Let me start off by saying everything I did was last minute... Our old dishwasher had started making noises indicative of an agonizingly slow death. Most days the cacophony was easily circumvented by starting the washer at night, letting it serenade the house to sleep with its cries for help. Inevitably, my fiancé and I grew tired of the grinding sounds of doom and came to the bilateral decision to replace it. Our anniversary was rapidly approaching so I, being a unilaterally minded person, considered this a perfect opportunity to surprise her with a band new dishwasher. (It should be noted that I don't recommend this approach to any other men or women out there looking to dazzle a significant other for an anniversary. Seriously, take them out to dinner, or buy them something shiny.) I bought the dishwasher from a local hardware store when she was out of town, which only gave me a three-day window. The guy at the hardware store told me that if my current washer was more than 5-years old, it would be very likely that I'd need to contact a contractor for the install because "houses are built very differently now." Well our house was built in 1956, and the dishwasher was easily 10-years old. But I figured it would be just fine... I mean, how much progress could there have been in plumbing in the 70 years since the house was built? It wasn't fine. The copper pipes that had been used to run water to the old machine would not fit in the new machine, and the hardware store delivery guys were not able to install the new machine. I found this out the very day that I wanted to surprise my soon-to-be-bride, and now I was going to look like a damned fool. She was going to show up to a house with a washing machine just sitting in the living room like an imagined episode of Sanford and Sons! Enter Shafer Services, more specifically, Ismael Partida. I called first thing in the morning on the day that the new machine was to be delivered. Not only was Shafer able to get an installer to my residence the same day, they clearly sent their A-Game. Ismael was friendly, professional, and most importantly, knowledgeable about everything. He understood the job perfectly, and offered a variety of helpful suggestions that would prevent another dishwasher meltdown in the future. I learned a great deal about water flow through a house and about the company itself. He provided all of the necessary parts, ensuring success and longevity of my appliance; as well as, educated me on the proper parts that would be needed to optimize the life span of my other appliances like the water heater. None of our conversation felt like a sales pitch or unwarranted promotion, he was genuinely versed in the intricacies of water management. He finished the job quickly and left me with plenty of time to gloat about my good fortune. I STRONGLY recommend Shafer Services for your cooling, heating, and plumbing needs. They are leaders in the industry because they set the standard for how the job should be done. read more

October 2017. I called for yearly maintenance on heater unit. Unit is checked twice a year (winter/spring) and Rodney came out and knowledgeable but he talked more than listened. We came to an agreement on what he was to do. When I went to outside unit, Rodney was doing something totally different than our agreement. Again, Rodney talked more than he listened and I finally asked him to leave my property and he would not. I told Rodney I would write a check and to leave my property. Rodney was upset and started crying. I was not expecting that. I still asked him to leave and finally he agreed. I wrote a check and even though he didn't do anything to the unit, I told him I would call the office the following day and get my money back. Rodney then gave the check back to me. I have since had another company to check the unit and all is well. At the same time, plumber for Shafer services came out. Their prices are pricey pricey pricey. To replace kitchen faucet (I supply the faucet) one year warranty is $420. If Shafer Services provide the faucet the price is $590. Replace reverse osmosis filters (3 filters I supply) is $210. Install water softener "resin catcher" at outlet of water softener $272. Replace 1 hose bib w/vacuum breaker $156. Replace multi turn shut off valve with quarter turn shut off valve $448. Wanted to replace "brine tank" for water softener for $475 (includes 4 bags salt) and of course, my tank is still good (no cracks/leaks). Pricey, pricey, pricey. Had another plumber come out to replace kitchen faucet $75, replace reverse osmosis filters $50, replace 1 hose bib and replace shut off valve was $150. Discussed "resin catcher" with this plumber and was advised don't need one. They provided all this in writing. read more

