$8M in Residential Plumbing: It Started with a Broken Water Heater

$8M in Residential Plumbing: It Started with a Broken Water Heater

From The Successful Contractor Podcast by CertainPath

May 1, 2026 · 59 min

About this episode

Dan Barger shares his journey of growing Apollo Plumbing to $8 million in annual revenue, highlighting key lessons learned along the way.

For almost fifteen years, Dan Barger grew Apollo Plumbing the hard way — no price book, no P&L, no real read on his margins. His financial reporting system was opening the bank account and hoping. Today, Apollo does $8 million a year in residential plumbing. What changed? On this episode of The Successful Contractor, host Bob Houchin sits down with Dan — owner of Apollo Plumbing in Marysville, Washington — for the honest version of a twenty-year run. You’ll hear: Why a broken water heater turned Dan into a 20-year plumber. The moment Dan realized his “financial reporting system” was costing him money. Why 60–70% of Apollo’s marketing spend goes to radio — and what it buys. The comp model Apollo switched to last year — and what it did to close rates. The one thing Dan wishes he’d done seven years sooner. Where Dan’s taking Apollo next. If you’re running a contracting company, Dan’s story will sound uncomfortably familiar — and hopeful. Guest Dan Barger Owner, Apollo Plumbing — Marysville, WA Host & Show Host: Bob Houchin Show: The Successful Contractor, powered by CertainPath CTA — Close of Description Book your free discovery call at mycertainpath.com. Enjoyed the…

People in this episode

Host: Bob Houchin

Guest: Dan Barger

Topics covered

  • residential plumbing
  • financial reporting
  • marketing strategies
  • contracting business
  • entrepreneurship

Keywords

  • plumbing
  • financial management
  • marketing spend
  • contractor success
  • business growth

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Apollo Plumbing

Places: Marysville, Washington

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