Plumbing business offers full line of fixtures, boiler installs, tankless water heaters

By Noelle Rulseh, Herald Times Reporter

Name of business: Maritime Plumbing & Mechanical
Ownership: Tim Petersen
When business started: August 2004
Location: 2216 Marshall St., Manitowoc
Phone number: (920) 682-8794
Web site: www.maritimeplumbingandmechanical.com
Hours and days of operation: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday; with 24-hour emergency service

Services provided-products sold: Maritime Plumbing & Mechanical is a full-service business offering a full line of plumbing fixtures, boiler installations, in-floor heating, water softeners, water and sewer service (new and replacement), septic installations (mounds and conventional) and septic inspections.

The business employs six plumbers and one apprentice, all fully insured and licensed, with more than 70 years of combined experience. Everyone on staff also is licensed for installing tankless water heaters.

Maritime Plumbing & Heating is a one-stop shop for complete bathroom remodeling from start to finish, working with a good core group of contractors, Petersen said.

Petersen said his company takes pride in always giving dependable and quality service at the most affordable price.

How has business changed since opening? Petersen said the business started with two people. Today there are six plumbers, one apprentice, and an office manager.

The facility itself also has expanded. Maritime Plumbing & Mechanical continues to keep up with the newest information and technology with personnel attending workshops and educational seminars.

Now, there is more to offer their customers including the tankless water heater installation that has become a huge part of the business.

Who are the customers & from where? Maritime Plumbing customers come from a 100 to 125 mile radius of Manitowoc including Manitowoc County, Green Bay, Sheboygan, and the northern area of Milwaukee.
Contracts include large apartment buildings and condos.

Who or what is the competition? Petersen said his competition includes other plumbing businesses in the area.

How is marketing done? Maritime Plumbing & Mechanical has a Web site, places ads in the newspaper and over the radio, and customers notice the signage on the side of their vehicles. Word-of- mouth also brings in new customers and the business is a member of both The Chamber of Manitowoc County and the Manitowoc County Home Builders.

What are the keys to future success? Petersen said the keys to future success include continuing to offer excellent service leading to customer satisfaction. Petersen said keeping up with new technology is important and "doing it right the first time."

Factors under control or not under control of ownership? Petersen said factors under control include controlling the quality of the craftsmanship and providing high quality at affordable prices.

The economy is always a factor not under control, but knowing how to keep the business thriving by still offering products and services that people need is an important factor.

What is your role of creativity or imagination in running the business or selling your products or services? Petersen said Maritime Plumbing & Mechanical displays their products and services at the home shows, and the business has two new signs in front to attract customers.

What is challenging or frustrating? Petersen said it can be frustrating when there is a general loss of jobs in the community and people can't afford to go on with their house projects. Since the people that work at Maritime Plumbing are like a close family, it can be a challenge in this economy making sure everyone has enough work.

What is enjoyable? Petersen said, "It's enjoyable when you come to the completion of a job and you see a happy and satisfied customer."

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