Why You Should Hire a Professional for Drain Cleaning Service

Posted on July 15, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Although there are drain augers and plastic drain snakes available on the market, these should only be used for minor clogs. If you are experiencing moderate to severe drain issues, you need comprehensive drain cleaning, which is a service that should only be carried out by a licensed and insured plumbing professional.

Continue reading to learn why such plumbing services are strictly for trained and equipped professionals, plus where to get a free estimate for drain clearing and cleaning in Indianapolis.

Drain Cleaning Service Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Common Signs of Drain Trouble

It is easy to tell when you have a minor clogged drain problem. A slow draining sink or bathtub is likely the result of a minor obstruction or blockage within the drain itself. Typically, this is caused from shampoo and soap residues, hair, and general dirt and debris. Even if the drain is entirely clogged, it is likely a minor blockage that can be dislodged using a plunger or drain snake. On the other hand, a drain snake does not work on tougher drain problems, which tend to evade your attention for some time because they happen out of view. This is why regular home plumbing inspections are important.

Some common signs of moderate to major drain clogs include:

▭ A clogged drain that will not dislodge with a plunger or drain snake.
▭ A burst or leaking plumbing pipe.
▭ Water leaking from the base of the toilet.
▭ A bubbling toilet.
▭ Drains that smell bad.
▭ Puddles around the bathtub, shower, or sink.

If you are experiencing one or more of these drain issues, you will need to quickly hire a licensed plumber who can provide professional drain clearing and cleaning services.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional for Drain Repair and Cleaning

Professional plumbers are licensed and insured to perform comprehensive drain repairs and drain clearing services. They retain the proper permits, training, equipment, and resources to clean drains according to local building codes. In many cases, moderate to severe drain problems must be approached using video pipe inspection equipment and high-powered hydro-jetting technology, which uses high pressured hot steam to release and clear drain blockages. For less serious drain issues, a plumber may use a commercial hand-crank drain snake or motorized auger with success.

Are you worried that your drainage system might be having trouble? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing inspection service for drains, pipes, and more. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services in Indianapolis all throughout Central Indiana.

Do Not Let Your Guests Flush These Things Down the Toilet

Posted on July 8, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Summertime is a time for loved ones. With school out all season long, now is the prime time to visit family. Although enriching and enjoyable, hosting family from out of town can certainly pose some challenges, especially when kids are involved. Yet somehow, regardless of age, house guests tend to cause some plumbing challenges during their stays, particularly with the toilet, which is problematic considering the acute importance of having a functional toilet at all times, even more so when people are staying with you! So, if you are preparing to have family come into town for a visit, do your due diligence to ensure they don’t flush the wrong things down the toilet. Your plumbing and sewer system will thank you!

Continue below for a list of things that you might want to warn your house guests about before showing them to their rooms!

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Stick to the Obvious Flushing Rules

People tend to overlook the fact that most things do not belong in the toilet. Other than human waste, and toilet paper, nothing else should be flushed down the commode. This makes the list of incompatible items quite long, as you can imagine. But when it comes to house guests, there are some items that are more commonly a threat to your toilet. Give your guests a customary orientation on what not to flush down your toilets and sleep easier knowing you won’t be waking up to a mass overflow or backup.

Common Items That Should Not Be Flushed Down the Toilet

Avoid inconvenient toilet disasters and costly plumbing repair bills by telling your guests not to flush these items down the toilet:

Moist Towelettes and Wipes

Moist towelettes, disinfecting wipes, alcohol pads, and bathroom wipes should not be flushed. Even bathroom wipes that are advertised as “flushable” are not really flush-friendly nor do they disintegrate well. These items are notorious for causing backups in sewer systems and plumbing pipes. This can lead to pipe bursts, water leaks, and hefty repair bills.

Paper towels and tissue are also bad news for toilets. They should never be flushed, even if they are totally saturated.

Feminine Products

Items like tampons, maxi-pads, disposal underwear, incontinence products, and more are not meant to be flushed. These items expand in water and will quickly clog up your system. Rather than flushing, instruct your house guests to wrap them in toilet paper and toss them into the trash bin. The same applies to contraceptives like condoms.

Cotton Swabs, Balls and Pads

You wouldn’t think something as small and flimsy as a cotton swab or cotton ball would harm your plumbing system, but as it turns out, they are a common culprit behind toilet and sewer system backups. Like the other items listed, cotton balls, swabs, and rounds are made using highly absorbent materials, so they expand inside plumbing pipes and obstruct the flow of wastewater. Never allow your guests to toss these into the toilet.

