Closing Out 2025 With Gratitude and Looking Ahead With Faith

As we bring 2025 to a close, my heart is full.

Full of gratitude for our customers who trust us with their homes.
Full of appreciation for our team who shows up day after day, ready to serve.
And full of thankfulness for our family, who walks this journey with us — the long days, the late nights, and everything in between.

Plumbing isn’t always pretty. It can be a dirty job. A hard job. A job that most people don’t think about until something goes wrong. But it is honorable work. It protects families, keeps homes safe and healthy, and allows people to live their everyday lives without worry.

I’ve watched my husband and our team crawl under homes, work in the heat, answer emergency calls, and still take pride in doing things the right way. That kind of work ethic doesn’t come from convenience — it comes from character.

As we step into 2026, our prayer is simple:
That our community remains safe.
That our homes remain healthy.
And that we never lose sight of praising God for the opportunities placed before us.

We don’t take this calling lightly. Every service call is a chance to serve others, to be a light, and to honor God through the work of our hands.

Thank you for being part of our story. We look forward to what 2026 holds — with faith, gratitude, and open hearts.

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When Cheap Plumbing Becomes Expensive: A Cautionary Tale From a Recent Remodel

Let me tell you something I’ve learned over the years being married to a plumber: there is nothing more expensive than cheap plumbing.

We get calls all the time from homeowners who hired a contractor—not a licensed plumber—during a remodel because the price sounded “too good to be true.” And guess what…

It usually is.

Just recently, Bear and the crew went out to a home with a freestanding tub that had been newly installed. It should have been beautiful. It should have been functional. What they found instead was a nightmare waiting to happen.

The drain?

Completely disconnected.

Worse than that… the original installer had used an accordion drain, which is 100% illegal in the State of Texas. It violates plumbing code, and for good reason—they trap debris, clog easily, collapse, and cause water damage.

Why would anyone install something like this?

Because real plumbing is hard work.

It requires math.

It requires calculating angles, slope, and venting.

It requires using proper, approved materials.

People who “dabble” in plumbing take shortcuts. Licensed plumbers don’t.

When Bear showed me the picture of the separated drain and the accordion pipe, all I could think was:

“That beautiful remodel could have turned into thousands of dollars in damage within months.”

So here’s my heart-to-heart advice:

✨ If you want the job done right the first time, call a licensed plumber.

✨ If someone already did the job wrong and you now need it repaired, call Bear’s Plumbing.

✨ Your home—and your peace of mind—are worth it.

Here’s to strong homes, safe plumbing, and no more accordion drains.

Call Bear’s Plumbing at 281-350-2327 and let the professionals take care of you.

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Why Licensed Plumbers Aren’t Optional — They Protect Your Family’s Health

There are moments in life when the phrase “you get what you pay for” becomes a little too true — especially when it comes to plumbing. Plumbing isn’t just pipes and water… it’s public health, clean drinking water, sanitation, and safety.

And the State of Texas is stepping in with a major update.

👉 Beginning January 1, 2026, the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) will enforce a $4,000 fine — per violation — for any company that hires unregistered or unlicensed individuals to perform plumbing work. No discounts. No reduced settlements. Zero wiggle room.

Why? Because proper plumbing work is literally what protects us from contamination, illness, gas leaks, and unsafe drinking water. Licensed plumbers are trained, tested, and held accountable to protect our homes and our health.

If someone works on a gas line, water heater, or sewer system without the right license or supervision, it’s not just cutting corners — it’s risking lives.

Here’s what this means for homeowners: ✔ Always ask to see a plumbing license

✔ Cheap labor could cost you thousands later

✔ Your safety is worth hiring qualified professionals

✔ If someone can’t show their license… they shouldn’t be touching your plumbing

The TSBPE said it best:

> “It is the mission of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to protect the health and safety of Texans.”

As a plumber’s wife, I see firsthand the hours of training, the tests, the continuing education, and the responsibility that comes with being licensed. Good plumbers take pride in doing things the right way — even when no one is watching.

So whether you’re repairing a leak or installing a new gas appliance, remember:

A licensed plumber isn’t an expense. They’re protection.

And now… the State of Texas agrees. 🙌

Stay safe, friends 💜

—The Plumber’s Bride

Call Bear’s Plumbing for all your plumbing needs 281-350-2327

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When Trust Becomes the Best Compliment

One of my favorite things to hear from our customers is,
“Hey, do you know a good electrician? Roofer? Handyman?”

It means they trust us enough to ask for more than plumbing help — they trust our judgment, our values, and our word. That kind of relationship doesn’t happen overnight. It comes from doing the right thing, every time, and treating people like family.

We know how much a personal referral means. So to our loyal customers who send friends, family, and neighbors our way — thank you. You’re the heart of Bear’s Plumbing. 💛

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The Little Leak That Told a Bigger Story

We recently had a service call for what seemed like a simple leaky kitchen faucet. But as our technician got under the sink, they discovered the garbage disposal wasn’t even installed properly!

Moments like these are reminders that quality always matters. It’s not just about fixing what’s broken — it’s about doing the job right the first time, with care and pride.

Hiring a licensed plumber may cost a bit more up front, but it saves you headaches, money, and sometimes even safety hazards in the long run.

It’s the little things — like tightening a connection or securing a disposal — that make all the difference. And that’s what we’re all about.

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When Your Family Knows You Too Well…

My sister recently sent me a photo of a billboard in her city that said,
“Spring’s #1 for Your #2 Problems!”

She told my niece, “We need to send that to Uncle Bear and Aunt Corri!” — and honestly, she wasn’t wrong.

