We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!
"Gary Was great he did my pool electric connection job in two days and was professional, efficient, clean and respectful to my property and was on time You earned ????? Thanks Gary Mercedes M"
Mercedes M on July 2024
We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!
"Gary Was great he did my pool electric connection job in two days and was professional, efficient, clean and respectful to my property and was on time You earned ????? Thanks Gary Mercedes M"
Mercedes M on July 2024
At Champion Electrical Services, we believe homeowners deserve better. No more no-shows, rushed work, or upsells you don't need. We built this company to do things right?with respect, craftsmanship, and pride. Every job gets treated like it's our own home: clean, code-compliant, and built to last. Whether you need a panel upgrade, EV charger, generator, or quick repair, we show up when it counts and earn your trust every time. Licensed, insured, and proudly serving MA & RI. When the lights go out, don't call just anyone? Call the Champ. ? (774) 331-3500 | ? CalltheChamp.com | ? Hello@CallTheChamp.com
"Jason and his team were excellent with great communication throughout! Kept the workspace clean and performed the work quickly."
Dylan S on June 2025
At Champion Electrical Services, we believe homeowners deserve better. No more no-shows, rushed work, or upsells you don't need. We built this company to do things right?with respect, craftsmanship, and pride. Every job gets treated like it's our own home: clean, code-compliant, and built to last. Whether you need a panel upgrade, EV charger, generator, or quick repair, we show up when it counts and earn your trust every time. Licensed, insured, and proudly serving MA & RI. When the lights go out, don't call just anyone? Call the Champ. ? (774) 331-3500 | ? CalltheChamp.com | ? Hello@CallTheChamp.com
"Jason and his team were excellent with great communication throughout! Kept the workspace clean and performed the work quickly."
Dylan S on June 2025
Since 1979, we've provided the highest quality protection against electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling and drain problems for residential, commercial and properties in the Merrimack Valley. 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 electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling and drain problems for residential, commercial and properties in the Merrimack Valley. 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
3 M Electric Corp in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
"I was in urgent need of an electrician to do this project, where I found him to solve my problem. A great job, clean and careful with everything"
Taylor s on June 2025
3 M Electric Corp in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
"I was in urgent need of an electrician to do this project, where I found him to solve my problem. A great job, clean and careful with everything"
Taylor s on June 2025
For over 30 years in the neighborhood, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has provided the highest quality, efficiency, and reliability in its 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. Proud to be titled a Diamond Elite Contractor with Mitsubishi Electric and a Mass Save Heat Pump Installer. We take pride in being there to pick up the phone every time 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 price you were quoted with customized options for what's best for your home in the long-term. Specializes in Installation, Service, and Repair for Boilers, Furnaces, Air Conditioners and HVAC Systems, Tankless Water Heaters and Ductless Mini-Splits.
"they initially quoted $89 for AC diagnostics which is reasonable even though most companies charge nothing. Technician is very friendly and knowledgeable and walked me through the process. he checked the compressor outside and he suspected a leak. and then wanted to check the coil inside the blower. he detected a small leak with the electronic device. he mentioned coil may need replacement. After spending 10 mins in his truck to call the company he came back and said coil is not covered with warranty and quoted $5,400 to replace the coil and it is backordered for 6 weeks. 6 week will brings us to mid August so i told him i dont want to sign up for repair and wait 6 weeks. he then tried to sell me a maintenance plan which i declined. Then he said he will charge for the diagnostics which he spent total 30 mins including talking on the phone for warranty coverage. he said he did more than basic diagnostics which is $149. when he handed me the payment he added up initial $89 and $149 to pay $238 for 30 mins diagnostics. Total scam. i dont even know if they do any real work beyond the charging $238 for 30 mins diagnostics. probably they will hire a separate contractor to do the job and keep selling overpriced diagnostics and maintenance plans. They all you 10 times to sell you the initial diagnostics but after you pay $238 not even a single call to ask about experience. worst ever."
emre b on July 2023
For over 30 years in the neighborhood, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has provided the highest quality, efficiency, and reliability in its 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. Proud to be titled a Diamond Elite Contractor with Mitsubishi Electric and a Mass Save Heat Pump Installer. We take pride in being there to pick up the phone every time 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 price you were quoted with customized options for what's best for your home in the long-term. Specializes in Installation, Service, and Repair for Boilers, Furnaces, Air Conditioners and HVAC Systems, Tankless Water Heaters and Ductless Mini-Splits.
