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Knowing what to do when your water pipes freeze can help prevent serious damage and costly repairs to your home. Whether you’re in Peabody or anywhere else in Essex, Middlesex, or Suffolk counties, frozen pipes are a common winter problem.

When temperatures plummet, the water in your pipes can freeze and expand, putting your plumbing system under dangerous pressure. If you’re wondering what to do if your pipes freeze in the winter, taking the right steps can prevent a frozen pipe from bursting.

1. Keep the Faucet Open

If you suspect frozen pipes, open the affected faucet right away. Leaving it open relieves the pressure that builds up between the ice blockage and the faucet. 

As you begin thawing, keep the faucet running to monitor your progress. When water starts trickling through, you’ll know it’s working. Open both hot and cold handles to relieve pressure. Even a slow trickle is helpful because flowing water helps melt the ice from the inside. 

2. Turn Up the Heat in Your Home

Set your thermostat higher than usual, keeping it at least 55°F throughout your home. During extreme cold snaps around Salem, keeping your home above this minimum temperature helps prevent pipes from freezing in the first place. 

While it may take longer than direct heating methods, this is a safe way to address the problem without risking damage to your plumbing. The added warmth also helps prevent other pipes in your home from freezing.

3. Warm the Area Around the Frozen Pipe

If you can access the frozen section of the pipe, apply gentle, moderate heat directly to it. A hair dryer set on low to medium is one of the safest tools for thawing frozen pipes. Start at the faucet end and work your way toward the frozen section, moving the dryer back and forth. Never hold it in one spot too long, and avoid using the highest heat setting. Rapid heating can damage pipes or cause dangerous steam buildup. 

Space heaters positioned near the pipe can also work, but keep them at a safe distance from any flammable materials. Electric heating pads wrapped around the pipe provide consistent, controlled warmth. You can also use hot towels, replacing them frequently as they cool down. 

Whatever method you choose, be patient. Slow, gradual warming is much safer than applying intense heat, which could cause the pipe to burst from thermal shock or from trapped steam.

4. Open Cabinet Doors to Expose Pipes

Kitchen and bathroom sinks often have pipes that run through exterior walls or cabinets, where cold air gets trapped. Opening these cabinet doors allows warm air from your home to circulate through the plumbing. 

The heated air in your living space can be several degrees warmer than the air trapped inside closed cabinets. This strategy works well in combination with raising the overall temperature in your home, as suggested above.

5. Check Other Faucets

Once you’ve identified one frozen pipe, you should check other faucets in your home, too. Turn on each tap to see if water flows normally. If multiple faucets show reduced flow or no water at all, you likely have several frozen sections in your plumbing. 

Pipes that run parallel to exterior walls, through unheated spaces, or in areas with poor insulation are all at risk. Test faucets in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and any outdoor spigots. In two-story homes in Beverly and Lynnfield, don’t forget to check upstairs and downstairs fixtures. 

6. If the Pipe Is Behind a Wall or Inaccessible, Call a Plumber

When the frozen section is hidden or when your thawing efforts aren’t working after 30 to 45 minutes, professional help is necessary. Licensed plumbers have specialized equipment that can safely thaw pipes in hard-to-reach locations. 

Spencer Home Services offers emergency plumbing repairs throughout Peabody and the surrounding North Shore communities, including Danvers and Lynn. We bring professional-grade pipe-thawing equipment that safely unfreezes your plumbing without risking your walls or pipes. 

Since 1980, our team has been serving homes in Essex County and understands how New England winters affect local plumbing. Our plumbing services are available 24/7 because plumbing emergencies can strike at any time.

If you notice any moisture, no matter how minor, contact our water leak repair team for a professional inspection. It’s much better to catch small issues early than to deal with major water damage later.

What Not To Do When Your Pipes Freeze in Peabody

Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to do when your water pipes freeze.

• Don’t use an open flame, such as a blowtorch, to thaw pipes. The risk of fire is extremely high, and the intense heat can cause pipes to burst instantly. 
• Don’t pour boiling water directly onto frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can crack from thermal shock. 
• Don’t ignore the problem and hope it resolves itself when temperatures rise. A partially frozen pipe can still have enough pressure buildup to burst. 
• Don’t crank your heat up so high that you create a fire hazard or damage your heating system. Raising the temperature a few degrees is helpful, but turning your home into a sauna is dangerous. 
• Don’t assume you can handle every frozen pipe situation on your own. Our team would rather help you fix a smaller problem than have to address a major disaster.

How To Tell If Frozen Pipes Turned Into Burst Pipes

Sometimes frozen pipes burst before you even realize there’s a problem. Knowing the warning signs of a burst pipe helps you respond quickly to minimize water damage:

• Unusual sounds like hissing, bubbling, or banging coming from your walls or plumbing
• Water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors, especially near exterior walls
• Sudden drops in water pressure throughout your home,
• Water that stops flowing entirely, even after you’ve attempted to thaw the pipes
• Visible water actively spraying or flooding from pipes, walls, or ceilings 

If you spot any of these warning signs, shut off your main water valve immediately and call for emergency help. Our sewer line and trenchless pipe repair services can address serious damage while minimizing disruption to your property. With our 10-year parts-and-labor warranty on plumbing repairs, you get lasting solutions, not temporary fixes.

Don’t Let Frozen Pipes Burst Through Your Peabody Home

Frozen pipes are a serious issue that requires immediate attention. With the right approach, you can protect your home from costly water damage. 

At Spencer Home Services, we’ve been helping families across Peabody and the entire North Shore for over 40 years. We’ve earned a reputation for reliability, whether you call us to thaw frozen pipes or address your HVAC, electrical, and sewer repair needs. Ask us about free estimates for air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and boilers, too!

