Water Heaters, Husbands, and Hardware Stores – Oh My!

Posted on November 3, 2025 by theplumbersbride

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

Posted on October 27, 2025 by theplumbersbride

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?

Posted on October 20, 2025 by theplumbersbride

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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Everything You Need to Know About Tankless Water Heaters

Posted on October 13, 2025 by theplumbersbride

Tankless water heaters are becoming a popular choice for homeowners looking for endless hot water and energy efficiency. But how do they work, and is a tankless system right for your home? Bear’s Plumbing in Spring, TX can help you understand the benefits, maintenance needs, and installation process.

1. How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Unlike traditional tank systems, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. This means you never run out of hot water, even during simultaneous showers, laundry, or dishwashing.

2. Benefits of Tankless Systems

  • Energy-efficient operation
  • Space-saving design
  • Longer lifespan than traditional tank water heaters

3. Installation Considerations

Proper installation is essential. A system must be correctly sized and connected to your plumbing for optimal performance. Bear’s Plumbing ensures each tankless water heater is installed safely, efficiently, and tailored to your home’s needs.

4. Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance prevents common issues like mineral buildup and sensor malfunctions. Bear’s Plumbing provides inspections and service to help keep your system running smoothly.

5. Professional Support

While tankless water heaters offer many advantages, professional guidance ensures your system provides reliable hot water and energy savings. Bear’s Plumbing is available for installation, maintenance, and repair whenever you need it.

Conclusion:
Tankless water heaters are a modern solution for homeowners seeking endless hot water and reduced energy bills. With Bear’s Plumbing in Spring, TX, you can enjoy the benefits of a tankless system with expert installation and ongoing support. Contact us today to learn more.

A Critical Note About Spray Foam Insulation
If your home has spray foam insulation, you can only have a tankless water heater installed. Why? Because installing a tank-style water heater in a spray foam environment can be extremely dangerous. Without proper ventilation, you risk carbon monoxide poisoning or even a fire that could burn your house down.

We recently saw a home where a customer had a tank-type water heater surrounded by spray foam insulation. Thankfully, nothing tragic happened—but it very easily could have been catastrophic. (Check out the image below for an example.)

Safety always comes first. If you’re building, remodeling, or insulating, be sure to talk with your plumber about the right type of water heater for your home.

Tank-type water heater surrounded by spray foam insulation in a customer’s home. This unsafe setup could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or fire.
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Why Bear’s Plumbing Feels Like a 5-Star Experience Every Time

Posted on October 6, 2025 by theplumbersbride

Plumbing emergencies can be stressful—but Bear’s Plumbing makes it feel effortless. Their 5-star white glove experience turns a typical service call into a smooth, professional, and even pleasant experience.

1. From the First Call

The difference starts when you call. Their team listens carefully, asks the right questions, and schedules a time that works for you. You feel heard and valued before a technician even steps into your home.

2. Expert Technicians Who Care

Bear’s team doesn’t just fix the problem—they provide guidance, explain the steps, and ensure the solution is long-lasting. Every technician is courteous, professional, and equipped with the tools and knowledge to handle the job efficiently.

3. Home Respect Matters

Protecting your home is part of the service. Shoe covers, careful work, and thorough clean-up ensure your space stays as neat as it was before we arrived. It’s the little things that make a big difference.

4. Clear Communication

No surprises, no confusion. Bear’s Plumbing keeps you informed about the work, costs, and options. You always know what’s happening and why.

5. Peace of Mind With Protection Plans

Beyond repairs and installations, Bear’s Plumbing offers the Protection Plan and flexible financing, making it easy to care for your home’s plumbing without stress.

Conclusion:
A 5-star white glove experience isn’t just about fixing plumbing—it’s about respect, professionalism, and peace of mind. With Bear’s Plumbing in Spring, TX, you’ll feel taken care of every step of the way. Call today to experience service the way it should be.

Our white glove service is more than plumbing—it’s about treating your home with care and delivering a true 5-star experience.
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Service vs. Sales Technicians

Posted on September 29, 2025 by theplumbersbride

Do You Want a Technician… or a Salesperson?

