Tag Archives: sump pumps

Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Sump Pumps

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Springtime means rain; and even though April is not quite here yet, the showers are no less on their way. During the rainy season, the persistent moisture in the surrounding environments can cause excessive puddling and standing water, which can lead to more serious issues like flooding. For this reason, it is important to double check that your sump pump is in good condition and operating efficiently this time of year. This piece of plumbing equipment will protect your home from catastrophic water leaks and flooding disasters.

Not sure what you need to know about your sump pump? Continue below to review some frequently asked questions about residential sump pumps, and where you can get trusted service before the storms hit your neck of the woods.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Sump Pump Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Sump Pump FAQS You Want to Know

☔ What are Sump Pumps?

Sump pumps are conventional plumbing devices that are designed to mitigate indoor flooding by keeping water out of your basement, crawl space, or lower level of your home. In fact, they are installed at the lowest point of the home since water drains downhill. They collect rainwater and then transfer it to the nearest retention pond or storm drain, thus abating excessive water accumulation in and around your house.

☔ Do I Need a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are vital for all homes in regions with annual rainfall and properties located near bodies of water. Furthermore, if you have a patio, sloped driveway, clogged gutters, or surrounding sidewalks, your property is more prone to flooding problems than others. In Spring when excessive water accumulates around these areas, your home is subjected to increased rain buildup, which can lead to water leaks, seepage, flooding, and structural and foundational issues. They save homeowners thousands of dollars in invasive and time-consuming repairs, not to mention the hassle of it all to begin with.

☔ Is My Sump Pump Broken?

In order to determine if your sump pump is still working is to test it, manually. This means you will have to grab a 5 gallon bucket, fill it with water, and then dump it into the sump pit. The float trigger should activate as you pour water into your sump pump. Then after a few minutes, the pit should drain, and the sump pump should turn off automatically. If this all happens, your device is working. If your sump pump reacts any differently, such as not shutting off after the pit drains or making odd sounds, you might need sump pump repair or replacement.

☔ When Should I Replace a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are designed to last a long time. Generally, their average lifespan ranges between 8 and 10 years. However, this lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of the make and model, the frequency at which it was used, and the annual rainfall in your region. Talk to your trusted plumbing company for advice on when you can expect to replace your sump pump. It is important to have your home’s plumbing inspected by a licensed plumber on an annual basis to ensure all systems are running efficiently.

☔ Can I Install a New Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are serious plumbing appliances that require serious expertise and resources. So, if you are thinking about installing your new sump pump on your own, please reconsider. It is strongly encouraged to hire a licensed and experienced plumber to advise you on which kind of sump pump your home requires, and to install it for you properly, and up to code. When it comes to mitigating flood and water damage to your house, you do not want to take any shortcuts or make a mistake.

Do you need to replace or repair a sump pump in your home? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 to get professional plumbing services for sump pumps in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve both residential and commercial clients and offer 24 hour emergency plumbing service.

You Should Also Read:

Why Won’t My Sump Pump Turn Off After it Rains a Lot?
How to Determine Which Sump Pump Size You Need
The Dangers of In-Home Flooding

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Do I Need to Empty My Septic Tank?

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Your priority as a homeowner is to maintain the value, function, and safety of your house. One of the most important systems in your home to maintain is the plumbing, namely, the septic system. The problem is that many people are quite confused on what the proper maintenance is for a septic system. Furthermore, many people confuse sump pumps and septic systems. If you are having the same questions, such as, “what is the difference between a sump pump and septic tank?”, or “when should I empty my septic tank?”, you are in the right place.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about taking good care of your property’s septic system, including when septic tanks should be emptied.

Zoeller Sump Pump Installation 317-714-0759

Septic System Basics

First let us discuss the basics of a septic system so that you understand the difference between a sump pump and a septic tank. You see, a septic tank is a component of plumbing that collects sewage and wastewater, and naturally decomposes them using a bacterial action. They are usually constructed of precast concrete, concrete blocks, or reinforced fiberglass, and buried in the ground somewhere on the property.

A sump pump is a device that is outfitted to a sump pit for the purpose of removing excess water and liquids from the pit. They are usually connected to a municipal sewer line or storm drain, and equipped with a flotation device that forces them to clink at particular levels of flooding. If the power is out, there is a manual lever that allows people to release excess water. If the water level reaches or exceeds a preset level in the pit, the pump initiates and sucks up enough liquid to remedy the risk of overflow.

Cesspools

Now where does the cesspool come into play? Well, not every property has a cesspool. Some homes are equipped with cesspools instead of septic systems. Although both collect organic waste and decompose them naturally, cesspools are a much older waste disposal technique compared to the modern-day septic tanks. The general rule of thumb is to have your septic tank inspected and serviced by a professional plumbing company every 1 to 3 years.

