This year marks a meaningful milestone in Sarasota: the 41st annual Friendliest Catch Fishing Fun Day.

It also marks 41 years since Professional Plumbing & Design opened its doors. For our team, these shared anniversaries represent more than the passage of time. They reflect a long-standing commitment to tradition, service, and the Sarasota community.

Carrying on a Family Tradition

The Friendliest Catch, now in its 41st year, and Professional Plumbing & Design were both established in 1985 and will continue to celebrate this shared anniversary.

Professional Plumbing & Design’s connection to the Friendliest Catch began with Matt and Ben Wittman’s father, Ted Wittman, who was involved with the event from its earliest days as a member of the Sarasota Outboard Club. Today, Matt and Ben are proud to carry on that tradition.

For Matt and Ben Wittman, participating in the Friendliest Catch is an opportunity to continue a legacy built on generosity and community involvement. It is also a reminder of the values that have guided Professional Plumbing & Design throughout its 41 years in business: showing up, helping others, and building relationships that last.

A Special Day on Sarasota Bay

The Friendliest Catch Fishing Fun Day is an annual

Sarasota’s water situation has been shaped by a challenging mix of low rainfall, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and everyday plumbing issues that can quickly become expensive.

From extreme conservation rules to hard-water damage and aging pipe systems, homeowners across the area are finding that staying ahead of maintenance isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

Extreme Shortage Alerts and Conservation Pressure

Sarasota County remains under a Modified Phase III “Extreme” Water Shortage due to rainfall running significantly below normal. While drought conditions continue, local guidance is focused on reducing wasted water and protecting supplies wherever possible.

Professional Plumbing & Design have emphasized leak prevention as a practical first step for residents. Even small leaks can waste substantial amounts over time, undermining conservation efforts. Landscape watering is also restricted to one day per week through October 1, which increases the need for efficient irrigation habits and careful monitoring of outdoor water use.

New Construction Can Add Strain to Local Supply

Beyond current conservation measures, local commentary has raised concerns about how new residential development may affect Sarasota’s water supply. Incoming construction brings additional demand, and that demand can strain available capacity, especially when the region is already dealing with rainfall shortfalls.

Alongside these broader supply

Most homeowners eventually deal with a plumbing repair they didn’t plan for, and the cost can feel especially painful when the problem is sudden.

The Professional Plumbing & Design Pro Club is built to help you avoid some of that financial stress by giving members dependable coverage and support when it matters most. With the Pro Club, you receive priority scheduling, complimentary yearly safety inspections, 10% off repairs and replacements, and a two-year guarantee on qualifying work.

Membership is available through a low monthly or annual fee, and the purpose is simple: you’re choosing a plumbing company to handle key maintenance and deliver preferred service terms. Our most membership is designed around the same core idea, regular inspection, cost savings on service and parts, and service options that help you act faster when something goes wrong.

5 Reasons a Plumbing Service Plan Can Be Worth It

A strong plumbing service membership typically provides more than just discounts. It helps you stay informed, reduce surprises, and respond sooner to issues that could grow into expensive repairs.

Regular checkups that help prevent problems

Our plumbing service plan includes an annual review of the major plumbing systems in your home. During these visits,

Professional Plumbing & Design can install any type of water heater, but we’re seeing more and more customers choose hybrid water heaters for one simple reason: they deliver high efficiency and real savings.

Why Hybrid Water Heaters Are So Popular 

Hybrid water heaters are designed to use advanced technology to heat water with less energy than traditional models. That means you can enjoy:

• Lower utility bills (especially electric costs)
• Efficient performance year-round
• More energy recovery using heat-pump technology

In fact, many hybrid units provide over twice the efficiency of standard water heaters—making them one of the smartest upgrades for homeowners and businesses.

Gas or Electric Hybrid Options Available 

Whether you prefer natural gas or electric power, there are hybrid models available to match your setup. Your Professional Plumbing & Design technician will help you choose the best fit based on your:

• Hot water demand
• Fuel type and availability
• Existing plumbing and ventilation conditions
• Energy goals and budget

How Heat Pump Technology Works

Hybrid water heaters use heat pump technology, which means they don’t rely entirely on direct heating. Instead, they:

• Pull heat from the surrounding air
• Transfer that energy into your water
• Maintain hot water efficiently—even when temperatures

If your home was built between 1978 and 1995, there’s a chance you may have polybutylene piping (often labeled PB).

