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External Circulating Pump Replacement – What to Expect

Find out what to expect during an external circulating pump replacement, including how the work is carried out, how long it usually takes, and what could affect the installation ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

July 27, 20263 min read

Why Are My Lights Flickering? 6 Causes and Fixes

Flickering lights can be more than just annoying — they might be trying to tell you something. At EPM, we’re regularly called out across Exeter to ...more

Electrical

July 27, 20263 min read

Combi Boilers vs Heat-Only Boilers: Which One's Right for Your Devon Home?

Choosing the right boiler isn’t just about size or budget — it’s about what suits your home, lifestyle, and layout. At EPM, we install and maintain ...more

Heating

July 24, 20263 min read

Dual Fuel Oven Installation – What to Expect

Dual Fuel Oven Installation – What to Expect

Installing a dual fuel oven requires both a qualified gas engineer and an electrician to ensure the appliance is connected safely, tested correctly and ...more

Electrical ,Heating &What To Expect

July 21, 20264 min read

5 Ways to Prevent Emergency Callouts in Summer

5 Ways to Prevent Emergency Callouts in Summer

Summer might seem like the quiet season for plumbing and heating — but we still get plenty of calls across Exeter for issues that could have been avoided ...more

Plumbing

July 21, 20262 min read

Why Does My Drain Keep Overflowing?

If your drain keeps overflowing, it hasn’t actually been cleared properly. It might have been unblocked enough to get water moving again, but something is ...more

Drainage

July 15, 20261 min read

Bathroom Fan Replacement – What to Expect

Bathroom Fan Replacement – What to Expect

A bathroom extractor fan plays an important role in removing moisture, reducing condensation and helping to prevent mould. If your existing fan has become ...more

Electrical ,What To Expect

July 14, 20263 min read

How to Spot a Hidden Water Leak in Your Home

Not all leaks are obvious. Some stay out of sight for weeks — even months — quietly damaging your walls, floors or electrics before you spot a sign. At ...more

Plumbing

July 14, 20263 min read

The Best Bathroom Flooring for 2025: Trends and Practical Options

When it comes to bathroom renovations, flooring is often the most overlooked aspect, but it plays a crucial role in setting the tone and ensuring ...more

Plumbing

July 12, 20266 min read

Why Is My Outside Tap Leaking — and How Can I Fix It?

A leaking outdoor tap might not seem urgent — until it runs up your water bill, soaks your garden wall, or freezes solid in winter. We get called out to ...more

Plumbing

July 09, 20263 min read

Domestic Boiler Repair – What to Expect

Domestic Boiler Repair – What to Expect

If your boiler has stopped working or isn't performing as it should, we'll aim to identify the cause of the fault and get your heating and hot water back ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

July 08, 20264 min read

DIY or Call a Plumber? When to Tackle a Leak Yourself in the UK

Leaks are one of the most common plumbing issues UK homeowners face, and at EPM, we’re called out to deal with them daily. A dripping tap, a slow pipe ...more

Plumbing

July 08, 20264 min read

The Top 10 Bathroom Design Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Planning a bathroom renovation or a new design? It’s easy to get excited about the aesthetic details, but overlooking key practical aspects can lead to ...more

Plumbing

July 08, 20265 min read

Domestic Boiler Service – What to Expect

Domestic Boiler Service – What to Expect

An annual boiler service helps keep your boiler operating safely, efficiently and reliably. Regular servicing allows potential issues to be identified ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

July 06, 20264 min read

Cooker Hood Replacement – What to Expect

Cooker Hood Replacement – What to Expect

Whether your existing cooker hood has stopped working, become noisy or you're simply updating your kitchen, replacing a cooker hood is usually a ...more

Electrical ,What To Expect

July 03, 20263 min read

The Ultimate Guide to a Successful Bathroom Renovation: What to Consider Before You Start

Renovating a bathroom can be one of the most rewarding home improvement projects, but it requires careful planning to avoid costly mistakes. Whether ...more

Plumbing

July 03, 20265 min read

Domestic Gas Safety Certificate – What to Expect

Domestic Gas Safety Certificate – What to Expect

A Domestic Gas Safety Certificate (often referred to as a CP12 or Gas Safety Record) confirms that your gas appliances have been inspected and found to be ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

July 02, 20264 min read

How to Detect a Hidden Water Leak in Your Home

One of the most frustrating (and costly) plumbing issues that homeowners face is a hidden water leak. You can’t see it, and it might not make a loud noise ...more

