Since 1979, we've provided the highest quality protection against plumbing, heating, cooling and drain problems for residential, commercial and property managers in the Merrimack Valley and southern New Hampshire. At MillTown Plumbing, Heating, HVAC, and Drain Cleaning, we're a family owned and operated business. We know the value of fast service, from a professional and reliable team. Give us a call today at (617) 725-2674! We look forward to serving you.
"STAY AWAY. Numerous issues and they will cost you more money without you knowing it. I just found out that I was on a **DO NOT SERVICE** list (after all the grief they have given me.) I am ticked off. Here is a summary due to the character limit: 1. They installed a faulty HTP tankless hybrid water heater. I argued with them for what I think was a good year before a HTP tech finally determined that I was right. Replaced it with a Rinnai RUR199in. 2. They took (stole) my oval ductwork and replaced it. I was fine with the replacement. I looked the other way but it was expensive and they never asked - they just hauled it away. Most homeowners probably do not realize how expensive and unusual that oval ductwork is. I could have even recycled it at a profit. 3. I recommended them to a neighbor only to find cops all over their home one day. Their plumber stole their special needs kids controlled medications after having them go into other rooms to turn on and off the faucets. I just chalked it up to a bad apple. 4. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They short-cycled the new air handler. Vent was right next to the main return (2in. away.) Unecessary wear and tear, high electric and gas usage, and discomfort. Whatever was coming out was immediately suck back in. Unfortunately I did not realize this until a couple years later. 5. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They never installed the 2-stage wiring. See directly above. Look it up. HUGE discrepancies in temperatures and sky high bills. Premature wear and tear. I wrote Freddy Jr. about this which might be the reason why I am on their list. But still, that is their job to get it right and not mine. Most people would have no clue for the life of their system. 6. They did not hook up the high-limit kill switch/float on the condensation pump which led to a flood and destroyed antiques. I hooked it up in less than 10 minutes. 7. I was told one day that the original manger was fired because he was skimming clients from the company. 8. There is no check valve on the recirculation line which they installed on the new tankless they replaced. I believe it is code and now I have to hire someone else ([business name removed]) to fix their screwup which likely killed my internal recirculation pump. Again, unecessary wear and tear along with high energy bills. I was willing to look the other way on so many things but the truth is they get away with this because most homeowners do not know any better. In other cases, I figured that no one is perfect and we all make mistakes. But then to find out that I was blacklisted a few years later because I called them out on their BS after I needed their help yesterday? The only thing I can think is that I ended up costing them more money on things they should have done properly in the first place. It is a company that needs better oversight and apparently has awful management. I am not bragging but I have an advanced engineeering background creating petroleum engineering training material for big oil (aka plumbing on steroids--makes this look like childs play), programming, developing systems for hydroponics, working with heat and waste recovery systems, fixing combustion engines, and building computers for over 20 years. My point is that I noticed a lot of things that most people would overlook because I know how many things work. I called them out and that is the only explanation as to why I could have been blacklisted. But do yourself a favor and go with [business name removed] or [business name removed] instead. It is not to say that others cannot screw up, but this is my experience with them and the straw that broke the camels back. Mention that you read this here and thank you. Perhaps the next company will not mess you up under the guise/protection of teamsters and protectionist unions that overcharge with ridiculous licensing requirements that ends up meani..."
Charles L on January 2024
Since 1979, we've provided the highest quality protection against plumbing, heating, cooling and drain problems for residential, commercial and property managers in the Merrimack Valley and southern New Hampshire. At MillTown Plumbing, Heating, HVAC, and Drain Cleaning, we're a family owned and operated business. We know the value of fast service, from a professional and reliable team. Give us a call today at (617) 725-2674! We look forward to serving you.
