You may not think about them often, but your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are some of the most important safety devices in your home. But like anything else, they only work if they’re tested and maintained regularly.

If you can’t remember the last time you tested your alarms, here’s what homeowners need to know to stay safe, stay legal, and stay protected.

Why Regular Testing Matters

Smoke and CO detectors are your first line of defense in an emergency, alerting you to danger before you can see or smell it. But batteries die, wiring can fail, and internal sensors weaken over time.

This is why testing your alarms is essential. A detector that looks fine but doesn’t actually work could cost you everything. And in many cases, furnace malfunctions or poorly vented HVAC equipment are the root cause of CO buildup, making it even more important to keep these systems – and your detectors – in check.

How Often Should You Test Them?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends testing smoke alarms and CO detectors once a month. This involves pressing the “test” button and making sure the alarm sounds. If it doesn’t, it’s time to replace the battery or the unit itself.

Here’s a breakdown to help you stay on track:

• Test smoke & CO alarms: Monthly

• Replace batteries: Every 6 months (or sooner if the unit chirps)

• Replace smoke detectors: Every 10 years

• Replace CO detectors: Every 5–7 years (check the label)

If your alarms are hardwired with a battery backup, test them monthly too. Just because they’re connected to power doesn’t mean the sensors are functioning properly.

Where Should Alarms Be Installed?

Even if you test your alarms consistently, they won’t help if they’re not in the right spots. Even if you test your alarms consistently, they won’t help if they’re not in the right spots. 

According to Massachusetts regulations and NFPA guidelines, smoke and CO detectors should be installed:

• In every bedroom

• Outside each sleeping area (hallways)

• On every level of your home (including basements)

• Near gas-powered HVAC appliances or attached garages for CO alarms

Avoid placing detectors too close to vents, windows, or fans, which can interfere with their sensors. And if your furnace or water heater is located in a utility room, make sure there’s a CO detector close by, as these are high-risk areas that often go overlooked.

Common Issues That Mean It’s Time to Replace

If your detector:

• Chirps constantly, even after a battery change

• Fails to sound during a test

• Is discolored or yellowed (a sign of age)

• Is older than 10 years

…it’s time for a replacement. Many newer alarms include a built-in end-of-life alert, so you’ll know when it’s no longer reliable.

Bonus Tip: Combine Testing With Routine Tasks

It’s easy to forget monthly testing, so try tying it to something else you do regularly – like paying the mortgage, cleaning the house, or checking your calendar on the first of the month. You can even set a recurring phone reminder.

Many homeowners also test their alarms when daylight saving time changes (spring and fall). It’s a great time to swap batteries, too, and consider scheduling a heating system checkup simultaneously to stay ahead of potential CO risks.

What About Smart Detectors?

Smart smoke and CO detectors (like Nest Protect) often run self-diagnostics and send alerts to your phone. But even smart models should be tested monthly, as batteries can still fail and sensors can still degrade over time.

Protect What Matters Most

It only takes 30 seconds to test your smoke and CO alarms – a small habit that protects your home in a big way.At Super Service Today, we help Wilmington homeowners breathe easier with HVAC maintenance that supports cleaner air and safer systems. If it’s time for a seasonal tune-up or you’re thinking more about your home’s air quality, we’re here to help.

As Boston begins its slow shift from icy mornings to warm, sunny afternoons, many homeowners start to wonder: When is the right time to switch from heating to cooling? In a region known for unpredictable spring weather, the answer isn’t tied to a date on the calendar. 

At Super Service Today, we help homeowners navigate these seasonal changes with comfort and efficiency in mind. Here’s what to consider when preparing your HVAC system for the seasonal transition. 

Understanding Boston’s Spring Weather Patterns

New England spring weather is famously inconsistent – sunny and 65 one day, damp and chilly the next. Rather than setting a hard date, the better approach is to pay attention to consistent temperature trends. 

Most Boston homeowners can comfortably switch to cooling once daytime highs stay in the mid-60s or above, and nighttime lows remain above 45. This shift typically occurs in late April or early May, though it can vary from year to year. 

