we're fully licensed and insured for both residential and commercial HVAC and plumbing work throughout Birmingham and surrounding areas.What areas do you serve?
We serve Birmingham, Hoover, Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Pelham, and nearby communities. Call us to confirm service availability in your area.Do you offer emergency service?
Yes, we provide emergency HVAC and plumbing services. Call (205) 979-6130 and we'll work to get a technician out as quickly as possible.Do you provide free estimates?
Yes, we provide upfront, fair pricing with clear estimates before work begins. No surprise fees or hidden costs.What's your experience?
We've been serving Birmingham homeowners and businesses since 1954, bringing over 70 years of trusted local HVAC and plumbing expertise.Do you handle both HVAC and plumbing?
Yes, we provide comprehensive HVAC and plumbing services including AC repair, furnace service, water heater installation, drain cleaning, and more.What are your business hours?
We're open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, with Saturday emergency services available for urgent HVAC and plumbing needs.Do you offer maintenance programs?
Yes, we offer seasonal HVAC maintenance programs that prevent breakdowns, reduce energy costs, and extend your equipment's lifespan.Do you work on all equipment brands?
Yes, our factory-trained technicians service all major HVAC and plumbing equipment brands with manufacturer-certified parts and warranties.How quickly can you respond?
We provide same-day service when possible and prioritize emergency calls. Response times depend on call volume and your location.Do you handle commercial projects?
Yes, we provide commercial HVAC and plumbing services including grease trap maintenance, large system installations, and facility maintenance programs.What payment methods do you accept?
We accept various payment methods and work with your budget. Contact us at (205) 979-6130 to discuss payment options for your project.
When should I replace my HVAC system instead of repairing it?
Replace your HVAC system if it's over 15 years old, requires frequent costly repairs, or has declining efficiency. Newer high-efficiency systems often pay for themselves through lower energy bills. At Wilbanks Plumbing LLC, we provide free estimates and financing options to make replacement more affordable.What's included in a seasonal HVAC maintenance tune-up?
Seasonal maintenance includes filter replacements, system inspections, cleaning key components, and performance testing. Spring AC tune-ups prepare cooling systems for summer heat, while fall furnace inspections ensure safe heating operation. Regular maintenance extends equipment life and prevents unexpected breakdowns.How does Birmingham's humidity affect my AC system?
Birmingham's high humidity forces AC systems to work harder removing moisture, increasing wear and energy costs. Proper maintenance and humidity control systems help manage indoor comfort more efficiently. At Wilbanks Plumbing LLC, we tailor cooling solutions to Alabama's humid climate for better performance.What are the benefits of hydro jetting for drain cleaning?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to thoroughly clear clogs, grease buildup, and tree roots from pipes. It cleans pipe walls more completely than traditional snaking and lasts longer. This method is especially effective for stubborn blockages and preventative sewer line maintenance.Why should I schedule furnace service before winter?
Pre-winter furnace inspections catch potential problems before cold weather arrives, preventing emergency breakdowns during freezing temperatures. Technicians check safety controls, clean burners, and ensure efficient operation. At Wilbanks Plumbing LLC, fall maintenance includes upfront pricing and priority scheduling for seasonal members.Can indoor air quality systems help with allergies?
Yes, whole-home air purifiers and humidity control systems significantly reduce allergens, dust, and airborne irritants. Duct cleaning removes accumulated contaminants from ventilation systems. At Wilbanks Plumbing LLC, we design tailored indoor air quality solutions for allergy and asthma sufferers in Birmingham homes.What's the difference between commercial and residential plumbing?
Commercial plumbing handles larger-scale systems with higher usage demands, including grease trap cleaning, multiple fixtures, and complex pipe networks. Residential plumbing focuses on household needs like leak detection, fixture installations, and repiping. Commercial projects require specialized equipment and code compliance for business operations.How often should I replace my HVAC air filters?
Replace standard filters every 1-3 months depending on usage, pets, and allergies. Homes with pets or allergy sufferers benefit from monthly changes. Seasonal HVAC maintenance programs include filter replacements as part of regular tune-ups to maintain system efficiency and air quality.What causes sewer line backups in older homes?
Tree root intrusion, aging clay pipes, and accumulated grease or debris cause most sewer backups in older homes. Shifting soil and pipe corrosion also contribute to blockages. Sewer line inspections with camera technology identify problems early, and hydro jetting clears roots before major damage occurs.Is a high-efficiency HVAC system worth the cost?
High-efficiency systems reduce energy bills by 20-40% compared to older units, offsetting higher upfront costs within several years. They provide better comfort control and qualify for utility rebates. At Wilbanks Plumbing LLC, we offer financing plans and warranty packages to make energy-efficient replacements more accessible.What plumbing work should I do before cold weather?
Insulate exposed pipes, repair leaks, check water heater performance, and clear drains before freezing temperatures arrive. Outdoor faucets should be drained and shut off. At Wilbanks Plumbing LLC, we recommend fall plumbing inspections to prevent frozen pipe damage during Birmingham's occasional hard freezes.How does repiping improve water pressure and quality?
Repiping replaces corroded or outdated pipes that restrict flow and leach contaminants into water. Modern materials like PEX or copper restore strong water pressure and improve taste. Whole-home repiping eliminates recurring leaks and extends plumbing system lifespan in older residential properties.
