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.

Here are the Answers to the Most Common Questions Plumbers Get

Posted on May 27, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbers have heard and seen it all, from haunted plumbing pipes to a dead rat in the drain, and everything in between. But there are some questions that tend to take the lead in terms of frequency. If you have questions about your plumbing situation, it is likely that one of these answers will help you. Scroll below to review the answers to the most common questions plumbers get.

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Plumbing Questions and Answers

Is This a Plumbing Emergency?

When a client first calls, they often ask if their plumbing issue is something that needs immediate attention or if it can wait. Plumbing emergencies are often easy to spot, as they tend to pose a long list of potential damages and hazards. Some common tell-tale plumbing emergencies include a burst pipe, flooding, major water leak that cannot be controlled by turning off the main water supply, or gas leak. But plumbing emergencies can also come in not-so-obvious forms. For instance, if your home only has one toilet and that toilet breaks down, repairing it would be an emergency need, otherwise, you will have to use the bathroom somewhere else or get a hotel.

Examples of non-emergencies include clogged drains, no hot water, clogged toilet, overflowing toilet, dripping faucet, broken fixtures, and small water leaks.

Is This Plumbing Repair Covered Under Insurance?

Another initial question plumbing customers tend to ask has to do with insurance coverage. Each homeowners’ insurance policy is different, and therefore, contains varying degrees of coverage depending on the type of plumbing repair or need. It is important to check with your insurance carrier to verify which types of repairs are covered and which must be paid out of pocket.

Do I Need to Replace My Water Heater? My Water Softener?

When people start to experience problems with their water heaters or water softeners, the first question that often arises is whether or not they will have to replace them. Water heaters are designed to last anywhere from 8 to 10 years; so, if your unit is near or approaching that range, it would be wise to start thinking about an upgrade. Water softeners last a bit longer, ranging between an 8 to 15 year lifespan. So, if your water softener has not been replaced in a decade, an upgrade to a modern model would be wise.

Aside from age, water heaters and water softeners can experience damage that requires them to be replaced prematurely. Common irreparable damages include fires, burning, or smoke production, as well as gas leaks, major water leaks, tank ruptures, and electrical damage. If your water heater has shown signs of these types of damages or issues, contact an emergency plumber in Indianapolis, right away.

Why Does My Water Take So Long to Heat Up?

Hot showers and baths are an essential part of a satisfying quality of life. So, when they start to show signs of problems, many people start calling their plumbers. One of the most common questions is, “why does it take so long for my water to heat up?” The answer is the water, either the location, size, or efficiency.

If your water heater is too far away from your point of demand, in this case your shower or bathtub, the water can take longer to heat up compared to the kitchen sink faucet. The solution here would be to install a secondary, perhaps tankless or electric, water heater closer to the location of your shower or bath.

If your water heater is too small for the size and occupancy of your home, you can certainly expect the water to take longer to heat up to the temperature you’ve demanded. If you have recently taken in new guests or tenants, you might experience this issue. If you just moved in, you need to upgrade to a higher capacity water heater.

If your water heater is experiencing malfunctions, it may not perform as well as it should. It could cause your water to heat up slower than before.

Can I Improve the Water Pressure?

Everyone asks the plumber about water pressure. Low water pressure is not desirable, so customers always want to know how they can increase or improve the water pressure in their home. One place to focus your attention on when it comes to low water pressure is the faucets themselves. You may have low flow volume restrictors that limit the pressure delivered in the showerhead or faucet. Corroded or leaky plumbing pipes are the next two common culprits behind low or lowered water pressure.

What’s Causing These White Spots All Over My Glassware and Shower Stall?

Cloudy, spotty glassware and shower stall doors are not fun to look at. That is why so many plumbing customers ask their plumbers why this is happening. The answer is hard water. Hard water contains dissolved minerals that leave behind scale and scum. To treat a hard water problem, install or upgrade your water softener. You may also consider a reverse osmosis system.

