Why Are My Copper Plumbing Pipes Turning Green?

Posted on August 5, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Many environmentally and budget-conscious property owners are choosing copper plumbing these days. Even properties with plumbing systems constructed with conventional materials have a few copper pipes somewhere in the works, especially in water heaters and boilers.

Although highly-durable, fire-resistant, and less harmful to the environment, copper plumbing can encounter some frustrating drawbacks, like turning green. If you have noticed that your copper plumbing pipes have taken on a green crust or color, you may be concerned, and you would be right to be.

Continue below to learn why your copper plumbing pipes are turning green, plus what you can do to prevent this from happening in the future.

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Copper Pipes are Prone to Oxidation

The greenish, or sometimes blue-ish, powdery tint on copper pipes is the result of oxidation, which is a type of corrosion. When copper is exposed to moisture (water or humidity) and oxygen (air) for long periods, it will begin to oxidize. Although harmless and non-toxic, oxidation will disintegrate copper plumbing pipes over time, making it a plumbing problem that requires urgent attention.

Copper is Excellent at Conducting Heat

If you think your property is void of copper plumbing, think again. Any plumbing appliance or water line that circulates hot water will require copper piping, including water heaters, boilers, dishwashers, washing machines, and even radiant heating systems. Copper is an excellent conductor of heat, capable of withstanding high temperatures.

What To Do About Oxidized Copper Plumbing

Like rusty steel, oxidized copper plumbing will eventually corrode and fail. The problem is, most copper plumbing is hidden behind walls or beneath flooring, which makes it hard to spot a corrosion issue. Look at the areas where the pipe meets the wall or opening and check for signs of oxidation. These areas tend to be higher in moisture, giving way to oxidation.

If your copper plumbing is already experiencing oxidation, your first step is to contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for guidance on plumbing remediation or replacement. You could have a hidden water leak or dampness issue inside the walls, thus causing the copper plumbing to oxidize. A licensed and insured plumber can identify the issue and make the proper adjustments to ensure no future corrosion.

How to Prevent Oxidized Copper Pipes

The best way to prevent copper plumbing oxidation and similar corrosion issues is to have your property’s plumbing system inspected by a licensed and insured master plumber on an annual basis. This annual service will help catch plumbing problems early on before they can turn disastrous or costly.

Are you looking for a trusted Indy plumbing company that can help you renovate your property’s plumbing system? 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.

Money-Saving Plumbing Tips You Don’t Want to Ignore

Posted on June 30, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Who doesn’t want to save a little money? More importantly, who doesn’t want to save A LOT of money? Well, with the right plumbing practices and choices, you can save loads of your hard-earned income on monthly energy and water bills, plus all sorts of other expenses, like soap, laundry, detergent, clothing, shampoo, super expensive plumbing repairs and replacements.

Continue reading to learn some money-saving plumbing tips you don’t want to miss out on, then share them with your friends and loved ones so they too can enjoy the savings!

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Cost-Effective Plumbing Tips

Most people are not aware that plumbing plays a significant role in so many different elements of your quality of life. After all, without indoor plumbing, we might as well be living back in the stone ages! From drains and faucets to dishwashers, sinks, washing machines, showers, bathtubs, water heaters, water softeners, boilers, and more, plumbing is a part of our lives in almost everything that we do at home. For this reason, it is worth your while to pay close attention to your plumbing practices and choices. Not only can you modify your habits, but you can also replace current systems with more energy-efficient models too.

Here the top plumbing tips that are guaranteed to save you money:

Get To Know Your Plumber

Routine plumbing maintenance is an important part of saving money and preventing future plumbing disasters. The sooner you get a plumbing problem, the cheaper it’ll be to resolve. Not only should you retain the services of a licensed and insured plumber with extensive experience in the industry to perform such maintenance, but you should really get to know them too. The more you get to know your plumber, the better you are able to communicate your plumbing concerns and troubles with them, and in turn, this allows them to have a comprehensive understanding of your home’s plumbing needs.

