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FAQ

Serving Families Throughout Central Illinois

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve been at this a long time here in Central Illinois and we get a lot of questions. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical equipment and services.

  • Electrical Switches & Outlets

    • Can you install light switches yourself?
      Generally, no. In some cases homeowners may be safe installing their own light switches for the simplest project. However, it is generally best to have a licensed electrician from Mattex conduct the installation. That way, you can ensure that your light switches are up to code and safe for your family.
    • How much does it cost to install a new electrical outlet?
      The cost to install electrical outlet(s) in a home can vary depending on many factors. Contact Mattex today to receive a quote!
    • Can you repair an electrical outlet?
      Mattex can repair your electrical outlets if you are experiencing problems. Additionally, electrical outlets are simple to replace if they are not worth repairing.
  • Smoke Detector

    • Can I install my own smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
      Although many stores sell smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, it is best to have a certified electrician install smoke detectors in your home. Having a Mattex professional install your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will ensure everything is done correctly and up to code. You can probably replace battery-powered detectors on your own, but you should call the professionals at Mattex to replace hardwired ones. Unsure of which type of detector you have? Give us a call at (217) 987-8326!
    • How long do smoke and carbon monoxide detectors last?
      A battery-powered smoke detector or a hardwired smoke detector can last up to 10 years, at which time you should replace the whole unit. Carbon monoxide detectors typically last between five and seven years. Consult your manufacturer’s manual to determine the recommendation for your specific models.
    • Where should smoke and carbon monoxide detectors be installed in my Champaign, IL home?
      Smoke detectors should be installed high on your Champaign, IL home’s walls or near the center of the ceilings, and at least 10 feet away from your kitchen and any cooking appliances. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed either on a wall about five feet above the floor, or on the ceiling six inches away from the wall.
    • Do I need both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
      Both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are two of the most important safety devices you can have in your Champaign, IL home. Mattex recommends that every household have both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to keep you and your family safe.
    • What are the warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning?
      The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, feeling sick or being sick, feeling weak, confusion, chest and muscle pain, and shortness of breath. If you or any family members begin experiencing these symptoms, open the windows in your home, exit your Champaign, IL home immediately, and call emergency services.
  • Electrical Safety Inspection

    • How do you inspect a house's wiring?
      During the course of an electrical safety inspection, a Mattex electrician will inspect all of the wiring not only in your home, but the wiring outside the home feeding into the electrical panel. To schedule a home electrical safety inspection, call (217) 987-8326 today!
    • Why are electrical inspections important?
      Electrical safety inspections are first and foremost important to ensure that your home is safe. A home safety inspection can catch any safety hazards that currently present a problem to your home or those hazards that eventually might. In addition to safety, other reasons that a homeowner may contact Mattex for an electrical safety inspection include an increase in their electrical bills without explanation, they are renovating your home, or they are buying/selling a home.
    • How often should electrical outlets be inspected?
      Generally, every homeowner should have their electrical outlets inspected at least once every five years. However, you should have them inspected more frequently if you begin to experience issues with your home’s electrical system. Call Mattex today to schedule a home electrical safety inspection!
  • Lighting Installation