We LOVED it. Catchy, clever, and totally fitting for our business. Of course, my sweet niece was completely grossed out — and that made it even better! 😂

I think it might just have to be our next Bear’s Plumbing slogan. After all, plumbing isn’t always glamorous… but it is what keeps everything flowing smoothly in your home. 💧🐻

Who knows — maybe one day you’ll be driving through Spring and spot that slogan shining bright above the highway. 😉

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Experience, Integrity, and a Little Dirt – Watching Bear Do What He Does Best

After 30+ years of plumbing, Bear still loves being in the field. This week, he joined our crew on a job in The Thicket at Cypresswood, tackling a tough sewer line blockage that had everyone scratching their heads.

The culprit? A foreign object lodged deep in the line. With patience and precision, Bear worked the sewer machine while guiding our young plumbers through the process. The team cleared the line successfully — and a follow-up camera inspection revealed a small belly in the pipe. Not a crisis today, but an important find for the homeowner to keep an eye on.

Watching Bear work reminded me once again why I’m so proud of what we do. It’s not just plumbing — it’s problem-solving, mentoring, and serving others with excellence.

He truly is “The Happy Plumber” — calm under pressure, teaching as he works, and always leaving the jobsite better than he found it.
Our team is learning from the best, and our customers reap the benefits.

Call today 281-350-2327

Bear from Bear’s Plumbing running a sewer machine to remove an obstruction in a customer’s sewer line.
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Water Heaters, Husbands, and Hardware Stores – Oh My!

Let me guess — you’ve walked into a big box store and thought, “Why would I pay more at a plumbing supply house when this water heater looks exactly the same?”

Well, I used to think the same thing… until Bear (yes, my Bear) sat me down for Plumbing 101.
He’s been saying it for years: “They are NOT the same.”

Fast forward to now — thanks to Mitch Smedley, we finally have proof! Mitch took apart two water heaters — one from a plumbing supplier and one from a big box store — and guess what?
The plumbing supply version was 11 pounds heavier. Thicker metal. Better quality. Longer life.

It’s a little like comparing a homemade pie crust to the store-bought kind — both get the job done, but one has that “made-to-last” touch.

So yes, the big box store unit might save you a few bucks upfront, but if you want something that lasts (and doesn’t leave you cold in the shower at 6 a.m.), trust the heavier one — and trust your licensed plumber to install it right.

Because as Bear says, “Doing it right the first time always costs less than doing it twice.” 💧

If you want the full scoop — or a plumber who still believes in craftsmanship — check out www.bearsplumbing.net.

Thanks to Mitch Smedley for his work and video on this comparison

 

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Running water

Confession time: I actually started writing this post eight years ago. Life, kids, business—all good things—pulled me away, and I never quite hit “publish.” But sometimes old drafts are little treasures waiting to be rediscovered. So here we are, finally sharing it with you.

Road trips with family are some of the best memories. Our most recent one got me thinking about the little things that catch our attention along the way.

For some people, it’s the scenery. For others, it’s the hotel or even the wildlife. But for my husband? It’s always something plumbing-related. Of course. 😄


This time, it was an old water spigot—the kind you don’t see much anymore. To be honest, Clayton and I thought it was pretty cool too. It looked almost vintage, like something that belonged on a farm. One day I’d love to have one of those old-fashioned manual well pumps—though maybe not as my only source of water. 😉

 

It reminded me how easy it is to take the modern conveniences of life for granted. Running water, hot showers, dishwashers, washing machines—all the things that quietly keep life moving. My grandmother Nin certainly didn’t. She loved modern advancements and never wanted to go back to the old ways. She would tell us stories about growing up with no indoor plumbing, riding in Model T cars, and then fast-forward to taking my kids to Luby’s for Tuesday night dinners where she marveled at how far things had come.

There’s a movement today where many want to slow down, return to simplicity, and live like the “good old days.” I understand the longing for a quieter pace. But as I sat there admiring that old spigot, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the balance—being able to appreciate the past while enjoying the blessings of the present.

Running water may seem ordinary, but to me, it feels extraordinary. It’s a daily reminder not to overlook the simple gifts God has provided, both old and new.

And now, eight years later, that perspective has become even more meaningful. Clayton—once my 16-year-old road trip buddy—is now a full-time plumber working alongside us at Bear’s Plumbing. What started as an appreciation for a simple spigot has grown into a family business built around helping others enjoy the modern gift of water every day.

🐻 Bear’s Plumbing – Family Owned & Operated. Keeping the water flowing, with gratitude for the simple and the extraordinary.

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Why call Bear’s Plumbing?

When you search “plumber near me,” you’ll see a long list—sometimes 20 or more companies pop up. So why call Bear’s Plumbing? What makes us different?

Personal Attention Every Time

At Bear’s Plumbing, you’re never just a number. We answer the phone ourselves—no answering service, no endless call trees. If you call after hours, we’ll get back to you the next business day. When you choose Bear’s, you’re choosing a family-owned business that still believes in personal service.

The Bear’s Plumbing Team Works for You

Our goal isn’t just to fix a leak or replace a water heater. It’s bigger than that. We’re committed to building relationships where:

  • Customers are happy with the service they receive.

  • Customers are confident enough to refer us to friends and neighbors.

  • Our people, product, and process reflect the pride and care we put into every job.

Family-Owned. Trusted. Experienced.

For more than 30 years, Bear’s Plumbing has served Spring, TX and the Greater Houston area. We’ve built a reputation not just on the work we do, but on the way we treat people—with honesty, professionalism, and respect.

When you call Bear’s Plumbing, you’re calling more than a plumber—you’re calling a team you can trust to treat your home like it’s our own.

🐻 Bear’s Plumbing – Family-Owned & Operated. Here When You Need Us.

 

When you call Bear’s Plumbing, you’re greeted by a real person. Ana Maria and our team are here to answer your call and provide the personal service you deserve.
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