Should I drain my water heater occasionally?

The quick answer is probably not. If you just got a new water heater installed and you have the time and fortitude to drain and refill it a couple times a year, then sure. If not, don’t worry about it. The fact is, most water heaters these days use a swirling action to keep sediment from building up.

If you have an older heater it’s probably best to leave it be. Definitely do not pop the temperature and pressure relief valve to test it, as it may not seat back properly and would require replacing.

Let’s face it, we’re all busy and have little extra time. We want to install a water heater and hope it lasts 12-14 years before we change it out and that’s ok. The best thing to do is not pile stuff around them. Keep the water heaters and the area around the heater clear. If your water heater does fail, give me a call.

Clean Water vs. Gray Water vs. Black Water: Understanding Damage Categories – Restoration

Brian Wear Plumbing
April 22, 2026

When you discover water damage in your home, your first instinct is to clean it up as fast as possible. But not all water is the same. The source of the water intrusion determines its level of contamination, and this is the most critical factor in how you should approach the cleanup process. The restoration industry classifies water damage into three distinct categories: clean water, gray water, and black water.

Columbia’s Spring Storms: Protecting Your Plumbing from Flooding and Damage

Brian Wear Plumbing
April 8, 2026

Spring in Columbia brings welcome relief from winter cold, but it also ushers in a season of heavy rains and powerful storms. While blooming flowers and warmer days are a delight, the threat of torrential downpours poses a significant risk to your home's plumbing system. An unprepared home can quickly fall victim to basement flooding, sewage backups, and expensive water damage. The sheer volume of water from a spring storm can easily overwhelm your property's drainage and plumbing, leading to costly and stressful repairs.

How to Respond Quickly to Water Damage & Restore Your Home with Brian Wear Restoration

Brian Wear Plumbing
March 18, 2026

Discovering a puddle spreading across your floor or a dark stain appearing on your ceiling can be a heart-stopping moment for any homeowner. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, a faulty appliance, or a severe storm, water damage triggers immediate stress and a sense of helplessness. The clock starts ticking the moment water enters your home. Swift and decisive action is crucial not just for cleanup, but for preventing long-term problems like dangerous mold growth, rotted wood, and severe damage to your home’s structure.