When you take good care of all of your plumbing systems and appliances, you can expect them to perform well and last a long time. It is important to have your home’s plumbing systems checked every 3 to 5 years, while water heaters and water softener should be inspected and serviced annually. Talk to your local Indianapolis plumber the best routine maintenance schedule for your home or office.

Consider Lowering Your Water Heater Temperature Setting

Generally, a safe temperature setting for a water heater is between 115 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Homes with young to middle-aged adult occupants can safely increase the temperature up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you’re interested in saving some money, it is recommended to turn your water heater temperature setting down. Although this might not seem like much, the slight change in temperature drop can decrease your monthly energy bill.

Insulate Your Plumbing Pipes

When plumbing pipes are not adequately insulated, a home can experience a significant amount of heat loss, which ultimately costs money. By insulated your plumbing pipes, you can instantly stop heat loss, and therefore, retain your conditioned air longer. This reduces the need to continue running your furnace or central heater, which costs a lot of money. Furthermore, properly insulated pipes protect against standby energy loss from your water heater tank.

Incorporate Energy Efficient Plumbing Appliances and Fixtures

There are many types of plumbing appliances and fixtures that incorporate efficiency into your plumbing practices. For instance, you can replace your toilets with high-efficiency models, such as a dual-flush toilet, which gives users two options for flushing: low flush mode for liquid waste and a higher flush mode for solid waste. These toilets use a mere 1.6 gallons of water per flush!

You can also install low-volume restrictors in your shower heads and faucets, which can also decrease the amount of water you waste while brushing teeth or washing hands and dishes. Additional energy efficient plumbing systems to consider for money-saving purposes include solar water heaters and tankless water softeners.

Are you experiencing plumbing problems that are costing you more money? 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.

Support Earth Day This Week With These Money-Saving Plumbing Tips

Posted on April 22, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Today, April 22, 2022, is Earth Day! There are many ways to show your support for this very important and special day, and we hope that you find joy in whatever you choose! As for plumbing, you can save money and back the Earth Day cause by adopting some new plumbing-related systems and practices!

Continue below to learn more about the meaning of Earth Day, plus how you can make the switch to Eco-friendly plumbing in support of the environment and your bank account!

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What Does Earth Day Mean to You?

Earth Day was officially established in 1970, following a tremendously damaging oil spill in Santa Barbara, California that got the attention of Senator Gaylord Nelson. He came up with the idea after seeing how destructive the oil spill was to the local Eco-systems and dependent economies. He wanted the nation to realize just how important it is to preserve and protect our natural resources. Back then, the nation did not pay much attention to the damaging effects of industrial and societal pollution. Rachel Carson’s 1962 publication of “Silent Spring” was one of the first considerations of such environmental threats.

So, with gusto, Senator Nelson decided to gather up a group of trusted colleagues to brainstorm ways to increase such awareness. The result was the proclamation of April 22nd to be a “national teach-in on the environment.” Of course, we know this as Earth Day now. In fact, Earth Day was one of the catalysts of the environmental movement that lead to the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and even the passing of important acts, like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.

✨ Visit earthday.org to learn more!

Eco-Friendly Plumbing to Support Earth Day and Environmental Protection:

Tankless Water Heaters

By making the switch from a traditional, tank-style water heater to a tankless water heater, you can preserve natural resources and save money for years to come. According to the Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can reduce energy consumption by 25% to 50% compared to tank-style units.

Tankless water heaters are highly energy-efficient, and a trusted alternative to on-demand hot water. Water is only heated when prompted, like when you run a bath or shower. That way, you are not wasting precious energy to keep water hot in the tank. These water heaters come in electric or gas.

Water Heater Temperature Setting

Having a water heater temperature setting that is too high poses a lot of safety risks, but also wastes energy. Set your water heater at a safe and comfortable 120° Fahrenheit to conserve energy and prevent burns and scalding accidents.

Dual-Flush Toilets

Water-saving toilets save more than just water. They also save you money on utility bills, potentially hundreds of dollars a year. Consider installing a dual-flush toilet to increase the level of water preservation in your home or office. These toilets are specially-designed to provide an option for a light flush or a deep flush. Think light for liquids and deep for solids. If your toilets were installed back in the 90’s, you are likely using up to 3 gallons of water per flush. That’s too much water!