Do you have additional plumbing questions and concerns that you want immediate answers to? 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 Solve a Dishwasher Drainage Problem

Posted on March 29, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Is you dishwasher not draining the way it should? Have you noticed a musty puddle of water at the bottom of the well after you run a load? If so, you are most definitely experiencing dishwasher machine drainage problems. Continue below to learn some troubleshooting tips for a problematic dishwasher that won’t seem to drain water.

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Flooded Dishwashers are a Sign of a Plumbing Issue

We understand the frustration you feel when you expect to open up your dishwasher to a freshly-cleansed load of dishes but get a waterfall of dirty, soapy water instead. Unfortunately, there is no amount of Rinse-Aid to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a dishwasher draining issue. Before getting into the reasons why your dishwasher is doing this, it is important to note that this type of problem calls for professional plumbing inspection and repair. Contact a licensed plumber in Indianapolis for dishwasher repair and water drainage repair services you can trust.

Common Causes of Poor Water Drainage in Dishwashers

There are a number of possible reasons why dishwashers fill up with water and fail to drain properly, yet in the plumbing industry, the most common seem to be garbage disposal backups, drain hose disconnections, and dirty drain filters. Additional causes include faulty pumps, design defects, and even motherboard malfunctions. Be sure to disconnect the power to your dishwasher before performing any type of inspection, and certainly before you intend to tamper around with it.

Dishwasher Not Draining?
Check These 3 Things Before Calling a Plumber:

Backed-Up Garbage Disposal

An obstruction or clogged garbage disposal can have an affect on the water drainage quality of your dishwasher. With long-term or major backups, dishwashers cannot drain properly after a cycle. Start your troubleshooting by clearing your garbage disposal. With a stream of hot water running next to the sink drain (not in the drain), flip your disposal on for 30 to 45 seconds. You can also use some liquid dishwashing soap to help loosen any obstructions.

Optional: Turn the power off to your garbage disposal. Then inspect the inside of the sink drain for any objects of obstructions.

Disconnected Drainage Hose

Often times, drain hoses that are attached to the sink or garbage disposal get knocked out of place, shifted, or even kinked. Before calling a plumber about your dishwasher drainage problems, check to see if these hoses are connected and in good condition. A worn-out or old drain hose should be replaced. This too could be the root of your plumbing issue.

Dirty Drain Filters

Drain filters, like all other filters, require routine cleaning or replacement, depending on what kind of filter product they are. If your dishwasher is not draining all the way after you run a cycle, it could be due to a dirty drain filter that is saturated with food particles, grease, soap residues, and more. Refer to your dishwasher owners’ manual for manufacturers’ instructions on how to access and clean the drain filter.

Are you still having plumbing issues at home or in the office? 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.

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.

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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.

How a Plumber Will Repair Clogged Water Lines

Posted on June 24, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Just like your drains, water lines can become clogged too! If you are currently dealing with this issue, you need to educate yourself on the available options for repair. Learn the facts surrounding clogged water lines, and the most common solutions for them. Then talk to your trusted licensed plumber for advice on maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system in order to prevent clogs like this in the future.

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Water Line Clog Detection is the First Step

Although clogged drains are the most common type of plumbing clog homeowners tend to deal with, there are such things as water line clogs too. These kinds of backups are often noticed when water doesn’t seem to flow from the faucets as well as they usually do. In this specific situation, the lack of water flow is a common indication that the plumbing line leading to the faucet are obstructed. Sometimes a clog can be so severe, no water comes out at all!

So, what causes these obstructions? That is a great question since the answer will help you avoid messes like this in the future! Here’s what to do if you suspect your water lines are obstructed or clogged:

Inspect the point of conflict. This can either be a faucet or spigot. Look for any visible blockages or obstructions. Sometimes, a clump of hair mysteriously makes it there, or a sprightly child sticks a wad of gum over the mesh screen. If you do not see any sort of blockages, your next step is to contact a licensed plumber for assistance. They have the necessary resources, tools, equipment, and knowledge to accurately diagnose the problem and deliver workable solutions.

