There are two types of plumbing products. Those that don’t work now and those that soon won’t work. Plumbing is a group of inanimate objects waiting to fall apart. Sink faucets drip, commode seals leak, hot water heaters die violent deaths, dishwashers go belly up during the rinse cycle, pipes spring leaks, washing machines commit suicide and garbage disposals go to pot. It’s just a matter of time.
Fortunately for me, when the inevitable plumbing disaster occurs, I simply call my buddy, Pat Crowley, better known as Mr. Faucet.
Pat once worked as representative of a soap company that catered to restaurants. When problems arose with dishwashers or washing machines, he was Johnny-on-the-spot to fix the problem so his company could sell them more products. About 15 years ago, Pat gave up the corporate life and went on his own. He believed in giving great service for a fair price. And most plumbers aren’t like that. Many charge more than my cardiologist does for a one hour visit.
This past weekend, we noticed water on the floor in front of the kitchen sink – not a good sign. Upon further inspection, we found that water was dripping from the garbage disposal and we had company coming for dinner the next evening. I called Pat, who was in the middle of replacing a hot water heater at the time and he said to put a pan beneath the disposal to collect the water, and he would drop by later that day. He did, measured and ordered a new disposal and installed it the next day – before company arrived.
Pat charges $70 and hour and he only charges for any portion of an hour he works, plus there is no fee simply for showing up. He is honest, prompt and offers the best service for the money in town.
One big rip-off many homeowners face is replacing a hot water heater. Pat charges around $800 to replace and install a new electric heater and to haul the old one away. The national brand name companies charge way more. As much as twice that or more.
Most homeowners aren’t aware how much a new water heater would cost and simply pay whatever the plumber charge.
Next time it happens to you – and it will happen – give Pat a call at 434-962-2027 and keep the big boys honest.