For service that can’t be beat, call Pete! Contact us today at 978-293-5770 or schedule online for fast, reliable help you can trust. Backed by decades of experience, we deliver high-quality, lasting solutions done right the first time. 

It’s every Peabody homeowner’s nightmare to arrive home from a snowy morning stroll in Salem Willows Park to find a lake of water sitting in their basement. While some pipe bursts are blatantly obvious to spot, others aren’t as easy to detect without the expertise of a professional plumber.

Leaks hidden behind walls, along ceilings, or under floors can seep into your home, quietly damaging your belongings, furniture, and the structure of your home. Explore the top warning signs of a burst pipe, so you know what to watch out for as the freezing temperatures return to Essex County.

Why Burst Pipes Are Common in Peabody, MA

When the frigid winter weather arrives in Peabody, there’s more to worry about than catching a chill. Falling temperatures and heavy snowfall can cause water in your pipes to freeze and expand, creating pressure and eventually leading to a crack or burst pipe. 

With aging plumbing systems and older pipes made of materials like galvanized iron or steel, homes in Peabody are especially susceptible to these sudden ruptures. High water pressure, corrosion, and wear and tear weaken the plumbing system, making it less able to withstand the stress of freezing temperatures.

Most Common Signs of a Burst Pipe

When a pipe bursts, it’s not always obvious right away. The warning signs can show up over time, ranging from a minor change in the color of your wall to a flooded basement filled with standing water. Some of the most common red flags to watch out for include:

• Puddles, standing water, or drips coming from your ceiling.
• Discoloration or damp spots on floors, walls, and ceilings.
• Soggy spots in your yard.
• Peeling paint, cracks, and bubbling drywall.
• Visible mold growth or musty smells.
• Falling water pressure in your faucets and showers.
• Rising water bills without a change in your daily usage.

How To Tell if a Pipe Has Burst Inside the Walls

Your plumbing system has a network of pipes running behind walls, ceilings, and floors. When a pipe bursts inside your wall, the signs often appear as changes in its color, texture, and smell. The top indicators of a hidden burst include:

• Yellow, brown, or beige stains on your walls and ceilings.
• Soft or spongy patches on your walls.
• Bubbling or peeling paint.
• Moldy or musty odors coming from your walls.
• Visible mold growth.
• Condensation dripping down the wall.

How To Know if a Pipe Burst in the Basement

Your basement is the closest spot to your main water line, which means it’s often the first place a burst pipe makes itself known. While major flooding is a clear sign of a ruptured pipe, there are a few other hints that can indicate a problem:

• Puddles or standing water near appliances.
• Sagging or discoloration on the ceiling.
• Warping or buckling floorboards.
• High humidity levels within the basement.
• Hissing, dripping, or rushing water sounds, even when no taps are running.
• Strange banging or hammering sounds.
• A sudden drop in water pressure in other areas of the house.

What To Do If You Suspect a Burst Pipe in Peabody, MA

If warning signs of a burst pipe start appearing in your Peabody home, act fast. Ignoring red flags can turn your basement into the next Spring Pond. Flooding and water damage can spread quickly, ruining your belongings and causing costly repairs. 

As soon as you suspect a burst pipe, shut off your home’s main water supply valve to prevent further damage. If the water is near electrical outlets or appliances, also flip the breaker to shut off power to the area. Next, contact the trusted plumbers near you at Spencer Home Services to schedule emergency pipe repair. 

While you wait for the plumber to arrive, use mops and towels to contain the water, move nearby furniture away from the area, and place buckets to catch any falling drips. Avoid quick fixes like pouring hot water down the drain or hammering the pipe, as this can worsen cracks or cause warping.

Why Choose Spencer’s for Pipe Repair in Peabody?

Peabody homeowners choose Spencer Home Services because we respond quickly, identify hidden leaks, and provide lasting solutions that protect your home. We offer a 10-year parts and labor warranty, a 30-year parts and labor warranty on sewer, and free second opinions. With over 40 years of experience and a commitment to exceptional service, you can trust our experts to handle any plumbing emergency with precision and speed.

We proudly service homes and businesses across Essex County and the North Shore, including the following areas:

• Salem
• Beverly
• Lynn
• Danvers
• Lynnfield
• And more!

Protect Your Home With Spencer’s Pipe Repair in Peabody

Suspect there might be a burst pipe in your home? Our licensed plumbing experts are on call and ready to help with professional pipe repair, leak detection, and emergency plumbing repair. Contact us to schedule plumbing services in Peabody today! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a burst pipe sound like?

When a pipe bursts, you’ll often hear hissing, gurgling, banging, and rushing water sounds coming from inside your walls or under the floors. You may also notice whistling or rattling noises as water escapes from the pipe. If you hear any of these unusual sounds coming from your plumbing system, contact our team to schedule an inspection.

Will a frozen pipe always burst?

With the proper techniques, you can safely thaw a frozen pipe and prevent it from bursting. Our team specializes in frozen pipe detection, safe thawing, and preventive maintenance to keep your system safe throughout the winter. 

How long does it take a plumber to fix a burst pipe?

The time needed to repair a burst pipe depends on the severity of the issue and the pipe’s location. Simple fixes take two to four hours, while major repairs can take multiple days. After we inspect your system, we’ll provide a clear timeline so you know what to expect.

How can I prevent burst pipes in the winter?

To reduce the risk of freezing and bursts during Peabody’s chilly winters, insulate exposed pipes, keep your home warm during cold snaps, and let faucets drip to maintain water flow. Scheduling routine maintenance also ensures your plumbing system is in top condition and ready to handle the freezing temperatures ahead.

Is a burst pipe an emergency?

Yes. There’s no time to waste when a pipe bursts in your home. Ignoring signs of a burst can lead to costly water damage, structural issues, and health hazards. Our experts are available 24/7 for emergency pipe repairs that keep your home safe and damage-free. 

