How to Solve a Dishwasher Drainage Problem

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.

Dishwasher Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Dishwasher Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

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.

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Two Cleaners That Will Fix a Slow Draining Sink
Top Two Causes for a Leaking Garbage Disposal
How to Quickly Unclog a Bathtub Drain

3 Plumbing Sounds You Do Not Want to Ignore

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.

Plumbing Inspection Service Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Plumbing Inspection Service Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

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.

Related Posts:

How Your Water Meter Can Confirm Plumbing Leaks
Do You Need Emergency Plumbing Service?
Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?
Advised Maintenance for Vital Plumbing Systems in the Home

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

A Quick Guide to Mold Colors

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.

Water Leak Repair Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Water Leak Repair Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

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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Tips for Detecting Toilet Leaks
The Best Way to Repair a Leaky Faucet
Common Signs of a Sewer Line Leak

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

Celebrate World Plumbing Day By Sharing These Fun Plumbing Facts!

Today is World Plumbing Day! To celebrate, scroll down and learn some fun and entertaining plumbing facts, then share them with your friends and loved ones!

Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

The World Plumbing Council (WPC)

World Plumbing Day is March 11th and we have the World Plumbing Council (WPC) to thank for that! They spoke for the entire international plumbing community when they urged for the inception of World Plumbing Day back in 2010. 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.

Since 2010, World Plumbing Day has been a highly anticipated and respected event on calendars all across the globe, among both political and social organizations! So, what does World Plumbing Day represent? Well, a lot!

Plumbing is arguably one of the most vital technological advancements in human history. After all, we would all still be living like the stone ages without our hot water on demand, clean tap water, dishwashers, washing machines, and of course, toilets!

Basically, without adequate plumbing and sewage management systems in our communities, and directly inside our homes and businesses, we would be living like our ancient cavemen and women ancestors! So, needless to say, plumbing is an integral part of human history and continues to be one of the most impactful assets to our overall quality of life.

Funny Plumbing Facts to Share With Everyone You Know

Let us commemorate and celebrate World Plumbing Day by reviewing some fun and interesting plumbing facts you have never heard before!

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

Lead in Latin – Pipes used for water distribution were once made from lead. Accordingly, the word “plumbing” originated from the Latin word plumbum, which means lead.

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

Flush Responsibly – 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!

Toilet Time – It is alleged that the average person will spend a total of 3 years on the toilet over the course of their lifetime. So, no more dilly-dallying in the bathroom!

Running Faucets – In the typical American household, over 9,000 gallons of water is wasted each year by running the faucet while waiting for water to heat up. This can contribute to as much as 15% of your annual water heating costs.

Quick Drip – 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!

Got Plumbing Issues?

Are you experiencing plumbing problems that aren’t so funny or fun? 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.

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

Do You Need Reliable Plumbing Repair and Service in Indianapolis?

Are you looking for a reliable master plumber or plumbing team to help you with your residential or commercial plumbing needs? If so, you are in the right place! Continue below to learn why thousands of Hoosiers continue to choose Weilhammer Plumbing Company for fast and affordable master plumber services for all property types in Indianapolis, Indiana!

Affordable Plumbers Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Affordable Plumbers Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Central Indiana Plumbing and Water Heating Professionals

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is not your everyday plumbing service. We have been in business, serving the Hoosier communities, for more than one hundred years! That means we have been a number one choice for state licensed master plumber services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience as a state licensed master plumber, and provides a wide selection of plumbing and water heating services for both residential and commercial properties.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair and Replacement

Our team of licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing contractors specialize in water heater repair, maintenance, installation, and replacement, for both residential and commercial properties. Not only do we service all make and model water heaters, but we also sell them! We offer a top-quality selection of Rheem hot water heaters that we believe are the best water heating appliance on the market.

As a family owned and operated company, we understand the value of the American dollar; so, you can rest assure you are receiving the most honest and fair plumbing repair prices in town. Contact us today and learn more about the plumbing and water heating services we offer residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Choose a State Licensed Plumber in Indianapolis

Did you know that you can always be sure you are hiring a reputable plumber by looking for their state license number? Ours (#106214) is clearly visible at the top of our website and on all our local listings as well. Remember, it is state law for plumbers to display their plumbing license numbers on all websites, advertisements, and listings. If you don’t see their license number, then they are probably not professional plumbers. Skip the hassle of searching for a trusted plumbing company and just call our state licensed plumbers, today!

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Service You Can Trust

When it comes to plumbing, Mark Weilhammer and our team of licensed master plumbers can undertake any project, large or small. We are fully trained and equipped to handle the most complex plumbing repair or service, to the everyday leaky faucet or frozen pipe. We offer copper re-piing services, water heater installation and repair, water softener installation and repair, sump pump installation and repair, bathroom renovations, all plumbing repairs, water alarms, water leaks, 24 hour emergency services, and much more.

Whatever plumbing service or repair you require, we are the team to do it skillfully and in a time-frame that’s convenient for you and your agenda. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for water heaters, today. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services all throughout Central Indiana.