This material was once popular because it was affordable and flexible—but it has since become known for a serious weakness. At Professional Plumbing & Design, we help homeowners identify PB piping and understand the safest next step: replacement.

What Is Polybutylene Piping?

Polybutylene is an inexpensive, flexible plastic that was used for residential water piping from 1978 to 1995.

Over time, homeowners and plumbing professionals learned that polybutylene pipes were extremely vulnerable to ruptures, which can lead to:

• Water leaks behind walls or under floors
• Property damage
• Mold and moisture problems
• Higher utility bills from hidden leaks
• Costly repairs if a rupture occurs

Because of these risks, polybutylene resulted in a class-action settlement, and the material is no longer accepted by U.S. building codes.

How to Identify Polybutylene Pipes (PB)

Polybutylene pipes can appear in different colors, including:

• Blue
• Black
• White
• Gray

The key identifying feature is that the pipe will have the letters “PB” on a printed label.

Easiest Places to Check

To find the “PB” marking, look for pipe access near:

• Near the water heater
• Under or near

Looking for safe, code-compliant gas piping in Sarasota?

If you need commercial or residential gas piping—from natural gas lines to propane and LP installations—Professional Plumbing & Design has you covered. We’re licensed to install and service all types of gas piping, and through our partnership with TECO Peoples Gas, we can help you find energy-saving and money-saving rebate programs. 

We are licensed to do all types of commercial and residential gas piping, including:

• Natural Gas Piping
• Propane Gas Piping
• LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas Piping

Whether it’s a home project or a commercial installation, our team installs gas systems designed for performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

Based in Sarasota, Florida, serving Sarasota and surrounding areas including:

• Bradenton
• Palmetto
• Venice

Modern, High-Quality Gas Piping Technology

We use the newest gas piping technologies to match indoor and outdoor needs:

• Flexible PVC-Coated Corrugated Stainless Steel (inside use)
• Corrosion-Resistant Polyethylene Plastic Piping (outside use)

We can also customize systems using:

• Higher gas pressures
• Gas regulators (as needed for safe, efficient operation)
• Natural Gas & Propane Services We Handle

Need help upgrading or repairing your fuel system? Our services include:

• Water Heaters
• Tank, tankless, and hybrid water heater repair or replacement
• Water heater venting
• Gas Conversions

Clean, high-quality water isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for your health!

At Professional Plumbing & Design, we specialize in installing advanced water filtration systems and water softeners that deliver reliable, long-term results. Whether you’re upgrading your home or outfitting a large commercial property, our team brings the expertise and premium products you can trust.

Complete Water Solutions for Every Property

Professional Plumbing & Design carries top names in water filtration systems and water softeners, ensuring you get dependable performance and superior water quality. We handle installations for:

• Residential homes
• Condos and apartments
• Hotels and restaurants
• Medical and educational facilities
• Commercial and industrial properties

No matter the size or complexity of your system, we provide tailored solutions designed to meet your water quality needs.

Premium Water Filtration Systems

We proudly install systems from industry-leading manufacturers, including:

Halo Water Systems, Aqua-Pure®, Everpure®, Watts®, Cuno®, 3M, and Nuvo H2O™

Our range of filtration options includes:

• Under-counter drinking water filters
• Reverse osmosis systems
• Inline icemaker filters
• Whole-house water filtration systems

Featured System: HALO Ultra PLUS Reverse Osmosis

For homeowners seeking the highest level of purification, the HALO Ultra PLUS Reverse Osmosis with Alkalinity Booster delivers exceptional performance. This advanced system:

• Removes contaminants

Professional Plumbing & Design delivers reliable, safe, and effective drain cleaning services across Sarasota, Bradenton, Palmetto, and Venice.

Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or a complete blockage, our team uses advanced technology to quickly diagnose and resolve the issue.

With specialized waterproof video inspection cameras, we can thoroughly examine sewer lines and underground piping, even beneath concrete slabs or your home’s foundation. This allows us to accurately identify common causes of clogs, such as grease buildup, debris, or invasive tree roots, without unnecessary digging.