Baby Diapers

Disposal and cloth baby diapers should be an obvious flushing no-no, yet they tend to top the list as far as toilet clogs go, especially in public restrooms. Never attempt to flush a diaper down the toilet, no matter how small or clean. They are large and highly absorbent, making them an instant plumbing obstruction.

Fireworks

Although the Fourth of July comes once a year, fireworks tend to linger all summer long. But do not let your curious niece or nephew drop a firecracker down the toilet! Placing a lit firework in the toilet will break the toilet, guaranteed. And if it doesn’t crack the porcelain bowl entirely in half (which is what normally occurs), it will damage the internal trap and fail to hold in the water. Can you say, toilet replacement?

Dead Fish and Amphibians

You may have been raised flushing dead goldfish, crawdads, and minnows down the toilet, but this is actually bad practice. Not only can fish and shellfish caused obstructions in the sewer system, but sometimes they are not actually dead, which can lead to an infestation. Stick to burrowing your dead pets or tossing your deceased fishy into the neighborhood pond.

Additional Items to Warn Guests About:

□ Dental Floss
□ Hair
□ Dryer Sheets
□ Razor Blades
□ Cosmetics
□ Plastic Wrappers
□ Toys

Are you having toilet or plumbing issues? Do you need plumbing service or repair before your family arrives for a summer visit? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need professional and affordable plumbing services for toilets, drains, showers, tubs, water heaters, water softeners, and more. We serve residential and commercial clients in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana.

What You Need to Know Before Installing a Steam Shower in Your Bathroom

Posted on June 24, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Modern technologies are truly gifting society with all sorts of luxuries these days. Right now, homeowners and real estate developers all across the nation are upping their master bathroom game with a trending new installation: steam showers. After all, what’s more relaxing than a hot, steamy, detoxifying sauna-like experience after a long day of work or play? With steam shower installation, anyone can have this spa-equivalent environment in the comfort of their own home. But before you make the call to place your order, there are some things you need to know.

Continue below to learn some important factors to think about before making any final decisions to have a steam shower installed in your bathroom this year, plus who to trust for the best bathroom plumbing advice near you.

Shower Installation Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Steam Showers are a Modern-Day Luxury That Come With a Cost

Steam showers are certainly a modern-day luxury, but like most luxury amenities in life, they come with a high cost. And that cost is not always a financial one. There are many considerations to review and discuss with a licensed electrician and plumber before jumping on the steam shower bandwagon. Let’s talk quickly about how steam showers work and how they are different from conventional bathroom showers.

How to Steam Showers Work?

Steam showers are connected to an electric generator that is designed to convert water into steam. The steam is pumped into the shower stall through water lines and other plumbing lines and managed by a digital control panel. The control panel will allow you to customize the intensity and temperature of the steam in real time. Steam showers can come as an entirely new shower installation, or you can add the generator setup and convert your existing shower stall into a steam shower. However, your shower stall must meet the installation requirements.

Important Considerations For Steam Showers

☑ Size

Steam showers require a lot of space. Not only do you need space for your shower installation, plus room for a bench or seat inside of the shower, but you also need room for the generator. Height also plays a major role in steam shower installation. The shower must be tall enough, ideally around 7 feet, to accommodate the operations of a steam shower. Too much space in the shower stall will require a lot of steam production, while too little space will fill up too quickly. You want to be able to sit down and steam for 10 to 15 minutes, which is why space (especially for a bench) area are important features to have in place before installing a steam shower generator system.

☑ Generator Location

The spot for the generator will need to be well-thought out before installing a steam shower system. If the generator is too far from your shower, it will not be able to adequately distribute the steam to your stall. Not only should the generator be close to the shower, but it needs to be in a warm area of the home to protect it from freezing, plus it needs enough space to be serviced as needed.

☑ Utility Costs

Because a steam shower generator uses electricity, typically 220 or 240 volts, you can expect your monthly electric bill to increase. The amount it increases will depend on how often you use your steam shower and for how long with each use.

☑ Condensation and Slippery Surfaces

Because steam turns into water, you can expect a lot of drippage during your steam session, plus an increased risk of slippery surfaces around the shower. Steam showers should have a sloped ceiling to prevent water condensation from dripping on your head while you enjoy your steaming. Furthermore, you will need to plan for some slip-resistant inclusions inside and outside of the shower stall to prevent accidents.