"STAY AWAY. Numerous issues and they will cost you more money without you knowing it. I just found out that I was on a **DO NOT SERVICE** list (after all the grief they have given me.) I am ticked off. Here is a summary due to the character limit: 1. They installed a faulty HTP tankless hybrid water heater. I argued with them for what I think was a good year before a HTP tech finally determined that I was right. Replaced it with a Rinnai RUR199in. 2. They took (stole) my oval ductwork and replaced it. I was fine with the replacement. I looked the other way but it was expensive and they never asked - they just hauled it away. Most homeowners probably do not realize how expensive and unusual that oval ductwork is. I could have even recycled it at a profit. 3. I recommended them to a neighbor only to find cops all over their home one day. Their plumber stole their special needs kids controlled medications after having them go into other rooms to turn on and off the faucets. I just chalked it up to a bad apple. 4. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They short-cycled the new air handler. Vent was right next to the main return (2in. away.) Unecessary wear and tear, high electric and gas usage, and discomfort. Whatever was coming out was immediately suck back in. Unfortunately I did not realize this until a couple years later. 5. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They never installed the 2-stage wiring. See directly above. Look it up. HUGE discrepancies in temperatures and sky high bills. Premature wear and tear. I wrote Freddy Jr. about this which might be the reason why I am on their list. But still, that is their job to get it right and not mine. Most people would have no clue for the life of their system. 6. They did not hook up the high-limit kill switch/float on the condensation pump which led to a flood and destroyed antiques. I hooked it up in less than 10 minutes. 7. I was told one day that the original manger was fired because he was skimming clients from the company. 8. There is no check valve on the recirculation line which they installed on the new tankless they replaced. I believe it is code and now I have to hire someone else ([business name removed]) to fix their screwup which likely killed my internal recirculation pump. Again, unecessary wear and tear along with high energy bills. I was willing to look the other way on so many things but the truth is they get away with this because most homeowners do not know any better. In other cases, I figured that no one is perfect and we all make mistakes. But then to find out that I was blacklisted a few years later because I called them out on their BS after I needed their help yesterday? The only thing I can think is that I ended up costing them more money on things they should have done properly in the first place. It is a company that needs better oversight and apparently has awful management. I am not bragging but I have an advanced engineeering background creating petroleum engineering training material for big oil (aka plumbing on steroids--makes this look like childs play), programming, developing systems for hydroponics, working with heat and waste recovery systems, fixing combustion engines, and building computers for over 20 years. My point is that I noticed a lot of things that most people would overlook because I know how many things work. I called them out and that is the only explanation as to why I could have been blacklisted. But do yourself a favor and go with [business name removed] or [business name removed] instead. It is not to say that others cannot screw up, but this is my experience with them and the straw that broke the camels back. Mention that you read this here and thank you. Perhaps the next company will not mess you up under the guise/protection of teamsters and protectionist unions that overcharge with ridiculous licensing requirements that ends up meani..."
Charles L on January 2024
We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our major focus is on the quality our work and producing outstanding results. We are committed to creating a level of value unmatched by any of our competitors. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!
"Chance was so cooperative and friendly when arranging our booking. He arrived promptly, was friendly while focused on the job. He did a great job. I will definitely use him again and have recommended him to friends and neighbors."
L. A on September 2024
We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our major focus is on the quality our work and producing outstanding results. We are committed to creating a level of value unmatched by any of our competitors. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!
"Chance was so cooperative and friendly when arranging our booking. He arrived promptly, was friendly while focused on the job. He did a great job. I will definitely use him again and have recommended him to friends and neighbors."
L. A on September 2024
At Maffei Plumbing and HVAC, LLC, we are committed to your comfort. With an experienced and qualified staff to provide quick service for any service needed. We can solve any problem with a friendly face. Give us a call for a free estimate.
"Ok!"
Dawn D on October 2021
At Maffei Plumbing and HVAC, LLC, we are committed to your comfort. With an experienced and qualified staff to provide quick service for any service needed. We can solve any problem with a friendly face. Give us a call for a free estimate.
"Ok!"
Dawn D on October 2021
We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!
We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!
Spencer Home Services (previously Holland Energy) is a family-owned and operated business founded by Peter Holland. Based in Peabody, MA, we have served homes and businesses across Essex County and the North Shore for 40+ years. Spencer offers a range of services and home improvements, including drain clearing, bathroom installations, tree root removals, and more. Over the years, we've earned a reputation for being reputable, dependable, and dedicated to our community. We strive to create intimate experiences, ensuring you feel respected and not just another job on our list. From your first call with us to the moment your job is completed, you can feel confident that you're in the best hands. Same Day Service - We are responsive and proactive when you need us
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Frank H on May 2025
Spencer Home Services (previously Holland Energy) is a family-owned and operated business founded by Peter Holland. Based in Peabody, MA, we have served homes and businesses across Essex County and the North Shore for 40+ years. Spencer offers a range of services and home improvements, including drain clearing, bathroom installations, tree root removals, and more. Over the years, we've earned a reputation for being reputable, dependable, and dedicated to our community. We strive to create intimate experiences, ensuring you feel respected and not just another job on our list. From your first call with us to the moment your job is completed, you can feel confident that you're in the best hands. Same Day Service - We are responsive and proactive when you need us
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Frank H on May 2025
For over 2 decades, Addario's has provided over 50,000 Massachusetts homeowners with reliable, trustworthy, and complete home services. Backed by the area's best warranty. Addario's is an A+ Better Business Bureau rated company and was voted one of the fastest growing companies in 2013. We are licensed and insured, able to perform any and all home service jobs related to plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, drain cleaning, sewer replacement, one-day bathroom remodels, generators and much more. If your home needs it, Addario's can do it. Comprised of more than 50 employees, homeowners can trust Addario's to perform all types of home repairs, inspections and replacements for all of your homes vital mechanical systems. As a valued customer, you will receive a homeowners checklist to help you maintain your home in between visits. If any aspect of your heating and cooling system isn't working properly rest assured we'll fix it!
