Youll never be stuck with an unexpected bill when your services are complete. We offer upfront, no-surprise pricing, so you can rest assured youre only paying for the high-quality work you receive. Our secret to offering the best service in the business is simple. We hire quality people and continually train them to provide the best customer experience possible.
We train weekly on service, equipment, diagnosis, and more. You can rest assured that our technicians will bring the industry expertise necessary to exceed your expectations.
We train weekly on service, equipment, diagnosis, and more. You can rest assured that our technicians will bring the industry expertise necessary to exceed your expectations.
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All of us at James A. Wheat & Sons are proud to be members of the Association of Air Conditioning Professionals (AACP), formerly the Air Conditioning Contractors of America National Capital Chapter (ACCA NCC). We look forward to continuing to provide state-of-the-art service to all of our wonderful clients in the DC metro area.
Since 1978, the people of Montgomery County, Maryland and NW Washington, DC have turned to James A. Wheat & Sons for all their plumbing services in Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and the surrounding areas. We are a family-owned and -operated company, and our plumbers are trained to detect and repair all types of plumbing problems, from routine clogs to leaky pipes and more.
Theres no great time for your toilet to break, but it always seems like toilets break down at the worst times. When you need toilet repairs in Rockville, Germantown, Bethesda, or Silver Spring, the emergency plumbers at James A. Wheat & Sons are here to help. If your toilet isnt working, dont put off repairs any longer call James A. Wheat & Sons for Rockville toilet repairs or for repairs in Germantown, Bethesda, or Silver Spring.
Reviews (29)
Wendy Wilkinson
Jul 13, 2022
I had a very recent double hitter requiring the help of James A Wheat & Sons. First, a server/drain at the base of my basement steps during the recent downpour and secondly the halt of my air conditioning system as temps were rising.
Donna from James A Wheat set me up with appointments that first undid the blockage of soil and debris blocking g the drain and then got me on the nooks for the A/C. The drain was quickly unblocked by Jose N Abreu who was professional, polite and thorough.
Waktola arrived as scheduled and just as the A/C system was freezing up—literally. He identified the issue and worked with the home base to find a new motor. That item arrived and was installed the next morning—the air conditioning returned happier than it had been for a while. Waktola was on time, professional, polite and knew what he was doing so the Fix went through without a hitch.
I would recommend both of these men and James A Wheat company without hesitation.
Donna from James A Wheat set me up with appointments that first undid the blockage of soil and debris blocking g the drain and then got me on the nooks for the A/C. The drain was quickly unblocked by Jose N Abreu who was professional, polite and thorough.
Waktola arrived as scheduled and just as the A/C system was freezing up—literally. He identified the issue and worked with the home base to find a new motor. That item arrived and was installed the next morning—the air conditioning returned happier than it had been for a while. Waktola was on time, professional, polite and knew what he was doing so the Fix went through without a hitch.
I would recommend both of these men and James A Wheat company without hesitation.
Ellen D.
Jun 24, 2022
We have had a service contract with Wheat and Sons since 2017, and have reached the end of our rope. The technicians have seemed to be professional and seem to be knowledgeable, but two things: 1. Several times right after service, there have been problems -- caused by the techs. For instance, yesterday, the technician left the power off on our outside HVAC unit.
This was after I found out there was no cool air coming to our bedroom, a day later. I was able to find some information on line, and checked the control box and found that the switch had been left off. Fortunately for me, this was obvious. Other times, the thermostats would not work, etc. and we had to call again and have someone come out and correct the issue(s).
This has happened repeatedly and we are done. 2. Be prepared for the upsell. I suspect the techs get commissions, or bonus points for add-ons. Yesterday's was some sort of surge protector and a compression unit that "is getting old, and may fail." This was to add another $575 to our service trip.
This was after I found out there was no cool air coming to our bedroom, a day later. I was able to find some information on line, and checked the control box and found that the switch had been left off. Fortunately for me, this was obvious. Other times, the thermostats would not work, etc. and we had to call again and have someone come out and correct the issue(s).