☑ Water Leaks

Your steam shower will create a lot of condensation and dripping water. For this reason, it is important to equip your shower and shower stall with air-tight sealed plumbing fixtures. Sliding glass shower doors are not compatible with steam shower installation and will need to be modified or replaced. If you have lights inside the steam shower, you will need to make sure they are vapor-proof, otherwise condensation can seep inside and short them out.

☑ Hired Assistance

Not only will you require the service of a licensed electrician to set up your generator and hook up the wiring for the digital control panel, but you will also need to hire a master plumber to install your water lines and more.

Are you ready to get some personalized advice on which shower installation is best for your home and water heating needs? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Unclog a Sink if the Drain Snake Does Not Work

Posted on June 9, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you call it a drain snake, plumber snake, or small drum auger, virtually every renter and homeowner has one. You can purchase a drain snake at the grocery store, the dollar store, the home improvement store, and at almost any online retailer of the sort. They are easily accessible and very inexpensive, so they are a highly recommended tool to have around the house. You can even use them to unclog toilets, showers, and tubs. But sometimes, plastic augers are just not enough to unclog a stubborn sink drain.

If you are attempting to unblock a clogged sink, but the plumber snake isn’t working out, continue reading for some drain clearing tips that will help you get past this common, but oh-so-frustrating, obstacle.

Sink Drain Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Why is the Drain Snake Not Working?

Drain snakes are easy tools to use, so you will know right away whether yours is working or not. To use a drain snake, you insert it deep into the drain, twist it around several times, and then pull it back up. The auger should pull out all sorts of unsightly materials, like hair, soapy residue, and dental floss.

Although very effective tools, they are not always the right choice for a clogged drain. In fact, there are many reasons why a drain snake might be ineffectively unclogging your sink. One of the most common in easily fixable reasons why a drain auger won’t work is because the old clogging material is still attached to the rod. Be sure to fully clean your drain auger before reusing it for another clog.

Another common reason why augers fail to do the trick has to do with the structural integrity of the auger itself. If you are using a small drum auger rather than a plastic drain snake, it is possible that the thumbscrew has come loose. If the thumbscrew is loose, the auger will not be able to effectively rotate. And if the auger will not rotate, it won’t be able to catch and pull any debris or blockage within the drain.

If you can’t even push the auger down into the drain, it’s because there is a heavy blockage that is denser than the overall tensile strength of the tool. In this case, you would need something more heavy-duty to dislodge the blockage, or perhaps even more invasive plumbing repair. Severe sink clogs are difficult to repair with a plumber snake.

What to Do About a Clogged Sink

If your drain snake is not working, but none of the above-mentioned reasons are to blame, you have two viable options: attempt to loosen the clog with a drain cleaner and repeat the auger process again, or save time and effort by contacting a professional Indianapolis plumber for drain clearing service. Just be sure you do not ignore a clogged drain, as they can lead to more serious plumbing problems, like burst pipes and water leaks.

Looking for a professional plumber who can make all of your plumbing problems go away without breaking the bank? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial customers.

7 Things You Can Do to Unclog Your Shower Drain

Posted on May 20, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Nothing quite drains the pleasure out of your morning or post-work shower than standing ankle deep in soapy water. If your shower drain is clogged, it is important to troubleshoot the issue as soon as possible, not just for the sake of your bathing enjoyment, but also for preventative maintenance purposes. Fortunately, there are many things you can do on your own that can solve the problem right away.

Continue reading to learn the top 7 things you can do to unclog your shower drain.

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How to Fix a Clogged Shower Drain

So, what causes a shower drain to clog up? Well, the answer is quite obvious. Mostly, hair, dirt, and soap residues are to blame, but shower drains can also fall victim to obstructions caused by thick shaving cream, lost jewelry, razor caps, toys, and all sorts of other common bath time accoutrements. Many people like to brush their teeth and floss in the shower, so floss is a common obstruction found in shower drains.

Not to worry, as there are plenty of ways to unclog that troublesome shower drain of yours! Here are the top seven things you can do to unclog your shower drain:

Manual Dislodging

The first thing you want to do to fix a clogged shower drain is to manually dislodge anything that’s obstructing the drain. Any visible obstructions like hair or soap scum should be cleared away of your shower drain before testing other methods of repair. Yes, this will be a slimy and unpleasant task, so put on some rubber gloves and possibly even a face mask.