"Excellent work overall. The team was highly professional and responsive and was able to work under a tight timeline. Two thumbs up for this company."
Ian C on June 2025
For over 2 decades, Addario's has provided over 50,000 Massachusetts homeowners with reliable, trustworthy, and complete home services. Backed by the area's best warranty. Addario's is an A+ Better Business Bureau rated company and was voted one of the fastest growing companies in 2013. We are licensed and insured, able to perform any and all home service jobs related to plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, drain cleaning, sewer replacement, one-day bathroom remodels, generators and much more. If your home needs it, Addario's can do it. Comprised of more than 50 employees, homeowners can trust Addario's to perform all types of home repairs, inspections and replacements for all of your homes vital mechanical systems. As a valued customer, you will receive a homeowners checklist to help you maintain your home in between visits. If any aspect of your heating and cooling system isn't working properly rest assured we'll fix it!
"Excellent work overall. The team was highly professional and responsive and was able to work under a tight timeline. Two thumbs up for this company."
Ian C on June 2025
Since our founding, ER Services Plumbing & Heating has been known for quality services, exceptional efficiency, and the highest level of professionalism. No matter what service you’re looking for, we guarantee to not only meet but exceed your expectations and ensure your full satisfaction. We have been servicing the Merrimack Valley and North Shore for 15+ years of professional experience. We excel in High-Efficiency Boilers, Water Heater Replacement, New Construction, Remodels, and Repairs. - Call today!
"ER Services responded to my request with a phone call right away, and Henry showed up about half an hour later to do the job. He was friendly and easy to work with, and he replaced my faulty outdoor spigot. Pleased with my experience with ER Services!"
Cindy N on June 2025
Since our founding, ER Services Plumbing & Heating has been known for quality services, exceptional efficiency, and the highest level of professionalism. No matter what service you’re looking for, we guarantee to not only meet but exceed your expectations and ensure your full satisfaction. We have been servicing the Merrimack Valley and North Shore for 15+ years of professional experience. We excel in High-Efficiency Boilers, Water Heater Replacement, New Construction, Remodels, and Repairs. - Call today!
"ER Services responded to my request with a phone call right away, and Henry showed up about half an hour later to do the job. He was friendly and easy to work with, and he replaced my faulty outdoor spigot. Pleased with my experience with ER Services!"
Cindy N on June 2025
For over 30 years in the neighborhood, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has provided the highest quality, efficiency, and reliability in service to customers. Celebrating thousands of 5-star reviews online and an A+ Rating on BBB for years, the company has become the North Shore’s most trusted & consistent plumber, heating and air conditioning, and electrical service company. Also proud to be titled a Diamond Elite Contractor with Mitsubishi Electric and a Mass Save Heat Pump Installer. We take pride in being there for you 24/7 with manufacturer-trained technicians and a commitment to providing customers with manufacturer-trained technicians and a commitment to providing customers with an easy, effortless customer service experience. You're guaranteed to be left with the service and upfront pricing with customized options for what's best for your home in the long-term.
"Luis M. came to fix a furnace humidifier. He arrived on time and was very professional and knowledgeable about the equipment. He was able to quickly determine the issue and repair the underlying problem. Very pleased with his service and time he spent to explain the issues and operation of the unit."
Wayne O on February 2024
For over 30 years in the neighborhood, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has provided the highest quality, efficiency, and reliability in service to customers. Celebrating thousands of 5-star reviews online and an A+ Rating on BBB for years, the company has become the North Shore’s most trusted & consistent plumber, heating and air conditioning, and electrical service company. Also proud to be titled a Diamond Elite Contractor with Mitsubishi Electric and a Mass Save Heat Pump Installer. We take pride in being there for you 24/7 with manufacturer-trained technicians and a commitment to providing customers with manufacturer-trained technicians and a commitment to providing customers with an easy, effortless customer service experience. You're guaranteed to be left with the service and upfront pricing with customized options for what's best for your home in the long-term.