"they initially quoted $89 for AC diagnostics which is reasonable even though most companies charge nothing. Technician is very friendly and knowledgeable and walked me through the process. he checked the compressor outside and he suspected a leak. and then wanted to check the coil inside the blower. he detected a small leak with the electronic device. he mentioned coil may need replacement. After spending 10 mins in his truck to call the company he came back and said coil is not covered with warranty and quoted $5,400 to replace the coil and it is backordered for 6 weeks. 6 week will brings us to mid August so i told him i dont want to sign up for repair and wait 6 weeks. he then tried to sell me a maintenance plan which i declined. Then he said he will charge for the diagnostics which he spent total 30 mins including talking on the phone for warranty coverage. he said he did more than basic diagnostics which is $149. when he handed me the payment he added up initial $89 and $149 to pay $238 for 30 mins diagnostics. Total scam. i dont even know if they do any real work beyond the charging $238 for 30 mins diagnostics. probably they will hire a separate contractor to do the job and keep selling overpriced diagnostics and maintenance plans. They all you 10 times to sell you the initial diagnostics but after you pay $238 not even a single call to ask about experience. worst ever."
emre b on July 2023
We specialize in electrical services, repairs, installs, lighting, panel upgrades, ceiling fans, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!
"Jim was polite, professional and very knowledgeable. He fixed our electrical issues and was lovely to deal with while doing so. Would recommend 10 out of 10"
Nicole s on October 2024
We specialize in electrical services, repairs, installs, lighting, panel upgrades, ceiling fans, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!
"Jim was polite, professional and very knowledgeable. He fixed our electrical issues and was lovely to deal with while doing so. Would recommend 10 out of 10"
Nicole s on October 2024
Family business with 25 years of experience. Circuit breaker installation - Doorbell installation - Electric inspection - Electric panel installation - Electric repair - Wire repair - Generator repair - Light fixture repair - Outlet installation - Switch repair - Circuit breaker repair - Doorbell repair - Electric installation or replacement - Electric panel repair - Wire installation - Generator installation - Light fixture installation - Outdoor lighting installation - Outlet repair
"Julio submitted correct estimate and completed Job on Time . Passed Inspection and was very professional ."
Atul J on February 2025
Family business with 25 years of experience. Circuit breaker installation - Doorbell installation - Electric inspection - Electric panel installation - Electric repair - Wire repair - Generator repair - Light fixture repair - Outlet installation - Switch repair - Circuit breaker repair - Doorbell repair - Electric installation or replacement - Electric panel repair - Wire installation - Generator installation - Light fixture installation - Outdoor lighting installation - Outlet repair
"Julio submitted correct estimate and completed Job on Time . Passed Inspection and was very professional ."
Atul J on February 2025
At 4th Generation Electric, we proudly uphold a legacy of excellence in electrical services that spans four generations. For 13 years, we've been delivering top-tier residential electrical solutions. Our mission is to provide comprehensive and cutting-edge design, installation, and upgrades. As a certified Generac dealer, we specialize in backup power solutions and EV charger installations. Our team, with unmatched expertise, is dedicated to analyzing, troubleshooting, and solving all your electrical needs. Trust 4th Generation Electric to deliver innovative solutions for the modern electrical world. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities.
"With the latest job John and his team completed for us, I am now able to say that for the better part of two decades, the electrical work needs of four generations of my family have been completed by 4th Generation Electric. As John and I were catching up before the install of our transfer switch and generator hook up, he recalled when we first met almost 20 years ago. From that time forward, he and his teams have completed work for my family that spanned from outlet installation and replacement, wiring our full new build construction home, inclusive of aiding with the installation of the power line from the street (which was 700 feet away from the house), outside patio electrical work for an elaborate tiered landscape, generator hook up requirements, among other things. Just as our electrical needs grew over time, and John and 4th Generation Electric have as well, the same level of attention to detail, focus on customer satisfaction, and not only the desire to strive for perfection but the expectation to do so, has been the standard that he knows not only his customers expect but that he expects for himself and his teams. It’s easy to write a review like this when it writes itself. If you have any sort of electrical work needs, big or small, you’d be doing yourself a disservice not asking John for a quote."
Joe F on September 2024
At 4th Generation Electric, we proudly uphold a legacy of excellence in electrical services that spans four generations. For 13 years, we've been delivering top-tier residential electrical solutions. Our mission is to provide comprehensive and cutting-edge design, installation, and upgrades. As a certified Generac dealer, we specialize in backup power solutions and EV charger installations. Our team, with unmatched expertise, is dedicated to analyzing, troubleshooting, and solving all your electrical needs. Trust 4th Generation Electric to deliver innovative solutions for the modern electrical world. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities.
