Frequently Asked Questions

Frozen pipe repair involves carefully thawing the pipe using specialized heating tools while checking for cracks or bursts that occurred during freezing. In Derry, NH winters, acting quickly prevents water damage once pipes thaw. At American Home Services, we provide 24/7 emergency frozen pipe repairs to protect your home.

Schedule HVAC maintenance twice yearly—spring for cooling systems and fall for heating systems. This timing prepares your equipment for peak demand during New Hampshire's hot summers and cold winters. Regular maintenance extends system life and prevents unexpected breakdowns during extreme weather.

Water softeners remove calcium and magnesium that cause hardness and scale buildup, while iron filters specifically target iron content that stains fixtures and causes rusty water. Many New Hampshire homes need both systems. At American Home Services, we offer free water testing to determine which filtration solution your home needs.

A whole home generator installation typically takes one to two days, including electrical panel connections, gas line hookups, and system testing. Installation time varies based on your property's existing electrical infrastructure. As an authorized Generac dealer, American Home Services handles all installation steps for reliable backup power.

Panel upgrade costs depend on your current amperage, desired capacity (typically 100 to 200 amps), panel location accessibility, and necessary permit fees. Homes adding EV chargers or major appliances often require upgrades. The complexity of rewiring connections to the new panel also impacts pricing.

Water well pumps should be inspected annually to check pressure levels, electrical connections, and pump performance. Regular maintenance prevents unexpected failures that leave homes without water. At American Home Services, we recommend scheduling well pump service before peak usage seasons to ensure reliable operation.

Most garages can accommodate EV charger installations, but your electrical panel must have sufficient amperage capacity and available circuit space. Level 2 chargers typically require 240-volt circuits. At American Home Services, we assess your electrical system and perform any necessary panel upgrades during installation.

Acid neutralizers raise pH levels in acidic well water, preventing corrosion of pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Low pH water common in New Hampshire can cause blue-green staining and premature plumbing failure. Neutralizing systems protect your home's entire water infrastructure and extend equipment lifespan.

Older homes often have galvanized or cast iron pipes that corrode and narrow over time, catching debris more easily. Tree root intrusion and outdated drain designs also contribute to frequent clogs. Professional drain cleaning removes buildup and identifies whether pipe replacement is needed to prevent recurring issues.

Neglecting regular filter changes is the most common mistake, forcing systems to work harder and reducing efficiency. Dirty filters restrict airflow, increase energy costs, and shorten equipment life. At American Home Services, our maintenance plans include filter service and comprehensive system checks to prevent costly breakdowns.

Portable generators require manual setup, fuel refilling, and power only essential circuits through extension cords, while whole home generators automatically activate during outages and power your entire house. Whole home systems connect to natural gas or propane for uninterrupted operation. Authorized Generac installations provide seamless backup power.

Replace well tanks when they show significant rust, structural damage, or bladder failure that causes constant pump cycling. Tanks over 15 years old with frequent pressure problems typically need replacement rather than repair. At American Home Services, we assess tank condition during maintenance visits and recommend replacement when repairs are no longer cost-effective.