Essential Plumbing is a fantastic father-and-son operation. Scheduling the appointment was incredibly easy, and they kept me updated about their arrival time on they day of the appointment, so I knew when to expect them. They came to replace two outdoor spigots, but after assessing the situation, they honestly recommended replacing only one. Since I had budgeted for two, I asked them to look at my sump pump as well. Based on its age, they recommended replacing it. I appreciated their straightforward explanation and no-pressure approach. They are both highly professional, excellent communicators, and genuinely fun to talk with. I learned they have many hobbies and interests, which made for good conversation at the end of the appointment. They got right to work and completed the job quickly. They cleaned up afterward. I highly recommend Essential Plumbing for honest advice, quality work, clear communication, and excellent service. read more

Not only was the work to fix our pipe break great but the gentleman that performed the work was very courteous and professional. Really appreciate the speed and quality of the service. Highly recommend! read more

Essential Plumbing has come to my rescue several times now! After talking with countless plumbers and water conditioning companies over the span of a month to try and set up my well water with a conditioning system , I finally came across Essential Plumbing in a glowing Yelp review from a previous customer. Nearly in tears with frustration, I gave them a call late one afternoon as a last ditch effort to find a reputable company that I could trust to truly set up the right system for our needs. With complete calm and confidence, Fernando put my mind at ease that he would help me and be there the following afternoon. Right on time, they showed up, assessed the situation and came up with the most affordable and valuable solution to our problem. They were promptly there the following week to get the job done. Fast forward to this week. I have been enjoying my pristine clean well water for a month now, and in the middle of the night my drain line backs up during the water softening cycle, flooding my basement with water. I texted Fernando and Moses at 8 this morning to ask them for help on a Saturday and they came to my rescue at 11am. After looking into it, they discovered a clog in the drain line most likely from old construction material since we are in a new build. All while having the kindest hearts, most infectious smiles and positive attitudes you have ever met. I feel so lucky to have found Essential Plumbing. They are exactly the kind of people you want on your team! read more

Fernando is a professional. He talks through what he is doing and seeing. He is honest and friendly. I would recommend him to anyone with a plumbing issue. read more

There appears to be a rule that plumbing problems occur on Sundays or holidays. Our main sewer line backed up early Sunday morning. We called several companies, but there was no answer. We were able to get another company out to look, but they could not handle the work. But Essential Plumbing & Sewer came out within about an hour. Fernando and Moses were courteous, friendly, extremely knowledgeable, and careful to protect our floors. They took care of the problem and even helped clean up the shower back where the sewer backed up. I can't ask for anything more. read more

This is a wonderful family business and they do a great job! They have been sleuths in finding out where sewer smells were coming from in our home and discovered that there were vent pipes behind walls that were totally disconnected. Always very kind and prompt. read more

We had them come out on a Saturday to fix a drain that was backing up in our laundry room. Maria, who answered the phone was very friendly and helpful, and even looked at a texted picture of the problem. She had them out within an hour. Fernando and Moses arrived and we very professional and friendly, explaining what was too be done and why. They were done within an hour and even cleaned the floor!! We will definitely use them again read more

I woke up on a Saturday morning and was heading down to the basement to do the weekly laundry, only to discover a terrible smell and sewage coming up my floor drain. Fernando and his teammate were able to help me that same day within a few hours. They worked hard to clear all the roots out of the line. He also tightened up a small leak on my toilet. I highly recommend Essential Plumbing! read more

We were desperate for plumbing help. A friend recommended Essential Plumbing & Sewer. Our main drain backed up and flooded the basement. We also had a clogged drain in our bathroom. I placed a call to the office and was greeted by a friendly person, Maria. She listened to all my woes and said she would talk to the plumbers and get back to us. There were 3 guys that came out to help take care of us the next day. They were so polite and professional. Fernando the plumber, explained the work needed and gave us dollar quotes up front. They completed the work and cleaned up after themselves. We were so pleased at their work and very pleased to be back up and running with good plumbing again. Would highly recommend this company! read more

I cannot speak highly enough of Fernando. He showed up immediately when our basement was flooded with raw sewage, and took care of everything quickly and effectively. He went the extra mile to point out serious plumbing issues unrelated to the initial problem we were having, and showed me the least expensive way to fix them. Months later, when we were having another problem, he showed right up and fixed the issue free of charge. Not to mention--Fernando is SO kind, SO funny, and just a delight to be around. I would recommend Essential Plumbing to anyone in the Wheaton area. Great people and great work. read more

