Necessary Plumbing Tools to Have at Home

Posted on August 23, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you rent or own, there are some standard plumbing supplies you should always have on hand around the house in case of an emergency. Continue reading to learn which ones are recommended for your home, and how they can help you with everyday plumbing repair needs.

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Plunger

A plunger is very basic in terms of home plumbing supplies. However, many people often forget to get a new plunger when they move into a new home, and only come to realize it when they need one. Plungers are most known for unclogging toilets, but they are also useful for alleviating clogged drains in showers and sinks. Plungers come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and quality, so they will also vary in price. Fortunately, you can get yourself a perfectly good plunger for as little as a few dollars.

Adjustable Wrench

It is wise to have an adjustable wrench on hand, or a ratcheting wrench set, for everyday plumbing repair and maintenance needs. Whether your faucet is leaking, a toilet seat needs re-tightened, or your P-trap has an obstruction that needs to be removed, a wrench on hand will allow you to take care of these jobs with ease. It is especially helpful to have a wrench for faucet leaks since it can protect your home from water damage and save you money on wasted water.

Drain Snake Cleaner Kit

Sometimes a plunger is not enough to fix a clogged drain problem. Drains like bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers are known to accumulate soap residue, hair, dead skin, and more, which can cause an unrelenting obstruction after sometime. A simple drain auger, often called a “drain snake”, and some drain cleaner are the best tools to have on hand for these clogged drains. The snake pushes deep within the drain and pulls out blockage and debris, while the drain cleaner eliminates the sticky, viscous residues within. These kits are very inexpensive, and come in a wide variety of brands.

Plumbers Tape

You wouldn’t think to stock up on something like plumbers tape when moving into a new place. However, it is highly likely that you will eventually find yourself in need of some. If you are installing a new showerhead or trying to stop a leaky pipe under the sink, some plumbers tape will serve you well in a bind. Also known as “thread seal tape” and “PTFE tape”, plumbers tape is a polytetrafluoroethylene film tape that creates a seal by warping into the shape of the pipe. Costing as little as $1, and sometimes less, plumbers tape is a useful tool to have around the house.

Professional Indianapolis Plumbing 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 plumbing service and repair 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 To Expect When You Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company for Service

Posted on August 15, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Weilhammer Plumbing Company are the expert plumbers you are looking for in Central Indiana! We have been providing Hoosiers with professional plumbing services since 1901, making us the longest-standing, local industry leaders in plumbing services, installations, and repairs.

Continue reading to learn more about us, including what you can expect when you give our office a call for plumbing help!

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We are certified, state licensed master plumbers (#106214) you can trust in your home or commercial property with any plumbing need. Our teams of plumbers are highly trained, qualified, and experienced to perform a wide variety of plumbing work, for both commercial and residential properties.

Whether it’s a flooded bathroom or water heater installation, our licensed plumbers work carefully to get the job done right the first time around. When you hire our licensed plumbing repair service, you can rest assure you are getting the highest level of professional standards in the plumbing industry.

Your Initial Phone Call

Once you call our business line, you will reach one of our courteous office managers, or even the owner, Mark Weilhammer, himself! Our office manager will politely ask you a series of general questions to gather the necessary information needed to process your request.

Schedule an Appointment

Once your information is quickly recorded, our office manager will schedule a time for one of our licensed plumbers to report to your home or business. Once a slot is scheduled, you will see for yourself that our plumbers arrive on time, every time.

Our Arrival

When you answer the door at the time you had scheduled, you will notice that our plumbing technician is clean and well-dressed with his shirt tucked in and a smile on his face. We even have disposable boot covers per your request. Once we have introduced ourselves as Weilhammer Plumbing Company, upon your invitation, we will enter your home or business.

What We Will Do

From there, we will conduct an inspection, assess any damages, and provide you with a clear and informative analysis and written estimate. As mentioned before, we never pressure clients to purchase or use our services. That means the next step rests on your shoulders!

Make the Right Call Today!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing repair you can trust. We have been in 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.

