Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
Trusted Plumbers in New Hampshire, Southern Maine & Northern Massachusetts
What towns in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts do you serve?
We provide plumbing and heating services in New Hampshire, Southern Maine, and Northern Massachusetts, including:
New Hampshire: Dover, Portsmouth, Rochester, Exeter, Hampton, Salem, and more.
Southern Maine: Kittery, York, Berwick, and nearby coastal towns.
Northern Massachusetts: Amesbury, Newburyport, Haverhill, Salisbury, Andover, North Andover, and surrounding areas.
Not sure if we cover your location? Give us a call—we’re happy to help.
How much does a plumber cost in NH, MA, and ME?
Plumbing costs depend on the scope of the job. For larger projects such as boilers, kitchen and bath remodeling, and other major services, we start with a free estimate. We pride ourselves on fair, transparent pricing—so there are no surprises.
Why is Boucher & Sons considered one of the best plumbing companies in the area?
We’re known for:
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Fast, dependable service.
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Expert technicians.
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Family-owned values.
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Top reviews from homeowners in NH, ME, and MA.
If you need help with plumbing or heating, get in touch with us today—we’d be happy to show you why so many customers trust Boucher & Sons.
Do you install energy-efficient heating and plumbing systems?
Absolutely. We specialize in:
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Tankless water heaters.
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Radiant floor heat.
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High-efficiency boilers.
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Smart heating solutions.
These are perfect for reducing utility bills and increasing comfort in New England homes. Contact us today to discuss the best energy-efficient options for your home and get a free estimate.
Do you offer plumbing inspections for home buyers in New Hampshire, Maine, or Massachusetts?
Yes, we do! Our pre-purchase plumbing inspections help buyers feel confident in their investment and identify potential problems before closing. Contact us to schedule your inspection and get peace of mind before you buy.
Is Boucher & Sons a licensed and insured plumbing company in NH, MA, and ME?
Yes—we are fully licensed and insured in all three states. You can feel confident knowing your home is in expert, compliant hands.
Can I get financing for plumbing or heating repairs in NH, ME, or MA?
Yes! We offer financing options and payment plans for larger projects like new heating system installs or water filtration upgrades. To learn more or apply, contact our team today—we’ll walk you through the options and help find the plan that works best for your budget.
Do you service both residential and commercial properties?
We serve residential homes—including historic New England houses, new builds, vacation homes, and multi-family properties. We also take on commercial projects—reach out to discuss yours.
How do I get a free plumbing estimate in New Hampshire, Maine, or Massachusetts?
It’s easy: fill out our contact form or give us a call to schedule your free estimate.
Plumbing Service FAQs
Plumbing Services in New Hampshire, Maine & Massachusetts
What plumbing services does Boucher & Sons provide?
We offer full-service plumbing including:
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Leak detection & pipe repair.
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Fixture installation (sinks, toilets, faucets).
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New construction plumbing.
Contact us today to book a service or request a free estimate.
Can you fix a burst pipe or frozen plumbing?
Yes! We specialize in cold-weather plumbing problems, including frozen pipe repair, thawing, and replacement. Contact us right away if you’re dealing with frozen pipes—we’ll respond quickly to prevent further damage.
How do I know if I need a plumber?
If you’re dealing with low water pressure, unusual smells, noisy pipes, or unexplained spikes in your water bill, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. Contact us today to schedule a visit and get the problem fixed before it gets worse.
Do you offer bathroom or kitchen plumbing remodels?
We do! Whether you’re upgrading a shower, re-piping a kitchen, or remodeling a whole bathroom, we can help plan and install everything you need.
Heating & Boiler Service FAQs
Home Heating Services in NH, ME & MA
What types of heating systems do you service?
We repair and install:
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Boilers.
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Radiant heat systems.
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Baseboard heating.
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High-efficiency models.
Contact us today to schedule service or request a free estimate for your heating system needs.