Tim did a great job and was super helpful when we moved into our new home. We bought a flipped house and it was clear there was work to be done. Tim helped give quotes and worked with our home insurance to make sure we got taken care of. I'll be calling him if I need anything! read more

March 2018 This is not a reputable company. I came across a referral on Next Door and then checked out their reviews online. What I did not know is that both the plumber, Fernando and his wife, Maria are not people you would want to do business with. I had a leaking kitchen sink and Maria scheduled Fernando to come out and fix it. He came and spent 5 minutes putting glue on the pipe and then he said that this would last for 20 years. He said that if we were going to move that we should reconfigure the piping so that it was up to code and that it would cost around $400. Fernando asked for $80 and did not provide a receipt. He said that I would receive an e mail receipt. He made me feel very uncomfortable, After his 5 minute repair he seemed to want to chat to fill more time. He commented on my husband's photo on the fridge, looked around everything at the house including my wallet. He made a statement that all Glen Ellyn people are rich. I told him that was not the case. I wrote him a check for $80 and before he left he asked for a hug. Very strange, uncomfortable and unprofessional! Ladies beware and guys, don't let him come to your house if your wife is home alone! Two days later when I ran our dishwasher, the water from the pipe leaked all over the kitchen floor. I called Maria telling her that I was going to cancel payment on the check as the repair was not done. She assured me that there was no need to do this and she scheduled Fernando to come back out. She said that he would look at the pipes again and he would return my check. Fernando never came out and then every time I tried to call them Maria did not answer the phone. She did send me an invoice and I replied back to her with the following: Dear Maria, Thank you for sending the invoice. As per our discussion on Saturday, March 17th, I let you know that the sink problem was not fixed and was leaking. You told me not to cancel my check payment and said that your husband, Fernando would come back this Monday, March 19th between 9:00 and 11:00 to look at the sink and he would then return my check. Fernando did not come on Monday and I did not hear from you. I left you a voice mail message to reschedule him coming and I have not heard back from you. I have tried several times to reach you with no success. Do you have any interest in resolving this situation? There was no acknowledgment or response. I decided to try one last time to reach out. I called and finally talked with Maria. She said that she had not received my note. She gave me another email and I forwarded my letter. I also read it out loud to her. She said that she would call me back and that did not happen. The bottom line is that they did not repair my kitchen sink and neither Fernando nor Maria honored their promises to resolve the situation. My recommendation for you is to not consider using Essential Plumbing and Sewer, PO BOX 344, Winfield, IL 630-433-7058, 630-903-5907. You will be glad that you took your business elsewhere! read more

Essential Plumbing provided excellent service when I experienced a sewage problem in my basement. Fernando showed up with in minutes and was able to clean out the line. Very satisfied with the work. Highly recommend. read more

We had a leak in our basement, and we were referred to Fernando of Essential Plumbing. His office manager, Maria, was quick to answer my call,set up a same day appointment for Fernando to troubleshoot the problem. Upon his same day arrival, he diagnosed the problem to be a cracked sewer pipe. He made me full aware of his work schedule, a reasonable price proposal, and he was able to fix everything as stated. He and his workers worked really hard, and also cleaned up all their work. As far as my leak into my basement, he referenced and provided me with a terrific restoration company to deal with the interior damage the water created, and made sure I called my homeowners insurance co. I highly recommend Essential Plumbing & sewer. Maria, Fernando and his team of great workers are all hard working individuals, and they run their company with a smile. Fair pricing for great work! read more

We found out first thing early on a Sunday morning (and the hard way) that our water heater not only wasn't working but had begun to leak water in our basement. We called Essential Plumbing, left a voicemail and heard back from a representative whom was able to give us some tips to mitigate the problem until a plumber could come out. We received a fair and competitive estimate (especially given it was a Sunday morning on a holiday weekend). Fernando and his assistant arrived in the window they gave as an ETA and explained all the steps, options and prices to us. His work was quick and exactly as he described/priced. Everything was fixed and resolved by lunch and we were able to salvage the remainder of the weekend! We are very happy with the quality and professionalism of this team. We recommend them to family and friends as well as for any of our future plumbing needs. read more

