1st Choice Plumbing & Gas: What to Know Before You Call

Who 1st Choice Plumbing & Gas is and what they do

1st Choice Plumbing & Gas is a South Carolina plumbing and gas service company that handles repairs, installations, and maintenance for residential and commercial customers. They work on water lines, drain systems, gas lines, water heaters, and fixture installations across the state. The company operates as a local business rather than a national chain, which means you're working with people familiar with South Carolina's specific plumbing challenges—older homes with cast iron pipes, coastal corrosion issues, and the particular building codes that apply here.

The company offers both emergency and scheduled service calls. If you have a burst pipe at midnight or a gas leak, they take emergency requests. For routine work like installing a new toilet, replacing a water heater, or running a gas line to a new appliance, you can schedule in advance. They also handle preventive maintenance contracts if you want regular inspections and upkeep.

Key Takeaways

• 1st Choice Plumbing & Gas operates throughout South Carolina and handles emergency calls as well as scheduled appointments for repairs and installations.
• Before calling, have your address ready and a clear description of the problem—whether it's a leak, no water pressure, a gas smell, or a fixture that needs replacing.
• Emergency calls typically cost more than scheduled appointments, and many plumbers charge a service call fee separate from the actual repair cost.
• Ask about their warranty on parts and labor before work begins so you understand what's covered if something fails shortly after repair.
• Getting a written estimate before major work starts protects you and lets you compare costs if you're getting multiple quotes.

When to call for emergency versus scheduled service

Call 1st Choice Plumbing & Gas for emergency service if you have active water leaks, no water pressure, sewage backing up, a gas smell, or a water heater that has failed completely. These situations can damage your home or create safety hazards, so they warrant an immediate response even if it's after hours or on a weekend. Emergency calls typically include a higher service fee than daytime appointments.

Schedule a regular appointment if you need a new fixture installed, want to replace an aging water heater before it fails, need a gas line run to a new appliance, or are having routine maintenance done. These jobs can usually wait a few days or a week, and scheduling in advance often means lower rates and better availability. If you're not sure whether your situation is urgent, call and describe it—the dispatcher can tell you whether to wait or request emergency service.

What information to have ready when you call

Before you dial, write down your full address, the best phone number to reach you, and a clear description of what's wrong. For example: "Water is pooling under the kitchen sink" is more useful than "I have a leak." If you know when the problem started or what triggered it, mention that. If you've already tried anything to fix it, tell them—sometimes what you've done affects how the plumber approaches the job.

For gas-related issues, describe any smells, sounds, or appliances that aren't working. For water pressure problems, note whether it's everywhere in the house or just one fixture. For drain issues, say whether it's a toilet, sink, shower, or the main line. The more specific you are, the better the dispatcher can estimate how long the job will take and what tools the plumber should bring.

Understanding service call fees and estimates

Most plumbers in South Carolina charge a service call fee just to come out and diagnose the problem. This fee is separate from the cost of repairs and typically ranges depending on the time of day and whether it's an emergency. The service call fee is usually credited toward the repair cost if you decide to move forward with the work, but confirm this when you call. Some companies waive it if you book a maintenance contract.

For jobs beyond simple fixes—like replacing a water heater, installing new fixtures, or running gas lines—ask for a written estimate before work begins. This estimate should list the parts needed, labor costs, and the total. A written estimate protects you both: you know the cost upfront, and the plumber has a clear scope of work. If the job uncovers additional problems (like corroded pipes that need replacing), the plumber should contact you before proceeding and provide a revised estimate.

What to ask about warranties and guarantees

Before the plumber leaves, ask what warranty covers the work they just did. Most companies warrant their labor for a set period—often 30 days to one year—meaning if the same problem comes back within that window, they'll fix it at no charge. Parts usually come with the manufacturer's warranty, which varies by product. A water heater might have a five-year warranty on the tank, for example, while a faucet might have a lifetime warranty on the cartridge.

Get the warranty details in writing, including what's covered, how long it lasts, and how to contact the company if something fails. Keep your receipt and any paperwork the plumber leaves behind. If a repair fails shortly after it's done, call the company and reference the warranty—they should either fix it or replace the part at no cost to you.

Preparing your home for the appointment

Clear the area where the plumber will be working. If they're fixing a kitchen sink, move items out from under the cabinet. If they're accessing the water heater in a basement or garage, make sure the path is clear and the space is well-lit. If you have pets, consider keeping them in another room so they don't get in the way or escape when the door opens.

If you know where your main water shut-off valve is located, show the plumber when they arrive—they may need to use it. If you don't know where it is, ask them to show you. Knowing this location is valuable for future emergencies. For gas work, make sure the area is well-ventilated and that you've moved any flammable materials away from the work zone.

Common plumbing problems in South Carolina homes

South Carolina's older homes often have cast iron drain pipes that corrode over time, leading to slow drains or backups. Coastal properties deal with salt air corrosion on copper lines and fixtures. Hard water is common in many areas, which can clog aerators and reduce water pressure. Homes built on clay soil sometimes experience foundation shifts that crack water lines or sewer connections.

Water heaters in South Carolina typically last seven to ten years because the mineral content in the water accelerates sediment buildup inside the tank. If your water heater is approaching that age and you're seeing rust-colored water or hearing rumbling sounds, replacement may be coming soon. A plumber can inspect it and tell you whether repair or replacement makes more sense. Knowing these regional patterns helps you understand why certain problems show up and what preventive steps might help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I smell gas?

Leave the building immediately and call 1st Choice Plumbing & Gas from outside, or call 911 if you can't reach them. Do not use electrical switches, light matches, or create any spark. Gas leaks are serious safety hazards. Once you're outside and safe, the plumber or emergency responders will locate and repair the leak.

How much does a typical water heater replacement cost?

Costs vary based on the size, type (gas or electric), and brand, plus labor and any necessary venting or line work. Call for an estimate specific to your situation. Prices in South Carolina generally range, but the only accurate number is one from the company after they see your home and know what you need.

Can I get a plumber to come the same day?

For emergencies, yes—1st Choice Plumbing & Gas takes emergency calls outside normal business hours. For scheduled work, same-day appointments depend on their current schedule. Call and ask; if they're booked, they can tell you the soonest available time or recommend another option.

What's the difference between a plumber and a gas fitter?

A plumber handles water lines, drains, and fixtures. A gas fitter specializes in gas lines and appliances. 1st Choice Plumbing & Gas does both, so you can call them for either type of work. Some jobs involve both—like installing a gas water heater—and one company handling both parts simplifies coordination.

Should I get multiple quotes before hiring a plumber?

For major work like water heater replacement or extensive repairs, getting two or three written estimates is reasonable. It helps you understand the range of costs and what different companies include. For emergency repairs, you may not have time for multiple quotes—in that case, focus on getting the problem fixed safely and ask about the warranty afterward.