Why is my heat not working?
Common causes include:
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Faulty thermostats.
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Ignition/pilot issues.
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Blower motor failure.
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Low water pressure in boilers.
If your heating system isn’t working properly, contact us today—we’ll diagnose the issue and get it running efficiently again.
What are the most common signs of a failing boiler?
The most common sign homeowners notice is water on the floor around the boiler. We also pay attention to the age of the equipment, rising fuel costs, and situations where replacement parts are becoming difficult to find.
Is it worth repairing an older boiler?
It depends on the condition of the boiler. We aren’t going to recommend replacement if the boiler still has plenty of life left and the issue can be repaired. If the problem is related to controls, piping, or other components, we can often make repairs and keep the system operating properly.
Why shouldn't I wait until my boiler completely fails?
When a boiler fails during the winter, it becomes an emergency situation. There may be concerns about the house freezing or losing heat during extremely cold weather. Replacing a boiler before it reaches that point gives everyone more time to plan and make informed decisions.
What affects the cost of a boiler replacement?
The biggest factors are the type of equipment selected and the size of the boiler required for the home. Proper sizing depends on factors like the size of the house and the amount of radiation throughout the heating system.
Why are boiler replacements more expensive than they used to be?
Many homeowners experience sticker shock because their last boiler replacement may have been 20 years ago. Like many products today, heating equipment and installation costs have increased significantly over time.
What's the difference between hydronic heating and forced hot air?
Hydronic heating uses hot water, while forced hot air systems use ductwork to move heated air throughout the home. We primarily work with hydronic systems, including baseboard heat, radiators, and radiant heating.
What heating emergencies do you see most often during winter?
The most common winter emergencies we respond to are equipment failures and freezing-related issues. These situations often occur during the coldest periods of the year, which is why proactive maintenance and planning are so important.
How can I extend the life of my boiler?
We strongly recommend annual service. Regular maintenance helps identify issues before they become major problems and can significantly extend the lifespan of heating equipment.
What should I look for when choosing a boiler contractor?
We recommend asking about the materials being used, the installation process, permits, licensing, and customer reviews. It’s also important to understand exactly what is included in the proposal before making a decision.
What is your philosophy when it comes to customer service?
Our philosophy is simple: do the job right, answer the phone, and make things right if something goes wrong. We believe communication matters, and we follow up with customers after installations to make sure everything is working properly and to answer any questions they may have.
How do I know if my boiler needs to be replaced instead of repaired?
The best choice depends on the condition, age, and efficiency of your system. One of the first things we look for is whether the boiler is leaking. If water is coming from the cast iron sections, replacement is often the most practical solution. We also consider the age of the equipment, as most cast iron boilers have an expected lifespan of around 20 years.
If your furnace or boiler is more than 15–20 years old, requires frequent repairs, or is causing unusually high energy bills, replacement may be more cost-effective than continuing to repair it. Our team can inspect your system, explain your options, and provide honest recommendations to help you choose the best solution for your home. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.
How much does it cost to replace a heating system in New Hampshire?
Costs vary depending on system type and size, but Boucher & Sons provides detailed estimates and financing options. Contact us today to discuss your needs and get a personalized quote.
How long does a boiler typically last?
In our experience, a cast iron boiler typically lasts around 20 years. Some systems may last longer, but once a boiler reaches that age, we usually recommend evaluating whether replacement makes more sense than continued repairs.
When is the best time of year to replace a boiler?
We recommend replacing boilers during the spring, summer, or fall whenever possible. Planning ahead allows us to schedule the work without the pressure of a heating emergency and helps homeowners avoid being without heat during the winter.
How long does a boiler replacement take?
Most boiler replacement projects take one to two days. Every home is different, but homeowners are often surprised by how quickly a properly planned replacement can be completed.
What is hydronic heating?