Faucet Aerators

By adding aerators to your sink faucets, you can significantly reduce water wastage in your home or office. Also called low volume water restrictors, these tiny plumbing devices do what they claim: they mix the flow of water with air, thus aerating it, which reduces the volume of water flow. This can save up to 2.2 gallons of water! Plus, they are easy to install, as they simple screw onto the end of your faucets, and they come with an inexpensive price tag.

Additionally, you can swap out your old shower heads for a low-flow showerhead, which basically works in the same way as faucet aerators. A low-flow showerhead can potentially save the average family thousands of gallons of water each year. When shopping around, look for the WaterSense label.

Drip Repair

If you have a slow drip coming from a faucet, bathtub spout, or showerhead, it is money-wise to have it repaired right away. Whether a slow drip or a continuous one, this plumbing defect can waste a lot of water. In turn, your monthly utility bills take a hit.

Pipe Insulation

If your pipes are not properly insulated, whether lacking insulation or fitted with the wrong type of insulation, it can cause massive heat loss in your home’s water. By improving or repairing plumbing pipe insulation, you can better conserve energy and water.

Are you looking for a trusted plumber that can help you incorporate some Eco-friendly elements into your home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need professional and affordable plumbing services for water heaters, toilets, plumbing pipes, and more, in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

3 Plumbing Sounds You Do Not Want to Ignore

Posted on March 24, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

We are constantly faced with strange and concerning noises in various aspects of our lives, from hungry belly growls and loudly idling cars to busy internet connections, phone dings, weather alerts, smoke alarms, and much more. Most of these sounds are something we are familiar with, so we aren’t as urgent to address them. However, there are some sounds you should never wait to address, like the ones made by your plumbing.

Your plumbing system, if neglected or defective, can lead to very serious water damage and structural destruction. It can also rack up your water and energy bills, hugely. For these reasons and more, the need for plumbing repair should be taken seriously on all levels because a small plumbing issue can very quickly evolve into something much worse.

Continue reading to learn the top three plumbing sounds you should never ignore, plus what to do if you are experiencing strange plumbing noises in your home or business.

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What Does Your Plumbing Sound Like?

Your plumbing system in whole is widespread, including all sorts of appliances, water lines, fixtures, drains, devices, and more. All of these elements can make noises, most of which are fairly normal. It is important to decipher the difference between a concerning plumbing noise and a normal one. When in doubt, contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for quick, over-the-phone assistance.

Troubleshoot Plumbing Noises

For help understanding how your plumbing systems should sound, keep your ears open for these noises that indicate a need for repair:

➀ Bubbling

Bubbling noises are certainly strange to hear when they are coming from your plumbing. Usually originating from the drains or toilets. If you hear bubble-like sounds when you flush or when water drains in the sink, bathtub, or shower, it could be due to air trapped inside some pipes, a sewer issue, or even a bad clog. Do not let this noise continue without having it checked out by a licensed Indy plumber, otherwise, it could lead to serious water leaks and water damage.

➁ Dripping

Dripping can be normal under some circumstances when it comes to plumbing, but when you hear drips coming from inside the walls or floors, it could be something more serious. Dripping sounds are indicative of water leaks, which are not an issue you want to ignore even for a day. When you hear bubbling noises, look for an increased water bill to confirm that it is in fact a water leak.

➂ Whining

Whining and squeaking can sometimes be heard coming from plumbing pipes, both indoors and outdoors. If you are hearing the same types of sounds coming from pipes, especially high-pitched ones, it may indicate that there is a broken or faulty pressure-reducing valve somewhere in your system. Do not ignore these kinds of noises. Broken or malfunctioning valves often lead to burst pipes, overflows, and much more. Contact a plumber in Indianapolis immediately if your plumbing sounds like this!

Do you want to have your plumbing system checked out because it is making some weird noises? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 to schedule a home plumbing inspection in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial plumbing service and repair.

