Author Archives: weilhammerplumbing

How to Choose a Residential Water Softener Based on Occupancy

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When it comes to home water conditioning, it is important to know how to size a water softener correctly. This way, you are sure to purchase the appropriate and most effective water purification system for your household. There are a few different ways to measure or size-up a water conditioning system. One full-proof way to determine which system to buy for your property is to consult a professional in the industry. They retain the experience and knowledge to set you in the right direction. In the meantime, it is always a good idea to catch up on simple tips and general advice for water softener systems.

Continue reading to learn how to choose a water softener for your home using some simple and basic math.

Indianapolis Water Softener Service and Repair
Indianapolis Water Softener Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Water Softener Grains Per Gallon

The best place to start when it comes to learning how to size a water softener, is by learning how the entire system all works. Basically, water softeners swap hard minerals for soft ones in a property’s water supply. Hard minerals include calcium, magnesium, and other metal ions and compounds, while soft minerals include sodium and potassium. Within a water softener, there are several tiny chemical magnets called ion exchange resin. These magnets are the agents that facilitate the mineral exchanges within the system. The more chemical magnets a water softener has, the higher its capacity will be.

Capacity is a common term measuring the number of gallons a system can purify before needing more salt or a new cartridge; depending on the type of system it is. Capacity is measured in “grains” or its rate or grain removal; and one grain per gallon is equal to 17.1 parts per million. On average, the water in the United States contains nearly 10 grains of hardness per gallon, while the average person uses 80 gallons of water per day.

Using the Water Softener Formula

By using a water hardness testing kit, you can quickly determine the level of hardness in your home’s water supply. In order to calculate the amount of water you need to purify, multiply the number of people living within the home by the number 80; and then multiply that number by the number of grains per gallon (10) to get the total number of grains used per day in a home. 

Here is an example for a family of 5:

Number of Occupants:  5
Gallons of Water Used per Person:  80
Average Grains of Hardness: 10

Gallons of Water Used Per Day: 5 x 80 = 400
Total Grains Used per Day: 400 x 10 = 4,000

✨ In this example, a 40,000 grain capacity water softener is recommended for the AVERAGE family of 5.

Water Softener Installation

One of the most common signs that your water softener needs to be replaced is increased water and energy bills. If these monthly costs are rising, there may be a problem with the efficiency or performance of your water softener. It could be caused by other plumbing issues too. Separate from performance problems, water softeners should be replaced every 8 to 10 years. You will require the services of a licensed plumber who specializes in water softeners for installation. Costs vary among businesses, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $600 or more for water softener installation.

Trusted Water Softener Advice and Service in Indianapolis

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.

Easy Tips for Cutting PVC Pipe

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Whether you are building an epic tree house in the back yard, installing some sprinkler gear, or replacing a plumbing pipe in your basement, you might find yourself faced with the need to cut PVC pipe. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a thermoplastic material that is commonly used in the plumbing and construction industry due to its excellent and useful properties. It can last indefinitely, and requires zero maintenance other than routine inspections. In the plumbing industry, you will see PVC in the form of white plastic piping material that is typically used for piping and drainage systems, but it is also commonly used to create valves, fittings, and other liquid-management supplies.

As a valuable and useful material, you do not want to waste any of your PVC pipe by cutting into incorrectly. Continue reading to learn some tips for cutting PVC pipe to help you get started on the right track.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service
Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870

What You Can Use

There are several ways you can cut PVC pipe, but the top three include using a miter saw, handsaw, or an actual PVC pipe cutter, which you can purchase online or at any local home improvement store. The method you choose will depend mostly on your skill level, comfort-level, and supplies on hand. If you are not experienced with using heavy-duty, dangerous tools like saws and cutters, it is recommended to have someone help you that is experienced. Otherwise, you can lose some fingers in a flash!

Miter Sawing

A miter saw is easily affordable at any home improvement retailer. They are powerful electric sawing devices that come in a wide array of designs, sizes, brands, and prices. Choose one that is a good fit for the frequency and type of miter sawing you plan on doing. When using a miter saw to cut PVC, be sure to slowly low the blade onto your mark in order to ensure control and accuracy. Anything electric can easily cause you to lose control or slip your grip. If you cannot pass the saw all the way through the pipe, stop the blade and twist the pipe a few degrees so the saw can finish cutting.

Hand Sawing

To hand saw, all you need is a standard hacksaw or carpenter’s saw. Just keep in mind that you will be using a lot of elbow grease to cut through PVC piping this way. To help increase your luck, be sure you use a quality saw with sharpened edges. A dull blade will not stand a chance against PVC pipe. Since you are cutting by hand, it is more challenging to get a perfectly, 90 degree square cut. So, use a miter box to help guide your cuts. You want to move your saw slowly to ensure quality and control.

