There is no substitute for experience
Family-owned and operated since 1955, Blinkhorn Plumbing is renown for honesty and expertise. We exceed our clients' expectations by combining our 52-years of experience to deliver excellence in service using top-of-the-line materials and offering competitive prices.
WALTER BLINKHORN (CEO): WBLINKHORN@BLINKHORNPLUMBING.COM.
Business highlights
70 years of trusted experience
Services we offer
Plumbing Repair Clear & Repair Drains Appliances Hot Water Heaters Garbage Disposals Ice Makers Sewer Cleaning Disposals Gas Logs & Instant Hots Drains & Pips Sump Pumps Faucets
Despite their having to claimed to have "fixed" it, the problem remains MONTHS later. I believe that one THOROUGH visit by a competent plumber could have fixed it. First, they replaced a pipe. Now, they say it simply entails caulking the tub. That seems odd because the place where the water leaks out is not even directly under the tub(?) As I mentioned though, (expensive) pipe replaced did NOT fix the problem.
Description of Work: I had/have water leaking from my (upstairs) bathroom down below to my laundry room.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
2.0
value
3.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Response from BLINKHORN PLUMBING
Hello Ms. [Member Name Removed], We are so sorry you had a frustrating experience. The plumber that came to your home reported that you had two separate problems. The second issue needs a tile repair/ caulk repair person. We are happy to follow up at no charge after you caulk. Thank you, Blinkhorn Plumbing
Maureen G.
08/2017
5.0
water heater repair
+ -1 more
Same day service, repaired the problem promptly, congenial technician, fair pricing. Highly recommended.
Description of Work: Water heater pressure valve replacement.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$220
Caressa B.
01/2017
5.0
plumbing, water heater repair
+ 0 more
Great! Walter set up the appointment. he is very knowledgeable and educated me about gas water heaters. He was surprised to learn mine lasted as long as it did. Apparently, 20 years is a long time! Brian came out made the assessment and figured out what we needed as a replacement. He talked me out of a tankless model and recommended an updated Ruud 75 gallon tank. He then worked with Walter to price it out and provide a quote for the tank and installation. I checked around and it was right in the ballpark of what I was told it should cost with installation ($2600)
Description of Work: My 75 gallon hot water heater died after 20 years of service. I found Blinkhorn Plumbing on Angie's List. They were able to get a plumber to my house within an hour. The following business day they had installed a new water heater and had me back up and running with hot water. Walter, Brian and Sam worked as a team and delivered prompt courteous service.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Shirley A.
07/2016
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
He's very knowledgeable and the quality of materials are good.
Description of Work: They replaced an outdoor faucet.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
John M.
04/2015
5.0
plumbing, drain cleaning
+ 0 more
Every time we use Blinkhorn my wife and I are pleasantly surprised by how nice and pleasant the workers are. From the scheduling call to the resolution of the problem the people are just fantastic. Most importantly they always show up on time and fix the problem and communicate what the issue was and how we might prevent it from occurring again.
Description of Work: Fixed a clog in our shower.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$180
Susan T.
12/2014
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
We use Blinkhorn plumbing regularly. We redid five bathrooms in our current house and three in our previous home using the Blinkhorn firm. We have had some complicated work done and they have always been was to have around, responsive and as helpful as possible.
Description of Work: Fixed a leaky pipe that had flooded our kitchen
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Pesach M.
12/2014
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Came on time. Knew exactly what to do. Performed job quickly. Price was right.
Description of Work: Installed new toilet
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$150
Matthew K.
12/2014
3.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
My handyman referred me to Blinkhorn, and I had a positive phone call with Walter Blinkhorn about my project. I gave him my address, and he scheduled an appointment. When I called a few days later with a question about permitting, however, he told me in a voicemail that his company did not maintain a license in DC and that he could not help me with my project. I have no doubt that Blinkhorn would have done good work on my project at a reasonable price, but I found this experience very disappointing. Mr. Blinkhorn seemed happy to work with me initially, even after I told him that I live in DC. He cancelled the appointment only after I mentioned permitting. I understand better than most the byzantine nature of the DC housing code and the frustration of working with DCRA, but it felt inappropriate to me that this company advertised itself as providing service in DC but apparently is not licensed to do so and actually does only un-permitted work.
Description of Work: I spoke with Blinkhorn about replacing a deteriorating bathtub faucet and shower valve. Walter Blinkhorn initially was very helpful over the phone and gave me several suggestions about replacement hardware, but he ultimately declined the work.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
professionalism
2.0
responsiveness
4.0
Kathy H.
07/2014
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
He has been helpful and thoughtful. He tells you what the issue is and prices are so you are not surprised. I have been using him since August of 2013. I would recommend Blinkhorn Plumbing as your plumber since they have done such a great job for me as my plumber.
Description of Work: He examined the wax seal in my bathroom, and he will need to reset it.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$50
Laura G.