Plumbing

July 02, 20263 min read

Kitchen Tap Replacement – What to Expect

Kitchen Tap Replacement – What to Expect

If your kitchen tap is dripping, difficult to operate or has stopped working altogether, replacing it is usually a quick and straightforward job. Whether ...more

Plumbing ,What To Expect

July 01, 20263 min read

Do I Need a Fused Spur or an Isolator Switch? Here’s the Difference

If you're having an appliance installed — like a new oven, boiler, or bathroom extractor fan — you might hear terms like “fused spur” or “isolator switch” ...more

Electrical

July 01, 20263 min read

Why Reactiveness Will Matter More Than Ever in 2026 (And What We're Doing About It)

In a world of automated call centres, week-long wait times, and “we can fit you in next month” responses, one thing is standing out more than ever: speed. ...more

Help & Advice

June 24, 20263 min read

Domestic Boiler Replacement – What to Expect

Domestic Boiler Replacement – What to Expect

If your boiler has reached the end of its life, is becoming unreliable or is no longer economical to repair, replacing it can improve reliability, ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

June 23, 20263 min read

Ceiling Light Replacement – What to Expect

Ceiling Light Replacement – What to Expect

Whether you're replacing a faulty light fitting, updating the look of a room or fitting a new style of light, replacing an existing ceiling light is ...more

Electrical ,What To Expect

June 19, 20263 min read

The Hidden Problems Behind Persistent Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be more than just a nuisance — especially when you’re trying to run a shower, fill a sink, or get the heating working properly. ...more

Plumbing

June 18, 20262 min read

What Should I Do If a Pipe Bursts in My House?

A burst pipe is one of those plumbing problems that can cause a lot of damage in a short space of time. For most homeowners, it is not something they have ...more

Plumbing

June 17, 20264 min read

Outside Tap Replacement – What to Expect

Outside Tap Replacement – What to Expect

If your outside tap has started dripping, has been damaged by frost or has simply reached the end of its life, replacing it is usually a quick and ...more

Plumbing ,What To Expect

June 16, 20263 min read

Domestic Central Heating Repair – What to Expect

Domestic Central Heating Repair – What to Expect

Introduction If your central heating isn't working properly, it doesn't always mean your boiler is faulty. Cold radiators, noisy pipework, poor ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

June 11, 20263 min read

Why Are My Drains Smelling? Causes & What to Do

There’s nothing worse than walking into your kitchen or bathroom and being hit with a nasty smell from the sink or shower drain. At EPM, we regularly ...more

Drainage

June 11, 20263 min read

️How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Consumer Unit in the UK in 2025?

If you're a homeowner in Exeter or the surrounding area and your fuse box is looking a bit outdated — or maybe you’ve been told during an EICR that it ...more

Electrical

June 11, 20263 min read

Consumer Unit Replacement – What to Expect

Consumer Unit Replacement – What to Expect

Replacing your consumer unit (sometimes called a fuse board) is an important upgrade that helps improve the safety of your property's electrical ...more

Electrical ,What To Expect

June 10, 20263 min read

Radiator Replacement – What to Expect

Radiator Replacement – What to Expect

If your radiator is leaking, damaged, no longer heating efficiently or you're simply replacing it with a new style or size, we'll safely remove the ...more

Plumbing ,What To Expect

June 08, 20263 min read

Common Signs of a Faulty Heating Pump

If your radiators are staying cold — or you’re getting hot water but no heating — your circulation pump could be on the way out. At EPM, we’ve replaced ...more

Heating

June 05, 20263 min read

7 Electrical Upgrades That Add Value Before You Sell

Thinking about selling your home? Or maybe just future-proofing it? While kitchens and bathrooms get most of the attention, your electrical system plays a ...more

Electrical

June 04, 20263 min read

What Electrical Work Needs to Be Certified in the UK?

If you’re planning any electrical work in your home, you might be wondering: “ Do I need a certificate for this ?” The short answer? Sometimes yes, ...more

Electrical

June 03, 20263 min read

How Often Should You Get a Boiler Service?