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What to Do if Your Pipes Froze Over and Burst Open

Posted on February 16, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

The climate got pretty cold this winter. But with these warmer temperatures coming through out of nowhere, all the recent snow and ice is beginning to melt away. You might think that frozen plumbing pipes are a common phone call to the local plumber, but the truth is, the melting of snow and ice is when the calls start coming in. Once the ice within frozen plumbing pipes start to melt, pipe ruptures become apparent because they present themselves in the form of water leaks.

If you have just discovered that one of your indoor or outdoor plumbing pipes burst as a result of the recent freeze-thaw cycle, continue below to learn a step-by-step guide on how to deal with it, safely and in the best interest of your budget.

Frozen Pipe Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Frozen Pipe Prevention Advice

Prevention is key when it comes to managing frozen plumbing pipes every winter. The best preventative maintenance for this seasonal plumbing threat is pipe insulation. It is helpful to insulate your plumbing pipes, which can protect them against pipe ruptures if water freezes within them.

If you are leaving for a trip in the winter, it helps to keep your faucet dripping just slightly to prevent the water inside the pipes from freezing while you are away. Overall, a licensed plumber can help you develop the right plumbing plan for your home or office, and effectively safeguard your property against frozen pipes and similar plumbing disasters.

How to Manage a Frozen Pipe Burst

So, your pipes frozen over this winter, and now you have found a ruptured connecter joint pivot or small leak in your piping? Act quickly, and do this:

1) Shut Off the Main Water Supply

You do not want the pipe to continue spewing water all over the place, so immediately react by shutting down the water to the property. Even if it is a small leak or dribble, turning off the water will stop the leak from worsening, or even exploding due to a buildup of pressure.

2) Clean Up Water Spillage

Grab your mop, bucket, and a whole bunch of towels. You do not want the water leakage to sit for a longer period of time. This can cause damages to drywall, floorboards, insulation, and more. Clean up whatever water has pooled around the burst pipe, and standby to clean up more if the leak persists for a while.

3) Warm Up the Pipes With Warming Tape

Please take note: This step might not be something you are capable of doing. Many burst pipe scenarios happen in a location of the plumbing system that is not easily accessible, or even visible, by the average homeowner. If this is your case, move onto step 4, which is to contact a licensed Indianapolis master plumber. They are equipped with the property resources and technologies to locate and identify frozen pipes and pipe ruptures.

On the other hand, you may be able to see and access the frozen pipe if it is, for instance, beneath the sink. If you can access the frozen pipe, your next step would be to attempt to thaw it out. Wrap thermostatic control warming tape around the frozen pipe or use hand warmers. You can purchase this at your local home improvement store or online retailer. Expect to pay between $20 and $200, depending on the length you need. You can also slowly add in heat from heating lamps or hair dryers. But be careful not to apply too much heat.

4) Call a Licensed Plumber

You can’t live with your water shut off forever. So, your next step is to contact a licensed and insured plumbing company in Indianapolis for frozen pipe plumbing repair service. They can address all the specific issues surrounding your pipe burst, and repair all ruptures in a timely manner.

5) Contact Your Insurance Company

Now that you have help on the way and your mess has been mitigated, you are ready to contact your insurance company to discuss what your policy covers. You may need to make a claim for repair.

Are you looking for a qualified plumber to help you deal with a water leak issue in your home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for frozen pipe repair and water leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Small Plumbing Problems That Might Be Big Repairs

Posted on January 14, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

As veteran plumbers who’ve seen just about everything in this industry, we are always emphasizing the importance of catching small plumbing problems early on in order to prevent larger, costlier issues down the road. Although something as small as a faucet drip might seem unsuspecting, it could be hiding a much larger plumbing repair need; one that costs a lot more and requires more invasive work to resolve.

Continue reading to learn some small plumbing problems that often turn out to be larger problems than they appear, plus who to call for the most trusted emergency plumbing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

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These Plumbing Issues Might Be Warning You of a Bigger Plumbing Problem

Leaky Faucet

How long has that faucet been dripping in the bathroom? Or perhaps you have a leaky kitchen sink faucet? Oftentimes, homeowners wrongly assume that a little drip of the faucet is nothing to worry about. But this is quite the contrary. Remember how we talked about catching small plumbing problems early on in order to prevent them from turning into bigger ones? Well, a barely-dripping faucet is one of those small problem problems. Faucet leaks could be an indication of all sorts of other internal plumbing issues. And where there is excess water, there’s potential for trouble.