When and How to Empty the Septic Tank

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having your septic tank inspected every three years by a licensed Indianapolis master plumber. They further recommend adhering to the professional advice given by the plumbing contractor in regard to routine de-sludging and septic service. Basically, you need to hire a licensed plumbing contractor to perform all septic and cesspool work, no matter how inclined you feel on doing it yourself. These are important systems, and one wrong move or mistake can leave you with some very messy, and extremely unsanitary conditions.

Where to Get Professional Sump Pump Service and Repair in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable master plumber about sump pump service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are happy to answer any questions you have about septic tank and sump pump installation, maintenance, replacement, repair, problems, and more. We even offer 24 hour emergency services for water leaks, floods, and more. Owner and Master Plumber, Mark Weilhammer, recommends installing the Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pump in your sump pit along with your main sump pump. The Aquanot ll® is the most reliable back up system on the market today. Call 317-714-0759 for professional sump pump services in Indianapolis you can trust!

Why Won’t My Sump Pump Turn Off After it Rains a Lot?

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It is still April, and the forecast is showing a lot of rain ahead. So, if you notice that your sump pump seems to run continuously after your area experiences a heavy rainfall, you might be a little concerned right about now. Many often think their sump pump is malfunctioning when this happens. But the truth is, there is a very good reason why a sump pump does this.

Continue reading to find out what you need to know about sump pumps and heavy rains.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Service 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Sump Pump Service 317-784-1870

What Your Sump Pump Does

It is okay if you are not entirely sure what your sump pump does, exactly. You are not alone. Many homeowners simply rely on the assumption that their sump pump is operating properly and at full efficiency. However, when you really learn how these units work, you can better diagnose issues when they occur. It can also help you put your mind at ease when your sump pump begins to demonstrate some unfamiliar behaviors, such as the constant running you hear after a heavy rain. See our blog, “What You Need to Know About Your Sump Pump” to get this type of knowledge.

Effects of Heavy Rainfalls

After a heavy storm or long period of steady rainfall, the ground is full with a lot more water than normal. Since sump pumps activate when the pit fills with water to a certain level, the pump will continue to activate itself and pump water out, so long as the ground is still saturated with water from a heavy rain. Basically, it takes longer for large amounts of water to drain from the soul in the ground, which in turn, causes sump pumps to continue working until the water inside the pit is below the trigger line.

Some areas have more permeable soil conditions, so their sump pumps are not overwhelmed with this type of onset of groundwater after a rain. So, if this is something you experience often, it could have something to do with the soil conditions and geography of your area.

Sump Pump Inspection and Maintenance

Your sump pump is a mechanical device, which means it vitally requires regular maintenance and care. In order to ensure your sump pump is working properly and efficiently, have it inspected and serviced by a professional plumber once a year. In addition to professional sump pump service, you also need to keep in mind that if your sump pump is not the proper size or capacity for your particular property, you will need to address that issues as soon as possible, or risk flooding issues eventually. Talk to your trusted plumber for sump pump advice and installation.

Got Sump Pump Problems?

When your sump pump needs service, you need a state-licensed master plumber. Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including sump pump repair and replacement. We even sell top-of-the-line Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pumps and Zoeller sump pumps below market price! Request a free estimate, today.

Water Pump Maintenance Tips

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Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

Often times, water pumps are a part of the home that goes unnoticed. And until a problem occurs, they continue to remain in the back of our minds. But in order to function properly and efficiently, water pumps required routine maintenance just as much as the rest of your home’s plumbing appliances and systems.

If maintenance is neglected, you could face sudden breakdowns and costly repairs when you are least expecting it. Fortunately, water pump maintenance is simple and inexpensive.

Continue reading to learn some valuable water pump maintenance tips, and better protect your home’s plumbing from another disaster.

Water Pump System and Tank Maintenance

Preventative maintenance for your water pump system is important in order to enhance the quality and health of your home’s water, improve the function of your system, and reduce the cost of repairs and replacements. Knowing the on-going needs of your water system can greatly increase the reliability of your overall operation.

It is recommended to have your water pump system inspected and serviced at least once every two to three years. If you are putting a property up for sale on the market, it is best to have the water pump system audited before the inspection process. This will prevent any sudden surprises. At the time of your scheduled water pump service appointment, you will either need to receive routine maintenance, or a complete system replacement.

A professional master plumbing contractor will cover several areas during their inspection process, including the well, pump, tank, wellheads, pump platforms, chlorinators, and the overall function of the system. They will also test and inspect your tank’s water pressure, record water levels, measure pump times and cycle starts, check for leaks, and assess the condition of the pumps. Generally, it is custom to make small repairs and replacements in order to prevent or avoid future plumbing issues and costlier repairs.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need master plumbing services in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding locations. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience. As a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company, we offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services, including repair, installation, maintenance, and replacement. We also offer plumbing service for water heaters, water softeners, water purification systems, sump pumps, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis plumbing repair and service you can trust.