"Luis M. came to fix a furnace humidifier. He arrived on time and was very professional and knowledgeable about the equipment. He was able to quickly determine the issue and repair the underlying problem. Very pleased with his service and time he spent to explain the issues and operation of the unit."
Wayne O on February 2024
We are a full service home building company that has completed residential home construction in over 20 different cities and towns in Massachusetts & New Hampshire. We have a team of engineers, architects, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians that provide top notch quality at competitive pricing. Customer service and responsivneness are a very important part of this company. You will always have a return phone call as soon as possible and our workers take great pride in their work with professionalism and a great attitude. Our projects are completed on time, on budget, and our customer's happiness is our number one priority. If you are looking for an honest contractor with a proven track record, please call or email today!
"From start to finish, it was a great experience and the work that was done on our bathrooms was exceptional - especially the tile work. Communication was great and every detail was looked after. They were very responsive to any issues we had and corrected them quickly without question."
Nancy K on December 2024
We are a full service home building company that has completed residential home construction in over 20 different cities and towns in Massachusetts & New Hampshire. We have a team of engineers, architects, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians that provide top notch quality at competitive pricing. Customer service and responsivneness are a very important part of this company. You will always have a return phone call as soon as possible and our workers take great pride in their work with professionalism and a great attitude. Our projects are completed on time, on budget, and our customer's happiness is our number one priority. If you are looking for an honest contractor with a proven track record, please call or email today!
"From start to finish, it was a great experience and the work that was done on our bathrooms was exceptional - especially the tile work. Communication was great and every detail was looked after. They were very responsive to any issues we had and corrected them quickly without question."
Nancy K on December 2024
All Drain Services, Inc. has been in the drain service business for over 18 years and is owned by Manny and Gloria Vega. Our commitment to customer service is unmatched. Our years of experience have taught us that in our line of business, that is what counts. Our dedication to delivering a quality job has been the backbone of our success, and this commitment is instilled in all our employees. All Drain Services, Inc. is open 24/7, including holidays. We offer emergency and regular maintenance services.
"Patrick was great. He pulled a Rat from my kitchen line so great service!"
Tim L on February 2023
All Drain Services, Inc. has been in the drain service business for over 18 years and is owned by Manny and Gloria Vega. Our commitment to customer service is unmatched. Our years of experience have taught us that in our line of business, that is what counts. Our dedication to delivering a quality job has been the backbone of our success, and this commitment is instilled in all our employees. All Drain Services, Inc. is open 24/7, including holidays. We offer emergency and regular maintenance services.
"Patrick was great. He pulled a Rat from my kitchen line so great service!"
Tim L on February 2023
You'll need an expansion tank if your home has a closed water system, which is standard in newer homes or those with backflow preventers or pressure regulators. Expanding hot water has nowhere to go in closed systems, creating potentially damaging pressure. The expansion tank provides space for this expanded water, protecting your plumbing system and water heater from premature failure. Many local building codes now require expansion tanks, and some water heater warranties may be voided without one.
For a standard 50-gallon water heater, a two-gallon expansion tank is sufficient. This sizing assumes normal household water pressure between 40 and 60 psi. If your home has higher water pressure (60 to 80 psi), consider upgrading to a slightly larger tank for added protection. The expansion tank's purpose is to accommodate the increased volume that occurs when cold water heats up, which is proportional to your water heater's capacity.
Watch for signs like dripping water around the tank, fluctuating water pressure throughout your home, or unusual noises in your plumbing system. A properly functioning expansion tank should feel light when tapped on the bottom—if it feels heavy or waterlogged, the internal bladder has likely failed. Other indicators include frequent triggering of your temperature and pressure relief valve, visible corrosion on the tank, or unexplained increases in your water bill, suggesting hidden leaks.
Most expansion tanks have a service life of five to 10 years, though some may last up to 12 years or more with proper maintenance. Factors affecting lifespan include water quality, system pressure, installation quality, and tank construction. Hard water areas often see shorter lifespans due to mineral buildup. Regular maintenance checks can help identify potential issues before complete failure. When your water heater is due for replacement, it's wise to replace the expansion tank simultaneously, even if it hasn't failed yet.
A 30-gallon water heater needs an expansion tank if your home has a closed plumbing system. The need for an expansion tank is determined by your plumbing system type rather than water heater size. Even smaller water heaters create thermal expansion when heating water. If your home has a backflow preventer, pressure regulator, or check valve on the main water line, you have a closed system that requires an expansion tank. Check your local plumbing codes, as many jurisdictions now mandate expansion tanks regardless of water heater size.