This has happened repeatedly and we are done. 2. Be prepared for the upsell. I suspect the techs get commissions, or bonus points for add-ons. Yesterday's was some sort of surge protector and a compression unit that "is getting old, and may fail." This was to add another $575 to our service trip.
Janet F.
Jun 22, 2022
We've used James A Wheat & Sons for over 15 years for both our plumbing as well as our heat/AC needs. The technicians are consistently knowledgeable, professional and good communicators. Their annual memberships make a lot of sense and are ultimately cost effective when it comes time for repair or replacement. I recommend this company highly.
Mark Lt- Artist Life
Jun 14, 2022
Jose' did an excellent job on the sink and plumbing. He explained everything with precise detail and took great care in his work. He almost cleaned up the entire floor when he got done. Jose' deserves a bonus & raise! Great job. He's excellent & very well mannered. We definitely would ask for Jose' for any future jobs and we highly recommend James A. Wheat & Sons for all of your plumbing needs!
Samuel N.
May 27, 2022
The employees and technicians are all very professional and well trained. That's why 2 stars instead of 1. Their bait-and-such nickle-and-dime policies are unbelievable. I called for warranty service and was told there was a $35 fee to serve someone out. Fine, I agreed to $35. When the technician arrived, he said there was a $175 fee to look at the system. What's the point of charging $35 to send someone out when the first thing they do when they get here is charge another $175 to do anything at all.
The technician found four parts that need to be replaced. The parts themselves are covered by the warranty, service is not. The quoted fee to do the repair is $1,875. Plus there's another hidden fee the technician luckily told me about that the account rep, or whoever was on the phone didn't mention. Another $473 just to process the warranty. $473 for some minor paperwork?!?!
High fees for great service are ok, but they need to be disclosed and reasonable for what service is being performed. I'm in Rockville, MD, single family home, water heater installed in 2019 (not by them; previous owner). Update: The manager called in response to my website contact message. He credited me the full $175 and apologized for the communication lapses.
He explained a lot about why their prices are fine. I repeatedly expressed that their pricing is not the primary issue; it's the surprise nature of the pricing. REALLY BAD THING HAPPENED So the tech supposedly came to my place and inspected the water heater, identified four parts that needed to be replaced, and left with a quote for that work.
He didn't mention doing anything that would actually "fix" or in any way affect the water heater. Prior to this there was zero hot water. Since I moved in the water was never really hot, but it warmed up enough. Now after the tech left, the water comes out of the faucet at 149°f. According to the NIH any water above 140°f will cause a serious burn in 3 seconds.
I can feel it immediately when I turn the water on and instinctively pull away every time. I have three kids. See photo of meat thermometer attached to this review that shows the high temperature.
The technician found four parts that need to be replaced. The parts themselves are covered by the warranty, service is not. The quoted fee to do the repair is $1,875. Plus there's another hidden fee the technician luckily told me about that the account rep, or whoever was on the phone didn't mention. Another $473 just to process the warranty. $473 for some minor paperwork?!?!
High fees for great service are ok, but they need to be disclosed and reasonable for what service is being performed. I'm in Rockville, MD, single family home, water heater installed in 2019 (not by them; previous owner). Update: The manager called in response to my website contact message. He credited me the full $175 and apologized for the communication lapses.
He explained a lot about why their prices are fine. I repeatedly expressed that their pricing is not the primary issue; it's the surprise nature of the pricing. REALLY BAD THING HAPPENED So the tech supposedly came to my place and inspected the water heater, identified four parts that needed to be replaced, and left with a quote for that work.
He didn't mention doing anything that would actually "fix" or in any way affect the water heater. Prior to this there was zero hot water. Since I moved in the water was never really hot, but it warmed up enough. Now after the tech left, the water comes out of the faucet at 149°f. According to the NIH any water above 140°f will cause a serious burn in 3 seconds.
