The Best Way to Repair a Leaky Faucet

Posted on March 9, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

When you notice a dripping faucet in your home, you usually don’t pay too much attention to it at first. Perhaps this is because most leaky taps are considered minor problems with simple solutions.

But the truth is, if a dripping tap is not fixed in a timely manner, it has the potential to get worse and turn into a large, messy, and costly repair later on. So long as a leaking faucet is not entirely neglected, bigger plumbing problems can be avoided down the line.

Your Only Step for Faucet Leak Repair

The best solution for a leaky faucet is professional plumbing service. Calling a licensed plumber should always be the first step to repairing a plumbing leak in your home or office. You may think that a dripping faucet is not a big deal and something that can be fixed easily, but this is not always true. Sometimes, there are many things that could be causing a faucet leak to happen. This is why you need professional water leak diagnostics that only a licensed plumber can provide. It is important to investigate whether or not your leaky faucet is indeed a simple problem with a simple fix, and to ensure that a larger plumbing problem is not being overlooked or ignored.

For Simple Leaky Faucet Repair, a Plumber Will Start By…

1. Determining the Cause of the Water Leak
2. Disassembling the Faucet Fixture
3. Provide Any Necessary Part Replacements
4. Reassemble the Faucet Fixture

A professional plumber has the training, knowledge, and experience to quickly find the root of a faucet leak and provide affordable and efficient solutions for repair. You never want to assume any water leak is minor no matter how small it may appear. As mentioned, there are countless reasons why a water leak might occur in or around your home, which is why it is vital to have a licensed plumbing contractor investigate the cause for you. Catching a small leak early on can prevent large, costly floods and more down the line.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional water leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbing contractors, provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. With more than 100 years in business here in Indiana, you can trust you are getting the most reputable and proficient plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis. Call 317-784-1870 and learn more about our affordable plumbing repair services, price, and availability today.

Are Your Water Bills Too High?

Posted on March 1, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

As a homeowner, you should know how much your utilities cost you each month. This way, you can monitor your consumption and make changes as needed. When you begin to notice changes in monthly utility costs, it is important to investigate. Of course, if your bills are too low you probably won’t mind, but when they start to get too high, it is reason for concern.

One utility that is important to monitor is water consumption. This is because your water bills can be the first place you notice a potential plumbing problem in your home. When water bills sky rocket for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of many issues, but the most common is a water leak.

Locating and Repairing Water Leaks

Many plumbing fixtures and appliances can leak water. This includes pipes, toilets, sinks, water heaters, water softeners, slabs, and more. The first sign of a water leak is often times a high water bill. As soon as you receive a high water bill, it is important to call a master plumber to inspect your property. The sooner you locate and repair a plumbing leak, the less tedious and costly it will be for you. You must catch a water leak right away to reduce the overall damages it can cause. A leak that goes unnoticed can cost a homeowner thousands of dollars over a course of several years, so even the smallest change in monthly water bills may be cause for concern.

Here is how to check for a plumbing leak:

Turn off all water (including washing machines and dishwashers) and then locate your water meter.

On the water meter, look for a triangle or circle that is either red or yellow. This is the leak indicator. If it is spinning, there is a leak in your plumbing system and you must contact a licensed plumber immediately.

If it is not spinning, then there is no leak. If your bills are high, you still need to contact a plumber to investigate the problem.

For spinning leak indicators, you must immediately shut off the main water valve to the home or risk flooding. Close it slowly so you can better control built-up water pressure. Check a faucet to make sure the water is off.

Once closed, there should be no more movement happening on the water meter. If it is still moving, then your main water shut off valve is broken or not shut all the way.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for water leak inspection services and plumbing repairs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We offer all plumbing repairs for both residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis you can trust and afford!

Plumbing Tips for the Laundry Room

Posted on February 18, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

The recent generations might not appreciate the standard washer and dryer, since they are not old enough to remember what life was like without them. As a reminder, hand-washing clothes was tedious and tiresome, and very hard work. So the washing machine is a very important and integral part of the modern, everyday household, and without it, we are taken back to the difficult days before indoor plumbing.