October 2017. I called for yearly maintenance on heater unit. Unit is checked twice a year (winter/spring) and Rodney came out and knowledgeable but he talked more than listened. We came to an agreement on what he was to do. When I went to outside unit, Rodney was doing something totally different than our agreement. Again, Rodney talked more than listen and I finally asked him to leave my property and he would not. I told Rodney I would write a check and to leave my property. Rodney was upset and started crying. I was not expecting that. I still asked him to leave and finally he agreed. I wrote a check and even though he didn't do anything to the unit, I told him I would call the office the following day and get my money back. Rodney then gave the check back to me. I have since had another company to check the unit and all is well. At the same time, plumber for Shafer services came out. Their prices are pricey pricey pricey. To replace kitchen faucet (I supply the faucet) one year warranty is $420. Replace reverse osmosis filters (3 filters I supply) is $210. Install water softener "resin catcher" at outlet of water softener $272. Replace 1 hose bib w/vacuum breaker $156. Replace multi turn shut off valve with quarter turn shut off valve $448. Pricey, pricey, pricey. Had another plumber come out to replace kitchen faucet $75, replace reverse osmosis filters $50, replace 1 hose bib and replace shut off valve was $150. Discussed "resin catcher" with this plumber and was advised don't need one. read more

I had a slab leak and I was very stressed about how much it was going to cost, how much work was involved and what would have to be torn up to repair it. The first day I met with the nicest man, Delbert . He was very friendly and after he talked to me and explained what was involved and gave me an estimate I felt much more comfortable. He was not pushy about trying to get me to commit he just let me know what I needed and let me think about it and ask all the questions I needed answered. He said they could come back first thing in the morning . I was glad I was not going to have to be taking cold showers very long. The next day he came with Robert, another very nice and polite guy. They both were very professional , it makes me feel better about the job being done when I see people working well together and organized . They both seemed to have a lot of knowledge about what they were doing. They seemed to make a good effort to not make big messes and the little bit they could not help but make they cleaned right up. They got the job done today so I did not have to wait the weekend for a hot shower. When they were done I felt very confident in the work they had done and that I had gotten a fair deal. I am sure they have other great service people , but I hope if I need to call on them again I can get Delbert and Robert again. They were great! read more

From the initial phone call to the end, this is by far the best service I ever received. My AC went out on a Thursday evening; I called 3 different companies and the other 2 were rude and more expensive just to have someone come out. Shafer came out the next day (wasn't blazing hot and cheaper to wait, their recommendation and I agree) and gave me the unfortunate news that I needed a new unit. It could have had a band aid repair, which they would have done, but I saw how bad it was and made the decision to buy a new one. I don't believe in band aid jobs which my system had done numerous time before I bought the house. Booth came out within an hour and went over options with us. We made our decision and Monday were up and running again. They tried their best to have someone out the next day (which I witnessed) but due to other circumstances they couldn't. Ralph and Darnell were out first thing Monday morning and did a phenomenal job. They also didn't add charges to the initial quote because they didn't anticipate something. After the install I found a pre-existing issue in the attic (not something normally done or checked when the unit isn't in the attic) and they fixed it for free. We were treated like family and not a number. Booth personally delivered a gift basket to us a week later just to say thanks; who else would do that? read more

After "experimenting " with several plumbing companies over the years, I kept returning to Shafer. They consistently provided the best service and always told you up front the exact price. They are always professional and will keep you informed if they are delayed on a previous job. I'm so glad I stuck with Shafer because I had the worst of the worst case scenario where I just had to have the whole house re-plumbed that was a builder screw up 30 yrs ago. I did call a 2nd opinion before they started. This was actually before we knew the entire worst case scenario and they were already 10 thousand higher than the quote with Shafer. Jay was really, really incredible and kept me informed each step of the way. The diggers were really good and put everything back after they were done with all of the clean up. Jay kept apologizing to me about the mess the builder did. I kept telling him it's not anywhere close to his fault, but he said he still felt bad me having to fix this problem. How special is that!. So, yes, I'm a lifetime user of Shafer. It was also interesting that when I was telling everyone about my troubles with plumbing, they all wanted to know who I used. Told them Shafer and EVERYONE agreed they were a good company. That really enforced why I continue to use them. Thanks again for all your great work. read more

Chris C. provided us with excellent service. He's an experienced professional who knows his trade very well and has the ability to explain service options in a way that presents the best long-term value. He resolved our water heater problem (it required full replacement) in the same initial service call with his assistant Carlos, correcting safety concerns at the same time which I greatly appreciate. When the repair was complete, Chris and Carlos removed all left over materials and left the area clean. Before he left, Chris clearly explained the operation and maintenance (thermostat setting, periodic flushing, etc.) and warranty of the new system. Job well done! Thank you Chris and Carlos. I also would like to thank Michelle and Sandra (home office) for their courtesy when taking my call to request service. In fact, after my appointment was scheduled, Michelle contacted me to offer an earlier appointment time that had become available. True customer service. I've relied on Shafer Services for AC/Heating and Plumbing service for quite a few years. I highly recommend this company. Thank you Shafer Services! You have an outstanding team. Tim Koebke, M.S. San Antonio, Texas. read more