Comfort Is Personal: Watch for These Signs

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to comfort. Your decision to switch systems should reflect your household’s preferences and indoor environment. Ask yourself:

• Are windows being opened more often to let in cool air?
• Is your home feeling humid or stuffy during the day?
• Do you rely on fans to make rooms bearable?
• Are certain rooms – especially those facing south – retaining more heat?

If you’re frequently trying to “fix” indoor temperature or airflow with temporary solutions, it might be time to make the switch. 

Efficiency Tips During the Seasonal Switch

Spring is a sweet spot for saving energy. Before you fully commit to AC, take advantage of natural ventilation. Open windows during cooler parts of the day to flush out stale indoor air and reduce the need for mechanical cooling. 

If you’re adjusting the thermostat often, aim for gradual shifts rather than cranking the temperature. Allowing indoor temps to fluctuate slightly with the weather can help your HVAc system avoid unnecessary strain. 

Once you’re ready to turn on your air conditioner, set the thermostat to a moderate level – around 74 to 76 – instead of blasting cold air from the start. 

Make Sure Your AC Is Ready to Work

Don’t wait until the first 85-degree day to discover your AC isn’t working. Before switching to cooling, take a few steps to prepare your system:

• Replace your air filter to improve airflow and air quality. 
• Inspect your condensate line for clogs to prevent water damage.
• Clear debris from around your outdoor condenser unit. 
• Test your AC on a mild day to check for unusual noises, smells, or performance issues. 

Older homes in Boston may need more attention. Poor insulation or aging ductwork can make spring transitions trickier. If your home retains heat longer than you’d like, it might be time to explore insulation upgrades or duct sealing to improve system efficiency. 

Trust Super Service Today for a Smooth Seasonal Transition

Knowing when to switch from heat to AC is all about timing – and preparation. At Super Service Today, we help Boston homeowners get the most out of their hVAC system through expert seasonal maintenance and system inspections. 

Whether you’re switching to cooling for the first time this year or want to ensure your AC is summer-ready, we’re here to help. Call us today at (781) 654-8373 to schedule seasonal HVAC service or ask our team about optimizing your system for Boston’s ever-changing spring weather.

That slow drip under your kitchen sink might seem harmless, but left unchecked, it can become a much bigger (and more expensive) problem. Understanding the difference between the cost of fixing a minor leak and the price tag of major plumbing repairs could save you thousands in future home maintenance. 

At Super Service Today, we’ve seen how fast a small leak can snowball into a full-blown plumbing emergency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the real costs of plumbing issues, what causes them to escalate, and how smart maintenance habits can keep your home – and your budget – safe.

How Plumbing Repair Costs Can Vary

Plumbing repairs vary widely depending on the scope of work involved. A minor leak typically involves tightening a fitting, replacing a small section of pipe, or changing out a faulty fixture – often requiring less than an hour of labor and a few standard parts. 

In contrast, major repairs – like sewer line replacement, pipe excavation, or water damage remediation – require more time, tools, technicians, and, sometimes, permits. Boston’s historic homes often complicate these jobs further, with outdated plumbing systems hidden behind walls or under aged flooring. 

The earlier a leak is detected and fixed, the lower your overall cost. Unfortunately, many plumbing disasters begin with an ignored drip or silent running toilet that’s allowed to fester for weeks or months. 

Minor Leaks: Quick Fixes That Save You in the Long Run

A dripping faucet or a leaking shut-off valve might seem harmless, but even the smallest leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month – and quietly inflate your utility bills. 

Fixing a minor leak usually includes:

• A service call (typically $100-$200)
• A quick fix involving basic parts
• Less than an hour of labor

These small issues are generally affordable to fix, and prompt attention can help you avoid the much bigger expense of repairing water-damaged walls, ceilings, or flooring later on. 

Major Repairs: When Costs Skyrocket

When a leak is ignored or a pipe bursts, the situation becomes far more complex – and expensive. 

Major plumbing repairs often include:

• Damaged sewer lines or water mains
• Burst pipes (especially during Boston’s cold winters)
• Extensive pipe replacement or rerouting
• Flooded basements or structural water damage

In these situations, homeowners not only pay for the plumbing work but also for emergency services, water mitigation, drywall and flooring repairs, and possible permit fees. It’s not uncommon for total costs to rise into the thousands of dollars, especially if work must be done after-hours or during a deep freeze. 