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What To Expect When You Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company for Service
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Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

What to Do if Your Pipes Froze Over and Burst Open

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 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.

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

Should I Call a Plumber Tonight or Tomorrow?

Not sure if your current plumbing breakdown is an emergency or not? Can it wait until the morning? Can it wait longer than that? Or should you just call an emergency plumber right now? Continue below to learn which kinds of plumbing situations call for emergency plumbing repair and which kinds can wait a day or two before being addressed.

Emergency Plumbing Repair Near Me Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Emergency Plumbing Repair Near Me Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Emergency Plumbing 24 Hours a Day

Plumbing emergencies happen all the time. That is why there are 24 hour emergency plumbing services. But keep in mind, these services come at a premium, so be sure your plumbing mishap is truly one that requires immediate attention. Below we will touch on some common plumbing emergencies and non-emergencies to help you gauge where your current situation stands. In all cases, just to be safe, the first thing you should do is shut off your main water supply.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

A real plumbing emergency is one that requires immediate professional attention. Even if it’s the middle of the night or in the wee early morning hours, if you are experiencing any of these plumbing failures listed below, you will need to get on the phone right away with a licensed Indianapolis plumber. But first, as always, shut off your main water supply.

► Ruptured or Burst Pipes
► Basement Flooding
► Crawl Space Flooding
► Sewer System Backups
► Major Water Leaks
► Gas Leaks

Less Serious Plumbing Emergencies

Some plumbing emergencies are less serious than others, but emergencies, nonetheless. If you are experiencing any of the plumbing breakdowns listed below, you may be able to get away with waiting a day, or at least until morning, before contacting a professional plumbing company for repair.

► Water Heater Malfunctions
► Overflowing Toilet
► Washing Machine Hose Leaks
► Clogged Drain
► Dripping Faucet
► Water Softener Problems
► Broken Spigot
► Broken Plumbing Fixtures

Do You Have a Plumbing Problem Right Now?

Whether emergency or not, all plumbing breakdowns and malfunctions should be addressed by a licensed plumber within a reasonable time frame. Be sure to choose an experienced Indianapolis IN plumbing company that provides the necessary services for your residential or commercial plumbing emergency repair needs.

Are you looking for a trusted local plumber in Indy who can help you with all your bathroom, kitchen, basement, garage, and outdoor plumbing repair needs? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for year-round emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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My Basement is Flooded! What Do I Do?
How to Prevent Residential Plumbing Emergencies
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Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Energy Efficiency Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Wintertime certainly brings on the conversation of upgrading or replacing your water heater. This winter, if you are planning to get a new water heater for your home or office, you may be interested in considering a tankless water heater. Although tank-style water heaters are the more conventional option among residential and commercial property owners, a tankless water heater offers a unique set of energy efficiency benefits that could better suit your water heating needs, year-round.

Continue reading to learn some of the energy efficiency benefits of tankless water heaters, plus who to trust in central Indiana for professional and affordable water heater services and sales.

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

How a Tankless Water Heater Works

A tankless water heater is designed to heat water on demand using an electrical element or gas burner. So, water heaters can use gas, electricity, or propane as an energy source. On-demand means that a tankless water heater will begin to heat the water once you turn the hot water on, which is opposite of a conventional water heater that stores hot water in a tank for automatic usage.

This does mean that water from the faucet will take a bit longer to heat up or reach the desired temperature you’re after, however, tankless water heating delivers an extraordinary level of energy efficiency because the unit is not working at all times to keep stored water heated. You can also have your Indianapolis water heating plumber install a circulation pump, which can help the water travel faster to the faucet or point of demand.

Not only does this save on your monthly utility costs, but it also helps save on future water heater replacement cost. You see, tank-style water heaters are suggested to last up to three times longer than a standard tank style water heater! This makes them a highly reliable, convenient, and energy-efficient option for residential or commercial water heating.

Advantages of Tankless Water Heating

☑ Energy Efficiency
☑ Reduced Energy Consumption
☑ Cost Savings
☑ Lower Monthly Utility Bills
☑ Low Maintenance
☑ Longer Lifespan
☑ Small/Space-Saving

Do You Need a Tankless Water Heater?

Not sure if a tankless water heater is the right option for you? Ask yourself these questions to determine if tankless water heater is a compatible addition to your home or office:

Do you only use a little bit of hot water?
Are you mostly gone?
Do you have several occupants or overnight guests?
Do you run the risk of running out of hot water?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, a tankless water heater could be a beneficial investment. Talk to a trusted and experienced Indianapolis IN water heater company for personalized advice on the best water heating solutions for your house or business.

Are you interested in learning more about winter plumbing and water heating solutions for your Indiana home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services for water heaters in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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

Where to Start When You Need to Buy a Water Softener

If you have thought about adding a water softener to your home or office, there are a few things to consider first. These considerations will help you determine which type of water softener best suits your water softening and conditioning needs.

Continue reading to learn where to start when choosing a new water softener for your home or office.

