Water heater · Devin Brooks
Second opinion on a lower quote
Product manager at a software company, working from home today. Friendly and quick, and he has already read a lot about this job online.
What you know walking in
Estimate. Homeowner has a written quote from another company to replace a leaking water heater and wants a second opinion and a price. 50-gallon gas tank in the garage. Not a member.
- 50-gallon atmospheric gas water heater, 10 yrs
- Pressure regulator on the main line
What you found
- There is a slow seep and rust at the base of the tank. It needs to be replaced.
- There is no expansion tank, and the house has a pressure regulator. Code requires one on the new install.
- The seismic straps are loose and only one is attached. The new install needs two.
- The other company's written quote lists the water heater and installation but does not mention an expansion tank, a permit, or haul-away.
- The pressure regulator holds a steady 60 psi. It is working and stays.
Your price book for this job
50-gallon standard gas, 6-year warranty Fits this home
New 50-gallon gas water heater · Thermal expansion tank · Two seismic straps · New gas connector and sediment trap · Permit and haul-away · Itemized written estimate
$2,150
or $55/mo
50-gallon gas, 10-year warranty
Everything in the standard option · Longer 10-year tank and parts warranty · New cold-water shutoff valve
$2,790
or $72/mo
The honest fit is marked. Recommend what the home needs, and only that.
Your goal
Compare the two quotes line by line without criticizing the other company, and show which required items the lower quote does not list. Let the customer decide with complete information.
Difficulty: Tough
Plan you can offer
- Summit Care Club$19.95 a month
Speak naturally. Devin hears you, reacts to how you say things, and remembers. Headphones make it feel real.