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Frequently Asked Questions
Could the flat land around here cause drainage problems for my home's main sewer line?
The plain terrain around Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge means there's very little natural slope to aid drainage. If your main sewer line has even a slight belly or sag, waste and solids can settle there instead of flowing freely to the municipal main. This puts constant stress on the pipe and is a frequent cause of slow drains and complete blockages in older Burlington homes.
Do I need a permit to replace my own water heater in Burlington?
Yes, Ward County requires a permit for water heater replacements to ensure proper venting and pressure relief. As a Master Plumber licensed by the North Dakota State Plumbing Board, I handle pulling that permit, scheduling the inspection, and dealing with the red tape so you don't have to. It's part of the job, and it guarantees the work is done to the current code for your safety.
What's one thing I should do before spring thaw to avoid a plumbing disaster?
Before the spring thaw hits its peak, make sure all exterior hose bibs are fully drained and the interior shut-off valves are closed. Our lows near 1°F mean any trapped water in those lines will have frozen over winter. When it thaws, that ice turns to water under pressure, and a cracked pipe inside your wall can flood your home. It's a simple five-minute check that prevents major damage.
Our house was built in the late 80s. What kind of plumbing problems should we expect now?
Homes built around 1987 have copper pipes that are roughly 39 years old. In Burlington City Center, I'm seeing a predictable pattern: the solder joints connecting those pipes are starting to fail from decades of water flow and temperature changes. Homeowners often first notice small, persistent drips around pipe connections under sinks or in the basement. It's not a question of if, but when, these joints will need attention.
How quickly can a plumber get to my home in Burlington if I have an emergency?
My dispatch route from the shop typically heads past Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge and straight down US-2 into town. That direct route means a 20-30 minute response for most calls in Burlington. I keep my truck stocked for common local emergencies, so once I'm on site, we can usually start mitigation right away.
Why do my copper pipes keep springing pinhole leaks?
Copper installed in 1987 is now in the stage where pinhole leaks are common. The hard water in our area, combined with the natural aging of the metal, causes corrosion from the inside out. You'll often find these leaks on horizontal runs of pipe, where sediment and scale can settle and accelerate the wear. Replacing a section might fix it, but the same process is likely active elsewhere in the system.
Since we're on a well and septic system, what maintenance do most homeowners forget?
The most overlooked item is the pressure tank on your well system. Over time, the air charge inside depletes, causing the well pump to short-cycle rapidly, which burns it out prematurely. You should check and adjust that air pressure annually. For the septic system, sticking to a regular pumping schedule is critical; the sandy soil here can only do so much, and a failed drain field is a costly repair.
Does Burlington's hard water from the Souris River damage my water heater?
Yes, the mineral content from the Souris River leads to significant scale buildup. Inside your water heater, that scale acts as an insulator on the heating elements, forcing them to work harder and fail sooner. It also settles in the tank's bottom, reducing capacity and efficiency. Installing a water softener is the most effective long-term protection for your heater and all your fixtures.