PVC Cutters

You can purchase PVC pipe cutters at any home improvement or hardware store. They come in a selection of brands and styles, all of which range in quality and function. As with a miter saw, you want to be sure you choose one that will be of use again for future projects. If you are cutting smaller pipe, 2 inches in diameter or less, you can use squeeze-style PVC cutters. For pipes larger than 2 inches in diameter, you will need a heavier, rotary-style PVC cutter. As with all saws, scissors, and cutters, be sure to keep your blade sharp for better cutting results.

⚠ Got a PVC plumbing repair that might be out of your league? Call a licensed Indianapolis plumber for help!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair service 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.

Is Your Plumbing Repair an Emergency or Can it Wait?

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During this unique and challenging time, you often find yourself asking whether or not something is essential. From work and grocery store trips, to shopping, healthcare, expenses, and more, there are many facets of life where this question can be beneficial. But when it comes to plumbing repairs, the same back-and-forth contemplation can overcome you. You are anxious to know if your plumbing issue an emergency, or if it can wait until regular business hours to be repaired?

Continue reading to learn which questions to ask yourself in order to determine how serous your plumbing repairs needs are at this time.

Emergency Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis
Emergency Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis 317-784-1870

Plumbing Repair Questions to Ask Yourself

To determine whether or not you have a plumbing emergency on your hands, ask yourself these important questions:

► Do You Need the Affected Plumbing System Right Away?

Perhaps you only have one toilet or shower in your home. In this case, you likely have a plumbing repair that requires immediate attention. Otherwise, you might be checking into a hotel for access to working plumbing system! In another example, you might have a water leak. In this case, you would not want to waste any time having it repaired since water leaks tend to worsen very quickly, and lead to some of the costliest structural damages.

In contrast, if you have multiple bathrooms and only one toilet breaks down, or you have a minor leak under the sink that can be controlled by shutting off your main water valve, you can wait until the plumbing office opens the next morning to have it repaired.

► Can You Shut Off Your Water?

Most water leaks can be controlled by simply shutting off the main water valve. Not sure where yours is? Generally, you will find it in the utility room, or near the water softener and water heater. Most often, this valve can be adjusted manually, but sometimes, older valves are more stubborn, and might require a set of pliers or a wrench. If you cannot control the plumbing issue by turning off your main water supply, or you simply cannot get it to turn, you have a plumbing emergency on your hands.

► Will Letting the Plumbing Repair Sit Cause More Damage?

In some cases, a minor plumbing repair can quickly worsen, and therefore, lead to a large amount of costly structural damage. So, if your current plumbing issue is one that will get worse if you let it sit overnight, such as a water or pipe leak, you have a legitimate emergency plumbing repair need. If waiting until morning to contact a local plumber has no negative effect on the issue, you are not dealing with a plumbing emergency.

For more advice on confirming a plumbing emergency, see our blog, “What is a Plumbing Emergency?” to review several more examples.

Emergency Plumbing Service You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis 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.

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.

Plumbing Tips That Will Keep Your House Dry During Rainy Season

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Although we love springtime, the rain that comes along with it can be quite a drag to endure. But so long as the wetness of this year’s rainy season stays outside, the persistent precipitation is not much of a threat. On the other hand, if your home’s plumbing system is not up to par, you might be faced with some invasive rainfall that can lead to water leaks, pipe bursts, or worse, whole-house flooding.

So, before the next storm hits your town, continue reading to learn exactly how to ensure your home is protected through rainy season with these vital plumbing tips!

Indianapolis Water Leak Inspection 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Water Leak Inspection 317-784-1870

Tend to Plumbing Repairs ASAP

As soon as you know that your plumbing needs a repair, regardless of how minor it may seem, always address it right away. Do not procrastinate on any needed plumbing repairs because they will only worsen as the days go by. Furthermore, your plumbing system is all connected, which means one small defect somewhere can trigger other malfunctions in other areas of your home. Whether your water heater needs flushed, or you found a small water leak in the outside spigot, contact a licensed plumber as soon as possible, before the problem can get worse, and therefore, more expensive.

Water Supply Lines and Valves

One of the top causes of water damage and flooding is defective or old water supply lines and valves. How long has it been since your plumbing water lines have been inspected and replaced? If it has been longer than 1 year since you have had a full-property plumbing inspection, it is time to have one done right now. Your water supply lines and valves could be deteriorated, damaged, or rusted, all of which significantly affects the rest of your plumbing system. Has it been longer than 8 years since your water lines have been replaced? If so, even with annual inspections, it may now be time to have those water lines replaced to ensure optimal efficiency and function.