For this reason, it is wise to ensure your washer is in good condition and plumbed properly at all times. Continue reading to learn some helpful plumbing tips for the laundry room that can prevent problems and costly repairs.

Prevent Plumbing Problems in the Laundry Room with these Useful and Effective Tips:

Many laundry rooms also house other appliances powered by fuel, like water heaters and gas furnaces. If your laundry room is similar, never store flammable products or liquids near this area. It goes without saying, but it could easily start a fire or cause an explosion.

Try to only run a load of laundry in the washing machine when you have a full load. Not only does this reduce stress on the washer, it saves on energy and water.

Replace old, worn out washing machines with newer, front-load models. Although a notable initial investment, the savings you gain across the board more than make up for the initial cost. Newer models are more energy efficient and produce better results. This saves homeowners money on energy and water bills, clothing, soap, and more.

Regularly inspect the hoses and attachments on your washing machine for damage or wear and tear. Rubber hoses that look worn should be replaced with upgraded hoses like stainless steel, braided attachments. These not only resist cracks and water leaks, it has a longer lifespan.

Keep all drains clean and clear by using a strainer to prevent hair and other debris from clogging the plumbing pipes. If your laundry room has a sink or floor drain, be sure to occasionally pour a gallon of water down them to keep the trap seal full. This
prevents sewer gases from entering your
home through infrequently-used drains.

Consider installing a flood alarm to warn you against serious water leaks in the washing machine or water heater. Catching a flooding issue or water leak early on can save a homeowner time and money.

Install a strainer on your washing machine hose. You can purchase one that fits your model at any local hardware store for a reasonable price. This will prevent debris like fabric sheets, lint, and more from clogging the line.

Install pipe shields to laundry drain lines. This will prevent lint, detergent scum, and more from building up inside the lines and causing clogs.

Call a professional plumber for residential plumbing repair and service. A licensed master plumber can accurately diagnose plumbing problems, as well as, recommend and implement cost-effective solutions.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of plumbing contractors, have several decades of experience in the plumbing industry. They offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. As a family owned business for more than 100 years, you can trust that we are honest and hardworking. Call 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis plumbing repair services, today.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. for Affordable Water Heater Service and Repair in Indianapolis!

Posted on February 8, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

You can get high-quality plumbing repair and water heater services at an affordable price! And in a time-frame that’s convenient for you!

Indianapolis Water Heater Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is owned and operated by Mark Weilhammer, a state-licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN. Here at the Weilhammer Plumbing Company, we are passionate about integrity and quality workmanship. That is why our master plumbers stay trained and up-to-date on all advancements in plumbing technology and repair.

On top of standard commercial and residential plumbing service, we also provide professional water heater service and repair. We service and repair all make and model water heaters for commercial and residential properties, but if you need water heater replacement, we also carry top-of-the-line Rheem water heaters at an affordable cost!

Call 317-784-1870 for information about our water heater repair services, prices, and availability today!

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. Today!

Water heater service, installation, and repair shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg! That is why Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. offers the most competitive rates in town. As a company that has been locally and family owned since 1901, we understand that value of a dollar, and never take advantage of our clients with inflated plumbing repair costs and labor. You can rest assure that you are getting the most honest quote, highest quality work, and most competitive price for water heater service in Indianapolis!

Even if you do not require water heater repair, your existing unit still requires routine maintenance, inspection, and servicing. And our master plumbers can provide all of these services in just one visit! Call our office today at 317-784-1870 and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable company representative about our quality water heater repair services in Indianapolis, IN.

When is it Time to Replace the Toilet?

Posted on February 1, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Toilet Repair Plumber 317-784-1870

It’s something we use every single day of our lives, but not something we give much thought to. That’s because advancements in plumbing technology have allowed us that privilege. We are talking about toilets! If you own a home or commercial property, you might want to ask yourself if your toilets are in tip-top shape. Although they are reliable plumbing appliances, they will eventually need to be replaced over time. Proper-functioning plumbing is not only convenient, it’s cost effective. You could be losing money on high water or energy bills is there’s a plumbing problem with your toilet.