Facts About Residential Trenchless Water Line Repair

Posted on August 9, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

These days, everyone is looking for a solution to do things faster and more efficient. When it comes to trenchless pipe repair, our master plumbing experts have it covered.

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Residential Water Lines

Most underground pipeline in older neighborhoods was constructed in the 1940’s and 1950’s. They were built to only last around fifty years, which means many of them today are in need of maintenance, repair, or replacement. To carry out this task, it would mean obstructing numerous busy roads, highways, neighborhoods, and more with digging, demolition, and drilling.

Since this is never a desirable option, an alternative was developed in its place. Engineers have designed a system to repair these pipes without excavating the land all around us called water pipe lining, which is a trenchless solution to underground pipe repair and maintenance. Continue reading to learn more.

Trenchless Pipe Repair

This new innovative solution to underground pipe repair works in a very special way. The process prevents the deterioration of the inner lining of the pipes from natural corrosion. It does require minimal digging, but only at two points: the start and the end. Furthermore, only a small area is required to be excavated, and hardly interferes with the surrounding environment.

A small remote controlled mechanism or machine is dropped in the hole at the start and it pulls a water proof polyethylene lining behind it. This creates a brand new pipe within the existing pipe, adding years of durability and use. This entire process reduces city expenses and time spent on repairing underground pipe line in residential neighborhoods all across the country. It is an eco-friendly solution that is advantageous for both home owners and city dwellers, as well as, cost effective and fast.

Indianapolis Master Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our state licensed master plumbers specialize in residential and commercial plumbing services, including water heaters and water softeners, and can even provide same day service and emergency repairs. Request a free estimate, today.

Summertime Plumbing Tips That Will Save You Money

Posted on July 19, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

This summer, there are several ways you can save water and energy; all you have to do is make some changes to your plumbing practices! Continue reading to learn some of the most recommended summertime plumbing tips that will save you time and money!

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Aside from winter, the summer is one of the harshest and most impactful seasons on a property’s plumbing. Extreme temperatures and inclement weather can cause all sorts of problems with your water lines, water heaters, washing machines, drains, pipes, and more. But with the proper knowledge, you can implement a preventative maintenance plan that will reduce your energy and water consumption this season, and therefore, save you money every year!

Important Summer Plumbing Tips

Topic: Landscaping Trees and Shrubbery

Problem: Roots are meant to be invasive, and they survive by drawing themselves toward water sources. For properties that have trees and extensive shrubbery in their front lawns, these sources often include underground sewer lines and plumbing systems, which can be highly damaging and cause water leaks.

Tip: Be sure to have your plumbing system inspected to ensure your underground water lines are in good condition. You will require a routine leak detection service to confirm that your plumbing is leak-free and protected this summer.

Topic: Vacation and Trips

Problem: Gas water heaters use water and energy. Furthermore, they will continue to heat the property’s water when you leave for vacation or a long trip. This continuous usage will also reflect on your energy bills.

Tip: Turn your water heater temperature down before you leave on a trip to save money on your gas bill. It is also helpful to have your water heater serviced and inspected before a long trip to ensure you won’t come home to no hot water, a flooded house, or worse.

Topic: Laundry and Washing Machines

Problem: Summertime means hotter weather, which means more outdoor activities, hydration, and of course, perspiration. So this time of year, it is likely that you are doing more laundry, thus using your washing machine more.

Tip: You want to be sure your washing machine and connections are in good condition so that you are not wasting any water or energy. Have your washing machine water lines and connections inspected by a professional Indianapolis plumber. They may recommend for you to replace your water hoses for better performance, which should be done every 3 years or so.

Topic: Watering the Lawn and Garden

Problem: Summertime is a hot time, which means that your lawns and gardens require more hydration, just like you. But if you water your lawns and gardens at the wrong time of day, you risk losing money, wasting water, and missing your time. That is because the water will evaporate before it even has a chance to fully soak into the ground.

