Serving Connecticut Since 1916
1916
A Vision Begins
Ralph Mann Senior was born in Bradford, England, and emigrated to the United States as a young child. At the turn of the 20th century, he showed early signs of entrepreneurship—selling hot dogs at local baseball fields and earning an honest dollar through hard work and determination. As he grew older, Ralph sought a trade that would allow him to build a future, support his community, and create something lasting. With little more than a bag of tools and a strong work ethic, he chose plumbing.
In 1916, at just 18 years old, Ralph Mann Senior opened a plumbing shop in the Tyther Building at 402 Howe Avenue in Shelton, Connecticut. At a time when indoor plumbing and central heating were still considered luxuries, Ralph believed these comforts should be accessible to everyone—and he set out to make that belief a reality.
1920
Growth in Ansonia
As the business grew, Ralph moved the shop across the river in the 1920s to Main Street in Ansonia, Connecticut. Services at that time included plumbing, tin metal roofs, gutters, heating, and sheet metal work. The company thrived, becoming a trusted name in the Valley and laying the groundwork for future generations.
1930
Expanding Expertise
During the 1930s, Ralph Mann & Sons continued to serve the community with plumbing, tinning, and heating services. The company also became an authorized dealer for Gilbert & Barker oil burners and air conditioning equipment—bringing modern heating and cooling solutions to Connecticut homes and businesses.
1940
Resilience Through Change
After proudly serving their country during World War II, Ralph’s sons—Ralph and George—joined the business, forming the second generation of Ralph Mann & Sons. Together, they expanded services to include kitchen and bathroom remodeling, appliance sales and service, home heating oil delivery, and a growing list of commercial and industrial capabilities.
In 1955, disaster struck when the historic flood devastated the Main Street Ansonia location, wiping out the shop entirely. Rather than ending the business, the flood became a defining moment of resilience. The Mann family rebuilt, persevered, and continued serving their customers during one of the most challenging periods in the region’s history.
1967
A Permanent Home
After recovery and rebuilding, Ralph Mann & Sons found its permanent home at 505 Main Street in Ansonia. In 1967, the company celebrated a grand reopening marking not just a new location, but a renewed commitment to the community it had served for generations.
By the 1970s, the company had grown to serve more than 10,000 customers and employed over 30 skilled professionals. As industry thrived throughout the Naugatuck Valley, Ralph Mann & Sons became a trusted partner for complex projects including process piping, sprinkler systems, ventilation systems, boiler plants, and other industrial services, becoming the primary mechanical contractor for BF Goodrich, Farrell Corporation, Better Packages, Griffin Hospital, W.E. Bassett and many others.
1988
Third-Generation Leadership
In 1988, Ralph Jr’s son, Craig, assumed ownership and became President and CEO, representing the third generation of Mann family leadership. Under Craig’s direction, the company continued to modernize—embracing new technologies, expanding service offerings, and strengthening its residential and commercial footprint across Connecticut—while remaining grounded in the values established in 1916.
2026
Four Generations Strong
Now more than a century later, Ralph Mann & Sons proudly represents four generations of family ownership and leadership. As Connecticut has evolved—from industrial centers to growing residential communities—the company has adapted while maintaining the same commitment to craftsmanship, integrity, and customer care that built its reputation.
Leading Through Innovation
The plumbing, heating, and cooling industry has changed dramatically, and Ralph Mann & Sons has consistently stayed ahead of the curve. From geothermal installations, heat pump systems, tankless water heaters, and ductless HVAC technology, and smart thermostats, innovation has always been part of the company’s DNA.
Our team stays current with evolving regulations, manufacturer standards, and advanced training to ensure customers benefit from today’s most efficient solutions. We also help homeowners and businesses navigate manufacturer rebates, utility incentives, tax credits, and energy-efficiency programs—making smart upgrades more accessible and affordable.
From one young plumber with a vision to four generations of trusted service
Ralph Mann & Sons continues to do things the right way
For over 100 years, consistency has been the foundation of Ralph Mann & Sons. Customers return to us, often for decades and across generations, because they trust our work and our word. We are large enough to deliver prompt, dependable service, yet personal enough to know our customers by name.
Honesty, integrity, fairness, and uncompromised craftsmanship aren’t marketing phrases, they are the standards behind every service call, installation, and project we complete.