I can feel it immediately when I turn the water on and instinctively pull away every time. I have three kids. See photo of meat thermometer attached to this review that shows the high temperature.
Apples A.
May 25, 2022
They are very expensive. We were pleased with our first plumbing project they repaired, but the price seemed a bit high. So, for our next plumbing issue - replacing our water heater - we shopped around. We got prices from other companies ranging between $2400 to $ 3200 whereas James Wheat was about $5900. We saved a lot of money which we used for our third plumbing project.
Arlyn Alvior-Guese
May 23, 2022
I chose them over another plumbing company even if they charged $900 more. When the estimate was done Tyler and team were very professional and I appreciate that they followed infection control precautions including wearing shoe covers. During installation the team who worked on the submeter was Cody's team. They did a good job however I found out later that they left a dent on the top portion of my laundry washer.
It appeared as if a heavy tool was dropped on top of it. I called and the Office Manager told me she will investigate and that I will have a response the next day. Over two weeks have passed and I have not heard anything. I was not asking for a new dryer. It would have been as simple as acknowledging that the dent was caused by their crew. Or better send someone to fix it?
I know things like this happen - I am not sure if I will recommend them to others after this experience. BUT. Just to update this review - the laundry washer's dented top was finally replaced with a new one. Vince did a great job. So overall, they technicians were awesome - just remember to be careful moving forward!
It appeared as if a heavy tool was dropped on top of it. I called and the Office Manager told me she will investigate and that I will have a response the next day. Over two weeks have passed and I have not heard anything. I was not asking for a new dryer. It would have been as simple as acknowledging that the dent was caused by their crew. Or better send someone to fix it?
I know things like this happen - I am not sure if I will recommend them to others after this experience. BUT. Just to update this review - the laundry washer's dented top was finally replaced with a new one. Vince did a great job. So overall, they technicians were awesome - just remember to be careful moving forward!
Alexander Hillbrand
May 23, 2022
Stanley Girshik
May 16, 2022
I am a repeat customer and James A Wheat and Sons always delivers. The receptionist on the phone was very helpful with scheduling the appointments. The estimator gave us a full range of options and explained the pros and cons of tankless vs traditional heaters. We asked the installers to move the unit to save as much space as possible and they were able to accommodate our request with no issues. Overall I am a happy customer and will use the service again in the future.
Barbara Moskowitz
Apr 09, 2022
Jacob conducted annual maintenance on our A/C and also evaluated our heating, A/C, and hot water heater for possible replacement as they are all at or close to the end of their life expectancy. I especially liked the way the company communicated clearly about the appointment and expectations, and Jacob was on time and seemed very knowledgable. This is the first time we have used them, at a neighbor's recommendation, and we have already set up an appointment for replacement estimates.
We ended up replacing our furnace, A/C, and humidifier. Elik and Tamar were terrific throughout. When they ran into a problem with the thermostat and had to take another day to complete the installation, they made sure we had the heat we needed throughout the night and took care of it all the next day. They wore masks and took special care to keep our home clean, and they were very professional in every way. I highly recommend this company.
We ended up replacing our furnace, A/C, and humidifier. Elik and Tamar were terrific throughout. When they ran into a problem with the thermostat and had to take another day to complete the installation, they made sure we had the heat we needed throughout the night and took care of it all the next day. They wore masks and took special care to keep our home clean, and they were very professional in every way. I highly recommend this company.
Raven
Mar 18, 2022
Have had a great experience with this company so far. They are very responsive and it's easy to schedule appointments with them. The technicians have been nothing but professional and helpful. When I had an issue after a repair (not their fault) they immediately sent someone out to fix it. Highly recommend! Btw I have to especially recommend Charles.
He is great, he has done multiple full day jobs at our house (we had a lot of plumbing issues). He solved a mystery plumbing problem, identified multiple things I wouldn't have otherwise caught or even thought of, always works until the job is done, and is super friendly.
