Easy Ways to Prevent Bathroom Plumbing Repair

Posted on October 18, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When comparing the cost of preventative maintenance and hiring a master plumber for bathroom plumbing repairs, the numbers do not lie. Preventative plumbing maintenance is a whole lot cheaper than plumbing repair work; it’s also much easier and a lot faster. So when faced with the task of up keeping your bathroom’s plumbing, it is wise to take the initiative and get it done! Continue reading to learn some easy bathroom plumbing tips that double as wise preventative maintenance as well.

Toilets

When it comes to the commode, regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to stop plumbing issues before they begin. Toilets are known most to clog or leak. Both are issues that are not fun to deal with, so be sure to do what’s necessary to prevent them from happening. For example, one easy way to see if the tank has a leak is to use good old-fashioned food coloring. Choose an easy-to-spot color like red or green. Steer clear of blue if you already use a blue toilet bowl dye. Squeeze two to three drops into the toilet tank (not the bowl!) and then wait thirty minutes.

After a half an hour, go ahead and check the toilet bowl for any signs of color. If you see the food coloring in the toilet bowl, you know your toilet tank is leaking. You can gauge the level of leakage by the hue of color. The darker the color, the more leakage is taking place. If you do see color you can still relax because it probably just needs a simple flapper or ball replacement. Any local plumber can do this for cheap, or you can do this on your own.

Another very important and primary rule of thumb for toilets is to be cautious of what you are flushing and how much. This means never using your toilet as a trashcan. Flush only small disintegrable items down the toilet, and use as little toilet paper possible. Avoid flushing cotton ball, ear swabs, face wipes, rubber bands, and anything else that can potentially clog the pipes. If you do get a clog, try the plunger a few times; but if that fails, it may be time to call a plumber for help.

Sinks, Showers, and Drains

As for bathroom sinks, leaks can be a common problem. Once a week, it is wise to inspect the faucet, as well as the drain pipe underneath the sink for excess moisture, leaks, or sitting water. Catching a leak in its early stages can avoid large repair bills. Another bathroom plumbing is for the drains. Whether the sink or shower, it is very wise to install a drain strainer to catch pipe-clogging materials like hair, floss, soap chips, and more. It may require a plumber for installation, but it is a worthwhile investment to prevent future costly repairs.

For bathtubs, you want to make sure your drain stoppers are sealed properly. To check this, simply fill your bathtub with 6 to 8 inches of water and mark its level. Come back in thirty minutes to see if the water level as dropped at all. If it has, you may need to have your drains resealed. And for shower heads, get rid of mineral lime-calcium build up by soaking it overnight in vinegar and rinsing clean with fresh water in the morning. This will improve water pressure and prevent plumbing issues.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis

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Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for bathroom plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, offers all plumbing services and repairs at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis. Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. today and see for yourself!

The Benefits of Epoxy Pipe Lining

Posted on October 9, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Plumbing pipes corrode over time. And neglecting to address this issue until a clog or rupture occurs will cost you a lot. Corroded pipes that burst or backup is an extremely messy, tedious, and invasive repair project. The results can force a person or family out of their home for quite some time, influence tenants to break leases, and even pose health hazards.

For this reason, proper and routine plumbing care is necessary to avoid pipe damage and health problems, as well as, to protect your home’s structural integrity. One innovative and effective method to preventing pipe corrosion and subsequent problems is epoxy pipe lining. Continue reading to learn more about epoxy pipe lining, how it works, and how it can benefit your home for years to come.

Plumbing Pipe Repair

Pipe repair, also referred to as “re-piping” in the plumbing industry, is not a quick and simple process. In fact, it requires the skills of a true licensed master plumber, not just a standard or contract plumber. These plumbers are fully-certified to manage the most complex and dangerous plumbing services, designs, and repairs. Re-piping is invasive, and simple replaces old piping materials with new ones; new ones that will only need to be replaced over and over again. It requires a long stint of work, time, money, and mess, and doesn’t always fix the underlying problem. Fortunately, there is an alternative to re-piping called epoxy pipe lining.

Epoxy pipe lining is a new, innovative plumbing technology that allows pipes to be repaired without all the invasive work and demolition. The process simply involves relining the existing plumbing pipes with the epoxy coating, to reinforce and stabilize existing pipe works. It is a cutting-edge, efficient method to repairing cracks, breaks, and vulnerabilities in plumbing pipes, without all the hassle and frustration. This technology allows pluming pipe problems to be foreseen and managed before they even occur.

