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Buying a new home can be a really exciting time with big plans, big dreams . . . and if you’re not careful, a really big bill to fix up anything that was missed in a home inspection. Fortunately, there are quick and easy ways to ensure that 4 major plumbing fixtures are up to snuff before you sign on the dotted line — saving you major money in emergency bills! Add to your peace of mind and let your excitement flow freely by checking out your sewer system, water heater, toilets and pipes before you make the final commitment to buy a new home.

SAVE YOURSELF SOME SUFFERING

Sure, there might be a slight upfront cost in getting someone qualified to come take a look at the plumbing fixtures, but that’s nothing compared to some of the pains you’re likely to experience if you give this step a miss:

• Wasted Time. What could possibly be more fun than sitting at home and waiting for a repairman to show up and fix your plumbing? Probably just about everything other than major dental surgery.
• Daily Annoyances. Some people would argue that the inability to take a shower for several days while you’re trying to get on someone’s repair schedule is a bit more than an annoyance — and we agree! Don’t give up the little conveniences like the ability to wash your clothes, hair and dishes due to broken pipes.
• Out-of-Pocket Costs. Plumbing problems can be incredibly expensive, making it important to add on any necessary upgrades or fixes to your contract for the seller to pay for before you decide to purchase a new home. Putting your family in the situation of having to take out a loan to pay for new toilets is not going to make you very popular in your home.

KEEP EVERYTHING FLOWING FREELY

When you work with a qualified plumber to determine what (if any) fixes are needed for your home before you purchase, you’ll see some real benefits such as:

• You’ll rest well at night knowing that your family is well-protected by any kind of malignant bacteria that could float around from faulty plumbing.
• Your family’s financial future is secure because you’re not faced with the burden of thousands of dollars in repairs.
• When your plumbing is working correctly, you’ll find that everything else in life just . . . well, flows.
• Security of knowing that your family’s water supply is safe, and that you’re not introducing toxins into your family’s home.

CHECK THESE SYSTEMS FIRST

When you’re buying a new home, there are certain plumbing systems that you’ll want to have checked out by a certified plumber, such as:

• Main Sewer. Knowing that the toilets flush properly and water isn’t backed up in the sink is not enough to ensure that the sewer system is working as it should. Check with the current homeowner to see when the sewer system was last serviced, and invest in a simple camera inspection by a qualified plumber. You might be surprised the thousands of dollars you can save by finding problems before they grow in scope.
• Water Heater(s). No one likes a cold shower, so knowing that your water heater(s) have been correctly installed and are operating within their required parameters is an important task before you buy a home. It doesn’t hurt to ask when the water heater was last replaced, either — water heaters are an expensive item and many of them are not built to last more than 10 years or so. Hot, steamy water flowing through your kitchen or living room could ruin expensive flooring and even damage the underpinnings of your home.
• Toilets. Thousands and thousands of lifetime flushes can really impact the ability of toilets to maintain leak-free seals. While a few tiny drips of moisture in various places may not seem like much to get excited about, when you’re dealing with water even a small amount of liquid can cause significant damage to your new home. Have a licensed professional check for softness or discoloration in the flooring around the base of your toilet — both of which are warning signs that there may be something larger that is a problem.
• Pipes. A massive network of pipes lies under and throughout your home, and the groupings of copper, lead and galvanized pipes all work together to keep things flowing smoothly and keep leaks to a minimum. When there’s a breakdown of any element of your pipe system, you could have significant problems both now and in the future.

From sewer systems to pipes, toilets to water heaters — there are all manner of hidden problems that your new home’s plumbing system could encounter. The advice of a trusted and reliable plumber is critical to ensuring that you are not overwhelmed with repairs soon after you move into your new home. Contact us today to learn more about getting a pre-purchase inspection for your new home.

Think you need plumbing service in the North Shore or the surrounding area? Call Spencer Home Services today! Or check out our stellar Google reviews and see why our customers keep coming back for all their home service needs!

Picture this: You’re in bed late at night. You’re just about to drift off to sleep when, all of a sudden, you hear it: faint noises of water dripping through your home. This is a standard prelude to a really unpleasant time. Plumbing emergencies never strike you at a convenient time because there’s never a convenient time to be without plumbing. Sadly, it does happen and the intrepid homeowner needs to know what to do when the unexpected strikes. Here are some of the most common plumbing emergencies and what you need to do to mitigate them.