Manage Snow Buildup to Prevent Plumbing Problems

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Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Winter is a fun and enjoyable time of year for people of all ages. We look forward to wintertime and snowfall because it brings with it the opportunity to enjoy several activities, like sledding, ice skating, ice fishing, and more. But it is important to not let the festivities of winter distract you from your home owner responsibilities! One of the most important systems in our homes is plumbing, and it is most vulnerable to damage in the winter.

One common problem that can lead to plumbing damage and repair is excessive snow accumulation. It is important to constantly manage the snowfall as it builds up around your home. This will not only prevent inconvenient plumbing problems, it will also save money on costly plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn some possible plumbing problems that snow buildup can cause, and what to do if you find yourself in the same situation.

Sump Pump and Foundation

Your home’s foundation can be effected by large snow accumulation once the snow begins to melt. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. This water can continue to seep into the basement and lower floors of the home. Needless to say, this can cause a lot of destruction. Personal belongings, clothing, and furniture can be destroyed by flooding, as well as, an extensive list of structural damages. Not only is this devastating for families, it is usually very stressful and costly to undo.

For this reason, in the case of large snow build up around your home, it is wise to check on your sump pump to ensure it is capable and ready to do its job. Start by inspecting the check valve to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line. You can actually hear the pump running, so you’ll know if it’s running too often.

Gutters and Drains

Even though the temperatures are below pleasing, it is important to still keep up with outdoor winter maintenance if you want to prevent costly repairs and problems. Start by regularly keeping your gutters clear of dirt, debris, and snow. Also, be sure all exposed drains are clear of snow as well. This will prevent plumbing clogs and backups.

Plumbing Pipes

Many people think it is best to turn their heat down low, or entirely off, while they travel in the winter. This attempt to save money can actually be a start of a costly plumbing problem. When a home is too cold in freezing weather, the pipes can actually freeze. This leads to freeze/thaw cycles, and eventually, burst pipes. Not only is this an intrusive repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. This can be prevented by keeping your house adequately warm when you are home and away. Keeping the thermostat set no lower than 65 degrees should provide the protection your plumbing needs against freezing.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumber repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing service and repair industry. He repairs, services, replaces, and installs all plumbing parts and systems, as well as, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for information about our affordable and prompt plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

These Bad Habits Can Cause Plumbing Problems at Home

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When it comes to residential plumbing, a professional would advise against a long list of bad habits that lead to costly repairs and problems. Among this long list of bad habits, there are a few that tend to cause the most issues with a home’s plumbing. Continue reading to learn which bad habits your plumber wants you to stop!

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Toilets

So many of us are guilty of using the toilet as a garbage receptacle. The occasional goldfish is not going to cause any problems with your toilet and plumbing, however, actual trash or garbage is not a good idea. Cotton swabs, cotton balls, feminine hygiene applicators, razor cartridges, toilet paper tubes, hairbands, shower caps, paper bags, newspaper, plastic materials, and more are common items flushed down residential toilets on a daily basis. All of this trash can clog the toilet, as well as, cause major blockages in your home’s plumbing, leading to costly repairs and replacements. Do not use your toilet as a trashcan! Simply place a trash can near your toilet to thwart you from this bad habit.

Garbage Disposals

Another area that we tend to use as a trash can even though we shouldn’t is the kitchen sink garbage disposal. Yes this appliance can shred soft, non-fibrous foods, but that doesn’t mean it’s an industrial shredder that can manage all your other garbage as well! Items like plastic wrap, fruit peels, egg shells, flowers, fruit and vegetable cores, and more are commonly tossed down residential garbage disposals, only later to cause major damage to the appliance and the home’s plumbing.

Drains

Aside from trash, people tend to have a bad habit of pouring harmful or toxic chemicals down bathroom and kitchen sink drains. Bathtubs, showers, outdoor sinks, kitchen sinks, and bathroom sinks have drains that can clog, but this does not mean reach for the harsh drain cleaning solution right away. Try other forms of clog-clearing before resorting to toxic drain cleaners, such as drain snakes. These chemicals can cause plumbing pipes to corrode and deteriorate, leading to leaks and major damages.

Outdoor Hoses

Forgetting or neglecting to disconnect your garden hose from the outside spout before wintertime can cause some major problems with your home’s plumbing as well. This allows moisture from the inside of the hose to enter the home, eventually freezing, leading to frozen or burst plumbing pipes. This is not an easy or inexpensive fix, but can be avoided with a little annual reminder and initiative.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 the next time you need a master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with over 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry. He and our team of licensed plumbing contractors are eager to answer your questions about plumbing repair and more. We offer residential and commercial properties a wide range of plumbing services, including septic tanks, water heaters, sump pumps, water softeners, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for superior plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.