FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions about plumbing services, heating and air conditioning services, electrical services, home services and more from GEM Plumbing and Heating.
About Gem
Not all companies guarantee true 24/7 emergency service, superior workmanship and parts, licensed and insured experts, and courteous support from uniformed professionals. Whether you are in need of a tuneup or are ready to replace your entire HVAC system, GEM is ready to help. Our licensed, highly skilled technicians are equipped with the latest tools, technologies, and knowledge to do the best work for you. Call GEM today to schedule an estimate or book your next service appointment at (833) 222-2953.
On the day of your scheduled appointment, you will receive a call 30 to 45 minutes before the technician gets to your house. If you aren’t able to be home during the appointment or wish to cancel, simply give us a call. During the appointment your GEM technician will diagnose the issue and give you the costs before performing any work. Our GEM technicians will always clean up after an installation or a repair, leaving your house as clean as it was when they came in. Once we complete the work you can pay by check or credit card. If you are the owner authorizing work for a rental property, call us to set up the best payment option for you.
GEM Plumbing & Heating is proud to be committed to the fight against breast cancer. As the Founding Sponsor of the Gloria GEMma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, GEM supports breast cancer education, awareness, and funding for critical breast health programs in our local community. GEM’s donations, a combination of cash and in-kind, are made through the Gloria GEMma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, a 501 © 3 tax exempt organization which was established by the GEMma Family in memory of matriarch Gloria GEMma, who lost her fight with breast cancer in 2002.
GEM is committed to continuing to develop the training and tradecraft of our highly skilled technicians, and to nurturing and developing new tradesmen and women, particularly those from disadvantaged communities. In addition to continuing education opportunities, GEM runs the GEM Institute, which provides a mix of code theory and hands on training. The goal of the GEM Institute is to provide an in-depth “real world” education to our employees and trainees. We hold our students to the highest of standards. We provide training on state-of-the-art, cutting-edge equipment, tools, and techniques.The GEM Institute is a state-recognized apprenticeship program. We provide employee tuition reimbursement, as well as career specific certifications.
Plumbing Services
From drain cleaning to leaky pipes, we take our mission to provide the best plumbing service seriously.
Plumbing
Signs of a leaking toilet include, noises, water on the bathroom floor, uneven floor tiles, and moldy or sewer gas smells. If you spot a serious leak, turn off the water supply to that appliance or to your home and call GEM to resolve the issue.
Plumbing maintenance includes inspection, hydro jetting, and winterization services. During an inspection, GEM will check that all your valves and shut off are functioning properly, and identify any leaks or other small problems before they become major issues. GEM uses valve tagging, attaching elastic tags to your valves to identify and label each of them. This method quickly indicates the use of each valve – for example, which ones shut off the water through the house. Hydro jetting involves advanced drain cleaning technology that uses a jet machine and water pressure to remove any roots and debris or buildup from your drains. Winterization Services will help ensure any outdoor spigots are emptied and turned off before the first deep freeze of the year.
A professionally trained and skilled technician inserts a flexible rod with a high-resolution video camera on its tip into pipes from 2 inches to 36 inches in diameter. The flexible rod allows the camera to travel through the pipe – even going around corners. The camera transmits what it’s seeing in real-time back to the technician, allowing the technician to identify any potential leaks, cracks, or clogs. If your pipe has been penetrated by roots, is misaligned, broken, punctured, off-grade or corroded, our HD camera will see it all.
Signs of a leaking faucet are drips, rust or water puddles, a higher average water bill, squeaky faucets, and mold or rotten food smells.
If there is a flood in your home, turn off the water supply to your home and call GEM to resolve the issue.
Pipes
There are several steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing. Open a faucet and allow a very small trickle of cold water to run – this helps keep the water moving in your pipes and prevent a freeze. Keep warm air circulating around your pipes. Consider opening the doors to the under-sink cabinet to promote the flow of warm air. Place a small fan near your pipes and cabinets to keep air moving. Make sure basement doors, windows, and crawl spaces are properly sealed and insulated. Insulate your external and/or exposed pipes further to protect them from the elements. Drain out your sprinkler system before the winter season, and make sure you disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses and water spigots. Seal and insulate your attic, and consider replacing drafty windows and doors. In colder areas of your home, consider installing storm windows and/or protective plastic covers.
Signs of a leaking faucet include drips, rust or water puddles, higher water bill, squeaky faucets, and mold or rotten food smells. Signs of a leaking toilet include noises, mysterious water on the bathroom floor, uneven floor tiles, and moldy or sewer gas smells. Signs of a leaking water heater include small puddles or excess moisture near the water heater tank, raised floor tiles or uneven flooring near the base of the water heater, noises like dripping water or unusual sounds from the water heater, and a lack of hot water or a restricted supply. If you have a serious leak, turn off the water supply to that appliance or to your home until a plumber can come to resolve the issue. Call GEM today at (833) 222-2953.
Constantly running water or dripping can cause costly water damage and require expensive repairs, in addition to driving up your water bills! What’s more, leaks can lead to pipe or fixture corrosion over time, resulting in serious damage to your plumbing system. While leaks can often go unnoticed for weeks, it’s very important that you get leaks taken care of as soon as possible. GEM’s expert plumbers are here to help resolve any of your plumbing issues, including leaks and drips.
For pipes that you are exposed, such as those under sinks, you may be able to see frost accumulate on the exterior of the pipe. This is often a warning sign that the pipe is frozen. If you turn on the faucet and no water comes out, this could be a sign that your pipe is frozen.