Tip: Water your lawns and gardens early in the morning or late in the evening. This is when the sun is least intense, so the water will have time to penetrate and do its job. This is the most efficient use of your water, time, and money!

Indianapolis Plumbing Company

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.

Tips for DIY Home Plumbing Inspections

Posted on July 12, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

If you own your home, then you understand the importance of maintaining your plumbing systems through every season. Indoor and outdoor plumbing are both complex systems that require upkeep and regular maintenance in order to sustain a healthy and fully functioning system.

Continue reading to learn what types of Do-It-Yourself maintenance you can provide for your home plumbing.

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How to Inspect Your Home Plumbing

After some time, the pipes in your home can begin to corrode, rust, and deteriorate due to moisture accumulation, time, and other conditional variables. When you first purchase a home, it is vital to learn the type of pipes and plumbing system your house runs on; this way, it can be easy to determine how often the plumbing needs attention.

Brass pipes and steel piping can last up to one hundred years; while similar types of piping, such as copper, can last around seventy to eighty years. If you have just purchased a house that is over 50 years old, it would be a safe idea to have the system inspected by a professional plumbing company. If it is a newly developed unit, then be sure to keep your eye on the plumbing and the pipes periodically in order to avoid exponential decay, leaks, and other plumbing issues.

By simply checking your pipes for flaking, chipping, and rust, you can stop a plumbing disaster before it even happens. Routine inspections are important to know what condition your home plumbing system is in. If you want the most accurate and professional advice, you should consult a licensed Indianapolis plumber for questions and general information.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service You Can Trust!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing service you can trust. We have been in 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. Call owner, Mark Weilhammer, at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or plumbing advice, today.

Important Warnings Regarding Residential Slab Leaks

Posted on July 6, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Slab leaks create serious problems for homeowners. A slab leak is water leakage from pipes in your plumbing system. These pipes are located under the concrete foundation of a home, which is where the complications come from. When a slab leak is discovered, it is important to take action right away by contacting a professional plumbing repair company for immediate emergency service.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about slab leaks, including which signs to look out for and what to do if you suspect a water leak in your plumbing system.

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Underground Plumbing Pipes

Plumbing contractors favor underground piping systems for a number of reasons. For one, it is less expensive and easier to connect the main line to the in-home fixtures when you use an underground approach. This is because there is no need for drilling, extra materials, and fastening various pipes to the interior walls.

Another reason has to do with insulation. Under the ground, the piping is shielded from high and low temperatures, making it naturally insulated from extreme weather conditions. So no extra insulation is required. These are just a few reasons why plumbing contractors prefer to install home plumbing systems under the concrete slabs of the house. Although there are many advantages to installing underground plumbing pipes, there are also some downfalls, in particular, slab leaks.

Slab Leak Repair

Slab leaks are very hard to detect because they are underground and out of site. When a slab leak actually occurs, most cases require the floor to be excavated in order to reach the water leak. This is why slab leak repair is costly and complex. Slab leaks are easier to repair when they are discovered early on. Less water accumulation and saturation under your floors is faster and easier to restore. Long term leakage can result in major excavation and restorations.

If you hear the sound on flowing, running, or dripping water anywhere within your walls or basement, then you may have a slab leak. Also, an unusually high water bill is another sign of water leakage. If you see saturated wet areas of your yard, basement, or other areas of the home, it could mean a slab leak as well. In this case, you would need to contact a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for professional detection and repair services.

Indianapolis Slab Leak Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for trusted Indianapolis slab leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed master plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town, including water leak detection and repair. Request a free estimate, today.

What You Need to Understand About Water Heater Maintenance

Posted on June 20, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Installation and Repair 317-784-1870

For the everyday homeowner, water heater maintenance can be a complicated task. This is because major appliances such as these run on a very careful system. It is important to consult a professional for repair questions and advice before attempting any “Do-It-Yourself” work. Be sure to also do extensive research when it comes to routine and regular maintenance responsibilities. These can be extremely beneficial for the appliance’s performance value and life span.