Hydronic heating uses hot water to heat the home. The heated water circulates through baseboards, radiators, or radiant heating systems to provide consistent, comfortable heat throughout the house.
What are the benefits of hydronic heating?
One of the biggest benefits is the even heat it provides. Since it doesn’t rely on blowing air through ductwork, it also doesn’t circulate dust, allergens, and other particles throughout the home the way forced hot air systems can.
Can a new boiler help lower my heating costs?
In many cases, yes. We’ve worked with homeowners who saw significant reductions in fuel consumption after replacing older systems. One customer even cut fuel costs in half after we installed a new heating system.
What can I do to improve my heating system's efficiency?
The biggest improvement usually comes from upgrading older equipment. If your boiler is aging or becoming less efficient, replacing it may provide noticeable improvements in performance and fuel usage.
What warning signs should I never ignore with my heating system?
Leaks and unusually high fuel costs are two of the biggest warning signs we see. If you notice either of these issues, it’s a good idea to have the system evaluated before a larger problem develops.
Why does installation quality matter so much?
There are many ways to install and pipe a boiler system. We believe installation should focus on efficiency, comfort, and long-term reliability rather than simply getting the system running. Proper installation can make a significant difference in how the system performs over time.
Water Heater FAQs
Water Heater Installation & Repair in NH, ME & MA
What types of water heaters do you install?
We install:
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Standard tank water heaters.
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Tankless (on-demand) systems.
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High-efficiency gas and electric models.
Contact us today to learn more or request a free estimate for your water heater installation.
How long does a water heater last?
Traditional tank units last approximately 8–12 years. Tankless units can last 15+ years with proper maintenance .Contact us today to schedule maintenance or discuss replacement options.
Why is my water not getting hot?
It could be a thermostat issue, sediment buildup, or a failing heating element. Boucher & Sons can diagnose and fix it fast.
Do you offer water heater maintenance?
Yes! We offer annual flushing, pressure valve checks, and performance inspections to extend the life of your unit.
Water Filter FAQs
Home Water Filtration in NH, ME & MA
How do I know if I need a water filter?
Signs include:
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Bad taste or odor in tap water.
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Hard water buildup.
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Cloudiness or sediment in water.
If you’re noticing any of these issues, contact us today—we’ll test your water and recommend the right filtration solution.
How often do I need to replace water filters?
This depends on water quality and filter type. We’ll recommend a schedule based on your system.
Do you install whole-home water filtration systems?
Yes—we install point-of-entry filtration, reverse osmosis systems, and carbon filters that treat all the water in your home.
Gas Piping FAQs
Gas Line Installation & Repair in NH, ME & MA
Can you install or repair a gas line in my home?
Yes. We safely install and repair gas lines for appliances, stoves, fireplaces, grills, and more. Contact us today to schedule service or request a free estimate.
Do I need permits for a new gas line?
In most cases, yes—but we handle all the permits and inspections for you.
What are the signs of a gas leak?
A “rotten egg” smell, hissing noises, or dying plants near your gas line could signal a leak. Leave your home immediately and call your utility company, then us.
Can you convert my home from oil to gas heat?
We can! We’ll walk you through the conversion process and provide a detailed estimate.
Radiant Heat FAQs
Radiant Heating Installation in NH, ME & MA
What is radiant floor heating?
Radiant heating uses heated water running through tubes beneath your floor to warm your home evenly—no vents, no drafts. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an installation for your home.
Is radiant heat energy-efficient?
Very. It uses less energy than forced air because it heats objects, not just air, and runs at lower temperatures. Contact us today to learn more about energy-efficient heating options for your home.
Can I add radiant heat to an existing home?
Yes, radiant can often be retrofitted—especially during remodels or when replacing flooring. Contact us today to see if your home is a good candidate and get a free estimate.
What maintenance does radiant heat require?
Radiant systems are low-maintenance. We recommend periodic checks of the boiler and circulation pump. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance visit and keep your system running efficiently.