He is great, he has done multiple full day jobs at our house (we had a lot of plumbing issues). He solved a mystery plumbing problem, identified multiple things I wouldn't have otherwise caught or even thought of, always works until the job is done, and is super friendly.
Ally W.
Feb 20, 2022
I had scheduled a plumber from this company to come out and inspect since my tenant was getting unusual high water bills. The lady that took my information got my phone number and email as well as my tenants and told me that we will both be contacted on the day of service to let us know when to expect them that day. Not only did I not get contacted, the plumber performed services to the house without my authorization.
I had to contact them the next day to find out what was done and that the contact information they collected was incorrect. I didn't even get an email for the invoice. I spoke to someone at the office about my discontent and I was informed that she will speak to the owner and get a resolution. Two weeks have past and I reached out to give them one more chance to take rectify the situation before I have to make this review. They choose to ignore me. Bottom line is, this company is not reliable, unresponsive, and just unprofessional. I would not recommend this company.
I had to contact them the next day to find out what was done and that the contact information they collected was incorrect. I didn't even get an email for the invoice. I spoke to someone at the office about my discontent and I was informed that she will speak to the owner and get a resolution. Two weeks have past and I reached out to give them one more chance to take rectify the situation before I have to make this review. They choose to ignore me. Bottom line is, this company is not reliable, unresponsive, and just unprofessional. I would not recommend this company.
Yasmine Benidir
Feb 15, 2022
I manage an apartment complex in MD, I have tried using SEVERAL plumbing companies with no satisfaction. My boss recommended James A. Wheat and Sons, so I decided to give them a try and I am so glad I did! this company is so professional, and I love that they call you with an ETA. the plumber they sent, Tommy, was the most knowledgeable plumber I have ever met! I have already contacted them a few times and every experience has been positive. I 100% recommend this company for all your plumbing needs.
Joohee Lee
Feb 09, 2022
I called James A. Wheat and Sons at the recommendation of another local plumbing company. I was able to get an appointment the following day. The receptionist was professional and they even called the following morning to verify the window of arrival. Tommy and David arrived within the specified window and was friendly and professional. Tommy identified a significant issue with a main pipe and explained the issue and took extra effort to save me money. They both addressed the issue promptly within that morning and provided me with the time to confirm all was well. I will definitely use them again!
Sandy Marder
Jan 22, 2022
Gas Fireplace Repair - The service was very good but we were initially charged the wrong price by the service tech who as a fairly new employee. Once we called the office, Michael Wheat responded within an hour and sent us the correct billing and processed the credit the same day. The whole experience with the service tech and Michael was very professional and if it had not been Christmas week, the tech's supervisor would have corrected the charge before our call.
I would recommend the $300 annual service fee for a gas fireplace repair as will include your service that day to clean/refurbish your gas fireplace. If you so need a new remote/receiver, as we did, that will be an extra charge. If you are handy, you can by the receiver/remote online. We are enjoying having our two gas fireplaces now working again.
I would recommend the $300 annual service fee for a gas fireplace repair as will include your service that day to clean/refurbish your gas fireplace. If you so need a new remote/receiver, as we did, that will be an extra charge. If you are handy, you can by the receiver/remote online. We are enjoying having our two gas fireplaces now working again.
B. B.
Jan 19, 2022
Debi P.
Jan 17, 2022
I have only super positive things to say about my experiences with James A Wheat & Sons. From the Scheduler to the technicians, everyone does a terrific job. Their work is guaranteed and I have the service plan which is so worth it. Shout out to Donna who was able to get me on the schedule right away. True professionals! Thank you!
Christine S.
Nov 03, 2021
I highly recommended James A Wheat & Sons. The office staff is kind and responsive. John and Tommy were prompt this morning and took all safety precautions to protect my home, myself and themselves. I was having a sewer ejector pump issue. John and Tommy fixed it with ease. Both men were very knowledgeable, professional and helpful. Christine S
Kerry H.
Sep 27, 2021
Tracey S.