Toilet Running

Compared to a leaking faucet, a running toilet issue poses a much larger threat in terms of water damage and plumbing repair. Although it might seem like your toilet lever is just malfunctioning, a running toilet can indicate a long list of other related plumbing problems. It is important to have this issue checked out if you cannot resolve it on your own within 24 hours. In fact, this applies for any toilet flushing issues you run into.

Stinky Water

If you think your tap water smells a bit funky, do not think it will resolve itself on its own. Smelly water is a bad sign and can indicate all sorts of plumbing and water quality issues. A common odor-causing culprit in tap water is sulfur, which smells like rotten eggs. The most common cause of this smelly, gaseous tap water is a water heater malfunction. When your water heater operates at a very low temperature, or not at all, for an extended period of time, it can cause this tell-tale bacteria buildup and hydrogen sulfide production in your plumbing pipes and connected water lines.

Drain Clogs

If your sink drain is draining slowly, you might not think anything of it; but you should. Slow drainage issues can represent a long list of other plumbing problems, ones that can lead to very costly and invasive repairs. Obstructed, underground pipeline can be the root of a slow draining sink, which may lead to pipe replacement renovations and even foundation repairs. Always have a clogged or slow-draining sink examined by a licensed plumber in Indianapolis if it does not clear up on its own within a few days.

Are you experiencing plumbing problems like a slow draining sink, smelly water, or running toilet? 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.

Top Ways to Save on Your Electric Bill This Winter

Posted on January 7, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

All homeowners and building owners are looking for ways to save on their electric bill, especially in the winter. If you are also hoping to reduce your monthly energy bills for the season, you will be pleased to know that it is absolutely possible! It only takes a little bit of knowledge and effort.

Start by scrolling below to learn the top ways to save on your electric bill this winter and who to call for trusted Indianapolis plumbing and water heater services.

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How to Cut Back on Electricity in the Winter

Electric bills are known to skyrocket in the wintertime. This is typically a result of increased hot water usage, higher settings on the thermostat, and subjection to harsh winter winds and inclement cold fronts. Fortunately, there is plenty you can do, whether property owner or tenant, to ensure your electric bills maintain an affordable consistency throughout the season.

Here are the most effective strategies to control and reduce electricity costs in the winter:

Thermostat Replacement

Old thermostats are the pits, really. If your thermostat is between 8 and 10 years old, it is time to replace it, even if it works fine. Old thermostats are highly unreliable and inconsistent, which can significantly impact your energy costs, especially in the winter. It is recommended to replace your old thermostat with a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat.

Change the Setting on the Thermostat

By lowering your thermostat setting 7 to 10 degrees, you can save a significant amount of money on your monthly electric bill. When you’re not home, it is recommended by experts to decrease your thermostat to at least 68°. When you go on vacation, be sure not to put it too low, as this can lead to frozen plumbing pipes.

Cut the Heat Off in Idle Rooms

If you have rooms in your home or building that are frequently vacant, it is recommended to block off or close the vents in them. This can save you a lot of money in your electric bill. No sense in heeding a room that’s not used!

Close the Vents in Uninsulated Spaces

It is common for houses and buildings to have certain rooms or spaces that are not insulated. Typically, this includes attics, garages, basement storage spaces, and similar areas. If there are heating vents in any of these rooms of your home or building, it is suggested to close them off to reduce your electric bill.

Tune Up the HVAC System

Routine maintenance is important for all mechanical systems in your home. Your HVAC system is one the most important units to maintain if you want to reduce or control your electric bills and total energy costs.

Lower Your Water Heater Temperature Setting

Just like your thermostat, lowering the setting of the water heater temperature can help you save money on your monthly electrical bill. It is recommended to keep your water heater temperature setting between 110 and 120°F. To prevent scalding accidents, never set your water heater temperature above 120°F.

Add Insulation Around Your Water Heater

Insulating a water heater can have a significant impact on cost savings throughout the winter when it comes to electrical bills. This is especially impactful for water heaters and boilers located in cold basements and garages, or other areas where there is little barrier between them and the winter elements.