Clogged Toilet

By far the most common plumbing emergency, and it’s not even close. A toilet clog occurs when too much material is flushed down the toilet at once. Usually this is caused by an excess use of toilet paper, but can also be cause by flushing of improper materials like paper towels, wet wipes, dental floss, personal hygiene products, dearly departed pet fish, and just about any other thing you can think of other than natural wastes and toilet paper. When clogged, a toilet will not properly void itself of water when flushed, leading to overflows, leaking, and eventually burst pipes if the issue goes on long enough.

When your toilet clogs, you should try a standard plunger to remove the blockage. Failing that, the best course of action is to avoid flushing the toilet while you wait for the plumber. And maybe try to find a different restroom to use in the meantime.

Leaky Pipes

A minor inconvenience or a full-blown nightmare depending on how early you can catch it, leaky pipes are one of the most easily explainable plumbing problems. Pipes are not forever, they do break down over time. About every 50 years is the average pipe’s lifespan, so odds are you’ll only have to face this problem once, but a leak can still bring a lot of damage if you don’t catch it in time. Water damage can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors around the house, structural damage to the home, and decreased property value.

When you notice a leaky pipe, the best thing to do is call up a plumber to remedy the issue with a professional repair or replacement, but while you wait for them to arrive, there are a number of plumbing tapes you can employ to effect a band-aid style fix for temporary relief.

No Hot Water

Have you suddenly found yourself with no hot water? You probably have a water heater issue. More than likely there’s a water heater leak of some sort, impacting your system’s ability to provide warm/hot water. Leaks are among the easiest water heater issues to fix.

When you notice a lack of hot water, call a plumber, and try to limit your water usage in the home until they arrive. If the water heater leak is apparent, you can try a similar band-aid fix to wait out until help arrives.

Sewage Backup

One of the most major plumbing emergencies you can experience as a homeowner is a sewage issue. Sewage systems repairs and replacements are more involved than an average leaky pipe, and as such, can cause even more damage. Sewer issues are most commonly caused by clogs, but tree roots are another major culprit. As they grow and expand outward, roots often come into contact with sewage lines, damaging and displacing them. Some of the common early warning signs of sewage problems are noticing foul smells around your property, discolored water backing up into your sink or toilet, and sewage backing up and flooding through your yard.

When you notice a sewage problem, there’s honestly not a ton else you can do as an average homeowner other than calling a plumber. Avoid flushing and using other elements of your plumbing system where at all possible to decrease the damage being done.

Flooding/Sump Pump Failure

When it rains it pours. And when it pours you need your sump pump to be working overtime to make sure your basement doesn’t experience flooding. If you’re noticing an abundance of water in your basement, your sump pump has probably failed you. In particularly wet storms your pump can become overworked and stop working, be clogged with debris, or short out.

There’s not much you can do once you notice this problem, short of grabbing a bucket and manually removing the water from your home. If you’re expecting massive rain, make sure your pump is in working order beforehand.

CONTACT US

Obviously, when you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency of any type of plumbing emergency, the best course of action is to call a licensed and trained plumbing professional. That’s what we’re here for. When you need an emergency plumber, Spencer is just a phone call away!

Founded by Peter Holland, Spencer Home Services is a reputable and experienced company you can trust. Our team of experts knows how to spot a leaky pipe with ease and expertise. Contact us to schedule service today!

Summer’s officially here and in full swing. The kids are out of school, the weather is beautiful, and you’re ready to go on vacation for some well-earned R&R. But isn’t there something you’re forgetting? Your plumbing! Yes, I’m sure your plumbing is fairly low on the list of things you’re worried about before you head to the beaches, but it’s something you should definitely be aware of. Unless you have someone watching your home while you’re gone, any number of things can go wrong with your house while you’re away for a week or more. Homeowners across America all too often find themselves coming home to massive flooding, out of control leaks, and more. By taking a few simple precautions, you can mitigate risks for plumbing disasters before your vacation and rest easy during your time off.

TURN OFF THE WATER

The biggest way to curb potential plumbing issues before you go on vacation is to just shut the water off entirely. Can’t come home to water damage if there’s no water flowing through the house. The main valve is your friend in this situation; the trick is remembering to turn it back on when you’ve come back from your vacation. You’d be surprised how many people call plumbers for this, and it’s normally a pretty funny situation.