Not only is it efficient and less-evasive, it is cost-effective as well. Rather than starting demolition on location, digging holes and drilling into underground piping, epoxy pipe lining simply uses existing entrance points to access the plumbing pipes that need repaired. This saves a substantial amount of time, labor costs, money, and mess. The epoxy pipe lining inner coating material is safe and non-toxic, keeping drinking water contaminant-free and safe to use for all applications. It inhibits sewage from entering local water systems as well. A master plumber can explain all the details to pipe re-lining and repair in regards to your particular and unique plumbing system.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumbing pipe repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is eager to solve your plumbing problems! We offer the most competitive prices for residential and commercial plumbing repair in town!

Product Defects and Manufacturing Flaws in FVIR Gas Water Heaters

Posted on October 2, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

If anyone is in the market for a new FVIR gas water heater, they should do some further research before making any final purchasing and installation decisions. There have been several consumer reports and reviews, as well as, plumber experiences, which identify product defects in these water heaters. Continue reading to catch up on all the warnings associated with FVIR gas water heaters, and the complications that have risen for homeowners all across the nation.

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FVIR Gas Water Heater Problems

Many master plumbers and water heater contractors have seen countless problems, troubles, and complications with FVIR gas water heaters. You can trust that their expert and educated opinions regarding these hot water heaters are accurate and reliable.

Here’s what they have found:

Many brands of FVIR water heaters come with a lint filter. If this lint filter is not manually cleaned quarterly, by the owner, then the warranty is completely void. They usually do not tell you this at the time of purchase. Instead, homeowners have had to learn this lesson the hard way; unexpectedly.

Also, several FVIR brand hot water heaters have Class Action Lawsuits against them! They have more than 1,500 consumer complaints regarding the complications and shaky warranties they come with.

For those who already purchased an FVIR gas water heater, and cannot return it for a refund or trade out, it is highly recommended to at least install it in a catch pan. This prevents a load of leakage problems and more.

Also, it is strongly suggested to install a T&P valve (Thermal Expansion Tank and Pressure Valve) for properties with a closed-loop system and high water pressure. This can cost anywhere between $400 and $800, depending on the level of difficulty and time required.

Most warranties that come with FVIR water heaters are shaky at best. Their labor warranties are terrible and most consumers are forced to pay for part replacements, repairs, and more, out of pocket.

If you need to install a new hot water heater in your home or commercial property, consult a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for expert advice and industry information. They can give you trusted advice on which brand water heaters are best for your home and hot water needs. You can trust that they know exactly what you need, all within your budget.

Hot Water Heater Repair and Installation

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Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need hot water heater repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry and offers a wide range of water heater services for commercial and residential properties. Request a free estimate, today.

The Benefits of Dual Flush Toilets

Posted on September 18, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Many homeowners are opting for a new money-saving plumbing technology called duel-flush toilets. Although they have been around for several years, the innovative advancements are now more energy efficient than ever before. Continue reading to learn more about duel flush toilets and why they have become so popular today.

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Dual Flush Abilities

A dual flush toilet is simply a toilet that is a variation of the standard toilet that uses two buttons or handles to flush different levels of water. Some studies have shown that these toilet systems can save up to 65% water compared to a traditional toilet system. This is one of the major reasons why dual flush toilets are a top choice for both residential and commercial properties. In fact, some cities have ordinances in place that mandate all new construction buildings be built with dual flush toilet systems.

Saving Water

To understand just how much water a dual flush toilet can save, you must consider the average amount of water per flush. A standard toilet uses an average of 7 gallons of water per flush. Depending on the make and model chosen, a dual flush system can use as little as 1.7 gallons of water per flush. With these numbers in mind, think about how many times a day each member of your household flushes the toilet. This can give you an idea of how much water you can save on an annual basis. In terms of cost-savings, there is not a huge benefit. However, the environmental impact is incredible.

Buying a Dual Flush Toilet

Because the market of dual flush toilets is continuously growing, there are several make and models to choose from. More and more manufacturers are designing toilets with better features, such as comfort and efficiency. When choosing a dual flush system, it is recommended to buy a two button model. This helps conserve more water since the risk of using the wrong flush is lower. Also, be sure to hire a licensed Indianapolis plumber for dual flush toilet installation. The plumbing for these system are a bit more complex than standard toilets, so the installation process requires more knowledge, skill, and training. You do not want to risk installing a dual flush toilet yourself. This can also void the warranty in some cases.

