Common Questions About Septic Systems

Posted on February 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Becoming familiar with all the aspects of your home’s plumbing system is a critical part of protecting your most important investments. One of the most misunderstood, yet very common, home plumbing devices are septic systems. Whether you are new to home ownership or just ready to enhance your knowledge on residential plumbing works, understanding a septic system and all it entail is a good place to start.

Continue reading to review some of the most common questions plumbers hear in regards to septic systems, sump pumps, cesspools, and more.

Indianapolis Septic Tank Service 317-784-1870

What is a Septic Tank?

For homes that cannot be connected to a centralized municipal sewer line, septic tanks are the practical solution. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 25% of North America relies on a septic tank for private sewage disposal. All sewage matter and wastewater converge into one singular pipe that flows to the septic tank located underground. 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.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Serviced?

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 regards to routine de-sludging and septic service.

What is 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 serviced by a professional every 1 to 3 years. If you wait any longer, you risk clogging or backing up your system, which can lead to very filthy and messy conditions. Most professionals and consumers will insist that septic systems are a much better operation than cesspools.

Which is Better?

Most professionals and consumers will insist that septic systems are a much better operation than cesspools. First of all, cesspools are not integrated systems; they are rudimentary in design. They are basically perforated concrete or block rings that are buried underground. They do not spread effluent to the surrounding ground soil, and sludge piles up at the bottom. Overtime, cesspools have to be pumped to remove the sludge buildup, and sometimes, they have to be relocated altogether because the surrounding soil becomes too saturated with wastewater.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

When your septic system fails, or simply 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. Owner and Master plumber, 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.

5 Amazon Products You Need for Home Plumbing Care

Posted on February 21, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to taking care of your home, there are some staples that you need to have around, such as a mop, a broom, clean rags, paper towels, some sponges, baking soda, OTC cleaners, and more. When it comes to your plumbing, the same scenario applies; there are some must-have plumbing essentials for taking good care of your home’s plumbing system. Right now, Amazon.com has some great products at some great prices that you would be wise to check out.

Continue below to a list of 5 Amazon plumbing supplies you should have on hand!

Indianapolis Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

? SteadMax Rubber Toilet Plunger

Price: $10.99

A plunger is one of the most basic plumbing tools to have around the house. And they are not just for toilets either; use it on clogged drains and grates, too. This one, made by Steadmax, is the perfect fundamental plumbing tool to start off with.

? FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake – Drain Clog Remover Kit

Price: $18.95

Every home needs at least one drain snake; more than one is preferable. We recommend this terrific drain snake plumbing kit by Flexisnake. The kit includes a rotating handle, and 5 refill wands. Best of all, it is easy to use and safe for all drain and grate types, including showers, bathtubs, and sinks!

? Everflow 812 PTFE Thread Seal Tape

Price: $1.44

Plumbers’ tape is a common material used in all sorts of DIY plumbing applications. Use it to fasten pipe joints, waterproof spigots, and more. Try this product made by Everflow, which comes with several great customer reviews.

? Tradespro 830914 14-Inch Heavy Duty Pipe Wrench

Price: $13.66

You never know when you might need to tighten a drain pipe, or have some other similar plumbing task at hand; so a pipe wrench is a staple tool for any basic plumbing kit. This heavy duty version made by Tradespro has everything you need for DIY plumbing projects.

? General Tools MMD7NP Moisture Meter

Price: $39.98

When water leaks and floods happen, a moisture meter will be your go-to tool for a first evaluation of the extent of damage. Just be sure to choose a quality product so that you can trust the accuracy of the readings. This model from General Tools is a perfect starting point since it delivers an easy learning.

When the Job is Too Big Call a Pro!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, 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.

Common Sump Pump Issues With Melting Snow

Posted on February 14, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Now that the outdoor temperatures are fluctuating more and more, the snow accumulation is not sticking around as long. Everywhere you look, pavements, lawns, and more are soaking wet as if a long storm just passed through; but really, all the excess moisture is a result of the recent melting snow. Although we can be happy that the snow is going away and spring is even closer than before, there are some serious issues associated with snow thaw and plumbing, namely, with sump pumps.