If frozen pipes burst, they can cause an extremely expensive home disaster. Just one burst pipe in a home can do tens of thousands of dollars of damage in minutes. Bursts occur when the water cools several degrees below freezing in the pipe, causing ice to form. This can result in pressure building up in excess of 3000 PSI, which can split the pipe and lead to eventual water damage once the water is thawed. If you suspect your pipes are in danger of freezing or burst, call GEM Plumbing immediately at (833) 222-2953.
Water Quality
Water filtration can provide better tasting and better smelling drinking water by removing chlorine, chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and bacterial contaminants. Drinking pure water is especially important for children, whose immune systems are still developing. Filtration captures contaminants, particulates, sediments, bacteria, and salt to provide your home or business with clean water.
Water filtration can provide better tasting and better smelling drinking water by removing chlorine, chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and bacterial contaminants. Drinking pure water is especially important for children, whose immune systems are still developing. Filtration captures contaminants, particulates, sediments, bacteria, and salt to provide your home or business with clean water. GEM specializes in two types of water filtration systems – activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters. Activated carbon filters use a bed of activated carbon (similar to the charcoal you’d use to barbecue!) to remove contaminants and impurities. Each little speck of carbon provides a lot of surface area with small pores that suck up contaminants while letting the water pass through. Reverse osmosis filters use pressure to push water through a filter (a “semipermeable membrane”) that allows the water molecules through while trapping the contaminants on the far side. Ready to install a water filter? Call GEM Plumbing today at (833) 222-2953. We can install whole-house filters or filters just at specific faucets.
GEM specializes in two types of water filtration systems – activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters. Activated carbon filters use a bed of activated carbon (similar to the charcoal you’d use to barbecue!) to remove contaminants and impurities. Each little speck of carbon provides a lot of surface area with small pores that suck up contaminants while letting the water pass through. Reverse osmosis filters use pressure to push water through a filter (a “semipermeable membrane”) that allows the water molecules through while trapping the contaminants on the far side. Ready to install a water filter? Call GEM Plumbing today at (833) 222-2953. We can install whole-house filters or filters just at specific faucets.
Water quality concerns your health and the health of your family. There are several reasons why you might want to have your water tested. In addition to illness, a variety of less serious problems such as taste, color, odor, and staining of clothes or fixtures are signs of possible water quality problems. Other things to think about include how close your water source is to septic systems, and the composition of your home’s plumbing materials.
Most water systems test for lead as a regular part of water monitoring. These tests do not reflect conditions at a specific household faucet. If you want to know if your home’s drinking water contains unsafe levels of lead, have your water tested. Testing is the only way to confirm if lead is present or absent. GEM offers free Water Quality testing with many of our plumbing services. You can also request a copy of your local water utility’s annual water quality report to find out which concerning contaminants may be in your local water. These reports are provided through the Environmental Protection Agency.
In places like New England, we have what’s called “hard water”. Water often contains a lot of hard minerals, which can create buildup. This causes damage to our pipes and plumbing fixtures over time. Water softeners soften the water by removing hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium. They are replaced with softer minerals like sodium or potassium. Soft water can also make your hair and skin look and feel healthier as it causes less dryness than hard water. Water softeners also work to eliminate hard water scales inside pipes and appliances by reducing hard calcium and magnesium that can results in clogs and corrosion. Soft water can also eliminate “soap scum” left behind when cleaning with hard water. If you’d like to repair, replace, or install a water softener in your home, GEM Plumbing is here to help. Call us at (833) 222-2953.
Water filtration can provide better tasting and better smelling drinking water by removing chlorine, chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and bacterial contaminants. Drinking pure water is especially important for children, whose immune systems are still developing. Water that comes from our utilities often contains a lot of hard minerals, which can create buildup and cause damage to our pipes and plumbing fixtures over time. Water softeners soften the water by removing minerals hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium and replacing them with a softer mineral like sodium or potassium.
If rusty water is coming out of your faucet, it’s likely that either the inside of your water heater tank or the inside of your pipes has corroded and needs to be replaced.
Water Heater
Your water heater or boiler may be leaking if you notice small puddles or excess moisture near the water heater tank, raised floor tiles or uneven flooring near the base of the water heater, dripping water or unusual sounds from the water heater, a lack of hot water or an abnormally restricted supply of hot water. If you spot a serious leak, turn off the water supply to that appliance or to your home and call GEM to resolve the issue.
Conventional water heaters store water in a large tank and heat the water in the tank using electric, gas, or oil-based energy. High-efficiency models can reduce water heating bills by as much as 7 percent. Tankless water heaters only heat water when it’s needed, providing unlimited access to instant hot water. One can shower, do laundry, and wash dishes at the same time without worrying about running out of hot water. Tankless water heaters may reduce water heating bills by as much as 30%, and take up significantly less space in your home or business. Hybrid water heaters combine the conventional tank storage style with a heat pump and use existing water and electrical connections. These systems replenish your hot water supply much more quickly than a conventional water heater, but still maintain a storage tank of hot water. Hybrid water heaters can reduce water heating costs by as much as 60 percent!
Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater tank and harden from being heated and reheated each day. The noise is caused by the sediment banging around as it heats up. Because of the sediment, your water heater will need more gas or electricity to heat up. Eventually, the additional time that it takes to heat the water will cause the tank to wear, which causes the metal to become brittle. Once this occurs, tiny holes and cracks can develop.
