Water heaters are an inevitable part of modern life for residential and commercial applications. As a result, the water heater market’s annual installation will surpass 145 million units by 2026. When a water heater breaks down, it is essential to get it repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage and inconvenience. Many plumbers claim to be experts in water heater repairs; however, not all of them are equally competent. Here are tips on choosing the best plumber for water heater repair.
1. Check Reviews
The first step is to check reviews when looking for the best plumber for water heater repairs. You can do this by looking online or asking friends and family for recommendations. It will give you an idea of which companies are reputable and which ones to avoid.
While checking the reviews, check the following:
- Are the reviews mostly positive or negative?
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- Do the reviewers seem happy with the service they received?
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- Do the reviewers mention anything about the price of the service?
If reviews are positive and people seem happy with their service, you can anticipate that you will most likely receive good service from that company.
2. Ask for Referrals
Once you have selected a few plumbers to research, ask them for referrals. A good plumber will have no problem providing you with a list of satisfied customers. When you contact these people, ask them about their experience with the plumber. For example, check if they were satisfied with the quality of work and whether or not the job was completed promptly. Also, ask if they would recommend the plumber to others. If a plumber is unable or unwilling to provide you with referrals, you should consider this a red flag and look for another option.
3. Check Licensing and Insurance
Plumbers should be licensed by the state in which they work. In addition, they should have liability insurance to protect themselves and their customers in the event of an accident. Be sure to ask for proof of both before hiring a plumber. Checking plumbers’ licensing status is easy. First, visit your state’s licensing board website and enter their name or license number. If the plumber is licensed, you should see information about their training and experience.
The minimum qualification for a plumber is a journeyman license. It means the plumber has completed an apprenticeship and can work independently. You want to ensure the plumber has general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. General liability covers damages to your property that the plumber caused. Workers’ compensation insurance covers medical bills and lost wages if the plumber is injured while working on your property.
4. Cost and Warranty
Lastly, you’ll want to consider the water heater repair or replacement cost and any warranty that may be included. Many water heater manufacturers offer comprehensive warranties on their products, so it’s essential to ask about that when considering repairs or replacement.
The warranty will cover:
- The cost of parts
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- Labor costs
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- An annual inspection
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right plumber for repairs is essential whether you have a gas or electric water heater. A qualified technician will have the experience and knowledge to accurately diagnose the issue and repair it or replace it accordingly.
Read Here: 9 Facts to Check Before Hiring an Emergency Plumber