How can I tell the difference between a pipe burst and a leak?

A pipe leak is slow and gradual, causing small puddles, damp spots, and discoloration over time. Bursts are often more severe, releasing large amounts of water that flood floors, walls, and ceilings. Both leaks and bursts require immediate attention to prevent water damage, structural issues, mold growth, and costly repairs.

Having a functioning furnace during the cold Massachusetts autumns and freezing winters is a necessity. When your heat stops working, you need dependable help fast. The expert HVAC technicians at Spencer Home Services have a list of the most common causes of a furnace not working, along with tips to prevent furnace problems in the future.

If you need furnace repairs, we provide expert heating repair services to guarantee your home is warm throughout the colder seasons. 

Most Common Reason Why Your Furnace Is Not Working

From dirty filters to malfunctioning blower motors, there are many reasons a furnace may not be working properly. Understanding these common reasons for furnace repair will not only help you stay cozy throughout the winter but also potentially save you from costly breakdowns and discomfort:

• Electrical issues: Faulty or frayed wiring may be the reason your furnace is not turning on.
• Thermostat malfunctions: If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can cause your furnace to think your home is warmer than it actually is.
• Pilot light goes out: A pilot light that frequently goes out may indicate issues with the gas supply, thermocouple, or other components that require attention.
• Dirty air filters: A dirty air filter obstructs warm air from blowing properly. If you can’t see through the filter when you hold it up to the light, it’s time to replace it.
• Furnace blowing cold air: A furnace blowing cold air could be an issue with the heat exchangers, filter, or thermostat. 
• Ignition issues: Ignition malfunction can stem from problems with the pilot light, electrical ignition, or the gas supply.
• Furnace fan not working: When the blower fan isn’t functioning correctly, it can lead to inadequate heat distribution. Faulty fan motors or worn-out belts are common culprits.

What To Do When the Furnace Stops Working

If you encounter any of the issues mentioned above, it’s essential to troubleshoot them promptly. You can often resolve minor problems by checking the thermostat settings, inspecting air filters, or relighting the pilot light.

You can also reset your furnace, but only do this up to two times. If the furnace doesn’t fire on after two tries, don’t keep pressing the reset button. Doing this can short-circuit the system and cause increased wear and tear on struggling parts. Using the reset button should be a last resort before calling the experts at Spencer Home Services.

For complex issues, such as damaged wiring, a non-functioning fan, or ignition problems, it’s best to seek professional help. Our experienced technicians are well-equipped to diagnose and repair any furnace issue promptly and efficiently. We arrive on-site with common replacement parts and can usually resolve the issue in one visit.

Our technicians are available for heating services for the following Massachusetts areas:

• Salem
• Beverly
• Danvers
• Lynn

Signs You Have a Broken Furnace

Here are some telltale signs that your furnace may require heating repair services in Essex County or the North Shore:

• Strange noises: A working furnace shouldn’t have any consistent banging, clanking, hissing, grinding, or rattling sounds. Continuing to use it and ignoring these sounds can result in a full system shutdown. 
• Strange smells: Burning or mildewy smells can indicate broken parts or mold buildup. 
• Rising energy bills: If you notice a dramatic spike in your heating bill without any change in usage, your furnace isn’t working as efficiently as it once was and could be on the verge of breaking.
• Breaker tripping: If your breaker keeps tripping while your furnace is on, there may be a wiring issue that requires professional repair. 
• Uneven heating: If you notice some rooms feeling toasty and others feeling like a skating rink, your furnace isn’t distributing heat properly. 
• Short cycling: If your furnace constantly turns on and off, it’s struggling to maintain your desired temperature. This could be a thermostat or a more involved internal issue. 
• Yellow pilot light: A working pilot light should be blue. If you notice it flickering or turning yellow, it could be due to incomplete combustion and could result in serious carbon monoxide-related health issues.
• Old age: If your furnace is approaching its 15- to 20-year lifespan and showing multiple symptoms, it is more cost-effective to consider a furnace replacement. Spencer Home Services can help by providing information on high-efficiency furnace upgrades.

Call on Spencer Home Services for emergency repairs. Our family-owned and -operated company works on all gas, electric, and oil-burning furnaces. Over the past 40 years, we’ve earned a reputation for reliability in Massachusetts, and our focus is on creating intimate experiences for our clients. We offer a 10-year parts-and-labor warranty for HVAC/plumbing/electrical work, free second opinions, and free estimates for air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and boilers.

How To Prevent Furnace Problems in the Cold Months

The best way to prevent furnace issues during the Massachusetts cold months is through regular maintenance. Preventative tune-ups catch minor problems before they become costly repairs. A few things Massachusetts homeowners can do include: 

• Change the air filter: Do this every one to three months, and before the colder winter season hits. 
• Clear the area around the furnace: Move clutter and any furniture or objects that could be blocking your vents.
• Test the thermostat: Change thermostat batteries before winter. Also, consider getting a smart thermostat that learns your habits and optimizes energy efficiency.
• Schedule a tune-up: Book a tune-up in the fall, at least a few months before winter, so your HVAC technician can identify issues early and clean and lubricate all moving parts. 

Keep Warm This Winter With Spencer Home Services

A malfunctioning furnace will disrupt your daily life and put your comfort at risk. Trust Spencer Home Services to keep your furnace in peak condition so that you can enjoy warmth and peace of mind all season long. From your initial contact with us to the completion of the job, we provide a modern and professional touch, making you feel confident that you’re in the best hands. Contact us today for reliable furnace repair and maintenance services. Don’t let a malfunctioning furnace leave you in the cold.

