Garbage Disposal Gone Wild

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

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

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!)

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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Power Through Any Storm: The Benefits of Whole House Generators

In Texas, we know how unpredictable the weather can be. From hurricane season to sudden electrical grid issues, power outages aren’t a matter of if—but when. That’s why more homeowners are investing in Kohler whole house generators for peace of mind and uninterrupted comfort.

At Bear’s Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how a generator can turn a stressful blackout into a minor inconvenience.


What is a Whole House Generator?

A whole house generator is a permanently installed backup system that automatically turns on when the power goes out. It’s connected directly to your electrical panel and powered by natural gas or propane, so there’s no need to refuel or plug in cords.


Why It’s a Smart Investment

Uninterrupted Power: Keeps your lights, fridge, AC, and medical devices running during outages.
Automatic Start: Kicks on within seconds of a power failure—no action needed.
Protection for Your Home: Avoid burst pipes, spoiled food, and flooded basements.
Comfort and Safety: Keep your family cool, connected, and safe, no matter what’s happening outside.
Adds Resale Value: Increases the value and appeal of your home.


Customized Solutions for Your Home

Every home is different. We’ll assess your power needs, explain the options, and install a system sized perfectly for your space. Whether you need a full backup solution or coverage for essentials only, Bear’s Plumbing is here to help you plan with confidence.


Be Prepared Before the Next Storm

Don’t wait for the lights to go out to take action. A Kohler whole house generator is more than a luxury—it’s a safeguard for your home, your health, and your peace of mind.

Call us today at 281-350-2327 or visit www.bearsplumbing.net to learn more or schedule your generator consultation.

Bear’s Plumbing—helping Texas families stay powered, protected, and prepared.


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The Tankless Advantage: Endless Hot Water, Lower Bills

If you’ve ever run out of hot water in the middle of a shower—or while trying to get the whole family through bath time—you’ve probably wished for a better solution. At Bear’s Plumbing, we’re big fans of one upgrade that solves that problem and more: the tankless water heater.


What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Unlike traditional units that store and constantly reheat water in a tank, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. That means no storage tank, no standby heat loss, and no running out of hot water.


Why Go Tankless?

Endless Hot Water: Great for large families or households with back-to-back showers and laundry.
Energy Efficiency: Only heats water when you need it—saving on your monthly energy bill.
Longer Lifespan: Tankless models can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Space-Saving: Mounted on the wall and compact in size, they free up floor space.
Eco-Friendly: Using less energy means a lower environmental impact.


Is It Right for Your Home?

Tankless systems aren’t one-size-fits-all. We’ll evaluate your home’s layout, water usage, and family size to determine the right model and setup. Our experienced team ensures proper sizing, professional installation, and ongoing support.


Trusted Advice, Quality Installation

Thinking of making the switch? Bear’s Plumbing is here to walk you through every step of the process—from explaining your options to installing your new system and ensuring it runs like a dream.

Call us today at 281-350-2327 or visit www.bearsplumbing.net to schedule a consultation and see if a tankless upgrade is right for your home.

Bear’s Plumbing: Trusted service. Endless hot water. Zero stress.

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Water Heaters 101: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Your water heater may not be something you think about every day—but when it stops working, it suddenly becomes the most important appliance in your home.

At Bear’s Plumbing, we believe that a little knowledge can go a long way when it comes to protecting your home and your budget. Here’s what every homeowner should know about their water heater.


How Long Should a Water Heater Last?

Most standard tank-style water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. Tankless models can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is getting close to that age, it’s a good time to have it checked before it surprises you with a cold shower or worse—a leak.


Signs It May Be Time for Repair or Replacement

  • Inconsistent or lukewarm water temperature
  • Rusty or discolored water
  • Rumbling or popping noises from the tank
  • Water around the base of the unit
  • Hot water running out faster than it used to

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—call Bear’s Plumbing to assess the situation and help you plan the next step.


Flush It to Extend Its Life

Over time, sediment builds up in the bottom of your tank, reducing efficiency and increasing the risk of corrosion. An annual flush can help prevent this and extend the life of your heater. We offer this service as part of our regular maintenance visits—just ask us about it!


Newer Models = More Savings

Today’s water heaters are far more efficient than older models. Whether you’re considering a high-efficiency tank model or going tankless, upgrading can reduce your energy bills and provide better performance for your family’s needs.


We’re Here to Help

Whether your current water heater just needs a tune-up or it’s time for an upgrade, Bear’s Plumbing is ready to guide you through every option and answer every question. We believe in honest advice, expert installation, and service that goes the extra mile.

Don’t wait for the cold water to hit—call the Bear today and keep your home warm, efficient, and worry-free!

Call us today at 281-350-2327 or visit www.bearsplumbing.net

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Proud to Be PHCC: What It Means for You as a Customer

At Bear’s Plumbing, we’re committed to delivering more than just quality workmanship—we’re here to provide trustworthy, reliable service backed by education, experience, and professionalism. That’s why we’re proud members of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association of Texas (PHCC Texas).