Our high-resolution color video equipment, combined with precise locating and tracing tools, pinpoints the exact source of problems like cracks, leaks, or sewer line breaks. This targeted approach saves both time and money while minimizing disruption to your property.

Once the issue is identified, Professional Plumbing & Design uses industry-leading solutions such as drain cabling and high-pressure hydro jetting to clear blockages, remove buildup, and restore proper flow. For ongoing maintenance, they also offer BioOne®, an eco-friendly treatment that safely breaks down fats, oils, and grease without harming pipes, septic systems, or the environment.

From inspection to repair, Professional Plumbing & Design combines expertise and cutting-edge tools to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

If your hot water suddenly runs cold, you’re probably asking yourself, “Do I need to repair my water heater, or is it time to replace it?”

That’s one of the most common questions homeowners and business owners ask in Sarasota and Manatee County—and the answer depends on a few key factors.

At Professional Plumbing & Design, we help you understand your options and choose the best solution for your home, budget, and long-term comfort.

When Is Water Heater Repair the Right Choice?

In many cases, a water heater can be repaired, especially when the problem is minor. Common repairable issues include:

• Faulty thermostats
• Sediment buildup inside the tank
• Malfunctioning heating elements

If your water heater still produces hot water but isn’t working as efficiently as it should, a repair may be all that’s needed. However, if you’re dealing with frequent breakdowns, inconsistent hot water, or visible leaks, replacement may be the smarter long-term option.

When Should You Upgrade Your Water Heater?

Older or failing water heaters often cost more to operate and can struggle to keep up with demand—especially in larger households or commercial settings. Upgrading to a newer system offers several benefits.

Better Energy Efficiency

Modern water heaters, including

When it comes to the health, safety, and comfort of your home, nothing is more important than having access to clean, high-quality water.

If you're a homeowner in Sarasota or Bradenton, you know how local water conditions can affect everything from drinking water to laundry. That’s why Professional Plumbing & Design offers the most reliable and advanced water filtration systems in Southwest Florida.

We proudly install top-tier water treatment products from trusted manufacturers like Halo Water Systems, Aqua-Pure®, Everpure®, Watts®, Cuno®, 3M, and Nuvo H2O™—known industry-wide for innovation, durability, and exceptional performance.

Complete Water Filtration & Softening Solutions for Sarasota and Bradenton Homes

Whether you're dealing with hard water, unpleasant odors, or concerns about contaminants, we have a customized solution that fits your needs and budget:

• Under-Counter Drinking Water Filters
  Get pure, refreshing water directly from your tap—no more bottled water waste or ongoing expense.

• Under-Counter Reverse Osmosis Systems
  Remove harmful contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, lead, and more for clean, healthy water the whole family can trust.

• Inline Icemaker Filters
  Enjoy clean, crystal-clear ice cubes with filters that eliminate unpleasant tastes and odors.

• Whole House Water Filtration Systems
  Treat all the water

Sarasota's top residential and commercial plumbing service and pipelining company is celebrating 40 years in business.

Family-owned and operated since 1985, Professional Plumbing & Design was founded by Ted Wittman with the help of his brother, Andy. Ted officially retired in 2013, handing the reins of the business to his sons, Matt and Ben, and Uncle Andy, who retired in 2023 - leaving another pair of Wittman brothers at the helm.

Over the past 40 years, their trucks have gotten bigger and the range of services broader, but the desire to be the area's best plumbing company that drove Ted and Andy to go out on their own hasn't changed. Of course, all companies want to be the best at what they do. What sets Professional Plumbing & Design apart from the rest is the family’s culture of treating their employees as well as they treat their customers.

With so many franchises coming into the area and local plumbing companies selling out to investment groups, Matt and Ben Wittman are proud of their company's long family history and the fact that their employees are not on commission so that customers can trust their professional advice.