DRAIN THE WATER FROM EXISTING FIXTURES

So now the water’s off at the source, you need to make sure the water that’s already in your pipes is out and clear. This can be done by simply running the fixtures until the water stops coming out. Here are a few of the things you should drain to make sure the water is completely out of the house:

• Sprinkler Systems
• Water Heater
• Faucet
• Shower Head
• Appliances (Dishwasher/Washing machines)

SET YOUR WATER HEATER TO VACATION MODE

Your water heater probably has a setting for situations like this. Vacation modes lower the amount of energy your water heater expends during the duration of your absence. This helps you save on energy in a big way, as the majority of the average home’s energy bills comes from hot water. Most heaters have the information for turning on vacation mode on the side of the heater itself, but if yours does not, a plumber will be able to help you here.

CHECK AND CLEAR YOUR GUTTERS

While not traditionally thought of as part of your plumbing system, you don’t want the gutters to fail before you go on vacation. Your gutters facilitate water flow from your roof and relocate it away from the foundation. Unfortunately, as any homeowner can tell you, it’s incredibly easy for gutters to clog with leaves, dirt, and other miscellaneous gunk. This can lead to a flooded roof or foundation, so before you head out, make sure they’re clear and ready for whatever summer rains may strike while you’re away.

CONSIDER GETTING A HOUSE SITTER

If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, there’s no better way to keep your home safe than keeping an extra set of eyes on it. A friend, family member, or even trusted coworker can swing by each day and make sure everything is ok with your property. This is honestly one of the most effective things you can do, since they can keep an eye on more than just the plumbing.

CONTACT US

If you still need some pointers or have some questions about what to do with your plumbing before going on vacation, don’t worry. We’re here to help! Founded by Peter Holland, Spencer Home Services is a reputable and experienced company you can trust. Our team of experts knows how to service your plumbing with ease and expertise. Contact us to schedule service today!

Not everyone is a water heater expert. That’s what we’re here for. But, in true DIY spirit, sometimes folks try to work on their systems by themselves. When that happens, they’re prone to make some mistakes. Mistakes that often end up being more costly than the problem they were trying to fix in the first place.

Obviously the best way to avoid these mistakes is to consult with professionals who can walk you through the intricacies of your water heater. Failing that, here are five of the most common water heater mistakes people make when they take matters into their own hands.

Poor Research

Just like your old high school English teacher told you, doing the reading is very important. Especially with commercial water heaters. Most hoteliers and property managers tend to skimp on their research for the water heater required. They fail to understand the exact hot water needs for their buildings. The uninformed customers then end up buying equipment that doesn’t meet their energy and capacity requirements.

Wrong Size Installation

When you’re talking about water heaters, getting the right size matters. Wrongfully estimating your hot water needs may lead to the purchase of incompatible equipment. Underestimation creates water shortages, which can be disastrous especially for commercial establishments like for hotels, restaurants, and apartment blocks. Conversely, over shooting your estimations results in higher operational costs and wasted water.

So what’s the happy medium? Identify the peak hours people are using hot water within the building and use this information to determine the properly sized model for those needs.

Ignoring Energy Efficiency Ratings

Energy efficiency isn’t just an inconvenient truth anymore. It’s an unavoidable reality. Initial investment costs are high enough, so you need to consider how much money your system costs you to run. Research shows that water heating accounts for approximately 18% of the average property’s energy use.

Investing in a properly equipped, energy efficient water heater can cut that down by 15%. A tankless model can save 22% more than a traditional model. If money is important to you, you need to explore all options to calculate cost based on a long term view as opposed to immediate savings.

Over-Focusing on Initial Investment

The initial cost of the system is surely a big deciding factor. But it shouldn’t be the only one. Ignoring factors like energy efficiency, size, and fuel type and storage options may prove to be costly in the end. Don’t shy away from investing in high-quality equipment that will serve your property or business for years to come.

CONTACT US

If you’re guilty of any of the above, don’t worry. We all make mistakes here and there. The important thin is we make sure we take the proper steps to get them fixed. If you need a professional water heater repair Peabody, MA, we can help.

