Monthly Archives: March 2021

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

What You Need to Know About Selecting a New Water Heater

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Usually, it is perfectly acceptable to purchase items on impulse, or without any preparation whatsoever. But when it comes to high-priced commodities, like water heaters, your purchase is more of an investment, which requires some considerable forethought. If you need a new water heater, be sure you are fully-informed so that you have the tools to choose the right water heater for your home or business.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about buying water heaters, and how to get professional and prompt water heater installation right here in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Indianapolis Water Heater Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Water Heater Services 317-784-1870

Water Heater Factors to Consider

Your water heater is one of the predominant sources of water and energy in your home. By choosing the right water heater, you can better support energy efficiency and reduce water waste in your home, which also lowers your monthly utility bills. There are many types of water heaters on the market, so the one you get will depend first on the type of power you prefer and your property’s outlet capabilities.

If your home is equipped for gas, you could opt for a gas water heater. You can also opt for an electric water heater, tankless water heater (instantaneous water heaters), solar water heater, hybrid water heater, or an indirect-fired water heater that connects to a whole-house boiler. There are even oil-powered water heaters.

The type of water heater you ultimately decide on will primarily depend on your fuel preference or setup, the number of occupants in the residence or building, and your budget. For those who have a boiler or a hydronic heating system, an indirect-fired water heater would be a possible option. These use the boiler as their primary source of heating.

Water Heater Size and Capacity

The size of your water heater is the next factor to consider before making your purchase. Water heaters are sized by the number of gallons they store in their tank, unless of course they are a tankless or alternative model. Tankless water heaters have a coil that heats water instantly, negating the need for a storage tank.

Conventional water heaters hold between 20 and 80 gallons of water. The size you need depends on how much water your property will heat on a daily basis. This includes bathing, dish washing, laundry, and all other hot-water uses. The larger your home, or the more people within, the bigger the water heater you will need.

Another factor to consider when buying a new water heater is warranty coverage. Some water heaters come with better warranties than others, so be sure you are including that element into your decision-making process. Try to compare warranties, and check with your homeowners’ insurance to learn what might be covered as well.

TOP RECOMMENDED WATER HEATER BRANDS FOR 2021:

☑ RHEEM
☑ BRADFORD WHITE

Do you need a new water heater? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater sales, installation, and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate or schedule same-day service, anytime.

You Might Also Like:

What a Hybrid Water Heater Can Do For You
The True Facts About Electric and Gas Water Heaters
Facts About Instantaneous Water Heaters

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

Common Types of Plumbing Leaks and How to Spot Them

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Even the smallest plumbing leak is an issue that requires immediate attention and remediation. After all, almost all major leaks start out as a small leak; and by catching a leak early on in its formation, you can avoid a massive and costly renovation. Continue below to learn the most common types of plumbing leaks and how to detect them before they become a bigger problem.

Indianapolis IN Water Leak Detection Services
Indianapolis IN Water Leak Detection Services 317-784-1870

Annual Leak Detection Services

Leaks, whether small or large, are usually harder to detect unless you are actively looking for the signs. For this reason, it is wise to enlist the services of a licensed Indianapolis IN plumbing company for annual leak detection services. Although it is still important for you to learn the signs of common plumbing leaks and keep your eye out for them at all times, professional leak detection and repair services use innovative methodologies and state-of-the-art technologies that make the diagnostics process faster, more accurate, and less invasive. This saves you time, stress, and most importantly, money. That’s because the faster you can find the leaks, the faster they can get repaired and the better protected your property is against future plumbing failures.

Common Leaks to Watch Out For in Your Plumbing:

☇ Slab Leaks

Perhaps one of the most commonly seen plumbing leaks among industry professionals are slab leaks. Slab leaks occur when the water pipes or sewer lines beneath the property’s foundation suffer damage, such as cracks or fractures. Not only one of the most common, but slab leaks are also among the most destructive since they can cause massive damage to an edifice’s foundation, and can quickly turn into a larger leak if unresolved. Signs of slab leaks include warped floorboards, reduced water pressure, or a sudden increase in water bills.