Continue reading to learn how to identify signs that indicate your toilet needs to be repaired or replaced.

Toilet Replacement

Did you know that the average person flushes around 2,000 times per year? With this much action from just one person, toilets are bound to take on some wear and tear over the years. This is especially true for properties with multiple occupants and multiple bathrooms. When it comes time to decide whether or not your toilet has seen and flushed enough, look for these tell-tale signs of problems:

Leaks and Cracks

Look around your toilet basin, tank, cover, and all other surface areas of the porcelain. If you see even the tiniest crack, it is a bad sign. Small crack, no matter how tiny, have the potential to grow into very large, troublesome cracks that lead to water leaks. At the same time, you want to look for standing puddles of water near the base of the toilet, or condensation on the toilet itself. This could be a sign that there is a leak, and should be inspected by a licensed plumber immediately. If you neglect these signs, it could cause mold and mildew growth in the walls and underneath the tile, leading to costly renovations and repairs.

Frequent Clogging

If your toilet is prone to clogging, and you are not doing something to directly cause it (like flushing things you shouldn’t!), then it may be telling you something. Often times, this could be a result of having low-pressure flushing model that needs to be upgraded to a more powerful-flushing toilet. It can also be due to problems with the toilet’s mechanics, hard water deposits inside the tank, a blocked trap, and more. Talk to a plumber to know for sure, but in these cases, you can usually take it as a sign that you need a new toilet.

Old and Outdated

If your toilet is more than 20 years old, you might want to consider having it replaced. Even if it seems to work fine and never has any issues, and even though toilets can last up to 30 years or more, there are advantages of updating your model toilet. First, new model toilets are more efficient. Older models waste up to 7 gallons of water per flush, while newer models average a smidgen over one gallon per flush. Not only is this eco-friendly, it also saves on monthly utility costs. Second, they are more sought-after by home buyers, so a newer model toilet increases home value. And last, they are more comfortable and stylish.

Frequent Repairs

If your toilet just seems to give you problem after problem, and you find yourself paying (or performing) repair after repair, then it’s time to invest in a new one. Frequent break downs, repairs, and problems are a sign that many things are going wrong with your toilet, and even your plumbing. In this case, you definitely want to replace the toilet altogether, but you should also have your bathroom plumbing inspected by a licensed plumber to ensure there aren’t any serious underlying problems with your plumbing system.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber for toilet service, repair, and replacement. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry. You can rest assure knowing you are getting skilled and knowledgeable plumbing advice you can trust. We offer residential and commercial plumbing repair and service at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about toilet repair and replacement services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Plumbing Tips for the Basement

Posted on January 22, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

The most common consequence of basement plumbing problems are basement floods. Flooded basements happen as a result of a number of reasons, most of which can be prevented. This is why regular plumbing maintenance for basements is so important. It will not only protect and preserve your basement plumbing systems, it will also reduce the chances of costly plumbing repairs down the line.

Common plumbing systems in basements include water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic tanks, sprinkler line valves, washing machines, bathrooms or kitchens, and more. All home plumbing systems are different, but they will all have one thing in common in terms of basement plumbing: the need for regular maintenance. Continue reading to learn some tips for proper basement plumbing care, and who to call when you need a master plumber in your neighborhood.

Where to Start…

It is important to first consider safety when you are inspecting and servicing your basement plumbing appliances and systems. Never store flammable liquids or chemicals near water heaters, gas furnaces, or any other type of fuel-powered appliance. This includes gasoline, propane tanks, liquid adhesives, solvents, and anything else that has a flammable warning. On the topic of natural gas, it is important to make sure sewer gases are not building up too much within household drains, mostly drains that are not used as often like basement floor drains. To prevent sewer gases from backing up, simply pour a bucket of clean water down the drain every other month to keep the trap seal full.

