Maintaining customer satisfaction is a crucial aspect of any business, but it’s even more important for plumbing companies that have earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award. For Anderson Plumbing, the most effective way to keep clients happy is to provide them with honest, reliable, responsive service. “My goal is to go above and beyond to make sure my customers have a clear understanding of what I’m doing from the start,” says owner Samuel Anderson. “Ultimately, I want this communication to carry over through pricing and job completion.”

Anderson Plumbing has been providing plumbing services for residential and commercial clients in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties since 2020. The company has the training and equipment to work on everything from gas and sewer lines to fixtures and water heaters, and it offers free consultations so customers can choose the best options for their situations.

Unlike less experienced plumbing companies that offer stock solutions to their customers’ problems, Anderson Plumbing is known for thinking outside the box to ensure its clients get positive outcomes. “I’m constantly online researching things and staying up-to-date with new brands and products,” says Mr. Anderson. “I always want to offer modern, relevant plumbing solutions, and keeping up with industry advancements is the best way to do that.”

Ultimately, Mr. Anderson sees his efficient approach to plumbing work as Anderson Plumbing’s most valuable asset. “For example, when I’m working on a stuck faucet, I cut it out instead of trying to disassemble it and wasting the customer’s time,” he explains. “Pairing this efficient approach with my skills and knowledge informs all of my work. I take pride in doing the job right the first time and to a high standard of quality.”

Look for specific warning signs to determine if your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced.

It’s easy to forget about your water heater until it stops functioning or starts exhibiting problems. Uncertainty over whether it can be repaired or should be replaced can combine with fears of going without hot water, so many homeowners simply call a plumber to install a new model. But water heaters aren’t cheap, and prematurely replacing one can lead to unnecessary expenses. Instead, you should get a diagnosis from a reliable plumber—it’ll give you peace of mind and maybe even extend the lifespan of your current water heater.

“If your water heater isn’t leaking, it can definitely be repaired,” says Samuel Anderson, owner of Anderson Plumbing in Pleasanton. “Some plumbers try to push their customers into buying new water heaters, but an honest plumber should be able to give you reliable advice about whether your water heater can be fixed or if it’s better to replace it.”

Here are some other factors to consider when deciding to repair or replace your water heater:

Age

Most water heaters last about 10 years, but this can vary depending on factors like usage and hard water. If your water heater is a modern model, it may be worth repairing around the 10-year mark, but if it’s older, it might be better to replace it. To find out how old your water heater is, enter the serial number into the manufacturer’s website.

Leaks

Water around your water heater can indicate cracking, which means it’s at risk of bursting. Call a plumber right away for replacement.

Declining water quality

Rusty water from the tap can be a sign that your water heater is corroding and rusting inside. Newer water heaters can usually have new zinc anode rods installed, but older models may need to be replaced.

Strange noises

Water heaters should be mostly silent, but many start to make sounds as they age and fill with sediment. Groaning, banging, rumbling and other noises should be checked out by a plumber.

Q: How soon can you start my job?

A: I can usually get there on the same day that you call. I also offer evening and weekend emergency plumbing services.

Q: Can you recommend a water heater brand?

A: I often recommend Bradford White water heaters, but I can also give you a recommendation based on your home and specific needs.

Q: Can you give me an estimate over the phone?

A: Sometimes, especially if it’s a common problem or if you send pictures, but in-person estimates are usually best. That way, I can look at your problem and tell you exactly what’s going on. The estimate will be more accurate and I’ll be able to give you specific answers to your questions.

Q: Can my water heater be repaired or does it need to be replaced?

A: If it’s not leaking, it can definitely be repaired. Some plumbers try to push their customers into buying new water heaters, but I’m always honest about when something can be repaired and when it’s necessary to replace it.

Q: Do you work with tenants?

A: Yes, I just need verbal or written authorization from the property owner or management company.

Q: Do you work on commercial buildings?

A: Yes, depending on the building and unit sizes.