Do-it-Yourself Installation and Repairs

During rainy season, you do not want to take on any plumbing repair projects yourself, no matter how confident you are about your ability to get it done up to code. Whether it is installing a new appliance or replacing a cracked pipe underneath the bathroom sink, you do not want to risk making any mistakes that can lead to massive flooding or plumbing damage. Always enlist the services of a licensed plumber who is entirely familiar with such codes and processes.

Plumbing Service in Indianapolis You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and state-licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free advice, anytime. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including slab leak inspections and repairs, trenchless pipe repair, pipe replacement, and even services to improve water quality. 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.

Recommended Green Plumbing That Will Reduce Energy Usage

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There are plenty of ways to support the health and preservation of our environment, but only a few ways that helps save you money at the same time. Green plumbing not only reduces your energy consumption at home, it can also reduce monthly utility bills, appliance repair and replacement costs, and much more.

Continue reading for some effective green plumbing applications that can help you achieve a higher level of energy efficiency, while also providing budget security.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870

Why Green Plumbing is a Good Choice

Not only can you feel good about helping the environment and saving some cash by switching to greener plumbing options, you can feel good knowing that you are doing your part to support a better world for your children. Below are some of the top-recommended green plumbing applications you should consider incorporating into your home, whether planning a new construction project, opting for a full-service remodel, or interested in making little changes over time.

Insulated 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.

Solar Water Heating

There are several different kinds of solar heating options, all of which share similar properties and principles, but vary in ranges of efficiency. Solar heating heats a home by using solar energy derived from the sun and sunlight. Solar panels trap the solar energy and then transfers the heat to a central boiler. The boiler then heats the water and distributes it to the areas of the home upon request. All of this water is heated by the sun! If sunlight is low, or its dark outside, then the original boiler is used instead. Systems usually last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, but some have been reported lasting for more than forty!

Low Volume Restrictors

Low volume restrictors, also known as “flow” or “water” restrictors, are small, disk-shaped barriers that can be installed on certain plumbing fixtures, namely faucets and showerheads, to reduce the amount of water flow for the purpose of conserving water and energy. They are installed in various configurations, and come in numerous brands, makes, and models. Commonly, they are either added as a whole unit to replace a standard flow-directing screen on a plumbing fixture, or built in as a part of the fixture.

Water Softening

Water softeners, or conditioners, are imperative to water quality, as well as, plumbing efficiency. They eliminate hard minerals in water that damage and corrode plumbing systems with limescale buildup, rust, and more. They also improve the feel and function of water, saving you money on things like shampoo, soap, and even water since you won’t need to spend too much time trying to rinse off in the shower. Hard minerals can also negatively affect laundry, and a softener can protect your clothing and extend their life, thus reduces shopping costs.

Whole House Water Filtration

By installing activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis system, you can significantly reduce the level of contaminants in your home’s drinking water. Not only does this save money by protecting your plumbing systems, such as your water heater, pipes, and softener, it also makes your tap water taste better, which reduces bottled water costs.

The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumbing service in Indianapolis 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 Water Heater Sediment Buildup

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The actual process of heating water inside your water heater causes calcium carbonate to precipitate out of the water, and eventually settle at the bottom of the tank. The degree and rate of sediment accumulation depends upon what make and model water heater you have. Furthermore, some regions experience a higher degree of sediment buildup, adding in another factor to consider when diagnosing water heater problems. Fortunately, proper and regular flushing helps prevent sediment build up, but this service requires the assistance of a professional.   

Continue reading to learn some common problems associated with water heater sediment buildup in order to determine whether or not your unit requires professional service at this time.

Indianapolis Water Heater Service and Repair
Indianapolis Water Heater Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Not Enough Hot Water

Check for a broken dip tube, wrong setting on a thermostat, a defective thermostat, burned out heating elements (electric), or a heavy buildup of sediment.  See our blog, “Why is My Hot Water Not Working?” to learn what you can do about this issue.

Broken Dip Tube

The dip tube is a long slender tube that fits down into the water heater inlet, and usually has a small hole about 6 inches from the top. The dip tube directs the incoming cold liquid down to the bottom of the tank. If the dip tube is broken, the incoming cold liquid can mix with the outgoing hot liquid and cause it to seem as though you are running out.

Noisy Tank

One of the most common indications of sediment accumulation in water heaters is noise. Steam bubbles form under the sediment when the burners come on, and as the bubbles escape from under the sediment, noises like popping and crackling are produced. Sizzling noises can be caused by condensation dripping onto the hot burner.