A UK Homeowner’s Guide from the EPM Team If you own a boiler — whether it’s gas, oil, or electric — you’ve probably wondered: “ Do I really need to ...more

Heating

May 29, 20262 min read

7 Reasons Your Radiators Aren’t Heating Up Properly (And How to Fix Them)

It’s that time of year when you expect your heating to just… work. But if your radiators are warm at the top but cold at the bottom — or worse, not ...more

Plumbing ,Heating

May 29, 20263 min read

Our Favourite Reactive Callouts of the Year (And What They Taught Us)

In 2025, we’ve responded to hundreds of urgent callouts across Devon — from Exeter’s city centre to cottages deep in the South Hams. And while no two days ...more

Help & Advice

May 25, 20263 min read

The Essential Guide to Upgrading Your Home’s Electrical System

Whether you're planning a renovation, buying an older property, or just tired of dodgy sockets and flickering lights — upgrading your home's electrical ...more

Electrical

May 24, 20264 min read

Rewiring a House in the UK: What to Expect in 2025

Thinking about rewiring your home? Whether you're renovating, dealing with recurring electrical issues, or just want peace of mind — rewiring can be a big ...more

Electrical

May 22, 20263 min read

Blocked Gutters and Downpipes: When to Call a Pro

Gutters aren’t exactly glamorous — but ignore them, and you could end up with a leaking roof, damp walls, or even structural damage. At EPM, we’ve seen it ...more

General Maintenance

May 18, 20263 min read

Do I Need a Dedicated Circuit for My EV Charger?

If you're thinking about installing an EV charger at home in the UK, one of the first questions that usually comes up is: “Do I need a dedicated circuit ...more

Electrical

May 14, 20262 min read

Domestic Unvented Cylinder Service – What to Expect

Domestic Unvented Cylinder Service – What to Expect

An annual unvented cylinder service helps keep your hot water system operating safely and efficiently. Manufacturers recommend that unvented hot water ...more

Heating ,What To Expect

May 13, 20263 min read

Why Does My Shower Keep Going Hot and Cold?

If your shower keeps going hot and cold, it’s usually one of two things. Pressure changing somewhere in the house, or the shower valve starting to fail. ...more

Plumbing

May 13, 20261 min read

Why Does My Sink Gurgle When the Washing Machine Drains?

If your sink gurgles when the washing machine or dishwasher drains, it’s usually down to how the pipework has been set up. You see it a lot where ...more

Drainage

May 11, 20262 min read

What to Do If Your Shower Isn’t Draining Properly (Exeter Homeowners’ Guide)

https://youtube.com/shorts/Vvbs2iraUTs?feature=share There’s nothing quite as annoying as standing in an inch of water every time you have a shower. If ...more

Drainage

May 06, 20264 min read

How to Prevent Water Hammer in Your Pipes

If you've ever heard a loud banging or knocking noise when you turn off a tap or your washing machine finishes a cycle, you're not imagining things — ...more

Plumbing

May 06, 20262 min read

Why Smart Thermostats Are Worth Considering in the UK

If you've been wondering whether a smart thermostat is really worth it — or just another tech gimmick — you're not alone. We get asked this all the time ...more

Heating

May 01, 20263 min read

Do I Need a Heating Engineer or a Plumber?

When your boiler breaks down or the radiators aren’t heating up, who do you call — a plumber or a heating engineer? It’s a question we hear often from ...more

Plumbing ,Heating

April 30, 20262 min read

How to Know if Your Home Electrics Are Outdated

Most of us don’t give much thought to the wiring behind the walls — until the lights flicker, the sockets spark, or we’re planning a renovation. But ...more

Electrical

April 23, 20262 min read

Why Does My Tap Take So Long to Get Hot?

If your tap takes a while to get hot, you’re just waiting for the cold water in the pipe to clear. That’s it most of the time. The further the tap is from ...more

Plumbing

April 20, 20261 min read

How to Choose the Perfect Bathroom Lighting: A Guide to Brightening Your Space

At EPM, we believe that great bathroom design is about more than just fixtures and fittings—good lighting, along with tiles or shower panels, truly ...more

Electrical

April 16, 20264 min read

Why Does My Fuse Box Smell Like Burning?

If you’ve noticed a burning smell near your consumer unit (or fuse box), don’t ignore it — this could be an early warning sign of something serious. At ...more

Electrical

April 15, 20263 min read

When Should You Reroute Waste Pipes During a Renovation?

If you’re planning a kitchen, bathroom, or utility renovation, chances are you’ve wondered whether the existing waste pipe layout will still work — or ...more

Plumbing

April 15, 20263 min read

What’s the Difference Between an RCD and an RCBO?

If you’ve had an electrician mention RCDs or RCBOs , or you’ve seen them listed on a quote and thought, “what are those things and why do I need them?” — ...more

Electrical

April 14, 20263 min read

Why Do My Drains Keep Blocking?