"With the latest job John and his team completed for us, I am now able to say that for the better part of two decades, the electrical work needs of four generations of my family have been completed by 4th Generation Electric. As John and I were catching up before the install of our transfer switch and generator hook up, he recalled when we first met almost 20 years ago. From that time forward, he and his teams have completed work for my family that spanned from outlet installation and replacement, wiring our full new build construction home, inclusive of aiding with the installation of the power line from the street (which was 700 feet away from the house), outside patio electrical work for an elaborate tiered landscape, generator hook up requirements, among other things. Just as our electrical needs grew over time, and John and 4th Generation Electric have as well, the same level of attention to detail, focus on customer satisfaction, and not only the desire to strive for perfection but the expectation to do so, has been the standard that he knows not only his customers expect but that he expects for himself and his teams. It’s easy to write a review like this when it writes itself. If you have any sort of electrical work needs, big or small, you’d be doing yourself a disservice not asking John for a quote."
Joe F on September 2024
Heritage Home Service is proud to serve residents from Northeast Massachusetts. We are the area’s premier home services provider and for 35+ years, we’ve brought the Heritage touch to homes throughout the state.
"Highly recommend! Josh came gave us an estimate for our hot water tank replacement with financings and everything went through and the next day Sal came out, great worker knowledgeable explained everything step by step. Friendly and a dog lover! Just great work and respectful good hard workers!"
Darline F on May 2024
Heritage Home Service is proud to serve residents from Northeast Massachusetts. We are the area’s premier home services provider and for 35+ years, we’ve brought the Heritage touch to homes throughout the state.
"Highly recommend! Josh came gave us an estimate for our hot water tank replacement with financings and everything went through and the next day Sal came out, great worker knowledgeable explained everything step by step. Friendly and a dog lover! Just great work and respectful good hard workers!"
Darline F on May 2024
For over 30 years, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has provided the highest quality, efficiency and reliability to customers. Celebrating thousands of five-star reviews online and an A+ Rating on BBB for years, the company has become the North Shore’s most trusted and consistent plumber, heating and air conditioning, and electrical service company. The company takes pride in the title as a Diamond Elite Contractor with Mitsubishi Electric and being selected into the National Grid VPI Program. Finally, a company that picks up the phone every time 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 price you were quoted with customized options for what's best for your home in the long-term. 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric specializes in Installation, Service, and Repair for Boilers, Furnaces, Air Conditioners and HVAC Systems, Tankless Water Heaters, Ductless Mini-Splits and Plumbing. Worried about the cost of your next project? We have options to help you get your repairs on the way! Unfortunately, emergencies don’t wait until you have all of your financial ducts in a row.
"DO NOT USE 128 PLUMBING We have had a lot of work done on our house since moving in a few years ago and have worked with countless plumbers, contractors, electricians, etc. Everyone does the job a little different but they do what you pay them to do, and generally do it well. 128 Plumbing is the absolute exception. We have had them out 3 times now, and need a 4th but are going to foot the bill with a new plumber just to keep them from messing up anything else. We hired them to replace our water heater, simple enough. It was pricey and they did up sell on some expensive add-ons but nothing beyond what most in the area charge. Day of install, no one shows up in the assigned window. We call after another 2 hours go by and they said they forgot we were on the schedule...? After we insist they need to come as we have no hot water and I took off work, 2 disgruntled guys show up at the end of the day. The two guys that came were completely unaware of the PEX system in our basement. They only know pro-press. Fine, use what you know, but to not even "know of" the other connection types and systems out there? How exactly did they complete apprenticing without learning that? Then they were careless and decided to balance our old heavy water heater on our new vinyl picket fence instead of walking 10 extra feet to use the gate, breaking our fence. They also didn't finish installing the $800 leak shut off valve, and just left it turned off and unplugged - luckily I noticed, plugged it in, and got it setup online. They would rather mess with each other and get out of there, than actually do their job. A few weeks later, the valve triggers, our new tank was leaking. They never checked the water pressure and our main was too high (and had been, this wasn't just a spike). They wanted $90 to even come see what was leaking before we knew about the pressure. Then another $1400 to install an expansion tank and Pressure reducer valve (I totally get paying for this, its a new service/product, but the price is much higher than local quotes so I mention it). I put that on hold to talk to some local plumbers to see what they would charge, and come to learn, they installed the water heater wrong in the first place. The auto-shut off valve is in between our vacuum relief valve and our heater, completely isolating the vacuum relief in the exact situations you need it...a draining or siphoned heater. They want another $90 to come back and "look at it" to decide if they will fix the install they messed up just a few weeks ago. At this point I would rather pay full price to a new plumber to come in and fix their egregious mistakes and make sure my home is properly plumbed."