Most Common Solutions Provided By a Plumber:

► Cleaning – The obstructed pipes can be removed and cleaned to eliminate the blockage. Before they are replaced, it is standard practice to test the flow rate, which ensures the blockage has been thoroughly removed.

► Air Pressure – Attaching an air hose to the point of conflict can be helpful to eliminate any obstructions in a clogged water line. The blast of air works well to push deposits through. Just be sure to never attempt this on your own.

► Replacement – In the case that cleaning and air pressure are not viable options, replacement is the go-to solution. This is common when pipes are old, corroded, or rusted. They are often replaced with corrosive-resistant materials that have larger diameters.

Are you noticing signs of clogged water lines in your home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients, and offer free advice.

You Might Also Read:

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Unclog Any Drain With These 4 Simple Steps

Do I Need My Plumbing Inspected?

Posted on January 8, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to plumbing maintenance, an inspection is not typically on the routine To-D- list. However, they are one of the most vital plumbing services you can outsource because they are the key to unveiling small or medium problems, including malfunctions and insufficiency, before they can turn into large, costly, and invasive repairs. But how do you know you need a plumbing inspection. Well, you must keep your eyes open for the common, tell-tale signs.

Continue below to learn the most common indications that suggest you should schedule an inspection for your plumbing ASAP, and where to get a free quote for your plumbing repair needs near you.

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Signs of Plumbing Problems

If your home or office show any signs of plumbing problems below, you can likely assume there is an internal defect or variable causing it to happen. Regardless of the root of your plumbing problem, if you do not act fast, a small issue can turn disastrous in as little as 24 hours. Don’t make the mistake of ignoring a minor plumbing problem, like a clogged or slow-draining sink. Mitigate the risk of be liable for massive repairs, replacements, and renovations by putting a plumbing inspection in the books, now.

Thudding, Banging, and Hissing Noises

If your plumbing pipes are in good shape, they should not make a sound. But if your pipes make loud whistling or thudding noises every time you turn on a faucet or stop the shower, you can safely assume that there is a problem. This type of continuous and predictable noise can be an indication of loose piping, a soon-to-be water leak, or worse, an impending pipe rupture.

Old Age and Old Plumbing

The older the house, the older the plumbing, that is, unless the house has been renovated. If your home is older than 20 years, and you have not replaced or updated your plumbing system in that time, you would be wise to schedule a plumbing inspection to learn what you can do to improve your energy efficiency, water quality, and home comfort. Things like pipe corrosion, metal aging, and minute slab leaks are common in old homes.

Reduced Water Quality

If you are starting to notice, or have been living with, a wide scope of water quality issues, a plumbing inspection will help identify the causes, and present the workable solutions that fit your budget. Such water quality issues include poor tasting water, or beverages and soup made with your water, as well as, cloudy dishes, greasy hair, dry skin, low water pressure, hot water that takes too long to heat up, not enough hot water, poor soap lather in the bath, limescale residue all over your fixtures, and dingy or faded laundry.

Professional Plumbing Inspection and Service in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality plumbing inspection and service at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

What You Need to Know About Your Water Hammer Problem

Posted on October 29, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

Turning off a faucet shouldn’t give you anxiety. But for those with a water hammer problem, there is no way of doing so without anxiously anticipating that loud bang afterwards. Like a shock wave rushing through your piping system, water hammer noise is most certainly something to make you jump.

If this is your current situation at home, continue below to learn what you need to know about what causes it and how to resolve it, fast.

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Water Hammer is Called Hydraulic Shock

Properly called hydraulic shock, water hammer is a common home plumbing problem with a simple solution. Not only does water hammer cause a loud knocking or banging noise after shutting off a faucet to quickly, but it is also known to cause the faucet and fixtures to visibly vibrate. What’s really happening to cause all of these effects? Well, water is being forced through the pipes, exerting pressures at hundreds of pounds per inch.