Your water heater may be leaking if you notice small puddles or excess moisture near the water heater tank, raised floor tiles or uneven flooring near the base of the water heater, dripping water or unusual sounds from the water heater, a lack of hot water or an abnormally restricted supply of hot water. If you spot a serious leak, turn off the water supply to that appliance or to your home and call GEM to resolve the issue. Call GEM today at (833) 222-2953.
Water filtration can provide better tasting and better smelling drinking water by removing chlorine, chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and bacterial contaminants. Drinking pure water is especially important for children, whose immune systems are still developing. Water that comes from our utilities often contains a lot of hard minerals, which can create buildup and cause damage to our pipes and plumbing fixtures over time. Water softeners soften the water by removing minerals hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium and replacing them with a softer mineral like sodium or potassium.
If rusty water is coming out of your faucet, it’s likely that either the inside of your water heater tank or the inside of your pipes has corroded and needs to be replaced.
Drains
If your drain is clogged, try these steps to resolve the issue. Turn on the faucet and fill the sink partly with water. If you have a double kitchen sink, plug one of the drains with a wet rag. If you’re trying to unclog the bathtub, plug the overflow hole with a wet rag. Next, use a cup plunger to plunge the open drain. Work the plunger up and down several times, then pull it off. Repeat this step a few times. If your drain is still clogged, call GEM Plumbing for professional help. Remember, never use chemical drain cleaners as they can be extremely harsh and cause corrosion to your pipes.
We recommend cleaning your bathroom, kitchen, and utility room drains at least once a year. Hair, soap scum, toothpaste, grime, toilet paper and other bathroom products can build up in your bathroom drain system and cause serious damage to your drains over time. With soaps, fats, grease and food all going down the drain in your kitchen sink, the inner walls of your kitchen pipes can easily get clogged, causing unwanted backup, even if you run your garbage disposal regularly. Dirt, debris, and other messes from daily life can clog up the floor drains in your basement, laundry room and/or utility room, leading to poor drainage and the potential for flooding.
For serious clogs in your sewer or drainage systems, GEM Plumbing uses High-Pressure Hydro Jetting to clear the line. These water lines can be long runs of 100 feet or more, underground, and inaccessible for snaking.
For serious clogs in your sewer or drainage systems, GEM Plumbing uses High-Pressure Hydro Jetting to clear the line. These water lines can be long runs of 100 feet or more, underground, and inaccessible for snaking. Hydro Jetting is a cutting edge drain cleaning service and the most effective method for drain cleaning available in the plumbing industry. This is the solution you need for tough clogs and dirty drains. The jetting technology uses water pressure and volume to clear our clogs and debris from household pipes. Compared to conventional snaking methods, Hydro Jetting is far more powerful and gives the best results. It also helps ensure that debris such as hair, soap residue, oil buildup, mineral deposits and more are permanently removed from your pipes.
Gas, Water, & Sewer Lines
GEM is an expert at installing and connecting water, gas, and sewer lines. Our technicians use Pipe Location technology to ensure that we are digging in the right place. GEM will work with the local utility to make sure your new service is connected and inspected. We’ll properly size the pipe for your home, pull all the required permits, and ensure your new system is up to code. GEM is a National Grid Value-Plus Installer (VPI), which means our technicians can connect your new gas appliance to your gas meter or propane tank.
GEM offers a complete range of top quality septic services including pumping, cleaning, design and installation of new septic systems, house trap removal, and septic system inspections and certifications. Homeowners can also count on GEM for all their Backflow Protection services. We install Sewer Backwater Valves and perform inspections every six months, or as required by code. If you think you may have a broken pipe or an unhealthy sewage leak under your property, don’t wait a moment longer to call on the team at GEM Plumbing. We fix cracked, deformed, and collapsed pipes in a fast and efficient manner. It’s not always easy to tell that a serious sewer problem has occurred, so call GEM Plumbing if you’re worried that you may have a problem.
Some common signs of a broken sewer pipe include strange gurgling noises coming from your toilet(s), lack of water in your toilet(s), slow draining or clogged bathtub, noticeable sewage backup in your toilet / tub, or sewer odor in your basement, yard, or other areas of your property. Sewer pipes may crack and burst for a number of reasons including, poor maintenance, buildup of hair and other debris, trees infiltrating sewer pipes, regular ground freezes and thaws, earthquakes or nearby earth movement, wear and tear from aging, poor pipe layout or design, or backup from a city’s sewer line.
A sewage ejector pump or sewage ejector system is used when a bathroom, laundry room or any other type of plumbing fixture is located below the grade of the main sewer or septic line. Sewage ejector pumps are meant to sit in a sump basic that is cut and dug into the ground below grade.
A sump pump is triggered by a float switch, which is set off when the water reaches a pre-set level. Once it reaches this level, the sump pump begins to remove water into a nearby storm drain, outdoor area, or well. There are two types of sump pumps – pedestal pumps are mounted above the sump pit, providing convenient access to service and periodic testing, whereas submersible pumps sit in the sump pit (or well) and out of sight. Regular testing of sump pumps is important to make sure your sump pump will work properly during the next big rainstorm. Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit and watch to see if it removes the water before shutting off.