There’s something I’ve learned being married to a plumber: not all technicians are created equal. Some technicians are there to sell you something new. Others? They’re there to fix what’s already broken—and maybe even make it better than it was before.

I’ve seen it. Some companies send a salesperson in first, all smiles and promises, and then a second crew shows up later to actually do the work. It’s a bit like ordering a cake online, and the baker only shows up after the delivery driver leaves.

At Bear’s Plumbing, that’s not how we roll. We’re a small, family-owned business, and we take pride in training our technicians to truly know their craft. These guys are engineers of the trade. They take things apart, repair them, and put them back together so they work better than ever. And yes, I married this guy…so I’ve seen it happen in our own home!

It’s one thing to install something brand-new. It’s another to repair something the right way, restore it, and save you money in the process. That’s the difference between a sales technician and a service technician.

So, when it’s time to decide whether to repair or replace, here’s my advice: skip the pushy salespeople. Call Bear’s Plumbing at 281-350-2327. They’ll give you honest advice and a fair price up front, because at the end of the day, they’re here to serve the community—and your family—just like they would their own.07

Bonus tip: If you really want to know the difference, watch your technician. Are they rolling up their sleeves to figure it out…or are they just talking about the new model you “definitely need”? You’ll know immediately.

family-owned plumbing company
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Garbage Disposal Gone Wild

Posted on September 22, 2025 by theplumbersbride

Everything You’ve Been Told NOT to Put in the Garbage Disposal…And What I Did Anyway

So here’s my rule of thumb: everything goes in the garbage disposal…yep, everything your mother and grandmother warned you not to put down the kitchen sink. Grease, eggshells, potato peels, citrus peels…

Wait. What? Are you kidding me???

Well, I’m not saying you should do that—I’m just telling you that’s what I do. I mean, I’m married to a plumber, right? That doesn’t mean Bear loves it when I cause a problem.

Case in point: the infamous “refrigerator deep clean disaster.” Stick with me; I promise it ties into the garbage disposal.

I was washing a glass shelf from the fridge in the sink with some soap. As soon as the water touched the glass for rinsing…GLASS SHATTERED INTO A MILLION TINY CRYSTALS all over the counter, the floor, the sink, and—yes—you guessed it—down the drain.

My hand was still in the air as if holding the glass that was no longer there. I was too afraid to look over my shoulder at Bear, who was calmly cooking dinner. He held it together really well…at first. But I know the silent treatment was brewing.

I tried to scoop out as much glass as I could from the top of the sink, but every time we turned on the disposal, I winced. Bear had had it. He started pulling everything out from under the sink and took the garbage disposer off to try and shake all of the glass out.

I married the plumber—what could go wrong, right? 😅

Now, I’m sure Bear isn’t thrilled that I’m posting this for the world to see, but I can giggle about it now. And here’s the lesson: accidents happen. Glass, silverware, or anything else you really shouldn’t put down your sink can create chaos.

So if you make a mistake like I did, give Bear a call at 281-350-2327. We’ll send a crew over to resolve it for you—and it won’t break the bank.

You can also check out our Bear’s Plumbing Blog for more serious reading. https://bearsplumbing.net/blog/

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Don’t Ignore the Drip: How to Keep Your Home Safe

Posted on September 15, 2025 by theplumbersbride

Thankfully, I’m a hard sleeper—so a drip doesn’t usually keep me up at night. But I know it can drive some people absolutely crazy…especially when it’s the drip your teenager never mentioned to you.

That tiny, constant drip from a faucet, tub, or toilet might seem harmless. But over time, it can lead to mold, water damage, and higher water bills. And let’s be honest, if your teenager didn’t tell you about it, it could be lurking in an unused bathroom or a rarely visited corner of your home.

Here’s what you can do to stay ahead of it:

  1. Check all bathrooms—even the unused ones.
    Don’t rely on your teens to speak up. Give every bathroom a quick once-over. Drips in guest bathrooms, spare bathrooms, or rarely used areas can quietly damage floors, cabinets, and walls.
  2. Inspect sinks, tubs, and toilets regularly.
    Turn handles, watch for leaks at the base, and listen for faint dripping sounds. Small drips can escalate if ignored.
  3. Catch it early.
    A tray or towel under a slow drip might feel silly, but it’s an easy way to prevent a bigger mess later.
  4. Call the pros when needed.
    Some drips are stubborn. Bear’s Plumbing can fix any faucet, running toilet, or hidden leak—fast, affordable, and before it becomes a serious problem.