Drain flies are common across the globe and go by many names, including sewer gnats, filter flies, moth flies, or bath flies. They’re the tiny bugs that seem to congregate around your bathroom sink, your shower, and even your kitchen sink. While they don’t cause damage, they’re a big nuisance and are often a sign that you have a clogged drain. 

At Spencer Home Services, our professional plumbers provide expert-level pipe and drain cleaning services to remove debris that attracts pests. We’re genuinely dedicated to helping our community feel comfortable in their homes, and that includes enjoying your kitchen and bathroom spaces without fear of encountering insects in your drains. Call us to schedule a professional drain cleaning, and then relax, knowing your problem will be taken care of by knowledgeable local plumbers. 

Need to know how to get rid of drain flies? Learn more about DIY solutions and our Burlington plumbing services. 

What Are Drain Flies and Why Do They Show Up?

There are different types of drain flies. Some may look like tiny moths, while others may appear similar to fruit flies. These insects are nocturnal, so you’ll typically see them at night. They’re not dangerous, but they’re an annoyance, living inside Boston-area plumbing drains and household sewage systems. 

So what causes drain flies? Drains and plumbing systems offer these bugs the winning combination of a dark, damp environment and a reliable food source. Their larvae thrive in damp, aquatic, or sludge-based habitats, and they eat bacteria and other rotting organic material. The adults will lay their eggs in drain clogs and debris. This makes a clogged shower drain or kitchen sink an ideal habitat for them to live in. 

How To Tell If Drain Flies Are Living in Your Pipes

When you have a drain fly infestation, you’ll notice signs like:

• Multiple small, often fuzzy-looking, flies are around your sink, bathtub, or floor drain.
• Larvae that appear similar to grains of rice near drain openings.
• A bad, musty odor caused by clogged drains. 

Try shining a flashlight down the drain to check for larvae. Unsure where they’re coming from? You can try covering the drain with plastic wrap or placing a fly trap over it overnight. You’ll know by the next morning whether you have an infestation.

DIY Ways To Get Rid of Drain Flies

Want to learn how to get rid of sink flies on your own? There are a few DIY tricks to remove drain flies from your home that you can try before contacting your local Massachusetts plumber. These include: 

• Scrub the areas surrounding your drains, sinks, and pipes with a stiff brush to eliminate any organic material. 
• Rinse the drains with boiling water. 
• Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to sterilize the affected areas.
• Make sure there’s no standing water in or around your house.
• There’s some evidence that drain flies do not like certain essential oils, like mint and eucalyptus, which may act as a natural repellent.

The more you can eliminate water and food sources for drain flies, the less likely they are to survive. They’ll move on to a new space with more decaying material to feed on.

When DIY Isn’t Enough: Why You Need Professional Drain Cleaning

If you’ve tried to eliminate drain flies on your own but they just keep coming back, it’s time to call the professionals. Drain cleaning is an important service our plumbers at Spencer offer, helping homeowners like you resolve issues like slow drains, foul odors, sewer backups, and pest problems. 

If you have drain clogs, we can clear them fast, often within a few hours. Professional drain cleaning gets the job done correctly the first time. We’ll get rid of the drain flies for good in a single afternoon appointment, so you don’t have to share your living space with them anymore.

Once we’re done, we’ll provide a thorough drain inspection to make sure the blockages (and the flies) are gone, then clean the drain grates and openings so you can enjoy your newly cleaned drains right away.

Benefits of Professional Hydro Jetting vs. DIY Cleaning

While DIY cleaning is often a good start, you also risk damaging your plumbing system. Some common mistakes homeowners make when trying to get rid of a clog are:

• Using harsh chemical cleaners, which can corrode the pipes.
• Using snakes or other tools too forcefully, leading to damage.
• Using the wrong tools. 

Not only do you risk damaging your property, but with the wrong chemicals or techniques, you could seriously injure yourself. 

Calling Spencer Home Services for professional hydro jetting is the best way to clear your plumbing of clogs, sludge, and organic waste. It’s basically a plumbing-safe power washing service that uses a strong stream of high-pressure water to clean the system out and remove blockages. 

How To Prevent Drain Flies From Coming Back

The best way to prevent another infestation is to schedule regular plumbing maintenance. This way, you’ll know for sure that all organic buildup stays removed, your drains are clean, and there’s nowhere for drain flies to live. 

On a weekly or biweekly basis, you can also clean your drains regularly with a brush and plumbing-safe cleaners, cover unused drains to prevent flies from getting in, dispose of all waste properly, and fix any leaks in or around your sinks, showers, and floors. 

Contact Spencer for All Your Burlington-Area Plumbing Needs

Contact Spencer Home Services today for reliable home services. We deliver same-day service, plumbing repairs, installations, tree root removals, leak detection, water heater services, and more. 

Whatever your plumbing needs in the North Shore Region, count on us for quality long-term solutions. Our plumbers never take shortcuts. We offer decades of experience, licensed plumbers, and industry-leading warranties that help us deliver the best customer service possible. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What instantly eliminates drain flies?

The most effective way to get rid of drain flies entirely is a professional hydrojetting appointment. This will remove their habitat, their food source, and their eggs and larvae, all at once. As long as the area remains clean, the flies won’t return. 

Are drain flies harmful?

Drain flies aren’t usually harmful to humans. They don’t carry diseases that affect us, but in rare cases, they can cause myiasis by laying eggs inside an open wound. They may also transmit bacteria and sometimes aggravate asthmatic conditions. 

Why do drain flies keep coming back?

Pests like drain flies will return as long as there’s a source of decaying matter, where they breed, eat, and live. If you don’t completely remove the sludge inside your pipes, like hair, soap, food waste, and grease, drain flies will move back in. Schedule a professional drain cleaning to get rid of them for good.

How often should drains be cleaned?

At Spencer, we recommend you have your drains professionally cleaned and inspected at least once a year. This way, you’ll avoid the harmful buildup that’ll attract drain flies and stop serious plumbing problems from occurring through early detection.