Sump pumps are pivotal during heavy rainstorms or overflowing water from some type of plumbing issue. For example, when it rains, groundwater around your house’s foundation will be guided into a bordering drain system. From there, the water flow is directed into pipes and diverted to the sump pit, well, and sump pump for collection or elimination. In most cases, your sump pump will be hardwired to your electrical system or possibly plugged into a wall outlet. Because these power sources can often fail in a storm when water damage occurs, sump pumps are typically equipped with battery backup power.
Like most plumbing, well pumps are out of sight and out of mind – at least until something goes wrong! Depending on the severity of the problem, you may need to consider replacing your system instead of repairing it. If your water is dirty, your pump is making unusual noises, or you’re getting more air than water when you turn on your faucets. It may be time to replace your pump. Another sign that your pump could be at the end of its useful life is your electricity bill – if your bill has spiked dramatically, your pump may be running continuously to try to maintain water pressure in your home.
Septic Systems
A septic system is essentially a large holding tank designed to hold human biological waste material. Bacteria can break the waste down into three components – gases, water, and solids. Over time, the gases and water are eliminated from the tank. Gases are vented out and the treated liquids are distributed via tubes into a nearby leach field. The remaining solids must be periodically removed from the tank by pumping. We recommend having your tank pumped by a professional every 2-4 years.
Septic tank backups can lead to more wide-ranging problems than a sink backup or toilet clog. These issues should be handled quickly by an experienced plumber. Ideally, issues should be addressed at the “slow drain” stage before complete stoppage. This can prevent system-wide problems in and around your home. Septic backup could lead to big costs to fix any property damage and contamination, including potential environmental cleanup.
Kitchen & Bath Remodels
When it’s time to add plumbing services to your kitchen, bath, laundry, utility areas, or outdoor spigots, GEM will install new fixtures and faucets or upgrade existing hardware. Our expertise helps you navigate the latest plumbing technologies and equipment for all your remodel needs, like the newest body jets for your shower or electronic faucets in your kitchen. GEM Plumbing can also help you upgrade existing fixtures, like eliminating faucet drips or switching to a low-flow toilet, faucet, or shower head that conserves water and helps lower your water bill. GEM is familiar with the best installation practices for all major brands of residential plumbing equipment, and plumbing installations and upgrades are our specialty at GEM. Our skilled plumbing professionals will efficiently install your new equipment and configure it to work flawlessly with your existing plumbing and sewer systems. GEM’s expert plumbers can evaluate your current plumbing needs and make recommendations for all your remodel ideas. Our plumbers pride themselves on fast and accurate work, done right the first time.
Garbage Disposals
There may be a problem if you notice your disposal won’t grind properly even though the motor keeps humming, noises are noticeably louder than usual, your disposal will start to run but shut off before you turn it off, leaks and puddles form below the disposal, or water pools in the sink area.
If you’re having trouble with your garbage disposal, there are a few steps you can try before calling GEM Plumbing. First, try pushing your garbage disposal reset button. This is typically a small red button on the bottom of your disposal underneath your sink. Check the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions for your model. Unplug your garbage disposal or, if it’s hard-wired, turn off the electrical circuit that powers your garbage disposal. Plug the disposal back into the outlet or turn the electrical circuit back on to see if that fixes your problem. If your disposal still doesn’t work, unplug it from the wall and/or turn off the electrical circuit again. Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of your disposal for items that may have jammed or clogged your disposal. While the disposal is unplugged, you may reach your hand in to try to remove the item that’s jammed or clogged it. If none of these resolve your garbage disposal problem, call GEM Plumbing at (833) 222-2953 – we’d be happy to help!
There are steps you can take to help prevent clogs or damage to your disposal. Don’t put starchy, stringy, or sticky foods down your disposal. These include potato peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds. Keep your disposal smelling fresh by regularly feeding it pieces of lemon peel or ice cubes. Try treating your disposal with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar – mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar, pour down the disposal, let sit until foaming stops, then rinse down the drain.
Heating & Cooling Services
When it comes to your comfort – and your energy bills – your heating and cooling systems have the greatest impact. Whether you need a system upgrade, installation, repair, or inspection, our highly-skilled, multi-licensed HVAC specialists are here to serve southern New England.
HVAC
Prices vary when it comes to new HVAC systems and it’s sometimes hard to choose on your own. We’ll be glad to have a GEM estimator help you make the best choice for your home. You can schedule a visit whenever it’s convenient for you.
AC tune-ups include a comprehensive cleaning of the condenser and evaporator coils, which increases efficiency (which lowers energy costs) and can reduce wear and tear on your system, and an evaluation of the coolant / refrigerant level to help maintain peak operating performance. We’ll top off your refrigerant, and Home Advocate members with cooling coverage receive their first 2 pounds or $200 of refrigerant included as part of their membership.
Furnace Tune-Ups include checking the vent system, flue, and air intake grills for leaks or blockages, examining the heat exchanger for signs of corrosion and cracks or separations, checking the blower and clean its components, lubricating all the moving parts to reduce friction and energy consumption, and checking that all electrical connections are tight and examine the wiring for signs of rust or corrosion. Boiler Tune-Ups include inspecting your boiler and controls to make sure they are operating safely, checking your boiler for corrosion or leaks, and removing the boiler casing to check the function of the main components.
GEM can install, repair or service Ductless Mini-Split Systems, Central Air Conditioning, Forced Air Systems & Furnaces, High Efficiency Heat Pumps, Thermostats, Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality, Boilers & Hot Water Heaters. Visit our HVAC page for all the information.