If your drains keep blocking, there’s usually a reason for it. A one-off blockage is fairly normal. But if it keeps happening, something is either staying ...more

Drainage

April 09, 20263 min read

Freestanding Bath vs Built-In Bath: Which Is Right for Your Bathroom?

When it comes to choosing the perfect bath for your bathroom renovation, the debate often boils down to one key question: freestanding bath vs built-in ...more

Plumbing

April 08, 20264 min read

The Problem with Replacing Shower Cartridges (And How to Avoid Costly Mistakes)

Here’s a truth you might not like to hear: replacing a shower cartridge isn’t always as simple as it sounds . Sure, it seems like a straightforward fix ...more

Plumbing

April 01, 20265 min read

Why Do My Pipes Make Noise When I Turn the Tap On?

If your pipes make noise when you turn a tap on, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t quite right with how water is moving through the system. Some ...more

Plumbing

April 01, 20263 min read

How to Prevent Mould and Mildew in Your Bathroom: 7 Tips for Long-Lasting Renovations

At EPM, we understand that one of the most frustrating issues you can face in a bathroom renovation is the growth of mould and mildew. These unwelcome ...more

General Maintenance

March 31, 20266 min read

Plumbing Upgrades That Add Value to Your Home (And Which Ones to Skip)

Let’s be honest — not every plumbing job is sexy. No one throws a party when their stopcock gets replaced. But when it comes to adding real value to your ...more

Plumbing

March 18, 20263 min read

What Type of Drainage Cover Do I Need for My Property?

If you’ve got a drain cover that’s cracked, loose or just plain missing, you’ll know how quickly it becomes a problem. But replacing it isn’t always as ...more

Drainage

March 09, 20263 min read

How to Protect Your Drains During Autumn & Winter

Blocked drains don’t take a holiday. In fact, we see a spike in call-outs every autumn and winter across Exeter, Exmouth, Dawlish and down into the South ...more

Drainage

March 06, 20263 min read

6 Common Electrical Faults in Kitchens (And What Causes Them)

The kitchen is the hardest-working room in the house when it comes to electrics. From kettles to cookers, lighting to washing machines — it all relies on ...more

Electrical

March 06, 20263 min read

6 Signs Your Heating System Is Due a Service

When was the last time your heating system had a proper service? If you’re like most homeowners across Exeter, Exmouth, and the South Hams, it’s probably ...more

Heating

March 06, 20263 min read

How to unfreeze a condensate pipe

When it gets to this time of year and the temperatures drop, frozen condensate pipes can be an unfortunate occurrence for any home. When the pipes freeze, ...more

Plumbing

March 02, 20262 min read

How Do I Turn My Water Off? A Plumber's Guide to Avoiding Disaster

As a plumber, I'm constantly surprised by how many homeowners and tenants have no idea how to turn off the water supply to their property. I don't have ...more

Plumbing

March 02, 20263 min read

Consumer Unit Tripping Frequently? Here’s What It Might Mean

If your fuse box keeps tripping, it’s more than just annoying — it’s your system trying to protect you from a fault. At EPM, we deal with this sort of ...more

Electrical

February 27, 20263 min read

What’s the Cost of Replacing a Bathroom Extractor Fan in 2025?

You don’t really notice your extractor fan — until it stops doing its job. Whether it’s noisy, ineffective, or completely packed in, replacing a bathroom ...more

Electrical

February 24, 20263 min read

How to Fix a Blocked Toilet (Without Making It Worse)

Let’s be honest — blocked toilets are up there with the most dreaded DIY jobs. But if you’re standing there right now with the water rising and a bit of ...more

Drainage

February 23, 20263 min read

How Much Does a Boiler Installation Cost in the UK? (2025 Breakdown)

Let’s face it — if you’re Googling this, it’s probably because your boiler’s either on its last legs… or already given up. The first question we get when ...more

Heating

February 20, 20264 min read

Do I Need an Electrician to Install a Cooker or Hob?

If you're upgrading your kitchen in Exeter — or replacing an old oven or hob — you might be wondering: “ Can I just fit it myself? Or do I need a ...more

Electrical

February 18, 20262 min read

Do I Need an Electrician for a Hot Tub or Sauna Install in the UK?

Thinking of installing a hot tub or sauna at home? You're not alone. With more people investing in their gardens and wellness, we've seen a real rise in ...more

Electrical

February 18, 20263 min read

Is Your Radiator Sludge Buildup Costing You Money?