Old AC unit finally died, of course in the busy season. Shafer Services was able to get a technician out to diagnose what I had suspected...12 year old unit needed to be replaced. They were able to jump through hoops to get the new unit installed the next day. Booth did a great job explaining the options available and costs. The install team (Charlie, John and Greg) were respectful to my home and were extremely knowledgable. I've used Shafer before for our water heater and had a good experience with that, so I went with them for the AC replacement as well. So happy I did! On the price, I'm sure this wasn't the cheapest replacement that I could have gone with, but you get what you pay for and I was happy to pay for this amazing service. They walked through the house to make sure that they understood what they were working with before starting any work. They had a foreman inspect prior to work starting to ensure the work would be up to code. The work that they completed was also visually much better (the duct work that I could see was routed much cleaner and looked more professional). Timeliness: A+ Service: A+ Technicians and Staff: A+ read more

Just met with Chris C. for a scheduled plumbing check service. As usual, Shafer Services has the most courteous and knowledgable service techs. Chris C. was professional, proficient and as stated earlier, courteous. We've used Shafer Services for our A/C/Heat and Plumbing needs (we have an older home). If you're like me, you often worry or "cringe" about techs coming into your home to inspect/fix a problem all the while wondering if you'll be "bamboozled" or if they'll be "trying to sell you on something" - but you DO NOT have to worry about that with Shafer Services. Our tech conducted plumbing check, asked me questions, explained things in an understandable manner. He made his recommendations, left me a brochure (pressure regulating valve since the one we have is the original) with an estimated price and no "scare tactics" were used. He also informed me about possible rebates that are available through CPS and SAWS that we may qualify for! BONUS! Shafer Services gets 5 stars from our family and we highly recommend them for your Cooling/Heating/Plumbing needs! read more

These guys are absolutely amazing!! 10/10 in all areas! I had the pleasure of working with Grant and Nick and a few others, the last two days after a blocked pipe backed up into my shower and toilet. They all went above and beyond! They were kind, informative, professional, hardworking, and just overall rockstars! I live in a house that was built in the 60s that still has original cast iron pipes. They are much more prone to getting blockages and it was definitely a tricky situation. During the process my other toilet was accidentally damaged and these guys immediately brought it to our attention and with out hesitation said they would replace and install a new. They did so and made sure to get a brand new of same grade color and quality of my original! They got the blockage out even though it was much more difficult than they thought and they still only charged me the initial quote! Not one penny more! Stand up! They even made sure that my pets were safe and secured at all times and cleaned up after themselves! These guys will be my plumbers for life no question! read more

Nick was first of all, on time, right at 0800 hrs. Second, he was very professional, courteous and respectful. Before he entered my home he put on his shoe covers. Nick is an exceptional representative of the Shafer Company. He is smart and has great customer service skills. He listened closely when I spoke to him. He answered all my questions and explained those answers thoroughly. He was very knowledgeable of the American Standard HAVC system and always told me what he was doing or what he was about to do. He made my wife and I very feel very aware of all options that were available to us for any repairs that might be needed. He documented everything relating to our problems with the system so that there would be a clear history of his visit for future reference. We were very comfortable with his demeanor and character. We will be asking for Nick specifically when we need any other service calls. His performance and conduct were excellent. Everyone that I have dealt with have all been amazing and Nick is another example of great customer service! read more

Water leak causing high water bill. I was unable to find leak myself so I scheduled online appointment. Michelle called to confirm. Great communication throughout entire process. Turned out water leak was under my driveway, so new water line needed. Shafer Services has the staff, equipment and subcontractors that handled the job quickly and efficiently. They may be slightly more expensive but you get what you pay for. My new water line was insulated and sleeved with new valves. Very clean work, looked almost too good to cover up so I took pictures. Subcontractor who did cement work on driveway were very fast and efficient also. They worked at lightening speed trenching yard and cutting cement. Repair of driveway was done very good and trench dirt replaced as well as grass sod. Clean job done right. Larry the plumbing tech stayed in contact even advising me of the subcontractors progress while I was at work. Great job Shafer Services! read more

