theplumbersbride

We recently shared a video on Facebook and YouTube that honestly made my stomach turn — and also made me think.

The water heater in the video was 20 years old. On the outside, it didn’t look that bad at all. You know the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover”? The same goes for water heaters.

When our technicians arrived to replace it, they immediately noticed something strange. Even after draining all 40 gallons of water, the heater was much heavier than it should have been. Heavy enough that it took more time, more muscle, and a lot more effort to get it out.

And then we found out why.

We live in a hard-water area, which means minerals slowly build up inside water heaters over time. Calcium, sediment, and rust settle at the bottom of the tank year after year. Instead of flushing out, it hardens — turning into something that literally felt like rocks.

Yes… rocks.

Clayton (our son, our technician, and the curious one of the bunch) decided to cut the old tank open so we could see what was happening inside. What we found was shocking. Thick, hardened buildup had taken over the bottom of the tank. It had even bent the heating element, which explained why the heater was losing performance and struggling to keep up.

It was gross. And eye-opening.

People love to say water heaters are an easy DIY project. But the truth is, even a normal heater requires two trained people to safely remove and install. Add in decades of mineral buildup and you suddenly have something that weighs far more than it should — and is far more dangerous to handle.

And here’s the scariest part:
This heater was in an attic.

In most cases, a 20-year-old heater doesn’t just decline — it fails. When attic heaters leak, they can cause devastating water damage to ceilings, walls, floors, and everything below.

This one had a good ending. But many don’t.

I’ll never look at an aging water heater the same way again. I use hot water every day — laundry, dishes, showers — and now I know what could be hiding inside that tank.

I’m sharing the video and this image so you can see it for yourself. Sometimes the things that look “fine” on the outside are quietly becoming disasters on the inside. Calcium Build up in Water Heaters

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.

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