06/2014
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
I was having issues with my hot water turning brown. Mr. Blinkhorn helped to identify over the phone that it was probably my water heater and not pipe issues. Pete came out to assess the issue and take note of size and access to my water heater. The cost for the initial visit was $95. Scheduling to have the water heater installed was a breeze. On installation day, Bryan and Duwayne had to work together since the space was tight and required two people to lift the water heater over existing pipes which blocked the exit. They worked quickly and efficiently, making sure to clean up all debris before they left. They were very friendly and were honestly gone before I had even expected the work to be done. Very professional. I noticed that my water pressure was lower than normal after the install. Not a problem - I called Mr. Blinkhorn and he had Bryan stop by the same day to adjust the pressure settings. I know nothing about plumbing and felt at total ease with this team. I would not hesitate to use Blinkhorn Plumbing again in the future and would recommend them without reservation to my friends and neighbors.
Description of Work: Remove and replace electric water heater.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$1,335
Karen R.
10/2013
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
didn't have to wait long to get appointment
Description of Work: installed new sump pump
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$350
DAVID P.
10/2013
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Dennis was very prompt in responding and worked hard to resolve my issues. It took him a couple of trips because he was trying to get the right part for the exterior bib. He also had to come back and re-snake the drain but no charge and he made sure all was right. He is someone I will do business with again.
Description of Work: snaked a clogged drainpipe in kitchen and replaced a exterior faucet bib
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
$300
Ruth S.
06/2013
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Clearly identified the problem and did not magnify it. Solution was straightforward and fully explained.
Description of Work: checked out and repaired leaky faucet and running toilet.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$115
Kimberly M.
06/2013
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Blinkhorn Plumbing was very polite and professional. The original appointment was on February 1, but the work could not be completed due to an HVAC wire blocking access to the water heater. Rather than adjust the wiring himself, he recommended that we have an HVAC company move it to avoid any potential effects on the HVAC system. He was very flexible about returning to complete the installation a week later. After the installation, he explained the major features and instructions for the water heater.
Description of Work: Installed new gas water heater--removed old water heater
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$1,450
Tracy S.
05/2013
5.0
water heater repair
+ -1 more
Very knowledgable; called approx 5 individuals. He was tied for the lowest price and most helpful on phone without being high pressure. Quick service, courteous, in and out as promised. Will definitely call again!
Description of Work: Water heater replacement
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$1,200
Lisa M.
12/2012
1.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Did not return call for service.
Description of Work: did not return call for service. I have used Blinkhorn for years but no longer.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
responsiveness
1.0
Response from BLINKHORN PLUMBING
Dear Ms. [member name removed], We apologize for not getting back to you or returning your your message. We are unsure as to why your message went unanswered but deeply regret the mistake and would be very interested in earning your business back. We pride ourselves on customer service and customer loyalty and will do whatever it takes to be your plumber once again. Respectfully, Blinkhorn Plumbing
Margaret C.
08/2012
1.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Having used this plumbing business several times now and experienced these problems and high charges, this is not one I will be using again.
Description of Work: I have used Blinkhorn Plumbing a total of 3 times since April 2010 and have paid a total of $615. The first visit involved replacing 2 bathroom sink faucets with $200+ (each) Kohler faucets that I had purchased separately. I have never felt these faucets were installed correctly as I have experienced trouble with them within several months of having them put in. I checked the rating of this particular faucet on several online consumer-oriented sites and found that it received 5 stars. I also felt that I was greatly overcharged for some work on the second visit ($220) that involved the toilet & drain in one of my bathrooms. I spoke to the owner several weeks ago about the continuing problem with one of sink faucets in particular (it keeps becoming stuck and is impossible to lift up so that the sink can drain at all). He said someone would stop by on July 24th. I was charged $95 for this visit which took all of 10 minutes. I simply feel that this charge is outrageous given that this company installed the faucets in the first place and I’ve always had problems with them. It isn’t as if anyone, e.g., young children, is abusing the faucet levers – I live alone and have not yanked them or done anything else out of the ordinary that would cause these continuing problems. At this point, I’ve had to position one of the faucet stoppers in such a way that the sink will drain properly but such that the sink cannot be filled up for any reason. Given all the money I’d already spent with Blinkhorn Plumbing, I am very disappointed to have been charged $95 for this visit – the owner never mentioned on the phone that I’d be charged anything at all. I’m especially disappointed given how close I live to this business’ home office. While some charge might have been acceptable, I think $95 for what was done, given the first two visits in particular and their resulting charges/problems, was too high. Plus, I was never even offered the Angie’s List discount on either of the last two visits for which I paid $315. UPDATE: So now, in late November '12, the sink faucet referenced above has broken down entirely and will have to be completely replaced. Blinkhorn Plumbing has thus cost me well over $400 for useless and nonlasting services with respect to this one faucet alone. I cannot recommend using them on any level whatsoever.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
2.0
value
1.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
3.0
punctuality
3.0
$615
Caryn M.