Founded by Peter Holland, Spencer Home Services is a reputable and experienced company you can trust. Our team of experts knows how to spot a leaky pipe with ease and expertise. Contact us to schedule service today!

The last thing you want is a leaky pipe. Leaking pipes lead to water damage in your walls or floors, costing you money. They can also quickly turn into fully burst pipes which can flood large areas of your home. How can you stop a leaky pipe from ruining your home? Learn the warning signs of leaks and take action by calling the plumbing experts at Spencer.

SIGNS YOU HAVE A LEAKY PIPE:

• Your Bills Have Gone Up: If you notice an increase in your water bill, but you have not been using any more water than usual, a leaky pipe may be the culprit. Water bills tend to be predictable so be aware of any sudden spikes.
• Discoloration in Your Ceiling: If your ceilings are turning a rusty brown or yellow color there is a leak somewhere in your home. These stains are especially common in rooms below bathrooms. A little water spilling from the bath is not enough to create prominent discoloration spots on your ceiling. Only constant water dripping would create these issues. Call a plumber to inspect the area as soon as you notice this sign.
• Mold or Mildew: Mold and mildew occur in wet areas. A small amount is normal inside your shower stall and is easily removed by regularly cleaning. If you are finding mold or mildew on non-shower walls or in corners of the bathroom, this is probably from a leak. Mold is not only a sign of a leak, but it is also dangerous to inhale. If you notice mold in your home, contact a plumber from Spencer.
• Musty Smell: A common sign of a leaky pipe is a persistent damp smell. If you’re cleaning regularly and that musty smell just won’t go away, there may be a pipe leak somewhere in your home.
• Peeling Wallpaper or Wet Walls: Water leaks will make wallpaper pull away from walls or make wall structures buckle. If you have a leaky pipe near a wallpapered section of the home, you will notice this pulling and bubbling. If your walls appear to be wet or buckling, this is also a sign of a leaky pipe. Your wall should be straight and show no signs of sagging or dampness.
• Water Accumulation and Spongy Floors: This is the most apparent sign you have a leaky pipe in your home. If you see any water pooling around pipes, call a plumber immediately. When your floors feel spongy and soft to walk on then that is a sign of water damage. Floors should feel solid and secure, not soft and fragile.

Do not let a leaky pipe with minor damages escalate into a full-blown flood in your home. Look for signs of leaky pipes and contact a plumber immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary. The faster you take care of a small leak, the more hassle you will avoid down the line. Call the experts at Spencer today to schedule an appointment!

CONTACT US

If you notice any of the above red flags, you might just have a leaky pipe. However, some leaks are trickier to find than others and need a plumber to detect for certain. If you need a professional leak detection and repair in Peabody, MA, we can help.

Founded by Peter Holland, Spencer Home Services is a reputable and experienced company you can trust. Our team of experts knows how to spot a leaky pipe with ease and expertise. Contact us to schedule service today!

There are few feelings worse than needing to rush through your morning routine and encountering a slow-moving drain. Clogged sinks can be stinky and inconvenient while also potentially causing water backups. Fortunately, unclogging a kitchen sink is often one of the easiest home repairs.

There are countless causes of clogged drains, including a buildup of coffee grounds, grease, and other food particles. You can learn how to unclog a kitchen sink drain quickly and easily, no matter the reason. Here are five tips to unclog your kitchen sink.

INSPECT THE GARBAGE DISPOSAL

Before we dive into hands-on tips to unclog your kitchen sink, consider inspecting your garbage disposal. Try letting the garbage disposal run for a few minutes to see if the disposal is potentially malfunctioning. If the disposal isn’t working properly, it won’t grind up food particles, which can lead to a blockage.

Once the problem has been repaired by a professional, remember to maintain the disposal regularly. Chopping ice cubes with your disposal can help keep the device running in peak condition.

TRY POURING BOILING WATER

Is your garbage disposal working properly? If so, then it’s time to discuss effective drain cleaning methods. If you want to learn how to unclog a kitchen sink drain with a method that involves little effort, boiling water might be your answer.

Boiling water is a clogged kitchen sink hack that many homeowners swear by. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then slowly and carefully pour the boiling water down the affected drain. Repeat the process a few times if necessary to remove the blockages. For the best results, follow this by pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain.

Additionally, don’t pour boiling water down your drain if you have PVC pipes. This hot water can potentially damage your pipes.