    • Do I need an electrician to install LED lights?
      If you are remodeling or installing any new lighting in your home, it is best to have a professional, licensed electrician conduct the installation. That way you know that your home will be safe and you are unlikely to have problems in the future. The expert electricians at Mattex are highly rated and can help you complete all of your lighting installation projects.
    • How much does it cost to have a light fixture installed?
      Installing a new light fixture can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider when it comes to cost. For example, accessibility, type of light fixture, the features it has, and permits required can all dictate the cost of new lighting installation. However, the professionals at Mattex know best how to install a lighting solution that fits your needs!
    • What is a lighting installation?
      Lighting installation typically describes when homeowners have new lighting fixtures installed in their home. These can be new installations or replacements for existing lighting fixtures. Mattex is the premier lighting installation company in the greater Champaign, IL area.
    • Are the outdoor lights weatherproof?
      Yes, any lights that are installed outside should be weatherproof. Outdoor lighting is meant to withstand the elements. With the proper maintenance, the weather should not affect your outdoor lighting.
    • Are outdoor lights easy to install and can I install them myself?
      If you are installing just a few, simple outdoor lights, you can do this yourself. But, if you’re looking to do something more intricate with your outdoor lighting, you should have a lighting professional at Mattex complete the job. Your Mattex lighting expert can help navigate your plan and advise you what will work best for your needs.
    • Can bulbs and/or fixtures be easily replaced or does an electrical contractor need to be scheduled?
      When dealing with more simple fixtures, like a lamp, for example, the bulbs and fixtures can definitely be easily replaced by the homeowner. When it comes to more complicated issues though, such as a nicked wire or a fuse replacement, it is best to have a licensed electrician from [DealerName] fix the issues. Electrical work can be tricky and cause hazards if not handled properly.
    • How do I hide lighting in my ceiling?
      If you are looking to conceal the lighting in your ceiling, you can work with a lighting expert at Mattex who can assess your home and lighting needs and advise you on how to achieve this.
    • What’s the difference between architectural and decorative light fittings?
      The difference between architectural and decorative light fittings is that decorative fittings are meant to enhance the aesthetic of the room and are meant to be seen while the latter’s purpose focuses more so on its core function. Decorative lighting isn’t necessarily better than architectural lighting, or vice versa. They both serve different purposes and should both compliment each other when installed correctly.
    • Can I use sensors to turn my lights off and on?
      Yes, you can use sensors to turn your lights off and on. Lighting sensors have motion sensors that will trigger on or off depending on the time of day. Some sensors even allow you to set them on or off for certain lengths of time. Lighting sensors can make a huge positive impact on your home both functionally and aesthetically. If you’re thinking of installing sensors in your home, call Mattex to have a lighting expert come out to your house to discuss options and offer you a price quote.
    • Can a timer be used on my outdoor lighting?
      Yes, a timer can be used on your outdoor lighting. You can attach a photocell to your transformer so the lights automatically turn on at sunset and turn off at sunrise. Alternatively, you can also use a timer and set it so the lights turn on and off at the times you set it to.
    • How many outdoor lights will I need?
      The number of outdoor lights you will need depends on how large your yard is, your vision for your outdoor lighting plan, and your budget. When installing outdoor lighting, it’s always a good idea to work alongside a lighting expert from Mattex who can direct and advise you on your lighting journey.
  • Surge Protection

    • Can surge protectors be repaired?
      Yes, home surge protectors can be repaired! Since they protect your home’s most important appliances, any repair needs to be done with care by a professional electrician. Mattex has professionally licensed technicians that can repair your home surge protector if you call today!
    • What do you do when a surge protector stops working?
      When a surge protector stops working, it is best to contact an expertly trained technician like those from Mattex. We can conduct a repair while still protecting your home appliances if you call (217) 987-8326 to schedule a repair.
    • Do whole-house surge protectors need to be replaced?
      Yes, whole-house surge protectors do occasionally need to be replaced. You should replace them every few years or when they stop working. If you think you may need a replacement, call Mattex today to schedule a time for a professionally certified electrician to inspect your whole-house surge protector.
    • What if I have more than one panel?
      If you have more than one panel you may or may not need two surge protectors depending on how your panels are fed from the meter. You will need to have a professional electrician from Mattex to assess whether or not you will need an additional whole-home surge protector.
    • How big is a surge protector?
      Surge protectors are not very large additions at all and provide a very important extra layer of security. The main panel surge protector is only about the size of two decks of cards.
    • What is cable surge protection and how does it work?
      Cable surge protection works in the same way as a typical whole-home surge protector, but instead is installed inside your cable box which is typically on the outside of your house. Cable boxes and/or internet routers contain a lot of electricity that lightning is strongly drawn to. If you have a cable television or internet service, you should absolutely have a cable surge protector because if lightning hits your cable box, it will travel through any other device connected to it and destroy it. If you’re thinking about adding surge protection to your cable box, but aren’t sure whether or not to install it, have a Mattex electrical expert consult with you and provide you with more information.
  • Circuit Breaker