Remember, it’s not just about the noise—it’s about protecting your home from serious water damage. Even a small drip over weeks or months can lead to major headaches.

So if that drip is lurking in your home—whether you noticed it or your teenager didn’t—give Bear a call at 281-350-2327. We’ll make sure your home stays dry, safe, and drip-free.

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Tankless Water Heater Pricing Update – Why Now is the Time to Schedule

Posted on September 9, 2025 by theplumbersbride

At Bear’s Plumbing Services, we believe in keeping our customers informed about changes that may affect your home and budget. Recently, our trusted manufacturer, Rinnai, announced that due to ongoing economic pressures and market volatility, they will be adjusting pricing on certain tankless water heater models.

What This Means for You

Starting October 1, 2025, new pricing will go into effect. If you’ve been considering upgrading your home to a tankless system, scheduling your installation before October 1 allows you to secure current pricing and avoid the increase.

Why Choose Tankless?

Tankless water heaters continue to be a popular choice among homeowners in Spring, TX and the Greater Houston area because they provide:

  • Endless hot water for showers, laundry, and dishes
  • Energy efficiency, saving money on utility bills
  • Longer lifespan compared to traditional tank units
  • Space-saving design that fits modern homes

Bear’s Plumbing – Your Tankless Experts

With over 30 years of experience, Bear’s Plumbing has installed countless water heaters across our community. Our licensed plumbers will help you decide if tankless is right for your home, provide expert installation, and ensure your system is built to last.

Act Now Before October 1

If you’re ready to make the switch, now is the best time to call. Lock in today’s pricing, enjoy the benefits of tankless hot water, and avoid paying more after the increase.

📞 Contact Bear’s Plumbing today at 281-350-2327 or visit www.bearsplumbing.net to schedule your installation before October 1.

🐻 Bear’s Plumbing – Family Owned & Operated, Serving Spring and Greater Houston with excellence.

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How We Keep Our Water Heater Happy (And Why You Should Too!)

Posted on September 8, 2025 by theplumbersbride

I’ll be honest—our water heater doesn’t get much love. It quietly does its job every day, until one morning we’re greeted with a cold shower or a leaky tank. That’s when Bear steps in with his toolkit and years of experience. At Bear’s Plumbing, we’ve learned that regular water heater maintenance isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

Here’s what we do to keep our tank type water heater happy:

1. Give It a Gentle Flush
Sediment can build up at the bottom of the tank, making it work harder and use more energy. Flushing it out once or twice a year keeps everything running smoothly—and our showers warm!

2. Check the Safety Valve
That little lever on the top of the tank? It’s more important than it looks. Testing the pressure relief valve ensures the tank isn’t under dangerous pressure. Bear always makes sure it’s working perfectly.

3. Keep an Eye on Temperature
We keep ours around 120°F. Warm enough for a cozy shower, but safe and energy-efficient. It’s a small adjustment that saves money and protects the tank from overworking.

4. Watch for Early Warning Signs
If you notice leaks, strange noises, or inconsistent hot water, don’t wait. Even small problems can grow if ignored. Bear’s Plumbing can handle it quickly, so you never have to worry about a sudden cold shower.

5. Professional Check-Ups
Once a year, we call in the pros. Bear’s team checks everything from the anode rod to the heating element. They catch small issues before they become disasters, saving money and stress.

Why It Matters:
A well-maintained water heater lasts longer, uses less energy, and keeps the household running smoothly. Plus, it’s a lot less stressful than dealing with an emergency repair. Our tank water heater might not be glamorous, but with a little attention, it keeps our home comfortable every single day.

Conclusion:
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to call in the experts, taking care of your water heater is worth it. Follow these tips, and your tank water heater will keep working efficiently for years to come. And if you ever need help, Bear’s Plumbing in Spring, TX has you covered with professional inspections, maintenance, and repair services.

Our second generation happy plumber!
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