After a long period of development, Elkhart local and disabled veteran David Sims has launched “Smart Drain Pro,” a device to help maintain water heaters. Photo from Smart Drain Pro.

News Release

ELKHART — A local inventor and electronics manufacturer have teamed up to bring a new device to market that could change how homeowners maintain their water heaters, potentially saving time, money and costly repairs. Smart Drain Pro, created by Elkhart resident and disabled veteran David Sims, is an automated system designed to flush sediment from water heaters.

After years of development and over $100,000 in personal investment, Sims launched the product in March, in partnership with Elkhart-based Excel Electronics.

The device uses a solenoid valve controlled via a smartphone app to remove sediment buildup, a common cause of water heater failure, reduced efficiency, and property damage. Priced at $195, Smart Drain Pro will be available for $125 during a two-week promotional sale in early July.

Early feedback has been promising. A South Bend customer purchased multiple units, and a plumber in Atlanta helped test and refine the device.

Excel Electronics, which typically services both startups and major corporations, played a key role in developing Sims’ prototype. Evan Estep, the company’s director of business development, said working with Sims was especially meaningful.

The team recently completed its first large-scale production run and is in discussions with national distributors and retailers, including Home Depot. A patent application is pending.

Smart Drain Pro’s long-term goal is to capture 1% of the residential water heater market, which is about 90,000 units annually, and expand into commercial markets like restaurants and senior living facilities where frequent water heater maintenance is critical.

Sims’ journey reflects a growing entrepreneurial spirit in the South Bend-Elkhart region, bolstered by resources like Notre Dame’s IDEA Center and CDFI Friendly South Bend, which aim to support small business innovation. His story has also caught the attention of local leaders seeking to inspire older adults. Tina Fraley, CEO of the Council on Aging of Elkhart County, sees Sims as a potential role model.

The council is working to develop new programs, including Indiana’s first “Men’s Shed,” to support purposeful engagement among seniors.

Fraley said tools like Smart Drain Pro could help older adults maintain safer homes.

Sims plans to continue research and development and expand Smart Drain Pro’s marketing efforts, hoping the product becomes a new standard in home maintenance.