I' ve been a Shafer Services customer since 2006, and a home owner for almost 18 years. Chris Chamrad has been my home Top plumbing technician for seven years. He is a very skillful and experience technician. Chris fixed my bath shower and sinks, making it more easier for us to use. The work was done very professional, that I had him do my other bathroom showers and replace my water heater for a self-cleaning and more efficient one. I haven't had any more problem nor leaks since the repairs. Chris gaves reasonable solutions, excellent recommendation and follows through with courteous/ professional service repairs. It is hard to find a very professional, reliable and honest technician you can trust. As a final note; I fully recommend homeowners to Shafer Services, and Chris C...I consider him a friend and the best plumbing tech in San Antonio...He genuinely care for their customers. sincerely; Rev. David R. and Family read more

A huge THANK YOU to John and Franc! We moved into a new home in San Antonio, TX and we needed to add a soft water system and plumbing loop. John came out to the house the same day I called and requested a quote. He is a total professional and has over 30 years of plumbing experience. He turned a potentially stressful situation into a breeze. He explained every step of the process to us and assured us by his demeanor that he would do the job RIGHT the first time. John is meticulous about his work and upon completion he presented us with an exceptional end product that also looked good! He even managed to take the bracing pieces home with him in order to paint them so they would look good in the garage. I can't thank John and Franc enough for all of their hard work and dedication to the job. JOB WELL DONE! We will spread the name Shafer Services all over San Antonio, and we will use them again and again. read more

Carlos F. came out for the A/C whole system check included with the service plan. With the system only being 7 months old, I figured the system check would simply be a visual check because of how new all of the components look. However, Carlos was very thorough and careful because of the age of the home - not just the system. He took his time and explained what he was checking, what I should look out for, and problems he commonly sees in old homes and homes in general. Carlos was also patient when I was giving him as much of the brief history of the system as I could remember, and made sure to check other components within the blower/compressor based on the information I gave him. This was my second interaction with a technician from Shafer Services and both have been stellar. I feel very comfortable in my selection of Shafer Services for my home maintenance needs and would recommend them to anyone. read more

Score another perferct 5 with Shafer services. For the last three years, twice a year like clock work i worry whatever system we are switching to works. I had been delaying the inevitable. Who has money for two new HVAC systems??? Then came a conversation with Booth. And it was a conversation. He asked me a lot of questions about our use of each level in our house. How many folks live here. And what we expect from our ac and heat. A look around the current systems and house and Booth had a plan. This plan took care of all my concerns AND my budget!!! Booth has checked in to insure I understand what i am getting, as well as double checking it will meet my needs. He even showed up for the 'event' HVAC installations. I couldn't be happier with the interactions, level of professionalism, and courtesy from Booth. thanks Shafer you have a great ambassador for your company. read more

Chris C. went above and beyond in so many ways: He was prompt He was clean and well groomed He made excellent eye contact when speaking He was clear and thorough in his detailed explanation of all of the options available for addressing my problem He made sure to use boot slippers each time he entered our home He made sure to knock each time he came back from his vehicle He did an excellent job of cleaning up after he finished the repair He also took the time to explain the annual maintenance program to me and the many perks. Chris C and the Shaffer office representatives that called to schedule my appointment understand what quality customer service and demonstrated it in text book manner. It is rare these days to come across a company that makes you feel like a valued customer and that your business matters, thank you read more

Last night our A/C stopped working - and we had company, AND I was cooking...not a good start to the evening. I called and requested a service call for first thing this morning, if they could manage it. Rodney had been out to fix a leak about 6 weeks ago and I was worried that this time it would be a much more complicated fix and a significant charge. He showed up promptly at 8am and found that the float switch was flooded; all he needed to do was flush the drain, change our filters and get the water out of the pan to get it restarted. It was a startlingly low charge and, of course, we were thrilled! It's working like a charm now. We are so glad that we are on their service plan. They respond very quickly to any problems and are always professional and super-nice. Thank you! read more

Rodney came out to my house and quickly tracked down an electrical problem with my AC to a blown 50 cent fuse that probably popped during the most recent lightning strike. This was considerably less than the $700 quote I was given from another Angie's List company just two days before, which blamed the problem on a blown circuit board. I would have awarded five stars, but the initial customer service representative told me Rodney would be out to my house between 9 and 10 a.m., and he was not able to get there until after 2 p.m. In fairness, Shafer did Keep Me periodically updated throughout the day. I would certainly recommend Rodney at Schaefer to anyone who needs an honest second opinion, and a skilled technician who can track down a problem accurately. read more