Indianapolis Toilet Installation

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for all your Indianapolis toilet installation needs. Owner Mark Weilhammer provides residential and commercial plumbing service, as well as, master plumber services. He is a state-licensed master plumber who can deliver safe and effective plumbing repair at an affordable price. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today.

How Do I Know if I Have a Hard Water Problem?

Posted on September 11, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Are you concerned that your home’s water is not as pure and soft as it could be? Perhaps your current water softener needs replaced, and you have not noticed the signs suggesting a hard water problem yet. If you are ready to evaluate your water, start by looking for hard water evidence around the home. Continue reading to learn the common signs of hard water and the best solutions to the problem.

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Hard water is water that contains high traces of hard mineral ions. The most common hard minerals include iron, calcium, and magnesium. But aside from hardness, there are several more contaminants found in hard water than just these three. These contaminants can alter the way your water looks, tastes, and feels. It is in your best interest to quickly identify a hard water problem and implement the proper strategies to correct the mineral imbalance.

Signs of Hard Water:

✦ White Film on Surfaces or Dishes
✦ Cloudy Glass
✦ White Spots on Glass
✦ Greasy, Dull Hair
✦ Itchy, Dry Skin
✦ Dingy/Smelly Laundry
✦ Stiff Laundry
✦ Slowed or Lack of Hot Water
✦ Lack of Soap Suds
✦ Metallic Smell in Tap Water
✦ White Crust around Plumbing Fixtures
✦ Increase in Water Consumption
✦ Increased Energy and Utility Bills

Effects of Hard Water

Hard water can also negatively affect your water-related appliances and systems, such as your water heater, boiler, washing machine, plumbing pipes, and more. The accumulation of sediment causes the internal workings of these systems to corrode overtime, leading to poor performance, safety issues, and costly repairs. For these reasons and more, it is vital to maintain a functioning water softener. Water softeners are the best method of removing hard mineral ions from a home’s water. If you do not have one already, this is your answer to your hard water problem. Be sure to contact a licensed plumber for help with water softener advice, selection, installation, and service.

Indianapolis Water Softener Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a reliable Indianapolis water softener service you can afford. Our licensed plumbers always show up on time and ready to work! Owner, Mark Weilhammer and his team retain decades of experience in the plumbing industry. We offer a wide range of water softener and plumbing repair for both commercial and residential properties. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today!

Boiler Repair Advice You Need to Take

Posted on September 5, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Boiler Repair 317-784-1870

When it comes to your water heating, a guarantee can go a long way. This is why it is recommended to always call on a professional for boiler repair and service. Repairing, replacing, and maintaining a residential boiler is a complicated task that requires industry specific knowledge and experience. There are many topics, such as combustion, turndown ratios, and flame safeguard systems that are foreign to most homeowners. A professional plumber can assess damages and determine weaknesses with the help of their state-of-the-art equipment and industry technology.

Signs of Needed Boiler Repair

There are various signs that indicate you need boiler repair. Keep a lookout for these signs, and call a licensed plumber right away to prevent a small problem from turning into a large, costly one. Here are the most common signs that a boiler is in need of service or repair:

It is making strange sounds. This is usually a sign that there is lime scale buildup on the heat exchanger unit. The restricted water flow can cause strange gurgling or squealing noises.

It is turning on and off. A boiler that continues to turn on and then shut off is wasting energy. This is a symptom of low water pressure, a closed valve, or a problem with the connecting thermostat.

There is water pooled around the base. If you see water dripping or pooling around the boiler, there is likely a malfunctioning component internally.

It is giving off an odd or foul odor. This should be treated as an emergency since the odors could be caused from a dangerous gas leak. Contact a licensed plumber immediately, even if it is after-hours. Find an emergency plumber who can help.

Your radiators are cold. Sludge buildup in the boiler could cause your radiators to not heat up as much as they should. If only the top is cold, you need to bleed it. If the entire radiator is cold, it is likely the boiler.

Boiler Inspection and Repair

If you notice that your boiler is not functioning properly, or is acting suspiciously, it is important that you contact a professional plumbing repair company right away. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is ignoring an appliance problem until it gets worse. Once the issue becomes worse, the expense gets higher. The second largest mistake homeowners make is turning a repair job into a DIY task. Boiler installation and repair is complex and requires training and experience to understand completely. To avoid high and frequent repair costs, be sure to have your boiler serviced and inspected at least once per year. This will keep you updated on the performance value of your appliance, and forewarn you of any approaching repair needs.