07/2012
5.0
plumbing, water heater repair
+ 0 more
Scheduling the installation became problematic because the D.C. area suffered a massive power outage and I was without electricity for 5 days. Company owner Mr. Blinkhorn was available instantly by phone and true to his word, had an installer out immediatelyupon restoration of power. I got a good product (much better water heater brand than I had before) at a good price with an excellentwarranty. Mr. Blinkhorn is readily available for follow-up questions and very accommodating. Thank goodness that family owned, locally based companies like Blinkhorn Plumbing still exist!
Description of Work: A gas water heater that Blinkhorn had attempted to fix earlier, just couldn't be saved and it had to be replaced.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$1,000
Caryn M.
06/2012
5.0
plumbing, water heater repair
+ 0 more
This was a wonderful service experience! Blinkhorn gave next-day service; it would have same-day service had I been able to get away from work on that day. The owner of the company called the night before to confirm the appointment (Wow!) and the servicetechnician arrived within 20 mins. of the scheduled 7:30am appointment (!) so that I could still get to work on time. He was very knowledgeable and took the time to answer my questions. He let me know that this water heater could likely be on its "last legs" but there was no high pressure sales tactic. He patiently explained to me how I could drain my water heater annually (another company had told me that this annual maintenance could not be performed because I have a finished basement with no drain - apparently a hose can be run to a toilet on the same floor and there will be enough pressure to drain the water heater). I received very valuable information about why I shouldn't set the temperature on the water heater as high as I had (can over-pressurize and cause leaks and early failure!) He also gave me an estimate for a new water heater. With the Angie's List coupon, this repair and all of the valuable information only cost me $70! And Mr. Blinkhorn called AGAIN about a half-hour after the technician left to make sure everything went O.K. Blinkhorn is my plumbing contractor for LIFE!
Description of Work: I could not get the pilot light on my gas water heater to ignite the burner after it went out without warning. The service technician discovered a loose wire that was the problem.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$70
Stephen H.
06/2012
5.0
plumbing, water heater repair
+ 0 more
Based on Angies List scores, I called Blinkhorn Plumbing for an estimate on a new hot water heater. Their person came on time the next day and called with a complete quote that afternoon. I compared the quote with others I had received and thought it fair. Then, looking to Angies List scores, compared to others, I decided to hire Blinkhorn. They did a great job; arrived on time on the date we set, were careful as to working in our home, did an expert job of instilation and were excellent in all respects. I will use their services again!
Description of Work: Installed hot water heater with overflow safety pan and electronic off valve and new water line valves.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$2,900
MARYANNE M.
06/2012
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
A very professional and competent plumber replaced my garbage disposal. My old one was not working and I supplied the new disposal. I got an appointment within a couple of days and they could come at a convenient time for me. The plumber, Isaac, was on time, pleasant, and had the job done in efficiently. I would definitely use them again.
Description of Work: Garbage disposal removal and installation of new one.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$125
Spencer W.
06/2012
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
I was satisified with their work. I liked dealing with the owner and I had some questions about one of the employees they sent out to do the work but it all got straightened.
Description of Work: They replaced all of the copper pipes in our basement. It was a pretty big project.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Julia A.
06/2012
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
We've had them work for us before that; they did a great job so we called them back. They came by quickly, were professional, & did the work well. If I need them I will call back because I was happy with the service.
Description of Work: The first time I had a problem with water in the laundry room. The second time the WC flooded.
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
Dennis M.
05/2012
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
Very Well. It was quick and well done.
Description of Work: Rootered toilet drain, recommended replacing toilet in a few months when it backs up again
Rating Category
Rating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0
Yes, I recommend this pro
$125
Linda N.
03/2012
5.0
plumbing
+ -1 more
I called and Mr. Blinkhorn called back a few hours later. An appointment was set wiith the stipulation that the plumber will call 1/2 hour ahead to do work anytime of the Monday morning. By late morning, no-one called and so I followed up. Apparently, delay in another job happened. Mr. Blinkhorn offered two new specific times with a 50% cut in cost. The plumber was very pleasant and professional. He capped the gas line very fast. It worked well for us since my son was helping to set up the cabinet and the oven that same afternoon. We are very happy with the service and plan to use them again for future projects, e.g., on renovation of a bathroom. Definitely recommend Blinkhorn Plumbing.
Description of Work: Cap a gas line for conversion of a gas oven to an electric oven.
All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.
*Contact business to see additional licenses.
Service Categories
Plumbing,
Water Heaters,
Drain Cleaning,
Heating and Air Conditioning,
Sewer Cleaning,
Tree Service
FAQ
BLINKHORN PLUMBING is currently rated 4.6 overall out of 5.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
BLINKHORN PLUMBING accepts the following forms of payment: American Express,Check,Discover,MasterCard,Visa