Aug 07, 2021
The office scheduler was very helpful and responsive but the tech they sent out was pompous and obstructionist right from the start. Rather than demonstrate knowledge and experience and make a sincere effort to resolve the issue he just made statement after statement about why he couldn't do the job and how he already knew it was gong to cost more.
For example when he didn't readily see the main water cut off he commented over and over again that it was probably drywalled over (10 mins later found the panel right in front of him), when I thought it was another panel that had been painted he went on and on about how he wouldn't be able to access that because it was painted over. (I got a screwdriver and easily removed the panel).
The first thing he did was check the water pressure from the hose gauge outside and said it was not within international water pressure standards and they would have to write up a ticket for adjusting that (at extra cost) before they could do any work on the property. When I told him the prior toilet stoppage had produced some small roots he said the entire front yard would have to be dug up and the main sewer line replaced.
This was all before doing ANYTHING to diagnose the issue. He then quoted $1,300 JUST TO SNAKE THE DRAIN and made it clear that all other work performed would be at additional cost. Needless to say I sent them away. I had another plumber there a couple hours later who removed a small amount of hair from the drain in under an hour and made us whole again. I will NEVER contact James A. Wheat and Sons again. Best of luck to you If you do.
For example when he didn't readily see the main water cut off he commented over and over again that it was probably drywalled over (10 mins later found the panel right in front of him), when I thought it was another panel that had been painted he went on and on about how he wouldn't be able to access that because it was painted over. (I got a screwdriver and easily removed the panel).
The first thing he did was check the water pressure from the hose gauge outside and said it was not within international water pressure standards and they would have to write up a ticket for adjusting that (at extra cost) before they could do any work on the property. When I told him the prior toilet stoppage had produced some small roots he said the entire front yard would have to be dug up and the main sewer line replaced.
This was all before doing ANYTHING to diagnose the issue. He then quoted $1,300 JUST TO SNAKE THE DRAIN and made it clear that all other work performed would be at additional cost. Needless to say I sent them away. I had another plumber there a couple hours later who removed a small amount of hair from the drain in under an hour and made us whole again. I will NEVER contact James A. Wheat and Sons again. Best of luck to you If you do.
Anna B.
Jul 29, 2021
I had an issue with my tankless water heater giving a "code 11" which means failure to ignite. They sent Michael the very next day, super courteous and friendly. talked me through the process. He did a diagnostic texts, all parts were fine. Have a guesstimate as to what it could've been. fixed for the time being. The very next day, same issue came up.
They sent someone later in the day, Jose. super nice and very informative. Fixed the issue but let me know, in the future this light happen again after speaking to the water heater manufacturer. gave some options that still might be the end of all solutions but I felt like they were honest and I just appreciate that. No charge for the second visit. Very pleased overall. I would definitely recommend them just for their promptness and honesty.
They sent someone later in the day, Jose. super nice and very informative. Fixed the issue but let me know, in the future this light happen again after speaking to the water heater manufacturer. gave some options that still might be the end of all solutions but I felt like they were honest and I just appreciate that. No charge for the second visit. Very pleased overall. I would definitely recommend them just for their promptness and honesty.
Jarren M.
Jul 04, 2021
Darin D.
Jun 04, 2021
I feel like a real dope letting James A Wheat and Sons replace a toilet in my home. A few days ago I noticed a puddle of water behind the toilet in my one bathroom. I quickly checked and thought it was the water supply into the toilet. I tried to stop it with shut off valve but still had leak. I needed someone quick to come in and fix it. I usually do it myself but after multiple surgeries this year I am unable to.
They came out and discovered that the tank was leaking on the toilet and the toilet needed replacing. They quoted me $1,400.00 to replace toilet. A agreed to go ahead and let them do it as I did not want any water damage in our basement. He required $500.00 deposit which I did provide him. I will say the plumber Anil Das was very prompt and courteous and did a fantastic job with install.