If some of your radiators are warm at the top but cold at the bottom — chances are, it’s not just a minor issue. You could be dealing with sludge, and ...more

Plumbing

February 16, 20263 min read

Why Is My Shower Losing Water Pressure? A Homeowner’s Guide

You step into the shower, ready for a refreshing experience, but instead of a strong, invigorating flow, you’re greeted with a weak trickle. Sound ...more

Plumbing

February 15, 20263 min read

5 Common Plumbing Mistakes We See During Kitchen Renovations

Kitchen renovations are exciting — until something goes wrong behind the scenes. At EPM, we’re often called in part-way through kitchen refits across ...more

Plumbing

February 10, 20263 min read

Why Is My Toilet Making Noise?

If your toilet is making a whining or high-pitched noise when it fills, it’s usually the inlet valve starting to wear out. That’s the most common cause. ...more

Plumbing

February 06, 20262 min read

Blocked Drain or Broken Pipe? How to Tell the Difference

Not all drain problems are created equal. Some are quick to fix with a jetter. Others… well, they need a shovel, camera, and a bit more time. The big ...more

Drainage

February 04, 20263 min read

Is Your Shower Running Cold? Here’s What to Check (Before You Call Someone Out)

There’s nothing worse than stepping into the shower expecting a blast of warmth… and getting hit with freezing water instead. It’s one of the most common ...more

Plumbing

February 02, 20264 min read

What’s the Difference Between a Stopcock and an Isolation Valve?

When something goes wrong with your plumbing — a burst pipe, a leaking tap, or a dodgy appliance — the first thing you often need to do is shut off the ...more

Plumbing

February 02, 20262 min read

5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Bathroom Extractor Fan (Not Just Clean It)

It’s easy to forget about the extractor fan — until your bathroom starts feeling damp, mouldy, or stale. At EPM, we’re often called out across Exeter, ...more

Electrical

January 29, 20263 min read

5 Signs You’ve Hired the Wrong Tradesperson (And What to Do Next)

We’ve all heard the horror stories — tradespeople who don’t show up, leave jobs unfinished, or vanish after payment. At EPM, we’ve been called out across ...more

Help & Advice

January 26, 20263 min read

When Should You Replace a Toilet Instead of Repairing It?

Toilets are built to last — but not forever. And when something goes wrong, the big question is always: Should we try to fix it, or just replace the whole ...more

Plumbing

January 26, 20263 min read

Storage Heaters Not Heating Overnight? Here’s What Might Be Wrong

If you’re still using storage heaters, you expect them to quietly charge overnight and release heat the next day — but what if they’re staying stone cold? ...more

Electrical

January 22, 20263 min read

Blocked Drain Outside? Here’s What You Can Do Before Calling Us

There’s nothing like the smell of a blocked drain to ruin a morning. Overflowing gullies, standing water, or foul smells near the back door — we’ve seen ...more

Drainage

January 21, 20263 min read

7 Common Plumbing Problems in UK Homes & How to Fix Them

If you’re a UK homeowner, you’ve probably faced your fair share of plumbing headaches. One day your boiler loses pressure, the next your radiators won’t ...more

Plumbing

January 20, 20264 min read

What’s the Difference Between a Soil Stack and a Waste Pipe?

It’s one of those terms you hear thrown around when you're dealing with plumbing problems — “That’s coming from the soil stack” or “We’ll need to re-run ...more

Plumbing

January 19, 20263 min read

Why Is My Toilet Constantly Running?

If your toilet keeps running after you’ve flushed it, it’s usually a sign that something inside the cistern isn’t working as it should. It’s a common ...more

Plumbing

January 15, 20263 min read

The Real Cost of Ignoring a Dripping Tap

It’s easy to ignore — the quiet plink, plink of a tap dripping into the basin. But over time, that small drip can waste serious money, water, and even ...more

Plumbing

January 15, 20262 min read

Why Your Garden Electrics Might Be Unsafe (And What to Do About It)

Garden lighting. Hot tubs. Outdoor sockets for lawnmowers and tools. As outdoor spaces become more of an extension of the home, electrics in the garden ...more

Electrical

January 12, 20263 min read

Can a Power Cut Damage My Heating System?