Hard Water Removal Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Hard Water Removal Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Step By Step Guide to Buying a Water Softener

Buy a Hard Water Testing Kit

The first thing you need to consider is the hardness of your water. The degree of iron and other minerals in the water supply will give you an understanding on how necessary it is to purchase a water softener. Depending on where you live, the hardness of water can differ substantially. Typically, hard water is influenced by the amount of region rainfall and drought patterns. It can fluctuate from city to city. Once you have tested your water, you can continue on the path of choosing the right water softening system for your individual needs.

Determine What Size You Will Need

Choosing the right size water softener can be complicated. This is a good place to ask a professional for assistance.  It is helpful to understand exactly what a water softener does before attempting to calculate the proper size might need.

A water softener basically removes hard mineral from water, (i.e. iron, calcium, etc.) and trades it in for softer minerals like sodium. Inside these appliances are things called ion exchange resin. These act as little “chemical magnets”. The more ion magnets a water softener contains, the higher its capacity is. 

The capacity refers to the number of gallons a system can purify before it needs regenerated or recharged. The capacity is measured by grain removal per gallon. The average water supply in America has around 10 grains of hardness per gallon. Since you have used a hard water testing kit, you already know the degree of hardness in your water. 

Calculate Your Occupancy

In order to calculate how much water your home or office needs to purify, multiply the number of people in the home or building by 80.  The number eighty comes from the statistic that the average person uses 80 gallons of water per day. Simply use the formula to calculate the capacity requirements. An average family of four would require a 32000 grain water softener once the math is calculated. Refer to the example below for a better understanding.

People in House: 4
Gallons Used Per Person: 80
Gallons Used Per Day in House: 80×4=320
Grains per Gallon: 10
Grains Used Per Day: 320×10=32000

What You Need to Know About Water Softener Regeneration

A water softener requires recharging after an extended amount of usage and time. The rate at which a water softener needs regenerated is determined by its capacity. There are three different regeneration options: meter regenerated, timer regenerated, and manual regeneration.  Meter regenerated water softeners are highly efficient because they are programmed to acclimate to changes in water usage.

It only regenerates when it needs to, saving energy and money on salt pellets in the long run. Timer water softeners use a time clock to schedule and execute regeneration. No matter how much water is used, it will regenerate as programmed. Manual regenerated softeners are pretty self-explanatory at this point.  These systems do not use timers or meters to track the amount of water used per day. They require manual draining and recharging every time.

Is your water softener in need of service or repair right now? Do you need a new water softener? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for water softeners, today. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services all throughout Central Indiana.

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How Hard Water Problems Can Cost You Money
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Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet When You Do Not Have a Plunger

Toilet clogs are the worst. And they seem to always happen at the worst times, like when you are already running late for your dinner reservation, or when the pizza delivery shows up at your door and you have 5 hangry mouths to feed. To make matters even worse, you can’t find your plunger! Fortunately, there are several easy and effective ways to unclog a toilet without using a plunger, and they can all be done within a few minutes’ time.

Continue below to learn some of the top-recommended methods of fixing a clogged toilet when there is no plunger in sight. All of these methods require common household items you are sure to have on hand!

Toilet Plumbing Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Toilet Plumbing Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Unclog a Toilet Without Using a Plunger

Hot Water

If you have a sink or bathtub that provides on-demand hot water, this could be your first, go-to weapon against a clogged toilet. Simply fill up a pan or pot with heated water, but not boiling. Then just dump the hot water down your toilet bowl. Wait 3 to 5 minutes to see of the clog begins to release on its own. If so, flush the toilet once or twice to move the process along. If this does not work, try out some of these other methods!

Toilet Fizz

Not only can you use a simply solution of baking soda and distilled white vinegar to unclog a toilet, but you can also take it step further and make your own toilet bomb. Like a bath bomb, toilet bombs explode into a fizzy frenzy when dropped in water. Their bubbling action and cleansing ingredients work well against toilet clogs.

Be prepared, these methods will cause the toilet to overflow more if it is already filled to the brim. Place a towel below to catch any runoff. To use the basic combo, pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Wait 30 minutes and then pour a pot of hot water down the toilet bowl. Give it a flush or two and the clog should be gone!

If you want to make a homemade fizzy toilet bomb, combine 1 cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of citric acid, and 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap into a bowl. Then pack the paste-like mixture into an empty ice cube tray and let it dry for 2 hours. Store them in an air-sealed container or mason jar. To use, just drop one into your toilet bowl, wait 30 minutes, then finish with a hot water pour.

Liquid Dish Soap

If you have liquid dish soap in the house, you could potentially have a secret weapon for fixing toilet clogs. Just pour a generous amount of it inside your toilet bowl (about a fourth of a cup), allow it to sit for 10 minutes, then finish with a hot water pour. After a few flushes, the soap should work as an effective lubricant, allowing the clog to release and flow down.

Wire Hanger

Mommy Dearest would allow you to use a wire hanger for toilet clogs! Just find one that is thin enough for you to bend into a hook. Use it like you would a drain snake or auger, pushing it into the bowl to looses any obstructions. Repeat and flush as needed!

Are you having some serious toilet problems that require some professional attention? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for plumbing repair and service for toilets and bathrooms in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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