    • How do I install a new circuit breaker?
      All Mattex electricians are expertly trained and professionally licensed to install any new circuit breakers in Champaign, IL homes. No matter if it’s a replacement or new installation, our experts can get the job done in a safe and quick manner, if you call (217) 987-8326 today.
    • Can I install a circuit breaker myself?
      No, you should not install a circuit breaker yourself. Installing a circuit breaker is complicated electrical work, that if done incorrectly could result in injury for yourself, or others in your home. Circuit breaker installation should only be done by a professional electrician. Call Mattex today to schedule one of their expert electricians for an installation!
    • How much is a circuit breaker installation?
      The ultimate cost to install a circuit breaker can vary depending on a multitude of factors in your Champaign, IL home. To receive a quote, call Mattex today!
  • Ceiling Fan Installation

    • Can I install a ceiling fan myself?
      No, you should have a professional electrician install any ceiling fans in your home. That way you can be sure that the electrical work associated with the ceiling fan was installed correctly, keeping your home, and everyone that lives in it, safe. Call Mattex today to get a quote for your home ceiling fan installation!
    • How easy is it to install a ceiling fan?
      A professional Mattex ceiling fan technician can install a ceiling fan quickly and safely in your home. DIY electricians are not likely to be able to easily or safely install a ceiling fan. At Mattex we promise affordable and professional service when we install your ceiling fan.
    • How much does it cost to have someone install a ceiling fan?
      The ultimate cost of installing a home ceiling fan depends on a few factors, such as type of fan, whether or not there is usable existing wiring, etc. No matter the project, Mattex technicians have the capability and knowhow to install the ceiling fan you desire in your Champaign, IL home.
  • EV Charging Station

    • How much does it cost to install power for an electric car?
      The cost to install a charger for your electric vehicle can vary depending on the interior of your home and the type of charger you wish to install. Call Mattex today to have an expert electrician out to your home to give you a competitive quote!
    • Can I install my own EV charger?
      No. It is not a good idea to install your own electric vehicle charger in your own home. You place your home electrical system and your own safety at serious risk if you do not have a professionally licensed electrician install your electric vehicle charger.
    • Do I need permission to install a car charging point?
      Depending on the jurisdiction your home resides in, a permit may be required to install an electric vehicle charger in your home. Thankfully, a trusted Mattex technician can help you through any Greater Champaign, IL Area regulations to get your electric vehicle charger installed!
  • Electrical Installation

    • What is general electrical installation?
      General electrical installation refers to work done by Mattex electricians to install components of a home electrical system such as lighting, electrical panels, appliances, wiring, etc. If you have a home that needs new general electrical work done, call Mattex today!
    • What are the types of electrical installation?
      Mattex conducts residential (in home) installation and generator installation. Our electricians are expertly trained and professionally licensed to conduct general electrical installation in Champaign, IL homes.
    • What is included in electrical service?
      When Mattex technicians conduct a general electrical installation at a residence, they can install features of your home’s electrical system like lighting, an electrical panel, wiring, surge protection, a ceiling fan, etc. No matter the need, the professionals at Mattex can meet your general electrical installation needs if you call today!
    • What does electrical maintenance include?
      Normally, electrical maintenance includes services such as inspecting a home to ensure that all of its electrical functions are working properly. If any issues are encountered, a Mattex electrician will conduct a repair with the homeowner’s permission.
    • What is included in electrical service?
      At Mattex, our electricians are expertly trained and professionally licensed. That means they can conduct repairs safely and efficiently in your home as they encounter them in the course of providing general electrical services. Call (217) 987-8326 if you are encountering any signs that you are in need of general electrical repair.
    • What is electrical installation and maintenance?
      Electrical installation and maintenance usually refers to services offered by Mattex to either install, maintain or repair components of a home’s electrical system such as wiring, appliances, outlets, lighting, etc. Contact Mattex today to schedule your appointment for a general electrical repair!
    • Is my electrical panel unsafe?
      Some older homes with outdated electrical panels have electrical panels that are outdated and not particularly safe for the overload of today’s modern electrical appliances. If your home’s electrical panel is less than 200 amps, it could be unsafe. If you are unsure how many amps your electrical panel is or have an electrical panel with less than 200 amps, have a professional electrician from Mattex inspect it for you.
    • Why doesn't my light switch work for my lighting fixture?
      There could be a few reasons why your light switch doesn’t work for your lighting fixture. More times than not, the issue is as simple as a tripped circuit, which affects the flow of power from your switch to your lighting. Other common issues are damaged wiring, burned-out or corroded contacts, or a problem with the wiring or light sockets in your light fixture. If you’re struggling to make your light switch work with your lighting fixture, call Mattex to have a licensed electrician come take a look.
    • What is a GFCI outlet?
      A GFCI outlet protects you from electrical shock if moisture is present. GFCI outlets are usually found in areas where there is a lot of water around such as your kitchen or bathroom. You can identify a GFCI outlet by the “test” and “reset” buttons on them. The “reset” button turns your outlet back on after it has tripped. If you’ve tried pressing the “reset” button multiple times to no avail, you will need to have a professional electrician from Mattex diagnose the issue.
  • Sewer Line Repair