Smart Maintenance = Big Savings

The best way to avoid costly repairs is to stay proactive. Regular maintenance extends the life of your plumbing system and minimizes the risk of water damage or emergency service calls. You don’t have to become a plumber, just adopt a few smart habits:

• Fix small leaks as soon as you notice them
• Schedule an annual plumbing inspection
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners that corrode pipes
• Insulate exposed pipes before winter
• Monitor your water pressure
• Know where your main water shut-off valve is located
• Install a leak detection device for early warning signs

These preventative steps can save you thousands in repair costs and give you peace of mind year-round.

Super Service Today: Boston’s Trusted Plumbing Experts

At Super Service Today, we help homeowners prevent major plumbing disasters with early leak detection and quality repairs. We believe in transparent pricing, honest recommendations, and proactive solutions that protect your Boston home and your wallet. 

Don’t wait for a small drip to turn into a flooded basement. Call (781) 654-8373 to schedule expert plumbing services in Bostom, MA. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full system repair, we’re here to keep your home safe and stress-free. 

A broken sewer line is one of the most frustrating and expensive surprises a homeowner can face – but depending on the cause, your insurance might cover the repair. So when is sewer line damage actually covered by homeowners insurance?

In this guide, Super Service Today breaks down what’s typically covered, what’s not, and how to protect your home – and your wallet – in the process.

Understanding Sewer Line Coverage

Whether your sewer line damage is covered often comes down to how and why the damage occurred. Standard homeowners insurance policies generally provide dwelling coverage that may include sewer lines – but only the portion of the pipe located on your property, and typically only if the damage is sudden and accidental. 

Here are a few examples of situations that are more likely to be covered:

• Sudden pipe collapse due to ground shifting from an earthquake
• Fire or explosion-related damage
• Accidental damage from vehicles or construction equipment
• Sudden break from tree root intrusion (in rare cases)

However, if the issue results from normal wear and tear, corrosion, or long-term tree root growth, it’s probably not covered. Insurance adjusters will often evaluate the age of the pipe, visible signs of neglect, and maintenance records before approving the claim. 

In areas like Boston – where cold winters, mature trees, and aging infrastructure all play a role – these factors become even more important. 

What Homeowners Insurance Typically Excludes

Even if some sewer line repairs qualify for coverage, standard insurance policies often include exclusions. These common scenarios usually aren’t covered:

• Damage to municipal sewer lines or anything beyond your property line
• Gradual deterioration from aging or corroded pipes
• Issues caused by ignored warning signs or lack of routine maintenance
• Sewage backups (unless you have a water backup endorsement)
• Flood-related sewer issues without flood insurance
• Earth movement like sinkholes or shifting ground, unless you added special coverage

Without specific policy endorsements, you may be responsible for thousands in repair costs – even if the issue wasn’t your fault.

Add-Ons That Can Save You Thousands

In older Boston neighborhoods, sewer lines are often original to the home and well past their intended lifespan. That’s where optional policy add-ons become especially valuable. 

Consider these coverage options:

• Water backup coverage – Covers sewage backups into your home (a common exclusion in standard policies)
• Sewer line coverage – Pays for damage to underground utility lines, including water and sewer, on your property

These endorsements are typically low-cost but can save homeowners from major out-of-pocket expenses, especially when a full sewer line replacement is needed. 

Preventative Maintenance Strengthens Your Coverage

Even with the right policy in place, insurers want to see that you’ve taken reasonable steps to care for your system. Preventative maintenance isn’t just smart – it can be the difference between an approved claim and a denied one. 

Here’s what you can do:

• Schedule regular sewer inspections to document condition and detect early warning signs
• Avoid flushing non-degradable materials like wipes, grease, or feminine products
• Be proactive with landscaping – if you have large trees near your line, consider a root barrier or periodic hydro jetting
• Keep records of all maintenance and professional evaluations

Insurers are more likely to work with homeowners who show they’ve done their part to protect and maintain their property. 

Super Service Today: Your Sewer Line Specialists

So, when is sewer line damage covered by homeowners insurance? It depends on your policy, the cause of the damage, and how well you’ve maintained your system – but with the right protections in place, you may not be on the hook for everything. 