Plunger

When your manual attempt doesn’t work, grab your plunger. Use the plunger over the shower drain in the same way you would use it in the toilet if the toilet were clogged. Place the plunger directly on top of the shower drain and pump it several times with force. Then run the shower to see if the water flows through the drain smoothly. If that doesn’t work, you may need to get deeper inside the drain. The next few methods will help you do that.

Boiling Water

If the first two methods don’t work, boil some water on top of your stove, and then pour it down your shower drain. Sometimes this can clear out shaving cream, dirt accumulation, and soap scum buildup. Once these residues are cleared, your shower drain should flow smoothly. Just be careful when you’re handling the boil water because it will burn you.

White Vinegar and Baking Soda

If boiling water isn’t strong enough, make a concoction of distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Then pour the solution down your drain. This is basically a homemade drain cleaner, but without all of the harsh chemicals and damaging ingredients. You may need to repeat this a few times to get the drain entirely cleared. Oftentimes, this vinegar and baking soda solution is well paired with an auger, also known as a drain snake.

Drain Snake

A drain snake is a long, thin, plastic, flexible, handheld auger that is used to dislodge any obstructions within a drain. Drain snakes can be purchased for as little as one dollar at any local department or grocery store. You can literally find them anywhere that sells regular home goods or household products. To use an auger, simply push it deep into the drain as far as you can, then turn it a few times before pulling it out. You will be shocked to see what comes out with it!

Wire Hook

You can also use a metal hook in the same way you would use a drain snake to dislodge any obstructions within the shower drain. Just be careful using this method because you can accidentally poke or stab yourself. Most people will take a wire hanger and unwind it to form a hook and handle. This works really well when you don’t have an auger on hand.

Licensed Plumber

Your last resort is to contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for drain cleaning and clearing service. They have the proper tools and resources to promptly resolve drain issues. Because drain clearing is typically an easy and speedy service, you can expect it to be affordable as well.

Do you need some professional drain clearing and cleaning service for your shower, sink, bathtub, or outdoor drains? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Clean Around the House Using Lemons

Posted on May 13, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you go organic, large, small, or pre-squeezed, there are several ways to use lemons and lemon juice for cleaning around the house. Whether at home or on the road, you can trade the normal methods for everyday cleaning with a fresh-smelling, antioxidant, and Eco-friendly alternative: lemons! Manage upholstery stains, smelly laundry, clogged drains, limescale, mold, bacterial growth, and much more!

Continue reading for all the creative and non-toxic ways to clean around the house with store-bought lemons and a few other household ingredients.

Plumbing Services Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

How to Clean With Lemons Around the House

Clothing Stain Removal

Aprons, clothing, uniforms, sheets, blankets, upholstery, curtains, tablecloths, place mats, serving napkins, and more can fall victim to staining. Blood, grease, dirt, rust, and grass stand no chance when using fresh lemon juice. It can help remove these types of stains and more! Simply dab equal parts of salt and lemon onto the stain and allow it to sit for an hour, then wash normally using detergent.

Disinfecting

Lemons can be used as disinfectants for several types of surfaces. For example, kitchen cutting boards are perfect hosts for lingering bacteria and germs. Lemon juice can eliminate these hazards, as well as, stains, with a simple and quick ten minute soak. Pour or squeeze the juice of a lemon onto a wood cutting board and allow it to sit for ten minutes before rinsing. And simple repeat if necessary.

You may also rub the exposed part of the lemon all over the surface for added effects. It is a fantastic way to kill germs naturally. Use on other surfaces as well, like tables and sinks. They are naturally scented too, making them free of chemicals that replicate the fresh smell of lemons people commonly associated with cleanliness. Never use lemon juice on granite or marble surfaces.

Hardwood Floors and Furniture

Polish hardwood furniture and floors the natural way by combining a cup of olive oil with a half cup lemon juice! Dab first on a cloth and use sparingly in circular motions. Buff the floors out with a clean dry microfiber cloth afterwards.

Kitchen Cleaning

You can clean dishware with just lemons and baking soda. Cut a lemon in half and dip the exposed portion into a pile of baking soda. Then just use the lemon as if it were your dishcloth! Citric acid is an effective de-greaser and will cut-through and loosen grime on dishware. You can also place a cup of lemon juice in the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run a cycle to deodorize it naturally.