Location: Sarasota, FL 34234
Job Type: Full-Time | Expected Hours: 40 per Week
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per Hour

About Us

Professional Plumbing & Design is the area's leading plumbing service company, proudly family-owned and operated—not a franchise. We take pride in maintaining a positive and enjoyable work atmosphere, backed by organized and efficient management. Our commitment extends beyond exceptional customer service—we prioritize the well-being and growth of our employees with competitive benefits and a supportive team environment.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Customer Service Representative / Administrative Assistant / Dispatcher to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will handle busy multi-line phone systems, schedule and dispatch service calls, and provide outstanding customer support. Initially, responsibilities will focus on answering calls, scheduling service appointments, filing, and preparing proposals. Over time, you will receive cross-training in dispatching and additional administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Professionally respond to customer inquiries via phone, email, and chat, ensuring prompt and courteous service.
• Accurately schedule and coordinate service calls based on technician availability and customer needs.
• Provide customers with clear, detailed information about our products and services.
• Assist with order processing, returns, and exchanges.
• Conduct follow-up calls to gather customer feedback and

A properly functioning septic system depends on a delicate balance of live bacteria to break down organic waste effectively.

These essential microorganisms work continuously to digest and degrade grease, oil, fats, proteins, and other biodegradable materials. Without a sufficient bacterial population, waste can accumulate, leading to system inefficiencies, unpleasant odors, and even costly failures.

Why Proper Septic Maintenance Matters

A well-maintained septic system is essential for long-term performance and environmental protection. When bacteria effectively break down solid waste in the septic tank, the liquid effluent that flows into the drain field is cleaner and free of excessive solids, preventing soil clogging and system overload. Without this natural breakdown process, the septic system can experience blockages, backups, or even complete failure, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards.

Key Benefits of Maintaining a Healthy Bacterial Balance

• Efficient Waste Breakdown – Live bacteria naturally decompose organic matter, minimizing sludge buildup and extending the system’s lifespan.
• Improved Drain Field Performance – A properly functioning septic system ensures that wastewater is safely absorbed and filtered through the drain field, preventing groundwater contamination.
• Prevention of Costly Repairs – Regular maintenance and bacterial treatments help prevent blockages, system backups, and expensive repairs.
• Odor Control –

The water heater is one of the most essential yet often overlooked appliances in any home.

For many homeowners, it’s out of sight – out of mind until it stops working or when there’s an unexpected cold shower. However, being proactive about your water heater’s maintenance and replacement can save you both money and stress over time.

Understanding the signs that indicate it's time to replace your water heater is crucial. An old or malfunctioning water heater can lead to rising energy bills, frequent repairs, and even property damage.

Here are some key indicators that it may be time to consider replacing your water heater:

No Hot Water: A Clear Indicator for Replacement

One of the most evident signs that your water heater may need replacing is the lack of hot water in your home. This can be frustrating and inconvenient, affecting everything from your morning shower to household chores like dishwashing and laundry.

Strange Noises: What They Mean for Your Water Heater

While it’s normal for a tank-style water heater to produce some sound as it heats and cools, unusual noises can indicate potential problems. If you begin to hear loud rumbling, popping, or high-pitched squealing sounds coming from

Thanks to everyone who came out to support the Professional Plumbing Powerboat Team at the 2024 Sarasota Grand Prix Pit Party in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center parking lot this past Friday, September 13.

We are thrilled to announce that Throttleman Ryan Beckley led us to a 3rd place victory in Saturday's Super Stock race!

Using Video Camera Inspection to prevent drain and pipe problems is a smart move for maintaining your plumbing system.

Clogs and leaks are indeed common plumbing issues, and while DIY methods like plunging or using chemical drain cleaners can resolve some problems, others require a more thorough approach.

Benefits of Video Camera Inspection

• Early Detection of Issues: A camera can identify problems before they become major issues. This includes clogs, cracks, leaks, or root invasions. Catching these early can save you from costly repairs down the line.
• Accurate Diagnosis: Instead of guessing where a problem might be, a camera provides a clear view of the inside of your pipes. This ensures that any work done is targeted and precise.
• Non-Invasive: Camera inspections are minimally invasive. They don't require digging up pipes or removing fixtures, which means less disruption to your home.
• Detailed Reports: The footage from the camera can be reviewed later, and you can get a detailed report on the condition of your pipes. This is useful for keeping records and for any potential insurance claims.
• Preventive Maintenance: Regular camera inspections can help you keep an eye on the condition of your pipes and prevent issues before they start.

