The Snapshot

Why did you look for a contractor?

Replacement of a 43-year-old water heater – at last.

Why did you choose this particular contractor?

24/7 availability, location near my home.

How do you feel about the results?

It’s working beautifully. We have nice clean water, with no problem.

If a friend asked you for a referral, what would you say about this contractor?

I’d give them an A and an A+ in every category.

The Full Scoop

Rust was starting to appear in the water when we ran our faucets and the water heater was making a weird bubbling noise. We inherited the condo from my mom, who bought it in 1974 -- and I think the water heater was original, over 40 years old! (EDITOR’S NOTE: a water heater typically lasts 8-12 years.) So it was definitely time for a new one.

To have a replacement installed, I went online and searched “water heaters,” looking for prices and a place close to me. That led me to Absolute Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning, who said they could send somebody out right away that day -- even on a Saturday -- to give an estimate.

Here’s what I absolutely loved about this plumber and why customer service-wise, I would give them an A++ rating:

They shopped around for the water heater to give me a price and a choice of warranty periods, then found one from a plumbing supply house, which they brought to my house the day they were going to install it. However, I didn’t think that model would fit so well because its relief valve was on the side, while the old one had it up top, together with the intake and outtake. And it wouldn’t make a very good fit in terms of where the actual relief valve discharge was going.

So I looked online and found another that I thought would fit much better. I called the plumbing office and spoke to the manager. He said, “Okay, I have good news and bad news. We can get you the one you want but it won’t be until tomorrow.” Later he called me back to say, “I found a place that had it today.”

The crew took the unpacked water heater, packed it back up, and brought the new one (which fit perfectly) into my house … with no problem at all. No question, no whatever. The service I had from them was absolutely marvelous, good clean work and a wonderful job.

Now the new water heater is working beautifully. Our hot water used to be discolored, a strange yellowish color, but now it’s fine – and it feels great in the shower!

What advice would you give to other homeowners based on your experience?

Look for a place that has good reviews and a good reputation. Learn a little bit about the appliance you’re having installed so that when it’s delivered, you can make sure it meets your specifications.