Indianapolis Boiler Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis boiler repair and water heater repair 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. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate today!

Common Signs of a Sewer Line Leak

Posted on August 14, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Properly functioning sewer lines are a priceless commodity. Your personal comfort and quality of life depend on their performance. So when they start to show signs of a problem, you must act fast to preserve your home’s plumbing operation.

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Sewer lines are common targets for problems like corrosion and blockage, but one of the most frustrating of all sewer line issues are leakages. Unfortunately, detecting a sewer line leak often comes with some difficulty since they are located underground. This is even more troubling since it is vital to catch a leak in its earliest stages in order to prevent costly repairs and renovations. However, with routine plumbing inspections provided by a licensed plumber, you can ensure that your home’s sewer lines are in optimal condition. It also helps to know what the signs are for a sewer line leak. This knowledge will help you catch a leak early enough to prevent a sewer line disaster.

Here are some signs of a sewer line leak:

➥ Sounds of running water, even when water is shut off. If you hear water running inside the walls after you turn off your faucets, there could be a sewer line leak.

➥ Floor feels soft, moist, or appears discolored. If an area of your floor seems moist or soft, or has changed color in a certain spot, or all three, it could be a result of pooling water around the sewer line leak.

➥ Odors emitting from walls or floors. If you smell a musty or strange odor near certain areas of your walls or floors, it could be from water accumulation resulting from a leak.

➥ Noticeable landscaping or grade changes. Settling waste water from a sewer line leak can cause unusual plant growth patterns, as well as, sunken or wet patches in lawns.

➥ A sudden rodent problem. Rodents are attracted to settling waste water and the insects it attracts.

➥ An unusually high water bill. Leaks mean that your home is using more water than you think you are using. This leads to an unexpected costly water bill.

What Should You Do?

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

If you notice one or more of the above signs, it is vital that you contact our Indianapolis plumbing company right away. The sooner you address the possibility of a leak, the cheaper and easier it will be to resolve the problem if a leak exists. Weilhammer Plumbing Company has been in business for over 100 years. Trust owner, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed and insured plumbers, to deliver exceptional and affordable plumbing repair, replacements, diagnostics, installations, equipment sales, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today!

The Best Method for Leaky Faucet Repair

Posted on August 7, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

A leaky faucet may seem like a minor plumbing repair, but most often, they are a sign of something a bit more serious. It is important to determine the cause of a leaky faucet and resolve the issue before it can evolve into a serious plumbing repair. Continue reading to learn the best method for repairing a leaky faucet and be on your way to overall plumbing protection!

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Although you may have had some success in the past resolving your own minor plumbing and handyman issues at home, a leaky faucet is not one of those tasks. That is because a leaky faucet is usually a result of a much larger problem, which requires professional diagnostics and repair. Only a licensed plumbing contractor can offer you this service. This is your answer to the best method of leaky faucet repair!

What Can You Expect From Your Plumber?

After you find a reputable and licensed plumber to address your leaky faucet issues, you can expect them to take a certain course of action upon arrival. They will usually start by asking you a few questions about your home’s plumbing history, including when you started to notice the faucet leak. After a brief discussion, your plumber will begin their initial inspection. During this inspection they will likely:

➀ Disassemble the faucet;
➁ Determine the cause of the leak;
➂ Replace or repair any defective faucet components;
➃ Reassemble the faucet to test it;
➄ Provide additional plumbing advice for future protection against leaks.

Because faucets have small moving parts, overtime, they can weaken and deteriorate. This is one of the most common causes behind a dripping faucet. It is also one of the main reasons why you need a professional plumber to address your leaking faucet issues. A simple tightening is not always the solution, especially when faucet parts need replaced. Talk to your plumber today at your leaky faucet so that you can protect yourself from future costly water leaks and plumbing repairs.

Who Can You Trust for Expert Plumbing Repair and Advice?

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.