The same goes for microwaves. Deodorize and eliminate bacteria inside a microwave by placing lemon slices in a microwave-safe bowl of water and heat for one minute. This kills the bacteria and humidifies the inside, allowing grease and stuck-on food to loosen. Just wipe the inside of the microwave out with a clean rag afterwards!

Drain Cleaning

To clean drains, pour half of a cup of baking soda down the drain and then pour a cup of hot lemon juice down afterwards. Allow this mixture to work itself in for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. To clean and deodorize garbage disposals, drop a few citrus peels down the drain and run the disposal with cold water from the faucet. Lemon wedges can be placed inside a refrigerator to eliminate bad odors as well.

Mold Remover

No matter what color of mold you have or where it may be, you can use lemon juice and good old fashioned elbow grease to remove it. Tiles, plumbing fixtures, and other surfaces can be scrubbed clean of mold with a pasty mixture of lemon juice and salt.

Limescale and Soap Scum Remover

Aside from mold, lemons can also be used to clean soap scum, limescale, hard water deposits, and other similar residues. For this, mix two parts of bicarbonate soda and one part lemon juice, and then apply the paste to the soiled area. Allow to sit, then scrub with cloth or toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly.

Additional Lemon Cleaning Applications:

◾ Glass Cleaner
◾ Mirror Polisher
◾ Shoe Shiner
◾ Metal Polisher
◾ Laundry Bleacher
◾ Air Freshener

Are you plumbing fixtures damaged limescale? Did a water leak cause a mold outbreak in your home? Perhaps you are ready to update some kitchen and mudroom appliances? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for water heaters, water softeners, water leaks, kitchens, bathrooms, and more. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services all throughout Central Indiana.

Best Suggestions for Hot Water Heater Problems

Posted on May 5, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

It’s really hard to live without the luxury and convenience of hot water. So, when your hot water heater starts to show signs of malfunctioning, it’s important to start troubleshooting the underlying issue right away. Continue reading to learn the best suggestions for solving a hot water heater problem, plus who to trust in Indianapolis for affordable emergency water heater repair services.

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Water Heater Problems and Solutions

Water heaters are not the complex appliances you might assume them to be. In most cases, you are likely capable of diagnosing the problem on your own. Other times, it is necessary to hire a licensed and insured water heater company in Indianapolis to inspect and diagnose your hot water issues. The first step in identifying a water heater problem is determining how the problem is presenting itself. The way in which your water heater problem presents itself will give you clues as to what the underlying issue is within the appliance.

The most common water heater problems include lack of hot water, no hot water, hot water, taking too long to heat up, odorous water, and discolored water. A noisy water heater is another common indicator of a problem.

Lack of Hot Water

If you’ve noticed that your hot water just isn’t as hot as it used to be, start by checking your water heater temperature gauge. It is recommended for safety reasons to keep your water heater temperature under 120°F. Anything above this can pose risks of scalding or burn accidents. If your water heater temperature setting is below hundred and 10°, it could have been nudged over, thus causing the reduced heat of your water.

If your water is hot enough but just doesn’t last as long as it used to, you might have a water heater that is too small for your residence. This often happens when you get new roommates or occupants in the home. If you don’t have new occupants in the home, you could have a water heater leak.

If your water is too hot, again, check the temperature settings. It might’ve been nudged over in the wrong direction, thus causing the temperatures increase.

Zero Hot Water

If your hot water has disappeared completely, it is generally suggestive of a damaged heating element or problem with the water heater’s power source. It could just be a tripped circuit breaker. Other times, the tank simply runs out of hot water due to over-consumption, and simply needs time to refill.

Smelly or Discolored Water

If your hot water smells like rotten eggs, your water heater could have a buildup of bacteria and other contaminants, causing the production of sulfur. If your hot water has more of a seasoned or garlicky smell, your pilot light might’ve burned out.

If your hot water has a rusty color or looks dirty, you could have a buildup of rust and sediment within the water heater tank. In this case, you would want to outsource water heater flushing service. This might involve replacing a corroded anode rod.

Noisy Water Heater

If you’re hearing your water heater makes strange or loud noises, it could be an indication that it requires maintenance. If your water heater is between 8 and 10 years old, it might need to be replaced entirely. If your water heater is fairly new or still middle-aged, you can pinpoint the issue by listening to the type of noise. Clanking metal noises could be due to the metal constituents within the tank contracting and expanding. Dripping noises are indicative of a leak, while sounds of boiling water are generally indicative of overheated interior components.

