Asking for recommendations is the equivalent of "measure twice, cut once"

[umbran]

This, for Boston-area folks:

I know I've asked similar stuff over the years, but it never hurts to look for newer information. We are looking at having to repair (probably replace, really) a water heater. Anyone with plumber/heating technician recommendations?

Comments

[hungrytiger]

We've used Silco Plumbing for all types and sizes of jobs for close to 15 years now. Everything from fixing a toilet, to replacing a water heater, installing outdoor faucets, and clearing tree roots from pipes. They're a bit more expensive than some of the other local folks, but they're efficient, responsive, and reliable; traits I'm willing to pay a bit more for.

http://www.silcoplumbing.com/

[laurion]

Our oil company also does heating/plumbing, and replaced our furnace/water heater with speed, proficiency, and professionalism, but we have an oil fired combined system, so it was best for us to go with people well suited to that. Am I correct in inferring that you have a gas/electric separate system? I'd be happy to recommend our plumber, based in Natick, but I bet he covers your area as well. He's about our age, and quite knowledgable and reasonable. His biggest flaw is that he can take a long time to cash the check. I suspect you'll get other, more local, options though.

[jducoeur]

Jane and I used Kirkland and Shaw for many jobs, and they always did well by us. Burlington-based, but their website says they cover Arlington.

[vettecat]

Petros Floros (781) 662-3344 (in Melrose). Competent, reliable, and honest. He essentially rebuilt our heating system after we bought the house. I can't recommend him too highly. (Plus he has a good sense of humor and loves talking about movies.)