You might not hear much about PHCC in day-to-day conversations, but behind the scenes, it plays a big role in helping businesses like ours serve customers like you even better.

What is PHCC of Texas?

PHCC is a respected trade organization that has supported and represented Texas plumbing, heating, and cooling contractors since 1893. It provides resources, education, and advocacy that help contractors stay current with industry standards, building codes, and safety regulations.

How Our Membership Benefits You

Customer Service That Goes the Extra Mile
Through PHCC, we have access to continuous training and professional development, so we’re always growing our skills and improving the customer experience.

Staying Current with Texas Standards
From code updates to safety protocols, our membership keeps us in the loop with everything we need to know to do the job right—the first time.

Advocating for Small Businesses and Local Communities
PHCC supports Texas-based, family-owned businesses like ours by promoting fair legislation and protecting trade professions. When you hire Bear’s Plumbing, you’re supporting a company that stands for integrity and the future of skilled trades in our state.

A Network of Trusted Professionals
PHCC connects us with like-minded contractors and suppliers, ensuring that we have access to the best products, knowledge, and resources available.

Why It Matters

When you see the PHCC logo, you know you’re working with a contractor who values quality, ethics, and professionalism. We don’t just meet the minimum—we strive for excellence in every interaction, and we’re honored to be part of a network that holds us to that standard.

At Bear’s Plumbing, we’re not just fixing leaks—we’re building a legacy of service you can count on.
www.bearsplumbing.net 281-350-2327

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Back to School—and Backing the Trades: A Smart Path for the Next Generation

As backpacks fill with supplies and buses return to the roads, we’re sending our best to all the students and teachers kicking off a brand-new school year. At Bear’s Plumbing, back-to-school season always brings a sense of excitement—and reflection.

While many students are preparing for college and four-year degrees, we want to shine a spotlight on another incredible option: the skilled trades.

The Trades: A Path to Purpose and Prosperity

Not everyone is wired for the college route—and that’s more than okay. Trades like plumbing offer a solid career, honest work, and financial freedom without the weight of student loans. While peers may be racking up debt, trade apprentices are earning, saving, and building a future.

Imagine this:
When your child’s classmates graduate college four years from now, your trade-trained son or daughter could already be:
✅ Saving for a house
✅ Taking their Journeyman license exam
✅ Investing in a 401(k)
✅ Gaining real-world experience—and respect

A Legacy of Hands-On Work

Our story started the same way. Eric, the “Bear” behind Bear’s Plumbing, began his plumbing journey during his senior year at Klein High School in 1989. He rolled up his sleeves, learned the ropes, and worked his way to becoming a Master Plumber. Today, he runs a thriving family business and still proudly mentors young men just starting out—especially our son, Clayton, who is walking in his father’s footsteps.

We’re also incredibly proud of Mason, Luke, Isaac, and Frank, who’ve joined our team over the summers during high school. Their eagerness to learn and willingness to work hard remind us that the future of the trades is in great hands.

Supporting All Students

No matter what path your child chooses—college, trade school, military, or straight into the workforce—we’re cheering them on. But if they’re unsure where to turn, don’t overlook the power of a skilled trade.

Plumbers protect the health of the nation—and that’s a legacy worth passing on.

From our Bear’s Plumbing family to yours, we wish everyone a safe, successful, and meaningful school year ahead! www.bearsplumbing.net 281-350-2327

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The Silent Leak That’s Draining Your Wallet: Test Your Toilet Today

That toilet that seems to be working just fine? It might be quietly leaking—and costing you money every single day.

Toilet leaks are one of the most common causes of unexpectedly high water bills. The problem is, they’re often silent and go unnoticed for weeks or even months. Thankfully, there’s a simple test you can do at home with just a few drops of food coloring.

How to Test for a Toilet Leak:

  1. Lift the tank lid and place a few drops of food coloring (any color will do) into the toilet tank.
  2. Wait 15–30 minutes without flushing.
  3. Check the toilet bowl—if the water has changed color, you’ve got a leak.

This test works because a properly sealed flapper will keep the colored water in the tank. If the flapper is worn or the seal isn’t tight, water will slowly seep into the bowl, wasting water and money.

Why It Matters

A running or leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. That’s not just bad for the environment—it can put a serious dent in your monthly bill.

Common Culprits of Toilet Leaks:

  • Worn-out flappers
  • Faulty fill valves
  • Loose or corroded tank bolts
  • Misaligned flush handles
  • Hairline cracks in the tank or bowl

When to Call the Bear

If your toilet fails the food coloring test, don’t worry—we’ve seen it all and can have it fixed in no time. Whether it’s a simple part replacement or a full rebuild, Bear’s Plumbing is ready to get your toilet back in tip-top shape.

Avoid surprises on your next water bill. Do the quick test today—and if you spot a leak, call in the Bear!

http://www.bearsplumbing.net

281-350-2327

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