☇ Sewer Line Leaks

Sewer line leaks are less common than the other types of leaks because they are usually caused by construction work, excavation, or natural disasters like earthquakes. However, sewer line leaks can also be caused by tree roots growing into the pipes. They are serious, as they are a bio-hazard, and can cause an extreme amount of damage if ignored. A professional sewer line repair service can resolve this type of leak without having to dig up your entire lawn.

☇ Water Line and Yard Leaks

Also known as “phantom leaks”, water line and yard leaks are among the most difficult to detect because they develop slowly. Common areas for these to occur are underground in your lawn, or inside walls. They tend to form in areas you cannot see without intervention. The most common sign of a water line or yard leak is a rising water bill that seems to be increasing for no reason.

☇ Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are by far the most dangerous and pressing plumbing leak. Detecting gas odors in or around the property is usually the first sign of a nearby gas leak. If you suspect you have a gas leak anywhere within your property, turn your gas off and contact a professional service for gas leak detection and repair, right away.

Do you think you might have a plumbing leak? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water leak detection services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are state-licensed master plumbers who serve both residential and commercial clients.

You Should Also Read:

Important Warnings Regarding Residential Slab Leaks
Tips for Detecting Toilet Leaks
4 Unconventional Ways to Detect a Plumbing Leak at Home

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

Today is World Plumbing Day

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March 11th, 2021 is World Plumbing Day!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services
Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

In honor of World Plumbing Day, here are some fun and fundamental plumbing facts, including the meaning behind today’s occasion!

Let us all thank the World Plumbing Council (WPC) for establishing World Plumbing Day in 2010! For 11 years now, World Plumbing Day has been a staple event on calendars all across the globe among both political and social organizations! What does it all mean? What is the purpose of this special day?

Well, if you think about it, you will recognize that our plumbing innovations and technologies separate us from the stone age. Without sufficient plumbing and sewage management systems, we would be living like our ancient ancestors! Plumbing is an integral part of human history and continues to be one of the most vital elements of our overall quality of life.

Respect and Appreciate All That Plumbing Does For Us!

The World Plumbing Council (WPC) speaks for the entire international plumbing community, and did so when they urged for the inception of World Plumbing Day each year! They are an inspirational and hard-working organization with the motive to support and promote the relationships between quality plumbing and sanitation, health, environmental sustainability, and exponential economic success.

How Does Everyone Celebrate World Plumbing Day?

Right now, and all day long, there are planned celebrations, events, activities, seminars, and even friendly competitions that all honor and acknowledge the importance of safe, efficient, and quality plumbing. These occasions are used to share knowledge, build relationships, and make important connections in an effort to increase access to fresh water and safe sanitation. Whether you are a part of a plumbing fraternity or a regular citizen in your community, you too can appreciate the plumbing innovations and sanitation available to you and your loved ones by celebrating with everyone else, world-wide!

Fundamental Plumbing Facts in Honor of World Plumbing Day

The definition of plumbing is expressed as, “A series of pipes, fixtures, and appliances that manage the distribution of water and sewage in and out of a property.”

Indoor plumbing dates back to 2500 B.C. (And perhaps even before!) This includes the Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Greeks, Chinese, Indiana, and more.

Copper was used by Egyptians over 3000 years ago to lay plumbing pipes; and copper is STILL the most popular material used for plumbing pipes today.

Sir John Harington invented the flushable toilet in 1596 for his godmother, Queen Elizabeth I. This is why Americans casually call it “the John.”

In the typical American household, toilet flushing constitutes up to 38% of all water-use in the home. But a low flush toilet can save you up to 18,000 gallons of water per year!

It only takes 15 minutes for a drippy faucet to fill an 8 ounce glass. That means that a single dripping faucet can waste an average of 180 gallons of water each month and over 2,160 gallons a year!

Are you in need of plumbing repair or water heater services? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers serve commercial clients, too.

You Might Also Like:

Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?
Can Your Plumbing Repair Wait or is it an Emergency?
Can Poor Quality Plumbing Make You Sick?

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