He discovered while he was here that the shut off valve wasn't working and asked if I wanted to replace it. I said yes but he did not provide me pricing. I should of asked but still recovering from my fourth surgery this year last week (I am not thinking straight). He completed the job and presented me with the bill. He then told me it was $360.00 + for the shut off valve replacement.
I almost fell over at that price given he was already here and it took him less then an hour. I have done some research and found I could of gotten the toilet installed for half the price they charged me. As I said I feel like dope for letting them do it and even though I signed up for the Eagle preferred service that gives you 15% off future repairs I WILL NOT use them again for any plumbing, A/C, gas fireplace, etc. that they list on there work vans.
They came out and discovered that the tank was leaking on the toilet and the toilet needed replacing. They quoted me $1,400.00 to replace toilet. A agreed to go ahead and let them do it as I did not want any water damage in our basement. He required $500.00 deposit which I did provide him. I will say the plumber Anil Das was very prompt and courteous and did a fantastic job with install.
He discovered while he was here that the shut off valve wasn't working and asked if I wanted to replace it. I said yes but he did not provide me pricing. I should of asked but still recovering from my fourth surgery this year last week (I am not thinking straight). He completed the job and presented me with the bill. He then told me it was $360.00 + for the shut off valve replacement.
I almost fell over at that price given he was already here and it took him less then an hour. I have done some research and found I could of gotten the toilet installed for half the price they charged me. As I said I feel like dope for letting them do it and even though I signed up for the Eagle preferred service that gives you 15% off future repairs I WILL NOT use them again for any plumbing, A/C, gas fireplace, etc. that they list on there work vans.
Lee C.
Mar 10, 2021
I had an exhaust fan in our basement whereby there was an attachment for ductwork. Nick and Matt went from upstairs right above where the duct would go down into the basement which was a smart move. The other would be less accurate. They did an excellent job totally from letting me know every step, to making sure the flexible vent was high to the ceiling to cleaning up. A number of people have complained on here regarding the high prices. I figure you get what you pay for. I am very pleased with their work.
Nancy Drew
Feb 25, 2021
Kathy Y.
Jun 19, 2020
Shop around. James A Wheat was going to charge me over 1000 for an expansion tank and another company was 300. The price they quoted for a water filter replacement was over $6000 and four other companies called quoted around $3500. Initially called to have a leak assessed this company charges 35 for the technician to come and over $200 to cut open your drywall. Other companies charge 25 to assess the problem.
Lori Z.
Sep 10, 2018
We hired this company this year for a yearly service agreement. They came out for a spring service check and advised us of a couple of things we may want to do for preventative maintenance and said we would get an estimate. It was never sent. About 2 months later our unit started leaking condensation. We called at night and left a Voicemail, which was never returned.
Then we sent an E-Mail, which was never returned. Then we called and reached a person, who was somehow twice disconnected and called a number on the account. We set up an appointment and were told that later in the day we would get a time window. At 3:30PM I got tired of waiting for a time window and called them and was told they'd come between 8AM and 9AM.
The next morning the technician was 20 minutes late to the window and they called to tell me. Then they called again to ask the problem, which we had previously explained already in a Voicemail, E-Mail, and over the phone. When the technician arrived, he again asked the problem as no one informed him. FOUR HOURS later they attempted to tack on a Saturday visit fee and a $200 fee to come back another day to install a $100 item they would charge $200. $400 for a $100 part.
In addition to what I already paid. Then they told us it was our fault because they told us we needed service, for which they never sent an estimate. They called to resolve the issue 2 days later, reiterated that it was our fault, and then TRIED TO SELL ME A NEW ENTIRE HVAC SYSTEM for my working unit that needs a $100 part I can connect myself! So unbelievable that we are writing this review. Needless to say, we declined.
Then we sent an E-Mail, which was never returned. Then we called and reached a person, who was somehow twice disconnected and called a number on the account. We set up an appointment and were told that later in the day we would get a time window. At 3:30PM I got tired of waiting for a time window and called them and was told they'd come between 8AM and 9AM.