If your appliance has a warranty, it is best to refer to the manual to determine if there is a section for DIY maintenance and care. Some warranties include service work for parts and appliances, depending on the brand and company it’s purchased through. Get these types of details at the time of purchase so you are prepared when the time comes for routine water heater service.

How to Maintenance a Water Heater

It is highly recommended to call a licensed Indianapolis water heater plumber to service water heaters and other plumbing appliances in your home. As mentioned before, these are complicated systems that require the attention of a skilled and knowledgeable professional. It can be tricky learning how to repair a water heater on your own. Even if you have some experience in the field, it is beneficial to consult a licensed expert for assistance. This can reduce the amount of costly replacements and potential repairs.

A licensed water heater technician should drain and flush the hot water tank one time every year. This can eliminate sediment buildup and avoid costly repairs. Sediment buildup can cause corrosion, rust, and foul smelling water. There are many other important areas that a professional will inspect during a water heater service job. This includes the temperature and pressure relief valve (T&PR valve), the anode rod, the water tank, the thermocouple or pilot control valve, the thermostat, and much more.

Additional Maintenance Tips:

☑ Always keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the hot water heater, unless the manual tells you otherwise.

☑ Drain the water heater tank a quarter of the way once every year to eliminate sediment buildup. This should be performed by a professional.

☑ Adjust the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees. For every 10 degrees you lower the temperature, you can save up to 5% in energy costs.

☑ Check the water pressure. If it is above 80 psi (code maximum), you should have a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) installed by a professional.

☑ Set the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) between 50 and 60 psi to protect your other appliances.

☑ If you have a closed plumbing system, you will need to have an expansion tank installed to prevent water heater damage. In fact, plumbing codes require this, and always have.

Trusted Indianapolis Water Heater Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for hot water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, and specialize in water heater installation and repair for all make and model units. Request a free estimate, today.

Avoid Basement Water Damage By Monitoring These Areas

Posted on June 13, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Most homeowners worry about water damage in their basement. After all, water damage is one of the most destructive types of damage a home can experience; furthermore, water damage is tedious, intrusive, and costly to repair. Even though most homeowners’ insurance policies will cover the cost of water damage in your basement, it is something you want to prevent at all costs. So how can you tell if you are accumulating water in your home? All you have to do is keep an eye out for certain red flags.

Continue reading to learn which areas of your basement you should pay attention to after heavy rain and precipitation in order to stay on top of water damages and repairs.

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Drain Pipes

Water and drain pipes in your basement can sometimes look as if they are sweating. This is called pipe condensation. When this situation occurs, you could face possible mold, mildew, and corrosion issues. To avoid this problem or to resolve it completely, install reliable insulation on all your pipes.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling systems are not always located in the basement; however, in older homes, it is common to find them there. If your HVAC system is in your basement, be sure to maintenance and service it regularly. This includes checking the drain pans and clearing out any obstruction to ensure consistent water flow. Cleaning and replacing furnace and air conditioning filters is imperative to a smooth operating system and superior performance. All these things combined can prevent water back flow and water accumulation in your basement.

Interior Water Damage

Interior water damage includes moisture on walls and ceilings. If you notice that walls are moist or dripping with water, this could be a sign of water damage or concern in your home. Anytime a ceiling looks wet or discolored, there is a chance it is being caused by water accumulation or miss-flow. This is a huge red flag and should be looked into immediately. The longer a water leak goes untended, the worse the damage will be.

Slab Leaks

Slab leaks are serious issues that require immediate repair. In fact, they happen to be one of the riskiest plumbing problems for a property. The longer a slab leak goes unresolved, the more destruction can occur to the rest of your plumbing, including the property’s foundation as a whole. The most common signs of a slab leak include increased utility bills, floor and wall cracks, or mold growth. If you notice these signs, it is time to contact a professional Indianapolis plumbing company for slab leak detection and repair services.