Thermal Expansion

When water is heated it expands. If the inlet is not blocked by a check valve, pressure reducing valve, or other device, the increase in volume simply travels back into the source. If the inlet is blocked, this increase in volume will cause an increase in pressure, sometimes to dangerous levels. The temperature and pressure valve (T&P valve) relieves pressure by discharging some liquid. A thermal expansion tank can be installed in the line that will absorb the increase in volume, preventing the relief valve from discharging unnecessarily.

T&P valves are strictly an emergency measure and should be replaced every 2 years. At 180 degrees, the temperature that the T&P valve opens, damage can occur to your system and you may have voided the warranty on your water heater. The improper installation of backflow preventers can block the thermal expansion leading to operation of the T&P Valve.

Water Hammer

When water is traveling in the pipes it has kinetic energy (energy of motion).  When a valve shuts off suddenly a shock wave results. Hammer most often occurs when a valve shuts off suddenly. Commercial arrestors are available to combat this problem. They consist of a small air bladder within a cylinder plumbed to the piping system near the valve causing the problem. Some hardware stores carry them.  Sometimes if the piping is sagging then supporting the pipe solves the problem. See our blog, “How to Solve a Water Hammer Problem” to learn more.

Milky Colored Water

Water contains dissolved oxygen and other gases. When it’s heated it has less ability to hold these gases and when the pressure is lowered as the liquid comes out of the tap these gasses can form tiny bubbles giving the liquid a milky appearance. Letting it stand for a few minutes will allow these bubbles to rise out of the liquid and it resumes its clear appearance. See our blog, “Why is My Faucet Water Cloudy Then Clear?” to learn more about this topic.

Request a Free Water Heater Repair Quote in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable technician about water heaters, today. We are happy to answer any questions you have about water heater service, installation, maintenance, hot water problems, and more, anytime. We even offer 24 hour emergency services for water leaks, floods, and more. Call 317-714-0759 for professional water heater repair services in Indianapolis you can trust!

Can Poor Quality Plumbing Make You Sick?

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Long story short: your plumbing system can make you sick. Continue reading to learn how, and what you can do to treat and prevent plumbing-borne illness at home and in the office.

Indianapolis Emergency Plumbers
Indianapolis Emergency Plumbers 317-784-1870

Plumbing and Health Risks

Plumbing systems are intended to provide and distribute clean, safe water for consumption. So, it might surprise you that your plumbing system can actually be a cause of certain health complications and even illnesses. There are several ways a plumbing system can both cause and transmit illness. However, the top 4 most common areas that are known to generate plumbing-related health issues are water leaks, water heaters, faucets, and drains.

Drains

Clogged drains are a hotbed for all sorts of germs and bacteria, as well as mold and mildew growth. Bacteria, mold, and other types of pathogens are very harmful to a person’s health. They can cause a wide range of infections and health complications, especially in the upper respiratory system. For those who are already suffering from low immunity or respiratory issues, such transmission can be dangerous. If you notice that your shower or bathtub is draining slower than usual, you might have a working clog. Read our blog, “Unclog Any Drain With These 4 Simple Steps” to resolve this issue quickly. Be sure to always maintain your drains by keeping them clear and cleaning them regularly.

Faucets

Faucets, spouts, spigots, and valves are important parts of a plumbing system. However, many were manufactured with lead prior to 1986, as we discovered it is highly toxic. So, if yours fit this description, they might contain lead too. Long-term lead exposure can cause severe illness and health complications, including lead poisoning.

Water Heaters

Water heaters are known to rust overtime if they are not properly-maintained or replaced when necessary. When rust enters the water system, it can have negative effects on your health upon consumption. It is important to replace your water heater every 8 to 10 years, or when recommended by the manufacturer. Furthermore, have your water heater regularly serviced and flushed to avoid harmful sediment buildup that promotes rust development. Aside from rust-colored water, low water pressure may also a sign that your water heater is rusty on the inside. In either case, contact a local water heater professional for emergency service.

Water Leaks

Plumbing leaks can be a major source of disease and germs since standing water can grow all sorts of harmful organisms. Not only can water leaks cause mold and mildew growth, which spread airborne spores that are harmful to our respiratory health, it can also be a Petri dish for bacteria and other toxic pathogens. As soon as you discover a plumbing leak, contact an emergency plumber to avoid causing further damage to your walls, ceilings, floors, foundation, and more. See our blog, “The Common Signs of Leaky Plumbing Pipes” to learn what to look for.

Get Emergency Plumbing Repair For Leaks, Clogs, and More

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding counties. We service residential and commercial plumbing services, including water heater repair and water softener repair. Our state-licensed master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Should I Switch to Copper Plumbing?