Are you concerned that your water heater is costing you too much money because it improperly programmed or experiencing mechanical issues? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We sale, service, install, and repair hot water heaters.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slab Leaks

Posted on December 8, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing catastrophes are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. One such plumbing emergency that can really do some damage to homes and buildings are slab leaks. These are more serious than your average water leaks, thus requiring immediate emergency repair, and possible renovation to reverse any structural damage. It is in your best interest to learn what you can about slab leak detection, prevention, and repair. This knowledge can help you protect your property from catastrophic flooding and water damage.

Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about slab leaks, including where to get the most trusted master plumber service in the Indy areas.

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Slab Leak FAQS

What is a Slab Leak?

Most homes and buildings are built on a foundation of concrete blocks, which are referred to as slabs in the construction industry. When water leaks form beneath these concrete slabs, it is known as a slab leak. Slab leaks can occur in residential and commercial settings, either forming slowly overtime or in an instant after an inclement event or natural disaster.

Are Slab Leaks a Plumbing Emergency?

Slab leaks are dangerous for many reasons, making them a very serious plumbing emergency. Not only can slab leaks pose a long list of structural concerns that can lead to devastating damages or serious accidents, but they also threaten the risk of a mold outbreak, which can cause severe respiratory complications in people of all ages, as well as pets. Mold exposure is especially threatening to babies, young children with preexisting medical conditions, and the elderly. It can grow beneath floorboards, carpeting, and inside walls.

What Causes Slab Leaks to Form?

The most common cause of slab leak formation is the movement of soil and clay below a home or building’s foundation. The shifting and heaving of dirt can cause an increase of pressure on the concrete slabs. As a result, the concrete itself will heave and shift, and eventually crack. Underground plumbing will also become damaged because of concrete heaving, which can lead to a fitting popping off or loosening. From there, water will leak from the underground plumbing and seep into the concrete cracks. Additional possible causes of slab leaks include plumbing pipe damage, construction errors, and burst pipes.

How are Slab Leaks Detected?

There are many signs to look for when determining if a slab leak is present in your home or office. The top signs of a slab leak include:

▷ Noticing a significant increase in your water consumption or monthly bill;

▷ Hearing the sound of running water when no water is being used;

▷ Feeling a hot spot or hot area on the basement floor;

▷ Discovering mildew growth or a mold outbreak beneath your carpeting;

To properly detect and locate a slab leak, you would need to hire a professional Indianapolis master plumber for slab leak detection services. They have the proper training, knowledge, and equipment to accurately locate a slab leak, plus recommended the best course of action for repairing it.

How Can I Prevent Slab Leaks and Similar Plumbing Emergencies?

In many cases, there is nothing a homeowner could have done to prevent their slab leak issue. However, that does not mean you cannot do your part to ensure your home’s plumbing remains in optimal condition for years to come. To prevent major slab leak damages and other types of water leaks, have your plumbing systems inspected and serviced on an annual basis. Catching a slab leak early on can save you a lot of time, stress, and money.

Who can you trust for superior slab leak detection and repair services in Indy? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis IN slab leak repair and inspection at an affordable price. We provide residential and commercial plumbing service and repair.

How to Prevent Frozen Plumbing Pipes This Season

Posted on November 24, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Temperatures are dropping fast, and winter is just around the corner, so it is a good idea to get your plumbing systems under control now, before the peak of the season is upon us, and your options are more limited. Frozen pipes are one of the most common plumbing mishaps among homeowners, and one of the most common repairs done by plumbers in the spring. You do not want to deal with the aftermath of frozen or burst pipes, and you won’t have to as long as you get prepared.

Continue reading to learn how to prevent frozen plumbing pipes this winter season, and what to do if you suspect you might already have some plumbing issues that need professional attention.

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Problems Caused By Frozen Plumbing Pipes

Although your plumbing pipes are likely insulated, as most are here in the United States, they can still be prone to freezing in extreme temperatures. This is bad news because water expands and contracts as it freezes and thaws. Ever notice those huge potholes in the spring after all the snow melts away? This is due to water seeping into pavement and expanding and contracting as it freezes and thaws. This causes pavement damages like cracks and holes, and the same can happen to your plumbing pipes.