Plumbing Tips for Commercial Property Owners

Posted on August 1, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Learn How to Prevent Plumbing Problems and Repairs

Commercial Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

As a new commercial property owner, your schedule is likely filled from top to bottom with a hundred things to do. Although you are on a tight agenda, you must be sure to include plumbing maintenance on your list. Proper plumbing and preventative maintenance are imperative in order to prevent inconvenient plumbing issues, and worse, costly plumbing disasters. Continue reading to learn what you need to do as a commercial property owner to protect your building’s plumbing system and overall structural integrity.

☛ Start With Durability

The first part of wise commercial plumbing maintenance is to make sure your system is durable and can withstand the test of time. Do this by opting for high quality fixtures, materials, and enhancements that are best suited for your regions climate. Older buildings tend to have older plumbing, so it is very wise to have these fixtures and systems updated with newer, innovative plumbing systems. This is especially important if your building has lead pipes. Talk with your engineer about the condition of your building’s plumbing to determine whether or not the system is outdated.

☛ Consider Maintenance a Fixed Cost

Investment protection is one of the most important aspects of owning a commercial property. For this reason, preventative and routine maintenance should be a fixed need that is automatically added into the monthly budget for expenses. This protects you by reducing the chances a whole-system breakdown, wide-scale replacement project, invasive repair, or spending endless dollars on minor reoccurring plumbing problems. Have your commercial plumbing system inspected by a licensed plumber at least once per year to ensure your plumbing is up to code and operating efficiently. They will check water heaters, water softeners, pipes, drains, septic systems, sump pumps, fixtures, sinks, showers, tubs, and more.

☛ Do Your Part

There are many important things you should do as a commercial building owner to help keep your plumbing in good condition. For instance, when temperatures drop below freezing, it is wise to let your faucets drip water to prevent your pipes from freezing up. Also, be sure to contact a professional plumber as soon as you suspect a problem with your plumbing. The sooner a problem is addressed, the less damage will result. You can also do your part by keeping drains clean and clear, replacing the salt in your water softeners, having your water-related appliances professionally serviced once a year (i.e. water heater, water softener, etc.), and keeping up with all the other necessary plumbing care you have always known and practiced.

Indianapolis Plumbing Contractors

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for commercial plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbers, but answer your questions about commercial plumbing service, water softening, hot water heaters, hard water, and more. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today.

Basement Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Posted on July 18, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

The basement in your home is just like any other room in the house, therefore, it requires the same level of attention when it comes to something as significant and influential as plumbing. Whether your basement is finished or not, it is important to implement all the necessary basement maintenance tasks in order to protect it from future plumbing problems and costly repairs. Continue reading to learn what you should be doing and when you should be doing it, in regards to your basement’s plumbing.

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Water Shut-Off

It is vital that you and every member of your family know where the main water shut off valve is located on the property. In the case of a burst pipe, heavy leak, or flood, shutting of the water supply to the house is a critical step in managing the problem. In most homes, the main water shut off is located where the main supply pipe enters the house coming up through the basement floor. This is usually near or next to the main water meter on the exterior of the home, and near the water heater and water softener inside the home.

Water Leaks

Check for water leaks every few months by inspecting your water meter. Choose a day and time when the water is not being used inside the home and record the reading from your water meter. Wait ten hours, and then check the reading on the meter again. If the lever has moved within this short time period, you may have an undetected leak somewhere in your plumbing system. If you have water hammer issues, try installing shock absorbers in the water lines. Talk to your Indianapolis plumber for details about this service.

Sump Pumps

It is important to inspect and pump your sump pump system every 3 to 5 years. Not only does this protect the system’s filter field, which is costly to replace, it allows for smoother operation. In between this time period, you want to periodically test the sump pump by pouring a bucket of water in the sump pit. If it is working properly, it should turn on, eliminate the water from the pit, and shut off again, all within a matter of seconds. If it doesn’t do this, call your plumber. It is a good idea to always be replacing worn out parts on your sump pump to encourage optimal performance and prevent inconvenient break downs. And be sure you have a backup sump pump in case this ever happens!

Drains

A clogged basement drain is an inconvenience since they are there for an important purpose. Most basement drains are responsible for eliminating wastewater from washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners, water heaters, and even things like melting snow. By cleaning the basement drains on a routine basis, you can prevent backups that lead to costly repairs. A good boiling water, baking soda, and vinegar bath always does the trick!

Indianapolis Plumbing Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a reliable Indianapolis plumber that will show up on time and ready to work. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed and insured plumbers, retain decades of experience in the plumbing industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing service and repair for both commercial and residential properties. Request a free estimate, today!