Would you like a professional to take a look at your water heater? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for affordable hot water repair and water heater services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Stop an Overflowing Toilet

Posted on April 6, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

An overflowing toilet isn’t just a frustrating and panicky problem to experience, but it’s also typically a nasty one. Fortunately, there are easy solutions for fixing an overflowing toilet right in the moment and preventing it from happening again in the future. Continue reading to learn how to stop an overflowing toilet and who to trust in central Indiana for quality plumbing service and repair.

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What To Do When Your Toilet is Overflowing

The great thing about an overflowing toilet—and we know what you’re thinking; “What could possibly be great about a toilet that is overflowing its unsanitary contents all of your bathroom floor?” Nonetheless, there is a positive element, and that is the fact that you can usually fix an overflowing toilet on your own.

Here are some supplies you might want to have on hand for emergency purposes in the case of the toilet is ever overflowing: rubber gloves, disposable towels, plunger, auger, and disinfecting solution.

Here’s What To Do:

SHUT OFF THE WATER SUPPLY

The first thing you want to do when your toilet starts to overflow is shut off the water supply. There is a valve located at the base your toilet that supplies the water to the toilet. Turn this valve counterclockwise, following the age old phrase lefty-loosey & righty-tighty, to stop the water from entering your toilet. To further protect your home from water damages and flooding, turn off the main water supply to the home as well while you work on the problem.

It is important to know exactly where your main water shut off valve is in your home for these types of flood-level emergencies. Main water shut off valves are commonly located in mud rooms or utility rooms, or in the garage or basement. Once you turn the water supply off, either to your toilet or to your home, the toilet should not continue to overflow water. However, you still need to deal with the water that has already overflowed.

CLEAN UP

It is critical to clean up a flooding mishap or large water spill, like an overflowed toilet, as possible to prevent water damages. If you allow water to sit on the floor, even for fifteen or twenty minutes, it can seep through the floorboards and into the home’s insulation and so forth. This can cause all sorts of wood rot, mold growth, and structural deterioration. It can also lead to foundation problems and repairs, which are both costly and invasive.

Allowing dirty toilet water to sit even for five or ten minutes on your bathroom floor can cause warping, discoloration, mold development, and all sorts of other design and aesthetic defects in laminate, tile, vinyl, and wood floors. Just be sure to clean up the overflowing toilet mess. As soon as it happens, to prevent further problems and frustrations down the road.

SOLVE THE TOILET PROBLEM

Your next step in the process of fixing an overflowing toilet is to actually fix the toilet. You need to determine what caused your toilet overflow and remedy the problem so that your toilet does not continue to have overflow incidents in the future. Clogs are one of the most common causes of an overflowing toilet, so use your plunger or auger (drain snake) to release anything causing an obstruction. You can also take a look in the toilet tank to see if anything is disconnected or clogged. If you can’t figure out what the problem is with your toilet, contact a local Indianapolis plumber for toilet inspection and repair.

Are you having some serious toilet problems that require some professional attention? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for plumbing repair and service for toilets and bathrooms in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

A Quick Guide to Mold Colors

Posted on March 17, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether your mold is yellow, green, pink, brown, or black, it is hazardous to your health and should be treated immediately. Continue reading to learn what the color of your mold means, including what it is and where it comes from.

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A Brief Explanation of Mold Colors

Mold breaks down organic matter, which means it serves a vital purpose in our universe, but not in our households. According to the Mayo Clinic, common symptoms of mold overexposure include respiratory complications like wheezing, coughing, sneezing, allergies, and even asthma. It can also cause a person to develop other health issues, like headaches, rashes, and in serious cases, brain infections and blood poisoning (sepsis). Furthermore, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some molds produce toxic substances called mycotoxins.

Mold Color Guide

◎ Pink – Pink mold is often seen in the bathroom or kitchen, but it is not actually mold at all. It is a bacteria called Serratia marcescens. Although not a mold, it still presents hygiene and health issues, like urinary tract and respiratory infections.

◎ Green – Green mold is very vague since it can be any kind of unpleasant fungus. There are literally thousands of species of green mold, so green mold doesn’t tell you much, expect that it needs to be removed.