If you notice that your shower or sink drains are draining slowly or not at all, odds are you need to clear your drain lines. But how long does it take to clear a drain line? Burlington homeowners are busy people with busy schedules, after all.

Fortunately, drain line cleaning is super simple and quick. You can have a pro clean your drains and finish in no time.

Contact Spencer Home Services to speak to Burlington’s top-rated drain cleaning company!

DRAIN LINE CLEANING TIMELINES IN BURLINGTON

All other things being equal, drain line cleaning should take anywhere from one to three hours. The length of the task depends primarily on the number of drains, the length of the system, and system access conditions. In other words, a professional team can be in and out of your house in a single afternoon.

The average home in Burlington was built before 1979, so many homes have older pipes made from cast iron. Cast iron is rough so old iron pipes are more likely to get clogged as it’s easier for debris to stick. As such, owners with older Burlington homes should invest in regular drain pipe cleaning to ensure their plumbing is in top condition.

Drain cleaning carries several benefits listed below:

• Prevents slow draining or no draining
• Eliminate bad smells
• Prevent mold and algae growth
• Reduce pressure on your system
• Extend your plumbing system’s lifespan
• Avoid water leaks
• Save money on plumbing repairs

In other words, drain cleaning costs a bit of money now but can save you a lot of money in the long run. So it’s in your best interest to stay on top of drain cleaning throughout the year.

DRAIN CLEANING PROCESS

Drains in your home take up a lot of dirt, debris, hair, oils, pet dander, skin cells, and more which can create thick blockages in your pipes. The main purpose of drain cleaning is to remove the blockages and clean drain openings to prevent them from forming in the future.

First, the plumber will attach a special hose and pump system to your drain line that flushes your system to break apart blockages. The pump pushes high-pressure water into a collection tank. Most drain cleaning machines pump about 20 gallons of water per minute—more than enough to break apart tough blockages.

After hydrojetting your drains, they will perform a quick drain inspection to ensure that all large blockages are gone. They will then spend the last part of the appointment cleaning drain grates and openings from any additional debris and buildup.

CAN I DIY CLEAN MY DRAINS?

Yes, you can clean your drains on your own. There are several simple home mixtures you can make to clean drains and break apart buildup, such as baking soda and vinegar.

However, as professionals, we would not recommend DIY plumbing. Professional plumbers have the equipment and experience to get the job done quickly and right the first time. Professional drain cleaning can help you save precious time and ensure that your drains are cleaned to a high standard.

PREVENTING CLOGGED DRAINS

You should get regular drain cleaning about once every six months. However, there are several things Burlington homeowners can do in the meantime to keep their drains clean.

• Avoid pouring grease and oils down your sink drain. For example, don’t pour bacon grease, leftover cooking fat from meats, or cooking oil down drains.
• Consider investing in drain guards. Drain guards go right over your drains and catch debris before they go in.
• Don’t flush any foreign objects down your drains, such as paper towels, sanitary products, or food particles.
• Once every few months, gently pour a pot of hot water down your shower and sink drains. The hot water will soften any buildup and break it loose.
• Avoid harsh store-bought chemical cleaners, like bleach, when cleaning your drains. Bleach can damage your drains and cause holes in your pipes, depending on the material.
• Try to brush your hair before showering to reduce the amount of hair that gets trapped in the drain.

DRAIN CLEANING IN BURLINGTON, MA

Whether you have a sewer line backing up or you need to fix a running toilet, Spencer Home Services is here to assist. If you have any more questions, like “How long does it take to clear a drain line?” or want to schedule drain cleaning services, send us a message online or call today at (978) 293-5770!

Toilet leaks are always disturbing, especially for homeowners who may wonder “Why is my toilet leaking at the base?” Leaks can easily destroy precious items and when left to linger, running water can cause much bigger problems. Luckily, having top-rated plumbers in Salem, MA at your disposal can promptly help you get to the bottom of the issue.

While sink leaks are their own brand of hassle, toilet leaks can often be more problematic. After all, toilets are necessary daily appliances and many homes have only one available for use. Unlike sink pipes, which the average homeowner often knows how to turn off, the toilet may be more difficult to contend with on your own.

HOW TO IDENTIFY IF YOUR TOILET IS LEAKING AT THE BASE IN SALEM, MA

Many times the source of the leak is from the base of the toilet. This is different from a running toilet. When a toilet runs, it keeps filling up with clean water inside the toilet. When you have a toilet base leak, the water comes out of the toilet and into your floor when you flush.

Identifying toilet base leaks is not always easy, but you may notice that water is surrounding your toilet and there is no visible dripping. Sometimes condensation can appear outside the bottom half of the toilet bowl and slowly drip down the sides. This isn’t toilet base water seepage.

If you aren’t sure, one way to figure it out is to wipe down the bowl and the floor to remove any water. Then flush the toilet. If toilet base leakage is the cause, water will pool again rather quickly around the perimeter of the toilet after a flush.

WHY YOUR TOILET IS LEAKING AT THE BASE IN SALEM, MA

If you’re asking, “Why is my toilet leaking at the base?” there may be a few different causes at play. The causes of toilet base leakage typically revolve around the seal between the toilet and the floor. There are two main ways the seal can be compromised.

• Faulty wax ring: One of the main reasons for a toilet base leak is that the wax ring, which should provide a waterproof seal between the food and the perimeter of the base of the toilet, is faulty. Though a properly installed wax ring can last and should last as long as the toilet does, it may have been improperly sealed.
• Deteriorated wax ring: The wax ring may also not be the best quality and deteriorated or even dried out. In these cases, you will need a new wax ring placed. This will involve removing your toilet and realigning it to the waste pipe. Consequently, it is not a job for a typical homeowner and not the time to delve into DIY plumbing.
• Tee bolts: Another cause is when the two tee bolts are not properly secured. The tee bolts are the two bolts found on either side of the toilet. They are typically covered with caps.