    • How do you fix a broken sewer line?
      There are a few different techniques that plumbers use to repair broken sewer lines. Among them are drain clearing, hydro jetting, and rooter service. Call (217) 987-8326 today to schedule an appointment with a Mattex technician to determine how best to repair your broken sewer line.
    • What causes a broken sewer line?
      A broken sewer line can be caused by many things; various obstructions can cause a leak, tree roots can protrude through a sewer line, and old age can lead to the eventual breakdown of a sewer line. No matter the cause, the professionals at Mattex can diagnose the problem and repair your sewer line quickly!
    • How do you know if your main sewer line is broken?
      The most severe sign of a main sewer line break is the puddling of septic wastewater in your yard. This indicates a main line break that needs to be addressed by a professional. However, there are other less severe signs that can be indicative of a sewer line break. If you suspect your main sewer line is broken, call Mattex today!
    • Is a broken sewer line dangerous?
      Yes, a broken sewer line can be dangerous. Damage to your main sewer line can cause significant structural damage to your home and if left untreated, can lead to cracks in your home’s foundation, a settled foundation, and/or even sinkholes (pools of septic waste). If you have a broken sewer line, call Mattex to have it repaired right away.
    • Can toilet paper clog a sewer line?
      Over time toilet paper and other debris can clog up a sewer line as they get snagged on the tree roots that often infiltrate sewer lines. Flushing sanitary products, feminine hygiene products, facial tissues, paper towels, or even extra-thick toilet paper can severely clog up your sewer line over time. It is best to avoid flushing anything down your toilet other than toilet paper to avoid unnecessary sewer line clogs.
    • What causes a collapsed sewer line?
      The main culprit of a collapsed sewer line is typically tree roots. Tree roots naturally seek out water so they are highly attracted to all of the moisture that exists within your sewer line. Unfortunately, these tree roots can end up growing into the actual pipe itself, through the joints, and after decades of use, the tree roots degrade from the constant exposure to moisture. Eventually, the sewer line itself will weaken to the point of completely collapsing. If you are struggling with a collapsed sewer line, call Mattex to help you replace it right away.
    • How do you install a sewer line?
      There are a few different ways to install or replace a sewer line for a home. Contact Mattex today to have a professional sewer line technician out to your home to determine what the best installation method is for you!
    • How deep should a sewer line be buried?
      Generally sewer lines are dug to be about six feet deep, but can vary depending on the project. Regardless, the experts at Mattex know best how deep the sewer line at your Champaign, IL home needs to be.
    • What do you do if your sewer line is clogged?
      If the sewer line for your Champaign, IL home is clogged you should contact the professionals at Mattex to conduct a repair today! Our expert technicians will perform a sewer line inspection to locate the obstruction and then work with you to determine the best solution before any further work is done!
  • Rooter Services

    • How much do rooters cost?
      The ultimate cost of rooter service generally depends on the extent of the problem. If your pipes have been extensively infiltrated by tree roots and/or other debris the cost is likely to be higher. Contact Mattex today to have them come out to your home to diagnose the problem!
    • What does a rooter do?
      Homeowners often require rooter service when they need drain clearing or pipe repair to address obstructions stemming from tree roots in your home plumbing system. Rooter technicians from Mattex can provide rooter services if you call (217) 987-8326 today!
    • What is a rooter machine?
      A rooter machine is a machine Mattex technicians use for drain cleaning. When the cable from the rooter machine is inserted into a water or sewer line, it has the capability to cut through any roots or debris causing blockages in the line.
  • Leak Detection