USE BAKING SODA & VINEGAR

One clogged kitchen sink home remedy you can try is a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

Pour one cup of baking soda down the affected drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. Next, cover the drain and let the mixture sit for up to 15 minutes. Afterward, flush the drain with hot water. You might feel tempted to tackle clogged drains with a chemical cleaner, but this DIY method will be gentler on your pipes.

There are still many more useful tips to unclog your kitchen sink.

CONSIDER PLUNGING THE CLOG

If you don’t have any baking soda and vinegar on hand, you can still learn how to unclog a kitchen sink drain. For instance, a plunger could be the most effective method if you have a smaller clog. First, remove any standing water from the clogged sink with a bowl or cup. If you have double sinks, you want to seal off the clog-free drain with a plug.

Now it’s time to use the plunger. Place the plunger cup over the affected drain and quickly plunge up and down. If this method removes the clog, flush the drain afterward with hot water.

USE A PLUMBING SNAKE

Was your plunger ineffective at removing the blockage? You might want to try using a plumbing snake. You can purchase a manual or electric drain snake at a local home improvement store.

To use a plumbing snake, insert the snake into the clogged drain until you feel resistance. Next, crank the snake to collect the blockage. Once you have a hold on the obstruction, you can remove the snake from the drain. If this method doesn’t work, you might need to clean the P-trap.

While there are several tips to unclog your kitchen sink, some methods are better left to a drain cleaning expert. If you don’t feel comfortable using a drain snake, contact Spencer Home Services for our professional clogged drain services.

CONTACT US

Consider using one of these tips to unclog your kitchen sink the next time you encounter a slow drain. However, some tough clogs might have you calling a plumber instead. If you need a professional drain repair in Peabody, MA, we can help.

Founded by Peter Holland, Spencer Home Services is a reputable and experienced company you can trust. Our team of experts knows how to unclog a kitchen sink drain with ease and expertise. Contact us to schedule a drain cleaning service today!

Frozen pipes can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. When your pipes freeze during the frigid winter months, you’ll want to address the problem to avoid a burst pipe. Burst pipes are not only an inconvenience—they can result in devastating water damage and costly repairs.

You may be wondering if pouring hot water down the drain will unfreeze pipes. The answer is “yes” if the frozen pipe is a drain pipe. We cover several other thawing techniques you might want to consider using if you’re dealing with frozen water lines.

Below we’ll discuss the proper method for pouring hot water down frozen pipes, as well as additional thawing tips to try.

HOW TO UNFREEZE PIPES WITH HOT WATER

In most instances, pouring hot water down the drain will unfreeze drain pipes. However, it’s essential to take your time with this method to increase its effectiveness and ensure your safety. Follow these simple steps:

• Fill a pot with a half-gallon of water and bring it to a boil on the stove.
• Pour the water down the drain carefully and slowly.
• Turn on the faucet and let warm water run for 5 minutes.
• Repeat the process as needed.

While addressing a frozen pipe quickly is crucial, don’t rush. When pouring hot water down frozen pipes, remember to take proper safety precautions.

ADDITIONAL THAWING METHODS

If you’re dealing with a frozen water line or you’ve tried pouring hot water down frozen pipes with no success, there are additional thawing methods you can try before contacting a professional for help.

APPLY HEAT

Much like pouring hot water down frozen pipes, applying heat sources to your pipes can help them thaw. There are many budget-friendly and easy ways to apply heat to your frozen pipes, including:

• Heat Tape: Use heat tape on exposed pipes to slowly warm and thaw the pipe.
• Hair Dryers: Gently heat the pipe with the hairdryer for 4 to 5 minutes. Don’t touch the pipe with the hairdryer.
• Space Heaters: Position the space heater in front of the frozen section of pipe.
• Heat Lamps: Ensure the lamp is aimed in the direction of the pipe, but keep it at a safe distance.
• Heating Pads: Wrap the frozen sections of pipe with a heating pad on a low to medium setting.
• Hot Towels: Soak towels in hot water, ring them out, and place them around the pipe. Replace the hot towels every five to ten minutes.

These heating tips are great for a wide variety of frozen pipes. But remember: never use open flames to thaw pipes. This can create a fire hazard.