CONSEQUENCES OF TOILET BASE LEAKS

Salem, MA, residents should know that in addition to the water destroying your bathroom floor and personal items, there is an added layer of concern when it comes to toilets leaking at the base.

• Sewer water: The toilet is connected to the sewer. Since the water leaks out after a flush, the water that leaks onto your bathroom surfaces contains the waste from the toilet as well as possible sewer water. This is a major health concern. You may even be able to smell the sewer when your toilet base is leaking.
• Contaminated water: The contaminated water can not only seep into your flooring and permanently ruin it, but it can also leak into the structure downstairs. That can be a disaster for an upstairs bathroom as it can damage and pollute the ceiling of the floor underneath.
• Illness: Contaminated wastewater from a toilet can cause illnesses, including gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and dysentery.

GET YOUR TOILET BASE LEAK REPAIRED IN SALEM, MA TODAY!

Spencer Home Services has over four decades of experience installing and repairing toilets. We will inspect your toilet leak to confirm why your toilet is leaking at the base and promptly repair it. We can also install a new toilet if necessary.

Don’t suffer with a toilet leak or a constantly running toilet! Spencer Home Services is here to answer your questions and serve you. Contact us for a professional inspection to identify and solve the cause of toilet base leakage. Call us today at 978-293-5770 for same-day service.

While everyone wants to choose the best-looking, optimally functioning plumbing gadgets and appliances, when it comes to sinks, faucets, and toilets, the hidden plumbing supplies are often the most important. What’s behind the scenes can make the difference in supplying clean, fresh water for you and your family or suffering with the ramifications of consuming dirty, contaminated water.

You may be wondering: “Which plumbing device prevents backflow?” Backflow is what happens when water in pipes goes in the opposite direction than intended. Pressure plays an integral role in backflow. When back pressure is either too high from the wastewater side or too low on the supply side, water can easily become polluted.

To keep water systems safe in Peabody, MA, all home, business, commercial, and industrial properties should have properly functioning plumbing devices to prevent backflow.

WHAT IS A BACKFLOW PLUMBING DEVICE?

In simple terms, the purpose of a backflow plumbing device is to separate the clean water from the contaminated water in your plumbing system. Implementing a backflow prevention device will help disable any polluted backflow water from seeping into the fresh water supply.

This is vital for your health. When waste pipes malfunction, it’s possible for wastewater to travel backwards. That can also occur with various other plumbing systems, such as dishwashers, power washers, sprinkler systems, boilers, and pumps.

In high-level situations such as when disposing of medical waste supplies, dealing with food processing factories, or even the flow of a city’s water, a plumbing backflow preventer is essential.

BACKFLOW PLUMBING DEVICES KEEP PEABODY, MA SAFE

Bad plumbing can be quite dangerous and when properties fail to implement backflow devices, the results can even be deadly. A proper backflow prevention mechanism can be the difference between life and death. One of the events that led to the implementation of mandated backflow devices was the 1933 World’s Fair in Chicago.

The high quantity of people who visited the city for the fair taxed the waste system and the fresh water became contaminated. Over a thousand people contracted dysentery and more than 100 people died from it. Luckily, Peabody, MA has a host of various backflow plumbing devices that will keep your water supply safe.

TYPES OF BACKFLOW DEVICES

So which plumbing device prevents backflow? There are several different types of anti-backflow plumbing devices to choose from, including:

• Air gaps: Air gaps are one type of plumbing backflow prevention system that helps prevent dirty water from mixing with clean water. With air gap devices, an intentional space filled with air separates the two types of water.
• Vacuum breakers: Another option is vacuum breakers which help prevent backflow by regulating pressure using a check valve that will take effect if pressure is lost. They work best in systems that have continuous pressure. Vacuum breakers are often used in hoses, faucets, and spigots.
• Check valves: Check valves are another device that regulates backflow. They help clean water stay that way by stopping water flow when the pressure from the clean supply becomes too low. Yet when the clean water supply pressure is high, water can flow freely.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE BACKFLOW ISSUES?

Unfortunately, to the naked eye, there is no way to tell if your water supply is truly safe. In addition, unless you are a professional plumber who is certified, you may have a very difficult time trying to figure out if your water supply is protected against backflow.

However, there are some signs of contaminated water. These include foul odors and taste. You may notice your water just doesn’t taste or smell good anymore. Another sign is water that is cloudy or an odd color.

Still, it is possible to have backflow issues without noticing any changes in your water. That is why a professional assessment is necessary. Testing your water supply is the only way to guarantee that what you and your family are drinking is safe and pure.

CALL TODAY TO ASSESS YOUR BACKFLOW IN PEABODY, MA

If you would like to know more about your options for backflow preventer valves, call our professional plumbing contractors in Peabody, MA. Spencer Home Services will inspect your home or business water system and test it to identify potential issues.

Our certified technicians will assess your home or business and then offer detailed information and recommendations of which backflow device would work the best. We will ensure that your pipelines and sewage system are functioning properly to prevent backflow. In extreme cases, we can also replace sewer lines, if necessary.

For more on “Which plumbing device prevents backflow,” call Spencer Home Services today at 978-293-5770!

Imagine hopping into the shower and finding the flow from the showerhead isn’t quite what it was before. It feels more like a weakly curving fountain or trickle than the full effect you’re longing to enjoy under perfectly pressurized stream. You reach for the handle, thinking you didn’t turn the water completely on, but you did, and so you wonder, “Why is my water pressure low?”