At Super Service Today, we help Boston homeowners navigate the insurance process while providing expert sewer repairs that keep your home protected and compliant. We understand the documentation insurers need and help you make a strong case if you file a claim.

Call (781) 654-8373 today to schedule an inspection or sewer repair in the Boston area. Let’s keep your system flowing, and your finances protected.

Are your utility bills higher than expected? You may be overpaying for hot water without realizing it. Your water heater accounts for a significant portion of your energy costs, and adjusting its temperature settings could be an easy way to save money – without sacrificing comfort. 

At Super Service Today, we help Boston homeowners optimize water heater efficiency while keeping their homes safe and comfortable. Here’s how temperature adjustments impact energy savings – and what you need to know before making changes.

What’s the Best Temperature for Your Water Heater?

Manufacturers often set water heaters at higher default temperatures than necessary, wasting energy in the process. 

Experts recommend setting your water heater to 120 degrees for the best balance of comfort, efficiency, and safety. 

Why? 

• Reduces energy waste – Lowering the temp by just 10 degrees can save up to 5% on energy bills. 

• Prevents scalding risks – Water above 140 degrees can cause burns in seconds. 

• Minimizes mineral buildup – Lower temps slow down sediment accumulation, extending your water heater’s lifespan. 

How Temperature Settings Impact Energy Costs & Safety

Too High (Above 140 Degrees)

• Scalding Hazard: Especially for children and elderly residents.

• Wasted Energy: Higher temps increase heating costs unnecessarily. 

• Mineral Buildup & Scale Formation: Can lead to clogs, corrosion, and more repairs. 

Too Low (Below 120 Degrees)

• Insufficient Hot Water: Water may not stay warm long enough for showers, dishes, or laundry.

• Bacterial Growth Risk: Legionella bacteria can thrive in lukewarm water.

Ideal Setting (120 Degrees)

• Energy-efficient and cost-saving

• Safe for all household members

• Helps prevent plumbing wear and tear

Seasonal Water Heater Adjustments for Boston Homes

In colder months, Boston’s winter climate causes incoming water to be much colder, making your water heater work harder to reach the same temperature. 

Solution? Consider a slight seasonal temperature increase during winter to compensate for colder water intake. 

During warmer months, drop the setting back to 120 degrees to maximize savings. 

Maximize Efficiency with These Water Heater Tips

• Insulate your water heater and exposed pipes to reduce heat loss. 

• Flush your tank regularly to remove sediment buildup. 

• Use a programmable water heater timer if you have off-peak energy pricing. 

• Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model for long-term savings. 

Start Saving – Call Super Service Today!

Can adjusting your water heater’s temperature save you money? Absolutely!Call Super Service Today at (781) 654-8373 for expert water heater maintenance and energy-saving solutions in Boston and surrounding areas!

If your heater is blowing cold air instead of keeping you warm, Massachusetts winters can feel ever harsher. A malfunctioning heating system isn’t just uncomfortable – it can become a serious safety issue in extreme cold. 

At Super Service Today, we help homeowners identify and fix furnace problems quickly. Here’s why your heater is blowing cold air – and what you can do about it.  

Why Is My Heater Blowing Cold Air?

If the heater isn’t producing warm air, the issue likely comes from one of these five common problems:

1. Thermostat Issues

If your thermostat is set incorrectly or malfunctioning, your heater won’t generate heat. 

Fix It: Make sure it’s set to “heat” mode and check that the fan is set to “auto” instead of “on” (which may circulate unheated air). 

2. Furnace Malfunctions

A faulty ignition system, a broken blower motor, or clogged burners can prevent the furnace from producing heat. 

Fix It: If your furnace won’t ignite or runs without heating, schedule a professional inspection immediately. 

3. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and sometimes fail to heat your home properly. 

Fix It: Check and replace your furnace filter every 1 to 3 months, especially during winter. 

4. Gas Supply Issues

If your heater runs on gas, a disruption in the gas supply could be stopping it from producing heat. 

Fix It: Check your gas valve – if it’s closed or malfunctioning, your heater won’t ignite. Call a professional if you smell gas or suspect a leak.

5. Ductwork Leaks or Blockages

If warm air is escaping before reaching your vents, you’ll feel more cold air coming through your system. 

Fix It: Have your ducts inspected and sealed to improve airflow and efficiency. 