Power cuts are never fun — especially if they hit in the middle of winter, just as your heating kicks in. But beyond the cold and inconvenience, many of ...more

Heating

January 12, 20263 min read

Is a Heat Pump Right for Your Home? What Exeter Homeowners Need to Know in 2025

We’ve had a lot of conversations lately with homeowners across Exeter and the surrounding areas who are wondering: “Should I be switching to a heat pump?” ...more

Heating

January 12, 20264 min read

Signs Your Immersion Heater Is on the Way Out (UK Guide 2025)

Here at EPM, we get our fair share of calls that start like this: “My hot water’s gone cold overnight.” “The cylinder’s warm, but the water isn’t hot.” ...more

Heating

December 24, 20253 min read

Is Your Garden Tap Ready for Winter? What to Check Before the Cold Hits

It’s easy to forget about your garden tap once summer’s over — but if you leave it unprotected, you could be in for a nasty surprise when the temperature ...more

Plumbing

December 23, 20253 min read

Outdoor Lighting Installation: What to Know Before You Start (2025 UK Guide)

Outdoor lighting is one of those upgrades that seems simple — but if you’ve ever tried to install it yourself (or had to untangle someone else’s attempt), ...more

Electrical

December 21, 20253 min read

Why Does My Boiler Keep Losing Pressure?

If you’ve looked at your boiler and noticed the pressure gauge dropping, it can be a little concerning. Many homeowners first realise something isn’t ...more

Heating

December 19, 20254 min read

Walk-In Showers vs. Baths: Which is Right for Your Home?

When renovating a bathroom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to install a walk-in shower or a bath. Both have their advantages and ...more

Plumbing

December 17, 20254 min read

Why Is Your Circuit Breaker Tripping? Here’s What You Need to Know (UK Guide)

If you’ve ever been halfway through boiling the kettle and suddenly — click — everything goes dark, you’re not alone. Tripping breakers are one of the ...more

Electrical

December 11, 20253 min read

Smart Home Upgrades: What’s Worth It (and What Isn’t) in 2025

Smart homes aren’t the future anymore — they’re happening right now. From app-controlled heating to voice-activated lighting, more and more Exeter ...more

Electrical

December 10, 20253 min read

Blocked Bath or Shower? Here’s What to Do Before You Call

A slow-draining bath or a backed-up shower tray isn’t just annoying — it can lead to standing water, bad smells, and even leaks over time. At EPM, we get ...more

Drainage

December 09, 20253 min read

Are Plumbing Maintenance Plans Worth It? (Honest Answer for UK Homeowners)

Let’s be honest — when was the last time you thought about your plumbing? For most people, it’s only when something goes wrong: a burst pipe, a cold ...more

Plumbing

December 09, 20255 min read

7 Common Electrical Problems in Your Home (And How to Fix Them Safely)

Electricity: it’s one of those things we all take for granted — until something stops working. Whether it’s a plug socket that’s gone dead or lights ...more

Electrical

December 05, 20254 min read

Choosing the Right Bathroom Tiles: Everything You Need to Know (2025)

Choosing the Best Shower Type for Your Bathroom Choosing the right shower for your bathroom is one of the most important decisions you'll make during a ...more

Plumbing

December 03, 20256 min read

Should I Replace My Storage Heaters with a Modern System?

If you’re still using storage heaters in your home, you’ve probably wondered: “ Is it finally time to upgrade? ” We get this type question a lot — ...more

Electrical

December 02, 20253 min read

Is It Time to Replace Your Bathroom Extractor Fan?

It’s easy to overlook, but your bathroom extractor fan plays a vital role in keeping your home healthy. At EPM, we’re often called out to jobs where the ...more

Electrical

November 28, 20253 min read

Radiators Not Heating Evenly? Common Causes & Fixes (2025 Guide)

We get calls every single week from homeowners in and around Exeter saying the same thing: “Why is the top of my radiator hot but the bottom cold?” “Why ...more

Heating

November 27, 20253 min read

Why Does My Kitchen Sink Smell? Common Causes and Fixes for UK Homes

If you've walked into your kitchen and been hit with a nasty whiff you can’t quite place — chances are, your sink is the culprit. Smelly kitchen sinks are ...more

Plumbing

November 27, 20253 min read

What to Expect From a Drain Jetting Service

Blocked drain? Sometimes plungers, rods and shop-bought chemicals just don’t cut it. That’s where drain jetting comes in — and it’s one of the most ...more

Drainage

November 25, 20253 min read

How to Find and Access Your Drain Covers

Whether you’ve got a blocked drain or you’re just trying to inspect your system, knowing where your drain covers are (and how to access them safely) can ...more

Drainage

November 23, 20253 min read

What Is a Magnetic Filter — And Do You Actually Need One?