Inconveniently, a lack of water pressure not only takes you longer to rinse off soap but also limits the force you need to remove oil and dirt from your scalp, hair, or body. You won’t feel (or be) as clean, but that’s only one of many reasons low water pressure is tragic.

The top-rated Spencer Home Services team breaks things down below, as the certified plumbers in Salem, MA, explain the most common causes for this annoying issue.

WHY IS LOW WATER PRESSURE BAD?

Water pressure should typically be between 40 and 60 PSI; anything less causes poor water flow. This may only be evident from one water fixture, such as a shower head, if there’s an outside factor affecting the pressure, like a dirty add-on filter that needs cleaning or replacing. Other times, the pressure diminishes throughout your home’s plumbing system.

For many property owners, the only thing worse than having water pressure issues is turning on multiple water appliances, say a washing machine and sprinkler system, and seeing that doing so reduces pressure in your home even more. Typically, this happens with a high household water usage demand and limited water supply that can only deliver a certain amount of water and has to split this flow between multiple fixtures. Your system sends less water to each location, lowering the pounds per square inch or water pressure, which is uncomfortable but also:

• Makes washing machines and dishwashers work harder to pull in water, inefficiently washing items and prematurely damaging these systems
• Takes longer to fill bathtubs, water a garden, or wash your car
• Causes pipe leaks since decreased water speed in the system leads to air pockets that crack the material

WHAT CAUSES LOW WATER PRESSURE IN SALEM?

As we’ve seen, adequate water pressure is crucial. Are you still wondering, “Why is my water pressure low?” The following common causes of water pressure issues could be to blame:

BUILDUP BLOCKING THE FLOW

Many cities add mineral deposits to public water supplies, such as sodium, potassium, zinc, and iron. The idea is to reduce deficiencies that could otherwise exist. Other times, hard water is in an area where groundwater flows through limestone and picks up minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Whatever the reason, over time, mineral deposits build up within pipe walls and narrow the water’s passageway, which reduces how much of it passes through at once. Unfortunately, hard water also corrodes copper and galvanized steel pipes, so rust also accumulates.

COMFORT-DECREASING CLOGS

Minerals and corrosion do a lot more than build up; they also clog. If they don’t line the pipe walls, the minerals or rust particles form clumps within the network that need breaking up. DIY plunging doesn’t do a thing to these deeper clogs in the system.

If you have soft water and PVC piping, are you out of the woods? Unfortunately, there are a lot of other potential sources for clogs that decrease pressure in your house, such as:

• Tree roots tapping into your pipes
• Burrowing critters
• Jewelry and other unnatural obstructions

PIPE LEAKS DELIVERING WATER TO THE WRONG PLACES

What’s worse than having a clogged pipe? Having a busted one. Whether it’s a crack in your water heater line or a broken seal somewhere in your main water supply system, water drips into surrounding walls, floorboards, and ceilings to cause water stains, fungal growth, and rot.

With leaks, a percentage of every pound per square inch of water never makes it to the fixture or appliance. In that way, reduced water pressure also raises your utility bills.

REST EASY WITH OUR HOME SERVICES!

If new city regulations have caused a reduction in your water pressure or your municipality is rationing water during hot days, you may reach out to your water supplier. However, if you’re sure it’s a plumbing issue, be sure to contact local professionals like Spencer Home Services.

Our licensed and insured team has over 40 years of experience in everything from faucet repairs and excavations to 24/7 emergency plumbing. Why is my water pressure low? Learn more at 978-440-3529 today from Spencer Home Services’ plumbing, heating, and cooling experts!

Does anybody really go through life without ever dealing with occasional toilet clogs or slow-draining sinks? If you’re a homeowner, it’s almost inevitable. You might even be a seasoned veteran at these messy affairs, with a plunger always by your side.

Still, some issues just aren’t a DIY job. Do you know when to call a plumber?

Since 1980, Spencer Home Services has been providing our neighbors with a reputable, dependable, and knowledgeable team. When you need the best plumbing contractor in Peabody, MA, reach out to our company, which is rated five stars by HomeAdvisor. But first, let’s look at which plumbing issues you can handle and what to do if you can’t.

WHAT MOST RESIDENTS CAN HANDLE WITHOUT PROFESSIONAL PLUMBING ASSISTANCE

At the very least, the average home has a plunger, which is all that minor clogs demand. Is water pooling in your sink basin or around your shower or bathtub drain? The plunger may suction up the hair, soap scum, or other elements causing the blockage.

Similarly, if wipes, diapers, and other hard-to-flush items jam your toilet line, the plunger could clear the pathway to allow things to dissipate. If not, some homeowners will even snake deeper or denser clogs or pour in chemical cleansers as directed.

Of course, if all else fails and human waste seems to be threatening to overflow back into the bathroom, you shouldn’t hesitate to schedule plumbing services!

WHAT PLUMBING PROBLEMS WARRANT AN EXPERT’S HELP?

Plumbing can be tricky, and multiple problems share symptoms. A professional plumber‘s cameras easily observe issues before augering or hydro-jetting, so call in any plumbing issue if you have the slightest doubt on what to do. Consider the cases below.

LITTLE TO NO WATER PRESSURE

Like drain clogs, faucet clogs happen in the aerator, a screen that screws onto your faucet’s tip. This clog lowers your water pressure, usually when there’s mineral buildup (iron and calcium compounds from hard water) or rust and mildew accumulating. A vinegar soak might break apart the buildup so that you can reinstall a clean aerator, but if not, you’ll have the first clue about when to call a plumber for help.