◎ Greenish-Black – Mold that appears greenish-black in color could be Stachbotrys genus, which is also known as “black mold.” Exposure to such mold has been linked to serious health conditions. It commonly grows on high-cellulose, low-nitrogen surfaces, such as drywall, gypsum board, paper, dust and lint that is constantly exposed to moisture.

◎ Black or Gray – Mold that is black or gray might be Alternaria, which is one of the most common types of outdoor mold. It mostly grows near damp, dusty areas, as well as, soil and plants. It is often found in household dust, so be sure you keep up with your routine cleaning.

◎ Blue, Green, or White – Molds of these colors generally point to the Penicillium genus. Several years ago, this species of mold was used to make penicillin. Nowadays, it is usually found growing on food or on walls. It can cause allergic reactions, allergies, and other respiratory problems.

◎ Yellow, Green or Black – Mold that appears yellow, green, or black could possibly be Aspergillus mold. According to the CDC, we breathe these molds in almost every day without getting sick. However, concentrated exposure can be hazardous, especially for those with existing lung problems or suppressed immune systems. In individuals like these, it can cause aspergillosis, which presents itself as coughing, wheezing, and sinus inflammation.

◎ Olive Green, Gray, Brown, or Black – Molds that appear in these color formations likely belong to the Cladosporium genus. You can find this mold growing indoors and outdoors on plant leaves, soil, walls, insulation, and damp carpeting. According to the CDC, they are most commonly linked to minor health complications like skin, eye, and sinus infections; but they have also been known to brain infections like fungal meningitis.

Mold should be removed as soon as it is discovered, regardless of color or quantity. After you outsource mold remediation services, contact a trusted Indianapolis plumbing repair company to resolve the underlying water leak issues that have been causing mold to grow.

Are you looking for an affordable solution to your residential or commercial water leak problems? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for economically-priced water leak repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial plumbing service and repair.

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet When You Do Not Have a Plunger

Posted on January 19, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Toilet clogs are the worst. And they seem to always happen at the worst times, like when you are already running late for your dinner reservation, or when the pizza delivery shows up at your door and you have 5 hangry mouths to feed. To make matters even worse, you can’t find your plunger! Fortunately, there are several easy and effective ways to unclog a toilet without using a plunger, and they can all be done within a few minutes’ time.

Continue below to learn some of the top-recommended methods of fixing a clogged toilet when there is no plunger in sight. All of these methods require common household items you are sure to have on hand!

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Unclog a Toilet Without Using a Plunger

Hot Water

If you have a sink or bathtub that provides on-demand hot water, this could be your first, go-to weapon against a clogged toilet. Simply fill up a pan or pot with heated water, but not boiling. Then just dump the hot water down your toilet bowl. Wait 3 to 5 minutes to see of the clog begins to release on its own. If so, flush the toilet once or twice to move the process along. If this does not work, try out some of these other methods!

Toilet Fizz

Not only can you use a simply solution of baking soda and distilled white vinegar to unclog a toilet, but you can also take it step further and make your own toilet bomb. Like a bath bomb, toilet bombs explode into a fizzy frenzy when dropped in water. Their bubbling action and cleansing ingredients work well against toilet clogs.

Be prepared, these methods will cause the toilet to overflow more if it is already filled to the brim. Place a towel below to catch any runoff. To use the basic combo, pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Wait 30 minutes and then pour a pot of hot water down the toilet bowl. Give it a flush or two and the clog should be gone!

If you want to make a homemade fizzy toilet bomb, combine 1 cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of citric acid, and 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap into a bowl. Then pack the paste-like mixture into an empty ice cube tray and let it dry for 2 hours. Store them in an air-sealed container or mason jar. To use, just drop one into your toilet bowl, wait 30 minutes, then finish with a hot water pour.

Liquid Dish Soap

If you have liquid dish soap in the house, you could potentially have a secret weapon for fixing toilet clogs. Just pour a generous amount of it inside your toilet bowl (about a fourth of a cup), allow it to sit for 10 minutes, then finish with a hot water pour. After a few flushes, the soap should work as an effective lubricant, allowing the clog to release and flow down.

Wire Hanger

Mommy Dearest would allow you to use a wire hanger for toilet clogs! Just find one that is thin enough for you to bend into a hook. Use it like you would a drain snake or auger, pushing it into the bowl to looses any obstructions. Repeat and flush as needed!