INCREASE THE TEMPERATURE

All of these tips are helpful for how to unfreeze drain or water pipes, but there is one more worth mentioning: setting a higher thermostat temperature.

It may seem simple, but increasing your home’s temperature by a few degrees can help thaw a frozen pipe. The process may take a few hours, but the warm air will help get your water flowing once again.

OPEN FAUCETS

This is a preventative method we recommend homeowners follow on extremely cold nights. Leaving your faucet open just enough for the water to trickle can help prevent pipes from freezing in the first place.

This is also beneficial even after the fact. Opening the faucet can relieve built-up pressure and provide water with an escape route as the frozen pipe starts to thaw.

CONCLUSION

If your home’s pipes are frozen and these tips aren’t enough to fix the problem, there’s no need to worry. The experts at Spencer Home Services are here to help fix frozen pipes quickly and effectively. Our founder, Peter Holland, built a reputation for dependable and respectful plumbing services. Today, we continue to go above and beyond to live up to that reputation.

We proudly offer frozen pipe repair to Peabody, MA, residents. With years of industry-leading experience, we know how to keep outdoor water pipes from freezing—but also how to fix them if they do.

Contact us to schedule a frozen or burst pipe repair in Peabody, MA, today!

When you think about your water heater, you imagine hot showers and sparkling-clean dishes. We use our water heaters in our daily routines, from getting ready in the morning to cleaning the dinnerware at night. However, we seldom stop to consider the possibility of a leak.

A leaking water heater can be incredibly inconvenient, but it can also lead to unwanted water damage. Below, we’ll go over what causes a water heater to leak and how to prevent a leak from occurring.

5 COMMON CAUSES OF WATER HEATER LEAKS

Unfortunately, a water heater leak can occur for countless reasons. As a result, you may need to inspect your tank to identify the exact reason for the leak. So, what causes a water heater to leak?

Here are common problems that can lead to a leaky electric or gas water heater tank:

1. AGING UNIT

Old age can get the best of any household appliance or system—including your water heater. Most water heaters can last up to ten years before starting to malfunction. However, older units around 15 years old can be more prone to leaks.

Over long periods, your water heater can start to accumulate rust, which can corrode your tank and lead to cracks. As a result, leaks can appear.

2. INLET & OUTLET CONNECTIONS

You’ll find two pipes connected to the top of your tank: a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet. These connections allow the fixtures across your home to receive hot water. Since your water connections see a lot of use, they can potentially loosen and detach after some time.

If you have a loosened connection, you can use a pipe wrench to tighten it. However, before attempting any repairs, remember to turn off the power to your water heater. You’ll also need to close the water heater shut-off valve and close off the water supply.

3. FAULTY T&P VALVE

If you have a water heater leak, it’s also possible that the temperature and pressure relief valve is to blame. The T&P valve is a safety device that releases a minor stream of water when pressure builds to an unsafe level within the tank.

This valve can leak if it gets stuck in a half-open, half-closed position. Additionally, excessive pressure can cause the valve to malfunction. If you encounter a leaking T&P valve, it’s a good idea to contact a professional to perform a repair.

4. SEDIMENT BUILDUP

If you want to know what causes a water heater to leak, turn next to a homeowner’s nightmare: sediment buildup. Not only can sediment buildup lead to insufficient hot water and low water pressure, but it can also result in unexpected leaks. When sediment collects in your water heater tank, cracks can form. As such, it’s crucial to schedule regular water heater maintenance to clean the tank and flush out sediment.

5. LOOSE DRAIN VALVE

Your water heater’s drain valve is used to empty and “flush” the tank, often during maintenance services. Like the T&P valve, this specific valve can loosen over time, resulting in leaks.

If you notice a leak at the base of the drain valve, you’ll need to replace the valve. To check if this is the cause of your water heater leak, ensure that the valve is fully closed.

TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR LEAK

It’s not always easy to determine the cause of a leak. Now that we’ve reviewed what causes water heaters to leak, let’s go over how to identify your water heater’s problem according to the location of the leak. Commonly, leaks are found at the top or bottom of the tank. However, some leaks can also be internal.

LEAKING FROM THE TOP

If your water heater is leaking from the top, you’re most likely facing a problem with the T&P valve or the inlet and outlet connections. Most of the issues with these parts can be easily fixed with professional water heater repair services. If you require water heater repairs in Peabody MA, turn to the experts at Spencer Home Services.