All HVAC equipment needs to be inspected, cleaned and serviced at least once a year. Our recommendation is to get your heating system checked in the Fall and your AC system checked in the Spring. Call us to schedule your next maintenance appointment!
Mini-split systems are designed to improve the comfort level in a particularly hot or cold room and there are many benefits. Ductless mini-splits are quiet, easy to install, energy efficient, and convenient. Because they take up less space in your home, there’s no noisy condenser right outside your window. Because they don’t require ductwork, mini-split systems are incredibly easy to install. All that’s needed is a 3-4 inch hole in your wall to connect the indoor and outdoor components. Traditional AC systems lose up to 50% of their cooling efficiency as cold air travels through the system. Because mini-split systems do not use ductwork, they are much more efficient. They only provide air in the desired rooms, so you don’t waste energy heating less-used areas. Freed from ductwork, you can install mini-split systems almost anywhere in your home. Mini-splits come with an anti-allergen filter and prevent the cross-flow of contaminated air. Because they can be controlled individually, you can have the exact temperature you want in each room. Call GEM today to inquire about adding a mini-split system to your home (833) 222-2953.
Common Air Conditioning Problems can result from improper operation, improper installation, inadequate maintenance, coolant leaks, electrical control failure, or sensor or drainage problems. There are a few things you can do to troubleshoot your problem. If your air conditioner is running, be sure to close all windows and outside doors. On particularly hot, sunny days, you may also want to close your blinds or curtains to help keep the sun out. Make sure you have enough coolant or refrigerant for your AC to work properly. When it’s humid or raining outside, check the condensate drain to make sure it is draining properly and not clogged. If you are experiencing problems with your air conditioning call GEM today at (833) 222-2953.
There are several ways to lower your energy bill. Install and set a programmable thermostat to help you save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs each year. Use a ceiling fan, which allows you to raise the thermostat up to four degrees without affecting your comfort. Insulate your attic and walls, taking care to seal cracks and openings to prevent warmer air from leaking into your home. Insulate and seal ducts to reduce cool air loss through the ducts. On hot days, consider using an outdoor grill instead of your oven. Install energy-efficient window coverings that let natural light in but prevent your house from heating up due to the sun. Buy a more efficient AC unit. Newer models can be 20-50% more efficient than older models. Use the bathroom and kitchen fans – these help remove heat and humidity from your home.
Is your furnace or boiler using ductwork and vents to heat and cool your home? Then you most likely have central air conditioning. Central Air Conditioning uses an outdoor condenser to move cool air through the ductwork in your home. Systems that can provide both heat and AC through your ducts and vents are also referred to as forced air systems.
High-efficiency heat pumps are an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners. They use electricity to move heat from a cool space to a warm space, making the cool space cooler and the warm space warmer. There are 3 types of heat pumps. Air-to-Air heat pumps transfer heat or cooling from the outside air. Water Source heat pumps transfer heat or cooling from a water source. Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat or cooling from the ground. High-efficiency systems are also great at dehumidifying your home, so you use less energy and get more cooling comfort in summer months. For homes without ducts, ductless air-source heat pumps are also available – ask for a mini-split heat pump.
High-efficiency heat pumps are an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners. They use electricity to move heat from a cool space to a warm space, making the cool space cooler and the warm space warmer. Heat pumps can cool your home as well as heat it by pumping heat out of your home in the summer and into it in the winter. Today’s high-efficiency systems can reduce your energy costs by nearly 50% compared to traditional furnaces and boilers.
Standard air conditioning compressors only operate at one speed, so no matter how much heating or cooling your home needs, your equipment is working as hard as it would during really hot or cold days. Heat pumps have two-speed compressors, so on moderate days, they don’t work as hard — or use as much energy — as traditional systems.
A heated cabling system prevents ice dams from forming on your gutters and roof as the seasons change. Ice dams often cause water buildup in your ceiling and walls that lead to major house damage. A heated cabling system is a good way to avoid major water damage and growth of mold and other bacteria.
Radiant heating is a system that circulates hot water below the floors of your home or business to help heat your space – and keep your toes from getting chilly in the cold winter months! The water is stored in a boiler and pushed into a plumbing manifold so that it can be properly circulated throughout your home floors.
Radiant heating has a number of benefits. Because it heats the floor and various surfaces in the room, objects won’t be cold to the touch and dry heat away from you. Unlike forced air, radiant heat doesn’t constantly cycle on and off, causing you to be too hot one minute and too cold the next. It also doesn’t dry out the air – or your skin. Radiant heat is draft free (because it’s not being pushed by air) and it typically results in less heat loss near windows and doors. Air inside your home will tend to be cleaner because your heating system isn’t blowing in dust and allergens.
Furnace
In the winter, furnaces heat air that is distributed through your home using the ducts in your walls – the air is “forced” through the ducts, which is why they call it a forced air system! If you’re thinking about putting in a new forced air system, consider how much you’re willing to spend and what your priorities are. different systems come with different trade offs, such as noise level, energy efficiency, comfort level, and overall convenience.
When the cold weather hits, we all know how important it is to have a working furnace. But sometimes, our furnaces face some troubles. If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, call GEM at (833) 222-2953 to get your furnace checked out: gas odor, no gas flame, the furnace does not feel warm enough, the furnace won’t turn on, the furnace cycles on and off often, your furnace does not blow air, or blows cold air. No matter the furnace issue, GEM’s team is here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Give GEM a call at (833) 222-2953 or book online to schedule your furnace repair today.