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Copper plumbing has increasingly become popular due to its longevity and performance properties. So, if you are asking yourself whether or not you should renovate to copper plumbing, just ask the millions of property owners who have already made the switch. They will tell you that copper plumbing increases resale value, requires less maintenance than conventional materials, and might even render certain tax benefits.

But before you decide to move forward with copper re-piping, be sure you know which type of copper plumbing is most compatible with your property in terms of connectivity, local environmental conditions, personal preference, and overall budget. Continue reading to learn the most common types of copper plumbing and how to determine which type is right for you.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870

Copper Plumbing Options

There are three primary types of copper plumbing used in the residential and commercial markets. These include L-Type, M-Type, and K-Type copper plumbing. All copper plumbing lasts a long time, but not all shares the same level of longevity. How long your copper plumbing lasts will ultimately depend on the type you choose to install.

L-Type

This type of copper plumbing will last at least 50 years, and even up to 100 years in regions with moderate climate conditions. Due to the thickness and durability of the design, as well as its universal acceptance among building codes, most professional plumbers will recommend L-Type copper plumbing for homes and businesses. Such piping can also withstand acidic water, delivering greater assurance against premature repairs and performance issues.

M-Type

This copper plumbing is less expensive than L-Type, and accepted under most residential building codes (but not all). It generally lasts at least 50 years; however, it is possible for M-type copper plumbing to require replacement after only 20 years. If you live in an area with acidic water, or use a private well, this type of piping is not recommended. Because it is the thinnest of all three types, it is least resistance to acidity, and therefore, highly prone to corrosion.

K-Type

As the thickest in piping material, it is not a surprise that K-Type copper plumbing lasts up to 100 years or more with good care. Yet, it is not the best option for all property owners. This type of copper plumbing is usually used in non-residential applications, such as city water mains and sewer lines. Its thickness and durability allow it to withstand high levels of pressure, which is why it is used in larger-scale systems. Residential properties do not require this level of power.

Professional Recommendation for Homeowners

If you are a homeowner, the L-Type copper plumbing would be your best option. That is because it is reasonably priced, lasts a long time, and accepted under all building codes. Talk to a state-licensed master plumber for personalized advice you can trust.

The Indianapolis Master Plumber You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to speak directly with Mark Weilhammer, a licensed master plumber (License #106214), about re-piping plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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.

How to Tell if You Have Lead Plumbing Pipes

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Just because the word plumbing is derived from the Latin word for lead, plumbum, there is no place for it in a plumbing system. Although there are active laws today that prohibit any new construction with lead plumbing, there are still millions of occupied properties across the country that are built with lead pipes. If you suspect that you are living with lead pipes, protect your health and safety by confirming the truth as soon as possible.

Start by evaluating some communal facts about lead pipes, which in turn, will tell you if your home is a hazard or not.

Indianapolis Plumbing Re-Piping Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Re-Piping Services 317-784-1870

Do You Have Lead Pipes?

In order to determine if your home is equipped with lead plumbing pipes, you will need to schedule an in-person inspection with a state-licensed master plumber. However, you can get an idea of whether or not your plumbing is made of lead by learning some facts and then comparing them to your property. The 1986 Safe Drinking Water Act stopped the production and use of lead plumbing. So, homes built after this time are not likely to have lead plumbing. If your home was built before 1986, there is a possibility that your have lead pipes.  

If your plumbing fixtures and components are made from lead, you can assume that there are pipes made of lead as well. Such fixtures and components include faucets, shower heads, drains, lines, and spigots. If your plumbing pipes are soldered together with lead, there could be more lead within your plumbing elsewhere. If the water service pipeline that delivers water to your home is made from lead, you might have traces of lead in your tap water.

What to Do if You Have Lead Pipes

If you have lead plumbing pipes, you do not have to live with them. Contact a state licensed Indianapolis master plumber for information on renovating your current plumbing system within budget. In the meantime, here are some safety tips you should follow while living with lead plumbing:

? Always use cold tap water for drinking or cooking purposes. Heated or boiling water has higher traces of lead.

? Flush the water system before drinking or cooking with tap water. Just run the cold water for 5 minutes.

? Filter tap water before consuming it in any way. A certified Point-of-Use (POU) water filter should do the trick.

✨ Best Option✨ Make the switch to bottled water until your plumbing system is lead-free!

Master Plumbing Service in Indianapolis You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed water softener and plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and state-licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free advice, anytime. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including trenchless pipe repair, pipe replacement, and even services to improve water quality. 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.