The next morning the technician was 20 minutes late to the window and they called to tell me. Then they called again to ask the problem, which we had previously explained already in a Voicemail, E-Mail, and over the phone. When the technician arrived, he again asked the problem as no one informed him. FOUR HOURS later they attempted to tack on a Saturday visit fee and a $200 fee to come back another day to install a $100 item they would charge $200. $400 for a $100 part.
In addition to what I already paid. Then they told us it was our fault because they told us we needed service, for which they never sent an estimate. They called to resolve the issue 2 days later, reiterated that it was our fault, and then TRIED TO SELL ME A NEW ENTIRE HVAC SYSTEM for my working unit that needs a $100 part I can connect myself! So unbelievable that we are writing this review. Needless to say, we declined.
William H.
Aug 24, 2018
We recently engaged JAWheat&Sons for the replacement of our heating and hot water systems. After interviewing about five different contractors, JAW was the only one who understood what we were asking for and came up with the solution. All the rest wanted to sell us what they wanted, and not what we needed or were looking for. Some could not event handle both a boiler and a hot water heater in the same estimate. JAW Team came on time, all of their staff were extremely polite and knowledgeable, and treated our home as if it were the most important place on the planet.
Very impressed with their staff. Jeff one of the owners is a stickler about how the installation is done and kept an eye on what was happening. I can not say enough about the employees, from the ladies in the office to the young guys who worked on the job, everyone was friendly and professional. While I read many feel that they are not the cheapest out there, I would not quite agree, their pricing was the same as many others, and in some cases a tad less.
Very impressed with their staff. Jeff one of the owners is a stickler about how the installation is done and kept an eye on what was happening. I can not say enough about the employees, from the ladies in the office to the young guys who worked on the job, everyone was friendly and professional. While I read many feel that they are not the cheapest out there, I would not quite agree, their pricing was the same as many others, and in some cases a tad less.
K. C.
Jun 11, 2017
It is one thing to overcharge people for a simple service, but it is totally unacceptable when businesses try to trick you into spending way more than you need to. I called Wheat and Sons Inc. to inquire about the cost of connecting an outdoor grill to an existing gas line. The rep on the phone told me that he cannot give me an estimate but for a cost of $35 they will send a technician to come look at what is needed and accordingly will provide me with an accurate cost.
I agreed to this service and few days later a technician showed up. He looked at the grill and the pipe and told me that, yes indeed it is a very basic service that should not take him long, and that it would cost me $525. I don't ever like to determined how simple or complicated a task is unless I know enough about it, and I don't think you need to be an expert to realize it does not cost over $500 to connect two pipes. However, the high cost is not my concern.
I can always shop around and find a better deal, but when I asked why is it so expensive the technician notified me that they have flat rates for these services! Seriously? Couldn't they tell me that when I had called few days earlier and had asked for a rough estimate? The technician was very professional and agreed to wave the $35 fee. I think even he felt embarrassed for wanting to charge me over $500 for such a simple task.
They think when the technician is there people are more willing to pay and get the task done as opposed to hearing the ridicules high cost on the phone and moving on to the next provider. Not professional in my view.
I agreed to this service and few days later a technician showed up. He looked at the grill and the pipe and told me that, yes indeed it is a very basic service that should not take him long, and that it would cost me $525. I don't ever like to determined how simple or complicated a task is unless I know enough about it, and I don't think you need to be an expert to realize it does not cost over $500 to connect two pipes. However, the high cost is not my concern.
I can always shop around and find a better deal, but when I asked why is it so expensive the technician notified me that they have flat rates for these services! Seriously? Couldn't they tell me that when I had called few days earlier and had asked for a rough estimate? The technician was very professional and agreed to wave the $35 fee. I think even he felt embarrassed for wanting to charge me over $500 for such a simple task.
They think when the technician is there people are more willing to pay and get the task done as opposed to hearing the ridicules high cost on the phone and moving on to the next provider. Not professional in my view.