Many homes and businesses use hot water to supply heat through boilers or radiant heating systems. In the winter, furnaces heat air that is distributed through your home using the ducts in your walls – the air is “forced” through the ducts, which is why they call it a forced air system!
Boilers
Every home and business needs access to a reliable source of heat. Many homes and businesses use hot water to supply heat through boilers or radiant heating systems. If heating technologies were royalty, your boiler would be king. Studies estimate that boilers are responsible for about 60% of home energy use, so it’s important that your boiler is working as efficiently as possible. We recommend having it serviced at least once a year by a licensed technician such as GEM Plumbing. Our skilled technicians can make the checks and adjustments needed to ensure your system continues running efficiently. If your system uses oil as its fuel source, it needs to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a year.
We recommend having it serviced at least once a year by a licensed technician such as GEM Plumbing. Our skilled technicians can make the checks and adjustments needed to ensure your system continues running efficiently. If your system uses oil as its fuel source, it needs to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a year.
In between professional service calls, we also recommend that you help maintain your system by taking the following steps: check that the water level is not below the manufacturer’s suggested level, check for blocked air vents or flues, check the overflow pipe for dripping water, ensure there are no boxes, bags or other stored items in front of your boiler, and confirm that your pilot light shows a blue flame. If you note any issues in between service calls you can reach out to us have a skilled technician come and check it out.
You should consider replacing your boiler if you notice any of the following signs: your boiler needs frequent repairs, your fuel bills are higher than they used to be, you see yellow flames, or you have frequent leaks. Don’t wait for a complete breakdown to replace your boiler. Call GEM Plumbing today and let us help you determine the right timeline and options for replacing your boiler.
The flame of your pilot light should be blue if your boiler is functioning properly. If the flame is orange or yellow instead, call a technician – this may indicate a faulty system and is a warning sign of a potential carbon monoxide leak.
Many homes and businesses use hot water to supply heat through boilers or radiant heating systems. In the winter, furnaces heat air that is distributed through your home using the ducts in your walls – the air is “forced” through the ducts, which is why they call it a forced air system!
Your water heater or boiler may be leaking if you notice small puddles or excess moisture near the water heater tank, raised floor tiles or uneven flooring near the base of the water heater, dripping water or unusual sounds from the water heater, a lack of hot water or an abnormally restricted supply of hot water. If you spot a serious leak, turn off the water supply to that appliance or to your home and call GEM to resolve the issue.
Electrical Services
From replacing a light switch to designing a networking system, our electricians can handle it all.
Your electrical maintenance tune-up involves inspecting the main electrical panel as well as sub electrical panels for corrosion or burning on breakers, inspecting the furnace and A/C wiring making sure it is safe, testing lighting and devices including indoor lights, outdoor lights, switches and dimmers, inspecting basement wiring to spot any potential safety hazards, and testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working correctly.
Flickering lights can be caused by “inrush current,” which leads to a significant voltage drop. This means that when an appliance first turns on, it draws a great deal more current. If you have your electrical system updated, this flickering can be greatly reduced – and you could save significantly on your electricity bill. Other possible causes of flickering lights include a circuit connection that has become loose, a hard-starting motor in a large appliance, such as an air conditioner or a furnace, and a switch that has failed.
Yes, GEM can install new light fixtures for you. Schedule a service call and a licensed technician will take care of it.
Have you looked at LED lighting? This technology is more energy efficient than incandescent lighting, lasts much longer, has a smaller environmental impact and gives a better lighting quality. When you are ready for the switch, GEM will change your current incandescent lights to LED.
There are many reasons to consider switching to solar panels. Solar panels are energy efficient systems that can lower your carbon footprint and reduce our impact on the environment. GEM offers competitive pricing, paired with state and local rebate programs. We can help you decide if solar panels are right for your home and guide you through the whole process: system design, project and installation management, permits and code compliance, product selection, federal and state tax credits, state rebates, and more.
Unlike two-pronged outlets, three-pronged outlets connect your devices to a grounding wire. Grounding wires keep you safe by rerouting any excess electricity away from you and your devices. Upgrading to a three-pronged outlet will connect you to a grounding wire and help keep you safe.
It’s recommended that you update outlets in your kitchen and bathrooms to GFCI outlets. GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter outlets – the type that have the “test” and “reset” buttons. Installing GFCI outlets in your bathrooms, kitchens, or anywhere else near water ensures that electricity shuts off automatically when danger is detected. This reduces the risk of electricity flowing through something it shouldn’t, like water or a person.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least twice a year. Thoroughly inspect each detector device in your home every year. GEM can also help you set up a yearly visit schedule to test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, therefore ensuring they work properly and have battery back-up systems in case your power goes out.
GEM provides wiring services for HVAC & boiler control, audio / video / data, smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, ice dam prevention systems, swimming pools and spas, electrical car charging stations, and more.
The average lifespan of an electrical panel is 25 years. Overtime, water seeps in through outside wires, affecting the breakers within the panel. The right distribution of power through your house can be ensured by improving your system. Inspections ensure it is properly labeled and up to code. Inspections maximize its support to your appliances and home entertainment.
Smart Home Services
Our smart home expertise ranges across all services, and we are here to guide you through navigating the latest smart technology.