Essential plumbing saved us from being taken advantage of by Roto Rooter. We are young homeowners and of course called the big name guys when we had a backup in our basement. Roto Rooter told us a whole horror story about how bad the line was and there were blockages they couldn't get their blades past and told us we needed a complete replacement of our main sewer line with a quote of 11K. Well, being smart young people we called around and got other quotes. Fernando came out and talked to us and gave us a quote based on what Roto Rooter told us we needed. Based on our experience that day we called him back to get a camera inspection. We were told by him that we were lied to and the "blockage" was actually a dead end in the line that had been capped off. They also were able to get past all the other "blockages" that they said were too bad to get past. They cleared the line completely and told us that what they saw didn't warrant a full or even partial replacement of the line. We just need to get it clear out every few years. I'm glad to know that even though we are out money for two clearings of the line, we found someone honest and wasn't just telling us stuff to get us to spend more money. I believe we have found our go to plumber for any of our other plumbing needs. read more

Don't get me started on how great Fernando and his Essential Plumbing team is. First quote from someone was, no kidding, $30K (!!!) to fix an outside line complete replacement ("The line is offset," they claimed.). Second quote was $15K (thanks for the discount!), also for a FULL outside line replacement. Now enter Essential plumbing. After a camera investigation from another plumber who put me in touch with Essential, Fernando said I DON'T need a full line replacement. Instead, I needed a jet, which they did. Then (in the same visit), when the line didn't flow properly (I was at work on Zoom), they discretely went into the basement and cleared the line for a small additional fee. Turns out the problem was not just the jet but the indoor, underground line as well. As the classic horror movie put it, "The call is coming from inside the house." But that's not all. Plumbing is complicated. The next week our flow was slow, and so, naturally, I called Fernando. He showed up that day (no charge of course) and he then realized what he could not have known previously. There was a quicksand-like build up (60 years of it) in the indoor basement drain. He had rodded it on the first visit, but one doesn't know these things until time (a week in this case) determines the problem. Turns out the floor needed to be ripped up and the drain replaced, and this was the ACTUAL (not imagined) problem that we had been having for almost a decade. Fernando gave me a very reasonable price considering the cement flooring needed to be excavated. The job was done in well under two days and the final cost was (I kid not you) one sixth (!!!) of the ridiculous original mainline replacement estimates. They replaced our dryer vent while they were at, made sure our appliances were well tended, and gave me a general education of my basement plumbing, gas and electricity. So let me summarize: Nearly a decade of many plumbing visits and no one got to the root problem... until Fernando. Not only that, these guys were great around the house and with our kids. I cannot recommend Essential highly enough. read more

We were referred to Essential Plumbing by our normal plumbing company, who were booked up the day we needed an emergency sump pump replacement. They got here quickly, and assessed and took care of the problem quickly. Fernando was very thorough in his work, and made sure the job was done right and done well. read more

Called for a sewer line repair. I like to work with local pros. Maria and Fernando did a great job. Repair done quickly with no surprises on the work or cost. The village inspector was very happy with the work too. read more

We were referred to Essential by another plumbing firm who felt that they were best equipped to repair our broken sewer pipe promptly. We could not have been more pleased with professionalism and timeliness of their team to quickly resolve our problem. I was very pleasantly surprised that within 24 hours of contacting them regarding the problem that they had completed the work. I strongly recommend them to anyone that unfortunately finds themselves with a similar problem. read more

I have used these guys 3 times now and every time the service has been fantastic. They respond in a timely manor, provide same day service and takes the time to explain what the problem is and how to fix it. They use quality materials and clean up afterwords. read more

We recently had these guys come out and fix some issues in our master bathroom. First and foremost, I want to start this review by stating their quality of work was fantastic. They diagnosed and fixed the problem rather quickly. They were able to answer all my questions and even cleaned up after themselves. Unfortunately things took a quick turn for the worst. While they were here they sold me on taking a camera to our sewer line to see if we have any roots in our system. I accepted and ultimately we did find roots. Immediately I was told I needed to install a "clean out" in our yard and they gave me a glorious estimate of ~$3,800! From there I started to call around to other companies and even asked advice from the City of Wheaton. Each and every one of them told me that a "clean out" is a last resort. There are other methods, and much less expensive, means to solve this problem. When I questioned this to Essential Plumbing & Sewer, they never returned any of my multiple voice mails or emails. In the end we found another company that rodded our pipes for less than $600. I know that it worked because they showed me the before and after video! Normally I'd let things like this slide. I get it, people are trying to make a living. However, the reason I am writing this review is simply due to not a single call back. Completely unacceptable. Some other issues: * I was told I could get a copy of the video they did when they put a camera in my pipes. I never did, despite multiple requests. * I told the company we ended up using to rod our sewer line about the work Essential Plumbing did previously. They stated we were outrageously over priced. This makes sense considering the rodding project took about twice as long and cost 40% less. * Essential Plumbing told me they work with the City of Wheaton all the time. When I called the City, no one had heard of them. read more