If you have a sump pump system in your home or office, you need to learn what issues might arise during this exponential snow thaw. Continue reading to do just that.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Repair 317-784-1870

Sump Pump Maintenance

Whether you have a residential or commercial sump pump system, one of the most effective methods of maintenance is to routinely inspect it to ensure it is still running and discharging water correctly. Although now is a good time to check this, it is also important to do this a few times a month. Furthermore, it is important to have your system professionally serviced at least once per year by a licensed Indianapolis plumber.

After Melting Snow

Right now, your duty is to ensure your sump pump is still intact and functioning properly. Some of the most common issues associated with melting snow and sump pump systems involve check valves, downspout extensions, blocked drainpipes, burst pipes, and more. Worst of all, plumbing and water leaks can occur in more serious situations, leading to flooding, mold, mildew, and of course, costly renovations and remediation.

Here is what to look for after the snow melts:

Check Valve – Ensure that the check valve is still fitted correctly. Check valves allow water to flow in only one direction, while preventing pumped water from returning back through the line. If water is returning back into the line, there is a problem with the check valve, which requires professional repair.

Downspout Extensions – Check that the downspout extensions are still properly installed. Heavy snow and ice accumulation can knock drain and downspout extensions, as well as other plumbing materials, out of place. This can lead to water accumulation, which can affect your property’s foundation and even lead to a mold outbreak.

Blocked Drainpipes – During the freeze and thaw cycles this time of year experiences, water within drain pipes can also freeze and thaw; but sometimes, the water does not thaw enough, thus causing an obstruction in the pipe. This is common during times of snow melt.

For further details regarding sump pump maintenance and care, read our blog, “Top 7 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Break” and learn how to protect your system, year-round.

Trusted Sump Pump Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality sump pump service and repair at an affordable price. We use a comprehensive approach to plumbing diagnostics, with the help of state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technologies in the plumbing industry. Request a free estimate, today.

Deciding Between a Single-Tank and Twin Tank Water Softener

Posted on February 8, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes time to purchase a new water softener, you will be faced with an endless selection of sizes, features, upgrades, and additions. Before diving into the market, it helps to review some common water conditioning terminology for help understanding the difference between the water softener systems you wish to compare. A good starting point is water softener size and capacity. Basically, you will need to decide whether or not your property requires a single or twin-tank system.

Continue reading to learn the difference between each type of water softening system, and use your new-found knowledge to make an educated decision for your water conditioning needs.

Water Softener Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Water Softener Size

The most important part of choosing a water softener for your home or building is to match the proper size to the property’s hard water removal needs. In order to do this accurately, it helps to discuss hard water management with a licensed, Indianapolis master plumber who specializes in soft water services. Otherwise, you will need to teach yourself how to calculate the proper size water softener.

Water softener capacity is measured in “grain removal” and in the United States, the average gallon of water has 10 grains of hardness in it. To calculate how much “grains” your establishment uses, you need to know that the average person uses around 80 gallons of water each day. You can get a more detailed explanation of estimating water softener capacity by reading, “How to Calculate Water Softener Size.”

The basic formula is as follows:

(Gallons Per Day x Number of Occupants) x Grains Per Gallon = Total Grains Used Each Day

Single-Tank Water Softening System

A single tank water softener system consists of a single cabinet that holds both the brine tank and the resin tank. This compact design allows it to fit into small spaces, making them perfect for apartments and single-family homes. These water softeners are also referred to as, “on-demand” systems, which monitors your water consumption by the gallon. Once capacity is achieved, the system will regenerate during off-times, such as the middle of the night or early morning. This process provides soft water at all times. For properties with fewer than five occupants, single-tank systems are an efficient choice.

Twin-Tank Water Softening System

A twin-tank water softener system is better suited for properties with more occupants. It consists of two resin tanks, rather than just one found in single-tank systems, as well as a brine tank. One resin tank provides soft water all day long, while the other tank regenerates. Although the duel-tank design takes up more floor space, it is an efficient choice for large families. They are generally more expensive than single-tank systems since they are larger and come with a backup tank.

Where to Get Water Softener Help

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for affordable water softener service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, and specialize in water softener installation and repair for all make and model units. We also carry a full line of quality Clack™ water softeners for sale at contractor prices! Request a free estimate, today.