If you discover a water leak in your basement, or any other area of your property, contact a state licensed Indianapolis plumber immediately. It is important to act fast before a leak can turn into a flood, which can then turn to tedious and costly renovations.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair Pros

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis water leak detection and repair you can afford. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides residential and commercial plumbing services, including 24 hour emergency plumbing repair. Our team of licensed and insured plumbers deliver safe and effective plumbing repair at an affordable price. Request a free estimate, today.

Common Causes for Low Water Pressure at Home

Posted on June 6, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Have you become exhausted of low water pressure issues in your shower, bathtub, sinks, and hoses? Does it take a long time to wash the soap out of your hair? Or fill the bathtub for your kids? How about watering the garden? You will be happy to learn that ALL of these water pressure issues can be turned around with one simple phone call to your trusted Indianapolis plumber!

Continue reading to learn how to determine the culprit behind your low water pressure problems, and how to get it back.

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Got Low Pressure Water?

Many people wonder what happened to the water pressure in their homes, or why their pressure of water is so weak altogether. There are various reasons behind the dilemma. On one hand, a person can move into a home that has great water pressure, but after some years, it begins to fade. This can be a somewhat confusing and frustrating situation. On the other hand, a person could live in a home that has always had low water pressure but can’t figure out a remedy. Under any circumstance, the issue usually concerns the home’s plumbing pipes and system.

Defective Underground Pipes

One common reason for low water pressure is disruption of the underground pipes that carry water from the main water supply into a home. If this pipe is leaking, dripping, or being interfered by tree roots, there could be implications to the amount of water pressure, as well as, other plumbing problems.

Calcium buildup and large deposits of chemicals can also case blockage and slower water flow. This could be the answer for homeowners who feel they have lost their water pressure over the years. If the pipes are old, they could begin to atrophy and deteriorate, causing the same type of complications. This one reason why it is important to recognize general plumbing repair signs in your home.

Thin Piping

Another reason behind low water pressure in homes is thin piping. This is common in older homes especially. Smaller pipes lead to greater friction, which causes slower water flow. Replacing thin plumbing pipes is always an option, and more affordable than you would think. If this is an option you are willing to consider, be sure to consult a licensed and insured plumbing company for proper inspections, installations, and a guarantee on work.

Renting a Home or Apartment?

If you are a renter, perhaps you could discuss the upgrade with the homeowners. Better water pressure does increase the value of a home, in a buyers’ perspective. If that doesn’t work, you can try replacing the shower and faucet fixtures. Sometimes there is buildup in these types of fixtures that cause low water pressure.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company 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.

The Basic Components of a Home Plumbing System

Posted on May 14, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

For new homeowners, it is recommended to learn and understand the basic components of your plumbing system. Not only can this knowledge protect you from plumbing disasters, it can help save money down the road by using DIY repairs. The plumbing system within a home is not as complicated as it seems.

Continue reading to learn the basics surrounding your home plumbing system.

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Two Plumbing Systems in One

A typical home plumbing system is divided into two sub-systems. One system is designed to bring fresh water in, while the other is setup to take waste water out. In the fresh water system, pressure is crucial. The water pressure is what sends the water flowing into a home, up and down levels, and anywhere else it is needed. Every home has a water meter that observes and records the amount of water taken in. All fresh water that is passed into the home is run through this meter and recorded for bill payments.

Near the water meter is another important feature of a home plumbing system; the emergency shut-off valve. Also called the main water shut off or stop, this valve is used to stop water flow into the house during a plumbing emergency. Most home fixtures have their own shutoff valve, so stopping the entire home water flow may be unnecessary in some situations. If a toilet is overflowing, use the toilet shutoff valve to stop the flooding. If a person is experiencing a major plumbing emergency, this is when the main stop should be used.

If a homeowner needs cold water, the supply is ready to go; however, if hot water is required, there is an additional step. When hot water is requested, it is taken from the cold fresh supply and transferred to a hot water heater. From there, the heated water is carried through a series of hot water lines to all areas of the home that use and require hot water.

The Indianapolis Plumbing Company To Trust

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing service you can trust. We have been in 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. Call owner, Mark Weilhammer, at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or plumbing advice, today.