Why it Happens

The common cause of water hammer is mechanical. Appliances (commonly washing machines and dishwashers) or faucets shut the water flow off too fast. This defect in the plumbing mechanism is the main reason why homes experience hydraulic shock. But this is not the only possible cause; water hammer can also be from having old or outdated plumbing. Fixtures and appliances can all have older technologies that are not best for preventing sudden water flow stoppage. Namely, dishwashing and washing machines are designed with solenoid valves that are notorious for stopping water flow to suddenly.

The most common solution for hydraulic shock repair is the addition of air chambers, which are a type of pipe fittings that act as a shock absorber. For a long term solution, water hammer arrestors are usually incorporated into a plumbing system, which are a more complex version of air chambers.

What to Do About It

If you have a water hammer issue, be sure to act fast. You might believe it is just an annoying aftereffect of your plumbing pipes, but really, it can cause extensive damage if neglected overtime. If you had a water hammer repair done several years ago, they could be outdated by now. Although it is possible for homeowners to repair their own water hammer problem, it is best left to a licensed plumber who retains the proper permits, training, and professional resources to get the job done up to code.

Who to Call for Water Hammer Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber (#106214), Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free plumbing advice. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, and as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Request a free estimate, today.

Advised Maintenance for Vital Plumbing Systems in the Home

Posted on August 7, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

All too often, homeowners only resort to calling a plumber once their plumbing issue turns into more of a plumbing emergency. But you should always contact a plumber as soon as you notice changes in any plumbing system, far before an emergency can develop. You see, regular plumbing maintenance and inspections can drastically reduce the chances of another plumbing disaster or repair. A small plumbing issue can become a larger and more costly repair if not caught in time. Basement flooding, water leaks, burst pipes, and more can cause thousands of dollars of damages that could have otherwise been avoided with some simple routine maintenance and repair. Fortunately, there are several things a person can do to prolong the life of their plumbing system and prevent plumbing emergencies.

Continue reading to learn how to care for your home’s plumbing, properly, and who you should call if you require plumbing repair services.

Basic Plumbing Maintenance and Care

Always remember that a little preventative maintenance goes a long way for a residential plumbing system. Preventing emergencies like clogged drains, toilet overflows, water heater failures, and more can feel very good to a homeowner’s budget. Preventing these issues also prevents larger disasters from occurring. This saves a household thousands of dollars each year! A properly cared-for plumbing system simply won’t require as much repair and replacement. Check out some DIY methods below to prolonging and caring for your home plumbing and start preparing your system for the long-haul!

Water Leak Inspections

Regularly inspect all areas of your home for potential water leaks. This means checking the faucet for excessive dripping, inspecting all water-using appliances for possible leaks, looking out for moisture accumulation on pipes or walls, and more. This should be done at least one time a year. Finding a water leak in its beginning stages can stop possible flooding situations, structural damages, and mold problems, saving a home owner a lot of money.

Septic Tanks and Sump Pumps

Septic tanks can cause severe home disasters. For anyone who has experienced a septic tank flood will tell you it’s a nightmare and costs thousands of dollars to cleanup and repair. Severe storms and system defects can cause septic tanks to malfunction or overflow, causing extreme home damages. It is strongly encouraged to install a battery-powered back-up sump pump for emergencies. Also, have your tank checked by a licensed master plumber at least once a year; or more if your city experiences higher precipitation levels and rainy seasons.

Water Heaters and Water Softeners

Water pressure can be an indication that something is not quite right with your plumbing. Check the shower heads and faucets for reduced water pressure. This can be a sign that you have sediment buildup in your plumbing system, or worse, a faulty water line. You may also have sediment buildup in your water heater, causing loss of performance and corrosion. It is important to have a licensed master plumber empty your water heater, and clean the sediment from your system a few times a year. This can reduce several costly problems and repairs.

Gas and Water Shut Off Valves

Every homeowner should know where their gas and water shut off valve is located, and how to operate it in the case of an emergency. If you ever need to turn your water off, be sure to also turn off your water heater so to not damage the heating elements within it. If you ever smell gas, act immediately. Turn your gas valve off and leave your home. Also, at the same time, do not flip off light switches or use anything that can create a spark. Just leave the premises and call for a master plumber to inspect your home. Gas leaks can be fatal, so it is vital to always take immediate action if you think you smell gas.