    • How much does a leak detector cost?
      Leak detection services usually cost hundreds of dollars. The exact price depends on the severity and location of the leak. Call Mattex today to schedule leak detection service for your home’s plumbing system.
    • What do plumbers use to detect leaks?
      Mattex technicians use innovative and cutting edge technology to detect leaks in your Champaign, IL home’s plumbing system. Fear your plumbing has sprung a leak? Call (217) 987-8326 today.
    • How do I find out where a leak is coming from?
      If you fear that your Champaign, IL home’s plumbing system has a leak, you should call Mattex to schedule an appointment for a technician to come out to your home to inspect it’s plumbing system.
  • Hydrojetting

    • What is the purpose of hydro jetting?
      The purpose of hydro jetting is to unclog obstructions or debris that has built up in your plumbing system to alleviate blockages. This is done by inserting a highflow of water through your plumbing system. Mattex has the premier hydro jetting experts in the Greater Champaign, IL area.
    • Can Hydro jetting damage old pipes?
      In some instances, hydro jetting can damage old pipes. That’s why before any work is done, Mattex plumbers will inspect your plumbing system to ensure that it can withstand hydro jetting. Call (217) 987-8326 today to schedule an appointment!
    • Is hydro jetting necessary?
      When a licensed plumber recommends hydro jetting, it should be considered necessary. If a plumber recommends hydro jetting, that often means it is the best option to return your plumbing system to optimal functionality. To find out if hydro jetting is necessary to remove blockages in your home plumbing system, call Mattex today!
    • When would I need hydro jetting?
      You probably need hydro-jetting if you notice your sink, shower, toilet, or other fixtures draining particularly slower than normal. Usually if multiple drains are clogged or backed up, they could benefit from hydro-jetting.
    • What are the benefits of hydro jetting?
      There are various benefits of hydro-jetting. Thanks to the high pressure, hydro-jetting removes clogs quickly and efficiently. Hydro-jetting can also be used to clear clogs and tree roots blocking the flow of your pipes. Lastly, hydro-jetting clears out grease, minerals, hair, and other buildup in your pipes.
    • How long does it take to hydro jet a sewer line?
      On average, hydro-jetting usually takes around an hour to complete. This includes the whole process of thoroughly flushing dirt debris, roots, hair, oil, and other waste, as well as utilizing sewer line camera inspection to assess your pipes.
  • Backflow Testing

    • Do I need a backflow preventer in my Champaign, IL home?
      Mattex always recommends installing a backflow prevention device in any Champaign, IL home where clean, incoming water and wastewater have a chance of being cross-connected. This ultimately ends up protecting you and your Champaign, IL home by keeping your drinking, bathing, and cleaning water safe to use. If you do not already have a backflow prevention device installed, call the experts at Mattex.
    • What happens if my Champaign, IL home’s backflow prevention system fails?
      There are several signs you can look for in your Champaign, IL home that indicate when your backflow prevention device has failed or malfunctioned. Your water may become discolored, begin to taste or smell bad, or may even have visible particles floating in it. If you notice any problems with your Champaign, IL home’s water, contact the professionals at Mattex right away for emergency plumbing services.
    • Why do I need a backflow prevention device in m
      A backflow prevention device is an important part of your Champaign, IL home’s plumbing system. It works to protect your clean, potable water from becoming contaminated or polluted from backflow, which is wastewater that attempts to flow backwards in the pipes, back into your home. Backflow prevention devices are necessary to maintain the health of both you and your family, which is why Mattex highly recommends that each Champaign, IL home have a backflow prevention device installed.
    • How often do I need backflow testing in Champaign, IL?
      Mattex recommends frequent backflow testing for Champaign, IL homes. Having the professional team of plumbers at Mattex perform regular backflow testing will help them to catch any potential issues with your backflow prevention device before they get worse. The experts at Mattex suggest that Champaign, IL homeowners should schedule annual backflow tests to ensure that their water remains safe and uncontaminated.
    • What happens during a backflow test for Champaign, IL homes?
      When a Mattex plumber conducts a backflow test, they will turn off the downstream shut-off valve, wait a few minutes, and then test the pressure in the system by using a special backflow testing kit. They will make sure to look for any irregularities, as well as any problems within your plumbing system that they can repair before they turn into major issues. This will ensure that your Champaign, IL home’s water supply remains free of contamination and safe to drink.
    • What are the benefits of backflow testing for Champaign, IL homes?
      Having a Mattex professional conduct a simple backflow test on a regular basis can bring a lot of benefits to your Champaign, IL home. Regular backflow testing from Mattex can prevent huge problems in your plumbing system, expensive repairs, and health hazards. Backflow testing ensures that your clean drinking water is kept separate from the wastewater that has been flushed or drained out of your Champaign, IL home.
  • Camera Inspection Service