If the frozen water within plumbing pipes creates too much pressure build up, it can actually cause the pipe to rupture, which leads to unexpected water leaks and flooding after the ice melts. It also causes water and energy bills to skyrocket. Not as costly or invasive, but equally frustrating, frozen pipes can also lead to faucet problems, slow water, poor water pressure, and similar water quality issues.

How to Protect Your Pipes From Freezing Over

Inspect your walls and ceilings for any cracks. Seal them up.

Inspect your basement and crawl space for any gaps or openings, and seal them up.

Apply weatherstripping and caulk around your basement windows, and also around your crawlspace door.

Have your home insulation inspected and repaired as needed.

Locate all unprotected pipes and insulated them with pipe sleeves. Be sure they are tightly secured together. Seal up any openings or joints with duct tape.

Consider thermostat-controlled, UL-listed heat cable technology for your plumbing pipes. This keeps them warm during the colder seasons.

Install storm windows over any basement windows.

Replace your windows with energy-efficient models.

Have your plumbing systems inspected and serviced annually by a licensed plumbing professional.

Is your place experiencing issues with the plumbing or water heating system? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Fall and winter plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Repiping Your Home

Posted on November 4, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Repiping your plumbing is not something the average homeowner is well-versed on. In fact, it is typically only professional master plumbers who know the ins and outs of re-piping, including when and how it should be done. If you are wondering about the current condition of your home’s plumbing or think that a re-piping job might benefit the quality and performance of your whole-house system, your first step is to get the facts.

Continue below to review some frequently asked questions about repiping your home, including how to tell if you need to re-pipe, whether it can be done on your own, and what to expect from the process.

Plumbing Pipe Replacement and Reconfiguration

Re-Piping FAQS

Why Did My Plumbing Pipes Go Bad?

There are several reasons why plumbing pipes go bad. It can be due to old age, poor installation, incompatibility, material quality issues, corrosion, external structural damages, and much more. Only a licensed Indianapolis master plumber will be able to detect and diagnose what happened to your plumbing pipes in the case that you need re-piping services.

What Signs Suggest I Need Re-Piping Work?

The signs pointing towards re-piping needs are not always evident. The first thing you want to take into consideration is the age of your plumbing pipes. Although many plumbing pipe materials are designed to last up to 50 years or more, there are several external factors and variables that can reduce the lifespan of plumbing pipes.

The most common sense to look for when determining your need for re-piping work include water quality issues, water related appliance performance issues, increased utility bills for water and energy, noisy plumbing, and plumbing that is older than 15 years.

Should I Repipe or Repair the Plumbing?

In many cases, plumbing pipes do not require replaced, but rather repaired. If one or two plumbing pipes burst or incur some sort of damage, they can simply be replaced through trenchless piping or other repair techniques. However, there are other cases in which the whole house plumbing system should be re-piped. Talk to in Indianapolis plumber to determine the best course of action for your plumbing pipe renovation needs.

Can I Re-Pipe on My Own?

Absolutely not. It is imperative to hire a licensed and permitted master plumber for re-piping plumbing services to ensure that your house is up to code and safe. Professionals retain the proper resources, including training, equipment, and permits, to perform master plumbing work like re-piping and trenchless pipe repair. Never attempt to perform your own plumbing repair at this level of complexity.

Can I Live in My House While it is Being Re-Piped?

In order to re-pipe a home, walls will have to be torn down and removed. In many cases, plumbing companies work well to isolate areas of the home that are being worked on by organizing a calendar of scheduled work and utilizing safety-focused materials like plastic tarping and ventilation fans to mitigate work runoff. However, the job will be done much faster in homes that are being built or renovated since walls are not constructed yet. In most cases, it is recommended to coordinate alternative living arrangements if your home is being refitted for piping.

Do you have more questions about plumbing re-piping work in Indiana? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for plumbing repair and installation services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve both residential and commercial clients and offer free advice anytime!