If you’ve had a new boiler installed in the last few years — or you’re thinking about it — chances are someone’s mentioned a “magnetic filter.” But what ...more

Heating

November 19, 20252 min read

Combi vs. System Boilers: Which is Best for Your UK Home?

Choosing a new boiler isn't something most people do every day — and if you're anything like most of our customers here at EPM , you're probably thinking: ...more

Heating

November 14, 20254 min read

Choosing the Best Shower Type for Your Bathroom: A Complete Guide (2025)

Choosing the Best Shower Type for Your Bathroom Choosing the right shower for your bathroom is one of the most important decisions you'll make during a ...more

Plumbing

November 13, 20256 min read

Electrical Safety in Rented Homes: What Landlords Need to Know

If you’re a landlord in Exeter or anywhere in the UK, you’ve probably already heard about EICRs and electrical compliance. But with regulations tightening ...more

Electrical

November 12, 20253 min read

Copper vs Plastic Pipes: Which Are Best for Your Home?

If you're planning a renovation, replacing pipework, or even just curious about what’s running behind your walls, you’ve probably heard a plumber mention ...more

Plumbing

November 12, 20252 min read

The True Cost of a Bathroom Renovation in the UK: A Complete Breakdown of Bathroom Renovation Expenses for 2025

Thinking about renovating your bathroom? It’s exciting, but let’s face it: the costs can quickly spiral if you’re not careful. Whether you’re looking to ...more

Plumbing

November 10, 20255 min read

Choosing the Right Bathroom Tiles: Everything You Need to Know (2025)

At EPM, we understand that bathroom tiles are more than just a surface covering—they are a key element in creating the mood and style of your space. ...more

Plumbing

November 06, 20255 min read

How Much Does a House Rewire Cost in the UK in 2025?

If you're living in an older property, planning a renovation, or just bought a home in Exeter or the surrounding area, you might be wondering: "How much ...more

Electrical

October 31, 20253 min read

What’s the Best EV Charger for My Home in the UK?

With electric vehicles becoming more popular across Exeter and the UK, one of the biggest questions we get from homeowners is: “Which EV charger should I ...more

Electrical

October 29, 20253 min read

Property Maintenance Checklist for Landlords (Mid-Year)

Managing one property — let alone a portfolio — can feel like spinning plates. That’s why we always recommend landlords do a mid-year check-in on their ...more

Electrical ,Plumbing Heating &General Maintenance

October 27, 20252 min read

Bathroom Renovation Myths

Bathroom Renovation Myths What Do I Need to Know Before I Start? At EPM, we’ve seen it all when it comes to bathroom renovations. Over the years, we’ve ...more

Plumbing

October 22, 20255 min read

Can I Replace My Own Light Fittings? A straight-talking guide for Exeter homeowners

We’ve had a lot of people ask us over the years: “ Can I change my own light fitting, or do I need an electrician ?” And it’s a fair question. With DIY ...more

Electrical

October 20, 20253 min read

Do I Need an EICR? What Exeter Homeowners Should Know

If you’ve been told you need an EICR — or you’ve just come across the term — you might be wondering what it is, whether it’s really necessary, and what’s ...more

Electrical

October 19, 20253 min read

How to Tell If You Need a Drain Jetting or CCTV Survey

If your drains keep backing up, smell awful, or just aren’t flowing like they should — it’s time to look deeper. But how do you know if it’s a simple ...more

Drainage

October 17, 20253 min read

The Best Heating Options for Bathrooms: Underfloor Heating vs. Heated Towel Rails

When it comes to designing your dream bathroom, heating is often an afterthought—but it shouldn’t be. Nothing kills the luxury of a beautifully renovated ...more

Plumbing

October 14, 20254 min read

How to Spot Unsafe Wiring in an Older Home

If you're living in or buying an older home in Exeter or the surrounding areas, one of the biggest concerns (and rightly so) is the state of the ...more

Electrical

October 13, 20253 min read

The Real Dangers of DIY Electrics (And What We’ve Seen in Exeter Homes)

DIY can be great — we love a bit of hands-on effort as much as the next person. But when it comes to electrical work? We’ve seen first-hand how things can ...more

Electrical

October 12, 20253 min read

Should You Fit a Surge Protector for Your Boiler or EV Charger?