    • How much does it cost to run a camera down a pipe:
      The cost of a camera inspection can vary depending on the length of the pipe and accessibility. Call Mattex for a quote today!
    • What can I expect from a sewer camera inspection:
      Is your toilet continually clogging or overflowing? Then you likely need a sewer camera inspection. When a Mattex plumber conducts a camera inspection, they will insert a camera into the sewer line in attempts to determine what is causing the backup.
    • What is a drain inspection camera?
      A drain inspection camera is a camera that is reeled down a drain to go through your plumbing to get a visual of any blockages, obstructions, or leaks that your system might have. Call Mattex today to get a camera inspection scheduled!
  • Water Softener Repair

    • How do I fix my water softener?
      The type of repair required to fix your water softener, depends on what the diagnosed problem is with the unit. Regardless of the problem at hand, Mattex has the technicians with the capability and expertise to repair your home’s water softener.
    • What is the life expectancy of a water softener?
      The average life expectancy for a water softener is 10 to 15 years. Once your water softener passes ten years old and begins to need more frequent repairs, a replacement unit should begin to be considered.
    • How often should a water softener be serviced?
      Water softeners should primarily receive service when issues arise. Most water softener manufacturers recommend that their units be serviced at least once a year. Call Mattex to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians for any service your home’s water softener might need.
    • Can you install a water softener yourself?
      Installing a water softener can be a do-it-yourself project, but it is normally recommended that an expert install any water softeners. That way you know you can rely on the water softener to function properly and efficiently when you need it most.
    • How much does it cost to install a whole house water softener?
      The cost to install a whole house water softener is usually just around a few thousand dollars. The exact price depends on the existing plumbing infrastructure that is already in the home. To receive a quote to install a water softener in your Champaign, IL home, call Mattex today!
    • Is it worth it to install a water softener?
      In most cases, yes, installing a water softener is worth it. It is especially worth it if you notice signs of hard water in your home. Installing a water softener can prolong the lifespan of some of your home’s most important appliances. Call (217) 987-8326 today to schedule an installation with a Mattex technician.
  • Sump Pump Repair

    • How do I know if my sump pump is working?
      There are a few measures you can take to know for sure if your sump pump is working or not. The first thing you will want to check is that your exterior drain pipe is free of any debris by ensuring that it’s directing the water away from your foundation. Secondly, check the power and see if you can hear the motor running. Lastly, pour a bucket of water into the pit to trigger the pump’s automatic start which should drain quickly once the pump is triggered. If the pump doesn’t start and/or doesn’t empty, call Mattex to have a professional plumber further investigate the problem.
    • Why do sump pumps fail?
      Sump pumps typically fail because they are overworked. If your basement floods for example, a single sump pump (especially an older one) may become overworked and unable to adequately handle such a high level of water. This is why it is vital to always have yearly maintenance done by a certified plumber at Mattex to make sure your sump pump is in the best condition that it can possibly be in and thus much less likely to fail.
    • How do I make sure my sump pump doesn’t fail?
      The most important thing you can do to make sure your sump pump doesn’t fail is to always have a plumbing expert at Mattex perform the proper maintenance at least once a year. Another measure you can take to ensure your sump pump doesn’t fail prematurely is if you notice your pump isn’t working correctly, have a Mattex plumber come out and address the issue right away.
    • How do I test my sump pump?
      While there are ways for the homeowner to test their sump pump, it can be a complex process and is best practice to have a trusted plumbing expert at Mattex complete the test.
    • What are common reasons for a sump pump to fail?
      Common reasons for a sump pump to fail include improper installation, plugging your sump pump into a low-voltage extension cord that supplies low voltage, incorrect sizing, and mishandling. When it comes to installing, handling, and maintaining, it’s always best to have a certified plumber at Mattex tend to these issues to ensure your sump pump doesn’t fail unnecessarily.
  • Gas Line Repair