Your thermostat allows you to control when and at what temperatures air is moved through your home. New, high tech, smart thermostats offer a convenient way to automatically control temperatures in your home for optimal comfort and efficiency. Whether you want to control your thermostat from your smartphone, program custom heating and cooling schedules, or just want a digital thermostat that changes temperatures easily, we carry products from the top manufacturers like EcoBee, Lennox iComfort, Tekmar, Nest, and Honeywell.
Energy bills account for a large percentage of your utility bill, all year round – and a lot of your household’s energy bill is likely driven by your HVAC system. Upgrading your thermostat is a great way to reduce your energy cost without compromising your comfort. You can program your heating or cooling schedule, for instance keeping your home at one temperature while it’s empty and a more comfortable temperature when you’re home. This helps you save money on your energy bills, but keeps your home comfortable when it’s occupied. An upgraded thermostat also gives you more control over the temperature in your home, often from your smartphone – which means that if you forget to turn down the AC before you leave the house, you can do it remotely via Wi-Fi. Modern smart thermostats are also easier to use than older models because they come with lit LED touchscreens and digital controls. Plus, many older thermostats are not compatible with newly installed zoned HVAC systems.
Yes! GEM can install security cameras and smart locks. Other smart home services include smart doorbells, setting up your google home, 3-way light switches and dimmers, Wi-Fi garage openers, smart thermostats and touchless faucets. Call us today to book your next appointment!
There are many reasons to consider switching to solar panels. Solar panels are energy efficient systems that can lower your carbon footprint and reduce our impact on the environment. GEM offers competitive pricing, paired with state and local rebate programs. We can help you decide if solar panels are right for your home and guide you through the whole process: system design, project and installation management, permits and code compliance, product selection, federal and state tax credits, state rebates, and more.
Mechanical & Commercial Services
We build the infrastructure necessary for the future growth and success of the companies we serve in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Let us handle your service needs, so you can focus on running your business. Our experts are here to help with your commercial needs, whether it is an emergency or routine maintenance.
Our multiple Sheet Metal Fabrication shops enable us to custom build high-quality ductwork and other building materials to your exact specifications. This allows us to custom fit hardware, like ductwork, into an existing structure, saving our clients time and money on expensive structural alterations. If you are installing or renovating an HVAC system that requires ductwork, GEM is your one stop shop for everything you’ll need.
Variable Refrigerant Flow systems help you deliver just the right heating and cooling to each space in your facility, using the minimum amount of energy. VRF systems are incredibly efficient because they modulate the flow of refrigerant according to the exact needs of individual areas, using innovative inverter-scroll driven compressor technology. VRF systems are best for facilities with varying loads and varying exposures throughout the building. While installing a VRF system may be more expensive than a traditional AC system, VRF pays off by saving you as much as 50% on your energy costs over time.
GEM provides all of the following commercial HVAC-R services: Commercial Boiler / HVAC-R Service, Installation & Repair, Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps, HVAC Control Systems, Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality, Fire Protection, Sheet Metal Fabrication, and Gas Line Installation & Repair
GEM offers a number of electrical services for commercial facilities including: Service Panel Upgrade & Replacement, Electrical Fixture Replacement & Installation, Back-up Generator Installation, Commercial Wiring Services, Solar Panel Installation, Lighting, installation of Electrical Car Charging Stations, 24/7 Emergency Services, Energy Conservation improvements, and more! Call GEM today for more information on our commercial services or to book your next service appointment.
GEM’s licensed plumbers are here to take care of all your commercial plumbing needs. Whether you need maintenance, repair or installation of a brand new system! We’ll size the pipe for your equipment, pull all required permits, and ensure your new system is up to code. GEM offers a wide range of commercial plumbing services, focused on your needs: Plumbing System Maintenance, Faucet and Plumbing Fixture Replacement & Installation, Commercial Boiler & Hot Water Heaters, Recirculating Systems, Sewer Line Repair & Installation, Backflow Protection, Frozen Pipe Replacement and Leaking Pipes, Water Testing, Filtration, Treatment & Softening, Complete Drain Services, Water and gas lines installation or repairs, and 24/7 Emergency Services. Plumbing issues are unpredictable. That’s why GEM is open 24/7, available to answer your questions or schedule a visit in case of emergency.
Call GEM today at (833) 222-2953 for more information on our commercial services page or book your service appointment.
GEM offers full service, turn-key installation on our design-build projects. Design-Build provides the fastest, most efficient way to get facilities online and generating revenue for you. GEM’s Design-Build approach focuses the highest level of architectural, engineering, and contracting services directly on your project. Design-Build services may include: Conceptual design and budgeting, Preliminary engineering through professional design, CAD and 3D modeling, Plans, permitting and construction, and As-Built drawings / record drawings.
Yes, GEM produces conceptual design and budgeting, preliminary engineering through professional design, CAD and 3D modeling, plans, permitting and construction, as well as As-Built drawings / record drawings.
Converting to an Energy Efficient heating, cooling, or ventilation system can result in lower operational costs for building managers. Many new systems are also more compact, delivering a better performance while taking up less space. If your building’s HVAC systems are failing or are too expensive to maintain, GEM Mechanical is ready to provide turnkey Energy Efficiency solutions.
Service Memberships
Maintaining your home can be stressful. Let us help! As a GEM member, you can trust that you’re in good hands. Maintenance memberships are available for all of your home needs: heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing/drains, water heaters, and outside water/sewer.
Memberships – General
Only work completed by Gem or a Gem and Home Advocate service provider is covered under your Gem and Home Advocate membership. You must contact Gem to have work performed under your membership. Any work not authorized by Gem or performed by another contractor will not be eligible for reimbursement under your membership.
