Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Eagle River, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated full-service plumbing company known for its responsiveness and expertise. They emphasize customer service and are a go-to for both emergency repairs and scheduled installations in the Eagle River community.
Part of a well-known national franchise with a strong local team, offering the resources and guarantees of a large network. They are particularly recognized for their advanced drain and sewer cleaning capabilities and 24/7 emergency service.
A established, multi-trade contractor serving the entire Northwoods region, including Eagle River. They offer comprehensive plumbing services alongside HVAC, making them a convenient choice for integrated home systems, particularly for bathroom/kitchen remodels and new installations.
** The plumbing market in Eagle River, WI, reflects its status as a Northwoods community with a mix of year-round residents and seasonal/vacation properties. The competition level is moderate, with a handful of highly dedicated local providers and a few regional companies covering the area. Due to the seasonal influx and the challenges of older infrastructure (like cabins and older homes), **emergency services and drain cleaning are in high demand**, particularly during winter and the summer tourist season. The average quality of service is high, as the local businesses rely heavily on reputation and word-of-mouth within the community. Pricing tends to be at or slightly above state averages, reflecting the specialized service area, travel distances between properties, and the premium for 24/7 emergency availability. Customers can expect a typical service call fee plus hourly labor rates, with larger projects like water heater replacements or repiping being competitive but not the lowest-cost compared to larger metropolitan areas. For major projects, it is common for providers from nearby hubs like Rhinelander or Minocqua to also serve the Eagle River area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Eagle River regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Eagle River, Wisconsin.
Eagle River's sub-zero temperatures and deep frost lines (often exceeding 4 feet) make frozen and burst pipes a major risk. Homeowners should prioritize insulating pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces and garages, disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses before winter, and ensuring their sewer line is buried below the local frost depth. Scheduling a pre-winter inspection with a local plumber to check vulnerable points is highly recommended.
Costs in Eagle River are influenced by travel for service calls to more remote lake properties and seasonal demand spikes. A standard 50-gallon water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,200, including installation and disposal. Emergency service for a frozen pipe can range from $200 to $600+ depending on the pipe's location and accessibility, with repairs for any resulting burst sections adding significantly more.
Yes, Vilas County has strict regulations due to the sensitive aquifer and numerous lakes. The county health department governs septic system installation, inspection, and pumping. Before buying a home or planning renovations, you should verify your system's compliance. Regular pumping every 3-5 years is crucial, and using septic-safe products is mandatory to protect Northwoods groundwater.
Choose a plumber licensed and insured in Wisconsin, with specific experience in the region's challenges like dealing with well systems, lakefront properties, and winter emergencies. Look for established local companies with strong community reputations, as they understand seasonal timing and can provide faster emergency response. Always verify they pull proper permits for major work, as required by local code.
For seasonal properties, a proper winterization is essential. This involves completely draining the water system (including water heaters), blowing out lines with air, and adding non-toxic antifreeze to all drain traps. You must also shut off and drain your well pump or arrange for municipal water shutoff. Hiring a local professional for this service ensures it's done thoroughly, preventing catastrophic freeze damage that may not be discovered until spring.