Water pressure also drops with clogged or corroded pipes that need cleaning, or there’s a burst pipe that needs repairing. Breaks leak half your running water into your property’s structure or the ground, which limits how much water makes it through your faucets. A professional checks all these factors to repair your water pressure issue, including:

• Opening any closed water valves
• Replacing your plumbing’s pressure regulator
• Replacing faulty fixtures

A BROKEN OR MALFUNCTIONING WATER HEATER

Have you ever stepped into a nice, steamy shower and then noticed the water chill just a few minutes in? Is something wrong with your water heater? If it’s a new tank, it may be too small for your household demands, but if not, a plumber will check for the following:

• A faulty heating element
• A malfunctioning thermostat, affecting the heating power
• Sediment buildup
• Other reasons for low water pressure barring optimal flow to and from the heater
• Cracks or leaks in the water tank

YOUR TOILET WON’T STOP RUNNING

When you flush your toilet, water rushes into the tank as it fills the bowl. Normally, this takes about 30 seconds. Running longer than this wastes water—around 144 to 8,640 gallons per day, according to the Eastern Municipal Water District!

Rather than risk exorbitant water bills, call a plumber to clean or replace your toilet’s dirty or broken flapper that no longer properly seals the drain. They’ll check the chain connecting the flapper and flush lever are not too taut or loose (preventing it from opening during flushes). Then, they’ll check the float isn’t set too high (overflow spillage issues) or too low (a weak flush).

ONE LAST REASON TO CALL A PLUMBER IN PEABODY FOR HELP

Another common DIY plumbing issue is fixing leaky faucets, whether it’s a slow drip or a constant trickle that wastes water and raises your bills. From worn O-rings and broken seals to corroded valve seats and loose washers, a quick hardware store run could facilitate parts replacement.

With some plumbing experience, these replacements are easy. Without it, you’ll need to contact a plumbing specialist like Spencer Home Services instead.

MASSACHUSETTS HOME SERVICES THAT ARE TOP-RATED FOR A REASON!

Spencer Home Services believes in making good connections, and not just between the pipes in your property’s plumbing system. Our family-owned and operated team of over 40 years offers unparalleled service. You know when to call a plumber, so get in touch at 978-440-3529 today!

While establishing your home’s plumbing system, experts need to make a decision about connecting toilet and shower drains. Can a toilet and shower share the same drain, and if so, is it the best option for your home’s plumbing? Discover the answer in this helpful guide from the team at Spencer Home Services.

We specialize in drain cleaning in Burlington and can keep your plumbing system in excellent condition no matter if you have a shared drain for the toilet and shower.

WHY BURLINGTON HOMEOWNERS PREFER A SEPARATE DRAINAGE SYSTEM FOR TOILET AND SHOWER

The wastewater you flush down your toilet and the water that flows down your shower drain all end up in the same place. Since this is the case, you’d think that it’s fine to share a common drain for the toilet and shower. However, many Burlington homeowners and plumbers alike prefer to separate them because of the water safety levels.

The wastewater that flows through residential toilets is called black water because it contains the highest amount of contaminants and presents the most health risks. Shower drains often contain gray water, which isn’t as impure as black water but still isn’t completely safe to consume. The distinction between the two water types leaves many people wanting separate drains for each fixture.

HOW CAN A TOILET AND SHOWER SHARE THE SAME DRAIN?

Using a common drain for the toilet and shower might not seem ideal to you, but it is possible. Any plumbing setup with shared drains requires some intervention from a professional plumber who can install the following key components.

COMMON VENTS

Black water flooding can be extremely dangerous for your health and require significant restoration and cleaning efforts to make your Burlington home safe. To prevent this, plumbers must take steps to avoid water backflow. Common vents tackle this issue by allowing both toilet and shower water to flow from the drain without forming an airlock.

PVC CONNECTORS

When you ask a plumber, “How can toilet and shower use the same pipe?” they’ll tell you that PVC connectors must be in place. These connect the shower and toilet so they share the same drain. Installing PVC connectors requires the help of a licensed plumber because of certain requirements necessary for successful drainage, including:

• Adding sink traps
• Only connecting toilets and showers within six feet of each other
• Removing the ends of the sink and toilet vents

MAINTAINING A SHARED BATHROOM DRAINAGE SYSTEM

Now that you know the answer to “Can a toilet and shower share the same drain?” let’s go over the ways that you can take care of your plumbing fixtures with this setup. A crucial form of plumbing maintenance involves clog prevention and drain cleaning. Using a shared drain for your toilet and shower exacerbates the need for clean drains.

For example, if a foreign object ends up clogging your sewer line it can end up impacting your shower drain when you flush the toilet. You might notice foul odors or sewage coming out of your shower drain because the black water from the toilet can’t flow through the sewer line.

The following tips should help keep your bathroom plumbing in good condition.

USE DRAIN STOPPERS

Your shower drain can quickly fill with hair and soap residue. Place a strainer over the drainer to collect any clumps of hair that you can dispose of rather than letting it clog the drain. Taking steps to keep your shower drain clear will lead to fewer problems if your toilet drain clogs.

AVOID CHEMICAL DRAIN CLEANERS

Don’t pour a chemical drain cleaner into your shower or toilet. These products contain dangerous chemicals that can corrode your pipes and pose health hazards. Instead, opt for an all-natural cleaning solution such as an enzyme-based cleaner to break down stubborn clogs.

USE A DRAIN SNAKE

Take care of stubborn clogs with a drain snake on your own or with the help of a professional plumber. This device not only dislodges natural clogs but also removes foreign objects from drains.

CONTACT SPENCER HOME SERVICES FOR PROFESSIONAL PLUMBING SOLUTIONS IN BURLINGTON, MA

Not only can a toilet and shower share the same drain, but you can also alter your current plumbing setup to create either a separate or connected drainage system for toilets and showers. The experts at Spencer Home Services are here to enhance your Burlington home’s plumbing system. Turn to us if you need drain clog prevention and cleaning tips or if you want to either connect or separate your toilet and shower drains.

Call (978) 306-4062 to schedule an appointment.