The age and condition of your home systems doesn’t affect Gem’s ability to work on your home – or your ability to become a Home Advocate member. All home plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical systems are eligible for coverage, including your water heater and outside sewer and water pipes. Maintenance coverage on oil-based heating systems is subject to an additional $10/month charge. At this time, Gem does not service appliances, but we would be happy to connect you with a company we trust and that holds the same values as Gem does.
Nope! You can become a member today by signing up online or calling us at (833) 222-2953, or you can join during any service visit when one of our technicians is in your home – no home inspection required. If you join online or over the phone, our technician will take a quick inventory of your home systems during your first maintenance tune-up – this helps us make sure that we have the right parts and tools on our truck whenever we visit your home, so we can solve your home service needs faster.
Yes! If you decide to sign up for Home Advocate during a tune-up, you can use your annual tune-up credit on that very same day.
Home Advocate memberships are designed for single-family homes, but are also great for condos, duplexes, and multi-family homes. With single-system and whole home coverage options, you can select the perfect coverage option for you. If you manage a condo building or other commercial facility, we can customize a membership for your unique needs. Contact our commercial membership coordinator for more info.
How often you use your membership will depend on the coverage you’ve signed up for, but most members use their benefits multiple times per year. Maintenance memberships include one preventative maintenance service per year per covered system, and we’ll reach out to you to remind you when it’s time to schedule your annual preventative maintenance. We strongly recommend taking advantage of your preventative maintenance visits, which can help prolong the life of your systems and reduce lifetime maintenance costs.
Memberships – Your Account
GEM and Home Advocate membership is a 12-month term agreement, however you may reach out to our Customer Care Center at (833) 222-2953 or by emailing our membership management team via the email address provided to you in your welcome letter to discuss cancellation at any time. Additional information regarding plan renewal and cancellation can be found in your plan Terms & Conditions.
When you become a Gem and Home Advocate member, your initial agreement is for a 12-month term. Your agreement will automatically renew at the end of each year for an additional 12 months unless you cancel it. You may cancel your membership at any time. Please see your Terms and Conditions for additional detail regarding membership renewal and cancellation.
When you sign up as a Gem and Home Advocate member, you’ll provide a payment method, such as a credit card, debit card, or ACH. We store all payment information securely using the latest security standards and encryptions. For monthly members, we will charge your monthly membership fee to your payment method on file on the monthly anniversary of your membership date. So if you sign up on January 5th, you’ll be billed on February 5th, March 5th, etc. For annual members, we will charge you for the full year when you sign up and again when you renew.
Maintenance for oil-based heating systems incurs an additional charge of $10 per system per month. If your systems aren’t oil-based, no need to add it to your membership.
Memberships – Scheduling
Priority booking a great advantage of the Home Advocate membership program. If there is a major snowstorm or a big heat wave, typically lots of customers need service at the same time. With our priority booking, we’ll prioritize your appointment over non-members.
If you need to change the date of your maintenance tune-up, please call us directly at (833) 222-2953 or email us at homeadvocate@gemplumbing.com with the details of your reschedule.
Gem offers true 24/7 emergency service – if you have an emergency in the middle of the night, we’ll be there! When you call Gem after business hours, we’ll work with you to determine whether your service request constitutes an emergency – generally loss of life or peril (including no heat / AC or flooding). If your service request is an emergency, we’ll get someone out there right away. Gem Home and Advocate retains sole discretion for defining what constitutes an emergency, but we promise to do our best to get someone out to your house ASAP to resolve your issue.
We’d be delighted to help you book an appointment. You can book directly online, by calling our Home Advocate line at (833) 222-2953, or by emailing homeadvocate@gemplumbing.com. Please let us know when booking an appointment that you are a Home Advocate member.
Right away! In fact, you can use your annual maintenance tune-up and member discount on the very same day that you become a GEM Home and Advocate member.
Memberships – Benefits
A Gem and Home Advocate membership is hands-down the easiest, most cost effective way to take better care of your home! Benefits of being a Home Advocate member include: Increased home value & comfort: We know how stressful maintaining your home can be, so let us take care of it for you. Unlimited access to Remote Assist by HomeX(SM): Our partnership with HomeX gives all Home Advocate members unlimited access to HomeX Remote Assist Technicians who can assess your problem and may even be able to help you fix the issue without a home visit. Keep your home in great shape and have peace of mind, no matter the hour, with a Gem and Home Advocate membership. Peace of mind, worry free: As a Home Advocate member, you can trust that you’re in good hands with Gem. 24/7 emergency service: We promise you’ll get the help you need quickly, no matter the hour. Save money, do more: With a Gem and Home Advocate membership, you’ll spend less money to take better care of your home.
Home Advocate memberships are designed to cover as much as possible, but there are a few things that we don’t include. Today, Home Advocate memberships do not include replacements of equipment that cannot be fixed or service for appliances. In the coming months, we are working hard to add options for appliances, roofing, home security, and more.
Gem and Home Advocate maintenance membership includes one tune-up for each covered system per year. So if you have coverage for your plumbing and heating systems, for example, you’ll receive two tune-ups per year- one for each system. We do our best to accommodate your calendar when scheduling tune-ups, and will try to perform multiple tune-ups during the same visit when possible to save you time.
Yes! All Home Advocate members receive an additional 10% discount on any GEM services not covered by your membership.
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