Most homeowners don’t think twice about power surges — until something expensive gets fried. And with more modern boilers, EV chargers, and smart tech ...more

Electrical

October 10, 20253 min read

Why You Should Consider Installing an Unvented Cylinder in the UK

When was the last time you thought about the hot water system in your home? For most homeowners, it’s only when something goes wrong—like running out of ...more

Plumbing

October 02, 20256 min read

7 Signs Your Fuse Box Needs Upgrading (Exeter Homeowner’s Guide)

Your fuse box — now more commonly called a consumer unit — is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It quietly works in the background, keeping your ...more

Electrical

September 24, 20253 min read

Why Does My Socket Keep Tripping?

If your socket keeps tripping, it’s usually whatever you’ve got plugged into it. That’s where you start. Most of the time, it’s not the socket. Start With ...more

Electrical

September 24, 20251 min read

Should I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners? What You Need to Know

Blocked drains are a pain — and chemical drain cleaners promise a quick fix. But are they really the best option? At EPM, we’ve seen the aftermath of ...more

Drainage

September 23, 20252 min read

Why Your Outdoor Drains Smell in Summer (And How to Fix It)

If there’s a foul smell coming from your patio drain, driveway gully, or rear waste pipe — you’re not alone. Summer is prime time for drain smells, and ...more

Drainage

September 21, 20252 min read

What is Part P? A No-Nonsense Guide for UK Homeowners

If you’ve had electrical work done — or you’re planning to — you might have come across the term Part P and wondered what it actually means. And more ...more

Electrical

September 18, 20253 min read

When Is a Boiler Beyond Repair?

We all want to get the most life out of our boilers — but there comes a point where repairing it again just doesn’t make sense. At EPM, we’re often called ...more

Heating

September 17, 20253 min read

Why Is There a Smell Coming from My Bathroom Sink?

Let’s be honest — few things are worse than stepping into your bathroom and being hit with an unpleasant whiff from the sink. It’s one of those ...more

Drainage

September 05, 20253 min read

How to Maximise Space in a Small Bathroom: Expert Tips and Ideas

A small bathroom can feel cramped and cluttered, but with the right design approach, it can be transformed into a stylish and functional space. At EPM, we ...more

Plumbing

September 02, 20256 min read

How Often Should You Bleed Your Radiators (and How to Do It Safely)?

Radiators cold at the top? Gurgling noises in the pipes? You might just need to bleed your heating system — and it’s one of the simplest bits of home ...more

Plumbing ,Heating

August 29, 20253 min read

How to Tell If Your Radiators Need Power Flushing

Radiators not heating evenly? Cold patches? System slow to warm up? It could be time for a power flush — and the earlier you catch it, the better. At EPM, ...more

Plumbing ,Heating

August 21, 20253 min read

How to Spot the Early Signs of a Blocked Drain

Blocked drains don’t always start with water flooding across your floor — they creep in quietly. A smell here. A gurgle there. At EPM, we’ve seen it all ...more

Drainage

August 20, 20253 min read

Why We Don’t Provide Original Receipts for Materials

Occasionally, we’re asked to provide original supplier receipts for materials used on a job. It doesn’t come up often, but when it does, it’s usually ...more

Help & Advice

August 14, 20252 min read

Why Is Water Backing Up in My Kitchen Sink?

A slow-draining kitchen sink is annoying. But when the water starts backing up — bringing smells, food bits, and a worrying sense of dread with it — it’s ...more

Drainage

August 13, 20253 min read

What Size Consumer Unit Do I Need? (And Why It Matters)

If you’re planning an electrical upgrade, adding new circuits, or just wondering whether your old fuse box is up to scratch — you might be asking: “ What ...more

Electrical

August 12, 20253 min read

Tiles vs. Shower Panels: Which Is the Best Choice for My Bathroom?

If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Devon, one question that comes up time and time again is: Should I go for traditional tiles or install shower ...more

Plumbing

August 05, 20253 min read

How to Pay for EPMs Services: Everything You Need to Know

At EPM, we believe in making property care simple, stress-free, and transparent—starting with how you pay for our services. Whether you’re booking a small ...more

Help & Advice

July 23, 20253 min read

Talk to our team today

01392 927923

We provide fast, reliable, plumbing, heating, electrical, drainage and maintenance services for homes and businesses. Our team ensures your satisfaction with high-quality solutions.

01392 927923

Unit 8, Newcourt Barton, Clyst Road, Exeter, EX3 0DB

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