    • Who is responsible for fixing gas lines?
      For your home’s internal gas lines leading up to the supply line, you, the homeowner, are responsible for repairing those. This includes all lines from the supply line into the home and into appliances, boilers, heaters, etc. If you encounter any issue with your home gas line that you fear requires repair, call Mattex today.
    • How far down should a gas line be buried?
      A gas line should be buried 18-24 inches below the ground. If your Champaign, IL home needs gas line installation or repair services, Mattex employs expert technicians that can make sure the job gets done right for you and your home.
    • How do you repair a natural gas line?
      When you contract a Mattex to have them repair your natural gas line, a technician will first shut off the gas running to your home. The technician will then undertake a number of technical steps to repair your gas line. If you would like to schedule a repair with one of our expert technicians, call (217) 987-8326 now!
  • AC Repair

    • Why is my AC running but not cooling?
      There are a few reasons your AC might not be blowing cool air. Call (217) 987-8326 today to have a cooling Mattex cooling technician diagnose and repair your Air Conditioning unit promptly.
    • What is the most common AC repair?
      Common repairs that A/C units require are related to the compressor or coolant leaking. No matter the problem though, Mattex technicians have the capability and know-how to fix whatever the issue with your unit is!
    • Is it worth it to repair an air conditioner?
      If your air conditioner is not too old or the repair isn’t more expensive than a replacement, then yes it is generally worth it to conduct a repair. If your A/C is older than 10 years old it is likely to continue to need repairs. Regardless of the problem, once it is diagnosed the cooling experts from Mattex can help you decide what cooling solution is best for your home!
  • Careers

    • Training & Career Development
      Founded by a technician, Mattex was formed around one simple mission – to help mature technicians by providing them the best training, support, and ongoing education in the industry. We truly give you the tools and opportunity to succeed.
    • Team & Family Culture
      At Mattex, we put our team culture first. We consider ourselves family, celebrating one another’s successes and striving to create a positive work environment every day. Mattex employees benefit from personal relationships with our owners, getting one-on-one training throughout the entire time with the company.
    • Customer Centric
      We take our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee very seriously. Our technicians are trained and encouraged to always put the needs and satisfaction of the customer first. It’s an honor to get to enter into a customer’s home or business, and we take that responsibility seriously.
    • Benefits

      Mattex offers competitive compensation, benefits and perks to make your role even sweeter.

      • Medical & Dental Insurance
      • Excellent Earnings Potential
      • Ongoing Training and Support
      • Work Available Year Round
      • Highly Competitive Pay Structure
    • Community Minded
      We are proud members of the communities we serve, and pride ourselves on being great neighbors. We support organizations such as CU at Home, Shop with a Cop, the Champaign Park DistrictSt. Jude, the Champaign Ballet, local sports teams and school district fundraisers.
  • General FAQs