Sean A on June 2025
For over 30 years, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has provided the highest quality, efficiency and reliability to customers. Celebrating thousands of five-star reviews online and an A+ Rating on BBB for years, the company has become the North Shore’s most trusted and consistent plumber, heating and air conditioning, and electrical service company. The company takes pride in the title as a Diamond Elite Contractor with Mitsubishi Electric and being selected into the National Grid VPI Program. Finally, a company that picks up the phone every time 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 price you were quoted with customized options for what's best for your home in the long-term. 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric specializes in Installation, Service, and Repair for Boilers, Furnaces, Air Conditioners and HVAC Systems, Tankless Water Heaters, Ductless Mini-Splits and Plumbing. Worried about the cost of your next project? We have options to help you get your repairs on the way! Unfortunately, emergencies don’t wait until you have all of your financial ducts in a row.
"DO NOT USE 128 PLUMBING We have had a lot of work done on our house since moving in a few years ago and have worked with countless plumbers, contractors, electricians, etc. Everyone does the job a little different but they do what you pay them to do, and generally do it well. 128 Plumbing is the absolute exception. We have had them out 3 times now, and need a 4th but are going to foot the bill with a new plumber just to keep them from messing up anything else. We hired them to replace our water heater, simple enough. It was pricey and they did up sell on some expensive add-ons but nothing beyond what most in the area charge. Day of install, no one shows up in the assigned window. We call after another 2 hours go by and they said they forgot we were on the schedule...? After we insist they need to come as we have no hot water and I took off work, 2 disgruntled guys show up at the end of the day. The two guys that came were completely unaware of the PEX system in our basement. They only know pro-press. Fine, use what you know, but to not even "know of" the other connection types and systems out there? How exactly did they complete apprenticing without learning that? Then they were careless and decided to balance our old heavy water heater on our new vinyl picket fence instead of walking 10 extra feet to use the gate, breaking our fence. They also didn't finish installing the $800 leak shut off valve, and just left it turned off and unplugged - luckily I noticed, plugged it in, and got it setup online. They would rather mess with each other and get out of there, than actually do their job. A few weeks later, the valve triggers, our new tank was leaking. They never checked the water pressure and our main was too high (and had been, this wasn't just a spike). They wanted $90 to even come see what was leaking before we knew about the pressure. Then another $1400 to install an expansion tank and Pressure reducer valve (I totally get paying for this, its a new service/product, but the price is much higher than local quotes so I mention it). I put that on hold to talk to some local plumbers to see what they would charge, and come to learn, they installed the water heater wrong in the first place. The auto-shut off valve is in between our vacuum relief valve and our heater, completely isolating the vacuum relief in the exact situations you need it...a draining or siphoned heater. They want another $90 to come back and "look at it" to decide if they will fix the install they messed up just a few weeks ago. At this point I would rather pay full price to a new plumber to come in and fix their egregious mistakes and make sure my home is properly plumbed."
Sean A on June 2025
The main drawbacks of lightning protection systems are upkeep and appearance. The system needs routine cleaning and professional inspections; skip them, and the rods might fail when you need them most. Over time, those visits add a little extra cost and effort. Some homeowners also dislike the look of metal rods or cables along the roofline. If aesthetics worry you, ask your installer about lower-profile hardware or ways to blend the components into your roof.
No, the copper in lightning rods does not attract lightning. Instead, lightning targets the highest nearby point, not the metal itself. Copper is simply a superior conductor, which is why pros use it. When a bolt hits the rod, the copper safely channels the charge through the grounding cable and into the earth, sparing your home. Choosing copper doesn’t draw more strikes—it just handles them better.
Rod count depends on your home’s size and the system you choose. A 3,000-square-foot house needs six to eight copper or aluminum rods for full coverage, while a single ESE air terminal often protects the same area on its own. A UL-certified pro can measure your roof, spot potential strike points, and recommend the right number for complete peace of mind.
Always hire an Underwriters Laboratories-certified installer. A UL-certified pro follows the Lightning Protection Institute’s strict rules, mounts each rod securely, and uses only UL-listed parts. Professional installation protects you from falls, wiring mistakes, and code violations, and it ensures the system works exactly as designed when the next storm rolls through.