I couldn't be happier with Einstein Plumbing. I woke up to water in my garage from a busted heater. I called a couple of decently-rated water heater repair companies, plus Home Depot and Lowes. All wanted nearly $1000 to do the job. Then I called Einstein Plumbing and the price came down dramatically. All in, I ended up spending just over $750 for a 40-gallon, energy efficient ( though not Energy Star) unit. The only downside: I called on a Friday, which apparently is their busiest day. They told me right up front they couldn't come until Monday morning. While I didn't love going without water for three days, that's not their fault-- they're not a giant company, and can only do so many installs. I appreciate that they didn't promise to deliver then call later and say, Oops, couldn't make it. They were direct. I made the choice to wait the extra 48 hours or so and save the money (in part because of the great things I read about them and in part because I really appreciated all the info they gave me over the phone.)
Anyway, they arrived as promised first thing Monday morning. The installer and his helper were both friendly and efficient. They drained my old unit, removed it and installed the new one-- all within a couple hours. I had hot water again and saved at least $300. The experience was so great, I had them install a new water heater at my mom's house two days later, replacing her 20-year-old unit. Her install went just as smoothly. Bottom line: I hope it's many, many years before I call have to call Einstein Plumbing to replace another water heater again. But if something does go wrong, I know my first call will be to them. If you're sitting there freaking out about your busted water heater, do yourself a favor and stop searching for someone to call. Pick up the phone and make an appointment with the guys at Einstein plumbing!