” Sometimes the truth is better than fiction.”
The Extra Mile: A True Plumbing Story
At Mike Bachman Plumbing, we pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship and going the extra mile for our customers. Earlier that day, our team had completed a full bathroom remodel, installing a beautiful new soaker tub, upgraded plumbing fixtures, and a 50-gallon water heater, perfect for anyone wanting long hot baths without running out of hot water. It was the kind of job homeowners love and the kind of professional plumbing installation we’re known for.
That evening, the phone rang. A nervous young voice said,
“Mr. Bachman, could you please come over? My mom needs your help… she’s stuck in the tub and can’t get out.”
We gently suggested she call 911, but the daughter quickly replied,
“My mom works at the hospital and knows all the emergency workers, she doesn’t want to call them!”
It wasn’t exactly a typical plumbing emergency, but when customers need help, we show up.
When Mike arrived, the daughter had covered her mother as best she could. What he found was something you don’t see in most plumbing service calls: after finishing her hot bath, the woman had flipped the drain lever while she was still in the tub. Because she was a plump woman and filled the tub comfortably, maybe too comfortably, a vacuum formed underneath her as the water drained. She was literally suctioned to the bottom of her new soaker tub.
Mike tried a few things, but nothing worked. Then he noticed a wooden yardstick sitting near the doorway. Thinking fast, he slid it between the tub and the lady, gently worked it around the edges, and with a loud pop, the vacuum seal broke, and she was free.
Mike stepped out so she could regain her dignity. As he walked away, she asked that we please not tell anyone what happened.
To spare her embarrassment, we’ve only shared this story with a select few, and we’ve changed the names to protect the innocent.
At Mike Bachman Plumbing, we don’t just provide drain cleaning, bathroom remodel plumbing, or emergency plumbing services.
We help people — no matter how unusual the situation may be.
Because sometimes “going the extra mile” means rescuing someone from their brand-new bathtub.
Story by Mike Bachman, Master plumber, Mike Bachman Plumbing.