When Should You Call for Professional Heater Repair?

If your heater still blows cold air after checking the thermostat, filter, and gas supply, it’s time for professional furnace repair. 

Other warning signs include:

• Inconsistent heating (some rooms colder than others). 

• Loud banging or rattling sounds from the furnace

• Short cycling (heater turns on and off frequently). 

How Massachusetts Winters Impact Your Heating System

Massachusetts winters put extreme stress on your furnace. The constant demand for heat can wear out components faster, leading to unexpected failures. 

Preventative maintenance ensures your heating system runs efficiently all season long. Ask about our membership program for year-round protection and priority service! 

How To Prevent Your Heater From Blowing Cold Air Again

• Change or clean your air filter regularly.

• Schedule annual furnace maintenance to catch issues early.

• Seal air leaks in ductwork for better heat distribution. 

• Ensure proper thermostat calibration to avoid malfunctions.

Restore Warmth to Your Home – Call Super Service Today!

If your heater isn’t keeping you warm, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At Super Service Today, we provide expert furnace repairs and heating maintenance to keep your home safe and comfortable all winter long. Call (781) 519-9921 today for fast, reliable heating services in Massachusetts!

You’re enjoying a hot shower on a chilly Boston morning – when suddenly, the water turns ice cold. If your hot water is running out faster than usual, there’s likely an underlying issue with your water heater. 

At Super Service Today, we help Boston homeowners diagnose and fix water heater problems before they turn into even bigger headaches. Here’s why your hot water isn’t lasting as long as it should – and what you can do about it. 

How a Tank Water Heater Works

If you have a traditional tank-based water heater, it stores and heats a set amount of water at a time. Here’s the basic process:

1. Cold water enters through a dip tube.

2. Gas burners or electric heating elements warm the water. 

3. Insulation helps maintain the desired temperature. 

4. Hot water is ready for use until the tank empties, at which point it must refill and reheat. 

Since tank water heaters have a limited supply, any issues affecting efficiency or capacity can cause your hot water to run out too soon. 

5 Reasons Your Hot Water Supply Is Running Out Faster Than Usual

1. Sediment Buildup in the Tank

Boston’s mineral-rich water causes sediment to collect at the bottom of your tank over time. This layer of buildup:

• Insulates the water from the heating element, making it harder to heat. 

• Reduces the overall storage capacity of your tank.

Fix It: Schedule a professional tank flush to remove sediment buildup and restore efficiency. 

2. Worn-Out Heating Element (For Electric Water Heaters)

Electric water heaters rely on one or two heating elements. If one burns out, your system struggles to keep up with demand. 

Fix It: A licensed plumber can test and replace faulty heating elements to restore performance. 

3. Thermostat Problems

Your water heater thermostat controls the temperature. If it’s set too low or malfunctioning, your system won’t heat water properly. 

Fix It:

• Check your thermostat setting – experts recommend 120-140 degrees for optimal performance. 

• If water temperatures fluctuate, have a technician inspect and recalibrate your thermostat. 

4. Increased Household Water Demand

Are more people using hot water at the same time? Running the dishwasher, laundry, and multiple showers all at once depletes your tank faster. 

Fix It:

• Space out hot water usage to allow time for reheating. 

• Consider upgrading to a larger tank or a tankless water heater for unlimited hot water. 

5. Colder Incoming Water in Winter

During Boston’s harsh winters, incoming water is colder than usual, making your system work harder and longer to heat it. This can reduce available hot water and increase energy usage. 

Fix It:

• Insulate your water heater and pipes to prevent heat loss. 

• Raise the thermostat setting slightly in winter for better performance. 

Quick Tips To Improve Hot Water Availability

1. Time hot water use wisely – Don’t run showers, laundry, and dishwashers all at once.

2. Flush your water heater annually to prevent sediment buildup. 

3. Check and replace worn-out parts like heating elements or thermostats. 

4. Upgrade to a high-efficiency system if your current heater is outdated.  

Get Your Hot Water Back – Call Super Service Today

If your hot water is running out faster than usual, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At Super Service Today, we offer water heater repair, maintenance, and replacements to keep your Boston home comfortable year-round. 

Call us at (781) 654-8373 to schedule your water heater service, today.