LEAKING FROM THE BOTTOM

Leaks from the bottom of your water heater tank may indicate a problem with the drain valve. Fortunately, the drain valve can be repaired or replaced. However, a bottom tank leak may also mean that the entire water heater tank requires a replacement.

LEAKING INSIDE THE TANK

Internal water heater tank leaks are often the result of aging and corrosion. When this happens, it’s time to replace your water heater.

HOW TO AVOID A WATER HEATER LEAK

If you currently have a leaking unit, avoid another leak from happening with these tips:

• Inspect Your Water Heater: Watch for loose parts and potential cracks. The sooner you notice them, the quicker you can fix them.
• Fix Loosened Parts: Tighten loose parts, such as inlet and outlet connections, when necessary. Remember to take the proper safety precautions.
• Schedule Routine Maintenance: Regular tune-ups will help keep your water heater tank in peak condition (and sediment-free).

CALL AN EXPERT

Sometimes, maintenance and repairs aren’t enough to fix your tank. If you have a water heater leak and it’s time to replace the entire water heater, call a plumber you can trust to get the job done right. We’re proud to install gas or electric water heaters according to our customers’ needs.

Contact us today to schedule a hot water heater replacement in Peabody, MA!

A backed-up sewer line is a problem that no homeowner wants. Besides the inconvenience and the cost, it can also be hazardous to our health. Therefore, you always want to make sure you act fast.

If you suspect that you’re sewer line is backed-up, or if you want to avoid this problem in the future, here is everything you need to know.

Clogged Drain vs. Main Sewer Line Clog

Knowing if you have an issue with your sewer system or sewer drain is relatively easy. If it’s your drain line, you will typically only experience problems with one drain. However, if it’s your main sewer pipe, you may experience issues with plumbing fixtures all over your home. For example, sewer water backing up into your tub.

Why Does My Sewer Line Keep Backing Up?

If you’ve determined your plumbing problem is caused by your sewage lines, there are several possible causes. To find out for sure, you may need a camera inspection.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are the leading cause of sewer lines backing up. Your sewage pipes are very appealing to tree roots as they provide nutrients like water and oxygen. Plus, the ground around them is often disturbed, making it easier for roots to spread.

Tree roots seek weak spots, cracks, and joints in your sewer pipe. They can grow and reduce the diameter, causing misalignments or even collapsed pipes (most common in thin-walled PVC).

Old and Brittle Pipes

Old cast iron, clay, and concrete pipes are particularly susceptible to brittleness and corrosion. This makes it easier for roots to penetrate or debris to enter your line.

Incorrect Usage

Contrary to popular belief, not everything can be flushed down the toilet or garbage disposal. Only toilet paper should go down the toilet—especially in homes with septic systems.

It’s also important to know which items shouldn’t go down your kitchen sink–grease, coffee grounds, and eggshells are just a few examples.

What Can I Do To Help My Plumbing System?

There are several things you can do to prevent your sewer lines from backing up—for example, ensuring they’re used correctly.

If you are past the point of prevention, the first step is to determine whether you have a clogged drain or a backed-up sewer line. If you suspect it’s your sewer line, you must take immediate action as it can be hazardous. You may experience feces backing up into unwanted places or toxic gas releases.

Who Do I Call About a Broken Sewer Line?

Not all plumbers are licensed for sewer line repairs, so it’s essential that you research those who are. These professionals will have the knowledge to determine whether you need a repair or replacement and have the necessary equipment to follow up.

To find out the cause of your problem and where it is, they will insert a drain camera into your line. This also gives you confidence in the advice you’re receiving.

How Is A Backed Up Sewer Line Fixed?

If the clog is caused by grease, expert hydro jetting may just be enough to clear the blockage. Otherwise, you will likely need a pipe repair or replacement.

A repair is recommended if your sewer pipe is…

• Reasonably accessible
• Appropriately sized for the occupants in your home
• Has a reasonable life expectancy after the repair costs

Your sewer line will need replacing if it is…

• Orangeburg
• Undersized for your home’s occupants
• Bellied or collapsed
• Deformed or deteriorated
• Passed the existing pipe’s life span (typically 30 years)
• You want a worry-free solution

Some businesses—like Spencer Home Services—offer trenchless sewer line repairs, which means you can avoid excavation. There are two methods for trenchless sewer repairs: trenchless pipe bursting and trenchless relining. The option we choose will depend on the landscape and compatibility of your home.