Fernando came out the next day to take a look at a back up we had during Thanksgiving dinner and was able to put our mind at ease. There was no need for a repair and he checked everything that needed checking. He offered to put a camera into the line but said it wasn't necessary (and a difference of $400) - it's not often that one can find that kind of honesty. We have already recommended him to family! read more

Broken sewer pipe on Saturday morning. Return call within 30 minutes. Service call within in an hour. I couldn't have received better treatment. Gladly recommend. Good explanation of what we could an couldn't do until repairs were completed. read more

Looking for knowledgeable service with a handshake and a smile? Look no further, this family business delivers. Ferdinand fixed my sewer issue and cleared a terribly clogged old drain for a fair price. He and his crew were conscious of cleanliness and kept me informed and involved at each step. He would stop to show me what he was accomplishing and teach me things I didn't know to prevent future issues. After working with several other companies over the years, this is the one I will always call first. Keep up the good work guys! I'm adding you to my contacts as my new plumber. read more

Our water heater died we called these guys and they came out immediately took the time to evaluate the situation and explained why the water heater died and replaced it with a new one They also spent the time to make sure we were very happy before they departed. I highly recommend them read more

I have been working with Fernando from Essential Plumbing for many years. He is quick to respond to my calls and has become the only plumber that I call for service. He is hones, he uses quality parts and stands by his work. He provides excellent service and always does good work. His prices are fair, you may find cheaper work elsewhere, but sometimes you get what you pay for. He will not compromise on quality just to do the work for a cheaper rate. Whenever I am asked for a Plumber recommendation, I always recommend Fernando without any hesitation. read more

I had Fernando disconnect the drains, faucet and garbage disposal in May, to have new countertops installed. He came back to reconnect it and 3 months later, the garbage disposal flange was falling off and I had a large puddle of water that ruined the wood at the bottom of the cabinet in addition to many of the things I had stored under the sink. Had another plumber fix it, and he had to correct a few other things that were not done to code. Cost me another $488 for the plumbing and $150 to have the wood replaced. Service Magic has removed my negative comment and Essential Plumbing again has a 5 star rating. Service Magic it now reviewing to see if I'm "eligible" for their service guarantee. read more

We have called on Fernando from Essential Plumbing for several jobs, large and small, from fixing a sewer line to repairing a toilet. In addition to always giving us a fair price, he is a sweet person. On a couple of occasions he has helped us out when we had a plumbing problem over the weekend or before a holiday and not overcharged us as some might. We highly recommend him! I am writing today because I called this morning and he stopped right by when we had the broken toilet, fitting us in right away before the busy holiday weekend. Plus, he is neat and conscientious. Thanks, Fernando! read more

So, after an incredibly expensive and unpleasant experience with a different sewer company and in reading the reviews for Essential Plumbing and Sewer, I contacted Maria at Essential, explained my situation and Fernando came to my home to evaluate the situation and assured me that he could make the necessary repairs. Fernando is charming, knowledgeable and was horrified by the work that had been done in my home. Maria then sent me a proposal with 2 different options. I signed the proposal and Fernando hopefully completed the work satisfactorily on Tuesday, August 8. I paid for the repairs by personal check and Fernando told me that I would be receiving a paid receipt and warranty. When I questioned the senior discount, Fernando thought it was included in the quote. In a nutshell, I have reached out to Maria several times, and was assured that I would have the information yesterday morning. My request is very simple - I would like a paid receipt, I would like any warranty information and I would like to know whether I am entitled to a senior discount or whether it was part of the original proposal, although, there was no reference to such in the proposal quote. As of today, still nothing. Very disappointing. Again, much of this frustration is based on a previous recent experience and all I want to do at this time is complete my file so that I have the necessary information and proof that the work was done. Fernando and Maria seem to be terrific people and I want to be able to give them 5-stars. read more

Very disturbing experience. Not only were they two hours late (mind you I had to take time off work for this), I was quoted $250 and told I'd have to have the tank of my toilet removed to fix a simple seal. Further, it was recommended that I get an entirely new toilet. I was also told he wouldn't have the right parts on his truck to fix my issue, and would have to order them (I have a very basic, standard toilet). With a little google research and a piece that cost me $1.78 from the local hardware store, and two seconds of my time. Consider yourself warned. read more

Excellent service. Professional and experienced. Fernando replaced a broken pipe and installed a cleanout in the backyard. They kept me informed of their progress throughout the job. read more