Plumbing maintenance can prevent very expensive plumbing disasters, emergencies, and repairs, and even save lives. Don’t wait any longer to have your plumbing inspected by a licensed professional. You can save yourself thousands of dollars by catching a plumbing problem ahead of time, and having it fixed by a trained plumber.

The Indianapolis Emergency Plumber to Call for Fast and Affordable Service

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for trusted and affordable emergency plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber repair services for both residential and commercial properties, including home plumbing inspections, water heater repair, water softener repair, septic tank repair, and appliance sales. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

4 Unconventional Ways to Detect a Plumbing Leak at Home

Posted on July 22, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing leaks are scary because they can go undetected for long periods of time, and eventually evolve into a devastating and costly renovation project. As a homeowner, it is important to learn how to detect plumbing leaks early, far before they can turn into a financial disaster. What’s worse is, some homeowners insurance policies do not cover certain water leak damages if they occurred as a result of homeowner negligence. For this reason and more, it is vital to take good care of your plumbing system, and have any small damages repaired as soon as they arise, including plumbing leaks.

There are several ways to detect plumbing leaks in your home, including looking for bubbling paint or wallpaper on the walls, stains on the ceiling, peeling wallpaper, dripping noises inside the walls or ceiling, and visible puddles on the floor or around the home’s foundation. But interestingly enough, many homeowners are unaware that there are other ways, unconventional ways, to detect leaks within plumbing system.

Continue reading to learn the top four, as well as, what to do if you find a water leak at home.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Inspections 317-784-1870

Your Lawn

In the summertime especially, lawns are subjected to inconsistent precipitation, causing them to experience patches of discoloration. So, if your lawn is typically patchy or dry, but all of a sudden you see lush green patches of grass in your yard, it could be indicative of an underground plumbing leak. Similarly, areas of your lawn that are experiencing heightened growth might also be a spot that is experiencing an underground water leak within the plumbing pipes. Even more indicative of an underground water leak is seeing standing water or puddles on your lawn, especially in areas that are not near any sort of plumbing fixture or water source.

Your Water Bill

Have you taken a closer look at your water bill lately? If your water bill seems to be increasing more and more every month, yet your daily water usages remain the same, it could be indicative of a plumbing leak. Plumbing leaks cause water waste, which in turn causes your water consumption to increase whether you are aware of it or not. Always be sure to record your monthly water bill totals, so that you can keep track of your monthly water consumption. Even if your water bill is only going up a fraction of amount, it could still be indicative of a water leak. It is best to have your plumbing system inspected by an Indianapolis plumber as soon as possible. As mentioned, you want to catch plumbing problems early on, far before they can turn into a plumbing disaster.

Your Water Meter

In addition to your water bill, you can take a look at your water meter to check for signs of a plumbing leak. See our blog, “How Your Water Meter Can Confirm Plumbing Leaks” to learn exactly how you can read your water meter, and how to apply the results to a water leak evaluation. Water meters are located outdoors, along the side of the house with the gas and electricity meters. Keep in mind, water meters can also malfunction, so if you see the signs of a water leak by reading your water meter, it is important to have it inspected by a licensed plumber for accurate results.

Your Toilet Bowl

Did you know you can add dye to your toilet bowl water to test for plumbing leaks? It’s true. Toilets are a prime spot for plumbing leaks to take place, so this toilet tank dye test is a great option for anyone who suspicious of having leaks within the plumbing system. Steer clear of clothing and fabric dies, and simply opt for your pantry’s food coloring. Add a few drops to all the toilet tanks in the house (not the bowl), but do not flush the toilet. After waiting several minutes, look in the toilet bowl. If you see the food coloring appearing inside the toilet bowl water, you can safely assume you have a toilet leak. In this case, you would need emergency plumbing services.

Indianapolis Plumbing Leak Repair and Water Leak Inspection Services

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair for water leaks, slab leaks, and home plumbing inspection services at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well.