Why Our Company Is Right for Your Sewer Repair or Replacement

Spencer Home Services only uses top-quality materials to ensure a long life for your pipe.

We are members of Nexstar, a world-class business development organization with whom we’ve sworn a code of ethics. Our thorough training ensures we have the knowledge to give you one quote with no surprises later.

And finally, we understand that sewer line backups can be costly, so we offer a selection of financing packages.

Do you have a concern about your sewer pipes? Call Spencer Home Service on 978-440-1646, and ask about our sewer line repair and replacement services.

Clogged drains come with the territory of being a homeowner and are almost impossible to avoid altogether. However, we have some drain clog prevention tips that can seriously better your chances—take a look!

Monthly Enzyme Treatments

Using enzyme treatments (or bacterial drain cleaners) is a great way to prevent clogged drains and treat them. Plus, they’re safe for septic systems and won’t damage your pipes—unlike chemical drain cleaners.

These treatments are available at most hardware stores and come in various forms, from liquids to sticks. They work by feeding on organic matters—like food and algae—and reproduce, spreading “good” bacteria throughout your drainage system.

Put Grease In The Trash

Pouring any form of grease down your sink is a big no, as it thickens and other things stick to it. The best way to dispose of grease is to wait until it hardens and throw it in the trash.

Pour Boiling Water Down Your Drain Pipe

Boiling water is a simple and easy way to prevent sink clogs produced by soap scum and build-up. We recommend using this tip once a week.

Flush Your Pipes with A Bucket of Water

Forget the plunger; throwing a bucket of water down your toilet is less messy and often more effective. The pressure from the water combined with the narrow-shaped pipe helps to push everything through.

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

This trick might become your new best friend! Pour half a cup of baking soda down the sink, followed by one cup of vinegar. Leave for ten minutes, and tip a bucket of boiling water down the plughole. If your sink is still draining too slow, repeat the process.

How does adding vinegar to baking soda unclog a drain? The chemical reaction creates carbon dioxide gas, which helps to lift dirt and freshens the smell. You can also use this trick to unclog a toilet.

Clear Your Pop-Up Stopper

Sink pop-up drain stoppers are great at catching hair and debris, but frequent cleaning is essential to prevent build-ups.

Switch to Composting

As convenient as a garbage disposal is, they do make you more clog-prone. The likes of coffee grounds, eggshells, and bones are all common culprits.

Saving your food scraps for composting comes with many benefits:

• There are fewer chances of clogs
• You’re creating food for your garden
• A reduction in landfill waste
• And more!

Only Flush Toilet Paper

You’d be surprised by some of the things we pull out of customer’s drains! The best way to avoid problems with your plumbing is only to flush toilet paper—this is especially important with older plumbing systems.

Add A Lint Catcher to Your Washing Machine

You’re probably familiar with the lint catcher on your dryer, but did you know you can add them to washing machines too? Installing a lint trap (or lint filter) will prevent lint, hair, and debris from clogging your washing machine’s pipes.

Like the filter on your dryer, you do need to monitor your trap and empty it regularly.

Avoid Rinsing Building Materials

Did you know that cement, grout, and joint compound can still set underwater? Instead of rinsing them in a sink, keep a water bucket and clean your tools as you work. Alternatively, you can try the below.

Brush Your Hair Before You Shower

A simple way to stop so much hair from going down the drain? Brush it first! This will remove any loose hairs before you shower, preventing clogs from forming. It also leaves a cleaner shower!

Need more than a couple of drain cleaning tips?

It’s impossible to stop every block from forming, and sometimes these DIY tricks may not work. In these moments, make sure you contact the team at Spencer and ask about our clogged drain services. We offer camera inspections and drain cleaning for just $99 each!

If you have regular clogs, we highly recommend a drain scope to see what is causing this recurring issue.

For example, you may have:

• Tree roots growing through your pipe
• A partially collapsed line
• Rotten cast iron, allowing the soil to seep through

We have multiple ways to repair or replace your line—including trenchless pipe repairs. We will work alongside you to find the best solution and even offer financing options.

Need a hand with your plumbing? Call us today on 978-440-1646