Quick answers about plumbing in Portland
These are the questions Portland-area homeowners and renters ask most. For anything urgent, shut off the water and call (207) 555-0163 to speak with a local plumber. For the full overview, start with our Portland plumbing guide.
Jump to a topic
- Emergencies: emergency plumber, burst pipes and your main shut-off
- Winter: frozen pipes, boilers and vacant homes
- Everyday repairs: drains, toilets, faucets and disposals and water heaters
- Money and hiring: cost guide and choosing a plumber
Plumbing FAQ
What should I do first if a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water valve, open a faucet on the lowest floor to drain the lines, stay away from water near electrical outlets and call a plumber.
Where is the main water shut-off valve?
Usually where the water line enters the house, near the water meter. In a home with a basement, look on the foundation wall facing the street.
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Consumer Reports says pipes usually freeze below 20°F, though uninsulated pipes in unheated spaces can freeze above that.
How cold does Portland get in winter?
Portland's average January low is about 15.6°F, and the city sees roughly 10 nights a year at or below 0°F, according to NOAA climate data.
Do plumbers need a license in Maine?
Yes. The Plumbers' Examining Board licenses master, journeyman, journeyman-in-training and trainee plumbers. A person doing plumbing in a single-family home they live in is exempt if the work meets the board's rules.
Do I need a plumbing permit?
Installing plumbing in a building requires a permit from the local plumbing inspector under Maine law. Ask your plumber whether your job does.
Who works on gas and oil equipment in Maine?
Technicians licensed by the Maine Fuel Board, which licenses oil burner technicians and propane and natural gas technicians and offers free online license verification.
What temperature should a water heater be set to?
The US Department of Energy says 120°F is enough for most households.
Is Portland's water hard?
No. Portland Water District, which draws from Sebago Lake, reports a hardness of about 8 mg/L, which is very soft.
Are there lead pipes in Portland?
Portland Water District reported in 2024 that it found no lead mains or service lines in its system. It notes lead was used in household plumbing into the 1980s, so older homes may still have lead solder or fixtures.
Do I need to call Dig Safe before a sewer repair?
Maine law requires anyone digging with power tools to premark the area in white and call 811 three business days ahead. Your contractor normally handles it.
Can my sump pump drain into the sewer?
Portland has asked property owners to disconnect sumps and roof drains from the sewer because storm runoff can overwhelm it. Ask a plumber about discharging outside.
Which areas can I call about?
All of Portland, including the West End, Munjoy Hill, the Old Port, Bayside, Parkside, Back Cove, Deering Center, North and East Deering, Riverton, Oakdale, Stroudwater, Libbytown and Rosemont, plus South Portland, Biddeford, Saco, Yarmouth and Peaks Island.