    • What is the SEER Rating?
      The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is how the efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment is measured. The SEER is the amount of cooling your system will deliver per dollar spent on electricity, as compared to other systems. For example, a 3-ton unit may have a SEER efficiency rating of 13, 14, or 15. The higher the SEER the more efficient the system will be. The SEER rating of any given unit can range anywhere from 13 to 20.
    • Why is the SEER rating on the energy guide different than what my dealer quoted?
      S.E.E.R. stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, which tells you the cooling efficiency of your unit. The SEER rating on an energy guide tells you the “up to” SEER rating potential of an air conditioner or heat pump. The higher the rating, the more energy savings you will experience. The actual SEER rating of a system is based on the pairing of that AC/heat pump unit with its associated refrigerant coil and furnace blower motor. Together, they act as a “team” to produce conditioned air as efficiently as possible based on their combined maximum ability and functionality. An HVAC professional is trained to maximize this pairing by suggesting units that will match your desire for equipment economy vs. energy efficiency. The more efficient systems tend to cost more initially, but the homeowner or business owner will recoup that money in energy savings over time. You will actually spend less in the long run by purchasing a more expensive, higher efficiency system, as it can significantly reduce your energy consumption, and in turn lower the power bill.
    • Why do I need regular (or preventative) HVAC maintenance?
      Investing in regular preventative maintenance on your equipment provides you with three crucial things: 1) peace of mind that a trained professional will identify issues and repair your system, potentially preventing a major breakdown before it arises, 2) increased energy efficiency, and 3) the protection of your equipment’s warranty. Preventative maintenance from a trained HVAC professional allows you to pinpoint and address issues with your system, which can increase the overall life expectancy of your equipment. It also ensures your equipment is running as effectively as possible, increasing your overall energy efficiency and saving you money on your utility bills over time. In addition, regular equipment maintenance by a trained HVAC professional is often a requirement to protect your equipment’s warranty from the manufacturer. Neglecting or skipping regular equipment maintenance– even just once– can void a manufacturer’s warranty on your equipment.
    • I need help troubleshooting a problem with my equipment.
      When an issue arises with your system, our HVAC professionals go through a systematic and detailed process to determine not only the obvious issue, but other periphery (but connected) items that might be the root cause of your current breakdown. While repairing the equipment, the technician will dig deeper into your system to uncover potential items that may not have manifested themselves as problems yet, but have a high likelihood for problems in the future.
    • What are the advantages of a programable thermostat?
      A programmable thermostat allows you to customize the timing of the temperature change in your home or business to match your lifestyle. You will increase your comfort while saving energy dollars in the process, getting the heating and cooling to the right temperature at the right time as efficiently as possible. Programmable thermostats are also recommended if you have a zoned HVAC system, where your comfort demands vary in different areas of your space.
    • What type of filter should I use? How often should I replace it?
      The answer to this question varies widely depending upon your family’s comfort/health needs (allergies, asthma, etc.) as well as the internal and external environment of your home (pets, surrounding farm fields, pollen generating plants/trees, etc.). A general rule of thumb is to change your filter every 60-90 days, but if you notice a build-up on the filter at this interval, you may want to replace the filter once each month. The inexpensive filters that can be purchased at your local store are designed to be “rock catchers” — they just keep larger particulate matter from damaging your HVAC equipment. These filters are not designed to “clean the air”. Partnering with an HVAC professional for equipment maintenance and filter replacements can help you ensure that you are utilizing the best filter for the health and comfort needs of your family.
    • Why can’t I find the correct size furnace filter at my local home improvement store?
      The proper equipment for your home is highly dependent upon a number of variables. As a result, picking an HVAC system out for yourself at a big box store could leave you with undersized and under-functioning equipment. An HVAC professional will help you to calculate the heating and cooling BTU needs of your home, which is determined through a mathematical heat load and cooling demand calculation comprised of the square footage of your home, the insulation r-value, the orientation of the home directionally and the condition of the ductwork system. We recommend utilizing an HVAC professional to calculate your home’s true needs and find the right equipment for you.
    • What size HVAC equipment is right for my home?
      The answer to this question is 100% dependent upon conducting a proper heat load calculation. This calculation will determine the BTUs of heat necessary to be able to deliver a 70 degree temperature on a 0 degree day in winter, and enough cooling to overcome the BTUs of heat load on a home to give a 75 degree temperature on a 95 degree day in the summer. This calculation is dependent upon a number of variables in your home, including the square footage of your home, orientation of the home directionally and the condition of the ductwork system. Our trained comfort consultants will meet with you to help you determine the right equipment to fit your home.
    • What is the life of the expectancy of my unit?
      The life expectancy of a typical HVAC system will vary depending upon the environment it is working in, along with how professionally it was installed and maintained. That is why it is crucial to utilize the highest trained HVAC installation team and to invest in regular equipment maintenance. Professional installation and maintenance can help your equipment last an average of 12-18 years.
  • Mission, Vision, Purpose & Values

    • Our Purpose

      Why We Do What We Do

      To serve our customers where we live and work, keeping them safe, healthy, and comfortable.

    • Our Vision

      Where We Are Going

      To be the service leader in customer loyalty by providing an exceptional customer experience.

    • Our Mission

      How We Will Get There

      To be the best at building loyal customers through excellent customer service.

    • Our Values

      What Will Guide Us on Our Path

      Our focus on excellent customer service comes from working together, building a positive culture, and providing quality workmanship with integrity in all that we do.