Ultimate efficiency. Smarter control.

Bradford White's AeroTherm® Series heat pump water heaters are designed with advanced technology to maximize efficiency and provide reliable hot water for your home. By utilizing heat pump technology, these water heaters can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to traditional electric water heaters, leading to lower utility bills and environmental benefits.

The AeroTherm® Series offers a range of features aimed at optimizing energy efficiency while still delivering ample hot water for your household needs. Whether it's for daily showers, laundry, or dishwashing, these water heaters are up to the task while keeping energy usage in check.

Investing in an AeroTherm® heat pump water heater from Bradford White not only helps you save money on energy costs but also reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future. Plus, with Bradford White's reputation for reliability and durability, you can trust that your hot water needs will be met efficiently and effectively for years to come.

How does it work?

The AeroTherm® Series from Bradford White harnesses the power of heat pump technology to heat water more efficiently by extracting warmth from the surrounding air. This innovative approach not only reduces energy consumption but also translates into

Ultimate Reliability, Ultimate Purity, Zero Electricity

At Professional Plumbing & Design, we understand the critical importance of clean water for your home or business. That's why we trust Halo Water Treatment, a leader in water quality solutions, to offer a range of innovative products designed to enhance your water supply. With cutting-edge filtration technology, Halo's systems effectively remove impurities and contaminants, ensuring safe and clean water for all your needs. Whether you're looking to improve water quality for health reasons, protect your plumbing, or simply enjoy better-tasting water, Halo Water Treatment has the right solution for you.

Not only are Halo's products efficient and reliable, but they are also environmentally conscious. By promoting water conservation and reducing waste, Halo Water Treatment aligns with our commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. When you choose Halo Water Treatment through Professional Plumbing & Design, you can expect exceptional customer service every step of the way. We are dedicated to providing you with high-quality water solutions that meet your needs while supporting a healthier planet.

Ultimate Drinking Water Quality with Alkalinity Booster

The HALO Ultra PLUS Reverse Osmosis with Alkalinity Booster is an advanced water purification system designed to provide the highest quality drinking

The Halo H2 Zero Ultimate is a premier product in the water quality industry, offered by Halo, a leading provider of water quality solutions.

This whole-house filtration and water conditioning system addresses a wide range of water quality concerns, ensuring clean and conditioned water throughout your home. By integrating advanced filtration technologies, the H2 Zero Ultimate effectively removes impurities, enhances water taste, and protects plumbing systems from scale and corrosion. Its comprehensive design makes it a reliable choice for maintaining optimal water quality.

The H2 Zero Ultimate stands out from traditional filtration systems by delivering superior performance and efficiency. Its innovative design enables it to effectively eliminate a wide range of harmful substances, including chlorine, lead, bacteria, and more. This ensures that your water is of the highest quality, giving you peace of mind about the safety and purity of your home's water supply. The advanced technology incorporated in the H2 Zero Ultimate not only enhances the taste and clarity of your water but also safeguards your plumbing and appliances, making it a comprehensive solution for all your water quality needs.

The H2 Zero Ultimate not only prioritizes water quality but also promotes sustainability and eco-friendly practices. By reducing water

No one enjoys the odor of rotting food rising from their sink and garbage disposal.

Over half of Americans (58 percent) believe that putting lemons through a garbage disposal will make it smell better. However, this home remedy could have unexpected consequences for your sink drain.

A garbage disposal may chop a lemon peel into very small pieces. However, those lemon peels and pieces will eventually end up in your kitchen drain line, causing it to clog and back up. While lemon juice (no peels) will help to alleviate stale food odors, with repeated use, the acidity of the fruit can eventually damage the metal inside of your machine.

A good way to prevent a clogged and smelly garbage disposal is to rinse the disposal well after each use. This will keep it clean and smelling fresh. You can also run water with a small amount of bleach to thoroughly clean the disposal and avoid odors and grime buildup.

Avoid garbage disposal problems by Joining Our Pro Club!

Our Pro Club members get front-of-the-line service, 10% discounts & 2-year guarantees on all repairs and replacements, and FREE annual safety inspections so we catch small plumbing issues before they become big