Moving on, you should always inspect and pump your home’s sump pump periodically to prevent costly repairs like filter field replacement. Do this every three to five years, depending on the size of the home and the age of the sump pump. Another area of concern for basement flooding is your washing machine. Be sure to regularly inspect the machine and the connective hoses to check for bulges, leaks, and kinks. Catching a washing machine problem early on will not only save money on potential flooding repairs and renovations, it will also avoid having to buy a new washing machine.

If you like to save energy, be sure to also maintain a moderate water heater temperature setting. Not only does this reduce energy consumption, it also prevents dangerous scalding accidents. A good temperature setting for water heaters is anywhere between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater temperature is set above 120, consider lowering it a bit for safety and energy efficiency.

If you have water hammering problems, or loud noises from water usage, consider installing shock absorbers. These absorb vibrations in the water lines, muffling the obnoxious sounds made from water hammering. And for water leaks, there is an easy way to test for them that should be done every month or so. During a time that water is not being used in the house, simply read your water meter, taking notes on what you see, then check the meter again 12 hours later to see if anything has changed. If there has been a radical change in the past 12 hours that water was not used, it could be an indication of a leak. In this case, you would need to call a master plumber for professional water leak diagnostics and repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer is happy to answer your questions about basement flooding, sump pump repair, water heater repair, water softener repair, and all other plumbing problems! We offer a wide range of plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties. Just call 317-784-1870 to speak with a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN today.

Manage Snow Buildup to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Posted on January 12, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Winter is a fun and enjoyable time of year for people of all ages. We look forward to wintertime and snowfall because it brings with it the opportunity to enjoy several activities, like sledding, ice skating, ice fishing, and more. But it is important to not let the festivities of winter distract you from your home owner responsibilities! One of the most important systems in our homes is plumbing, and it is most vulnerable to damage in the winter.

One common problem that can lead to plumbing damage and repair is excessive snow accumulation. It is important to constantly manage the snowfall as it builds up around your home. This will not only prevent inconvenient plumbing problems, it will also save money on costly plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn some possible plumbing problems that snow buildup can cause, and what to do if you find yourself in the same situation.

Sump Pump and Foundation

Your home’s foundation can be effected by large snow accumulation once the snow begins to melt. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. This water can continue to seep into the basement and lower floors of the home. Needless to say, this can cause a lot of destruction. Personal belongings, clothing, and furniture can be destroyed by flooding, as well as, an extensive list of structural damages. Not only is this devastating for families, it is usually very stressful and costly to undo.

For this reason, in the case of large snow build up around your home, it is wise to check on your sump pump to ensure it is capable and ready to do its job. Start by inspecting the check valve to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line. You can actually hear the pump running, so you’ll know if it’s running too often.

Gutters and Drains

Even though the temperatures are below pleasing, it is important to still keep up with outdoor winter maintenance if you want to prevent costly repairs and problems. Start by regularly keeping your gutters clear of dirt, debris, and snow. Also, be sure all exposed drains are clear of snow as well. This will prevent plumbing clogs and backups.

Plumbing Pipes

Many people think it is best to turn their heat down low, or entirely off, while they travel in the winter. This attempt to save money can actually be a start of a costly plumbing problem. When a home is too cold in freezing weather, the pipes can actually freeze. This leads to freeze/thaw cycles, and eventually, burst pipes. Not only is this an intrusive repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. This can be prevented by keeping your house adequately warm when you are home and away. Keeping the thermostat set no lower than 65 degrees should provide the protection your plumbing needs against freezing.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumber repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing service and repair industry. He repairs, services, replaces, and installs all plumbing parts and systems, as well as, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for information about our affordable and prompt plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

How to Avoid Pet Hair in Your Plumbing Pipes

Posted on January 6, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

We love our pets! Dogs and cats can be just like real members of the family for many people in many different cultures. But as we pet owners know so well, one of the most common drawbacks to owning a pet is managing the spread of pet hair; all around our homes, in our cars, and even on our clothes! Although this issue is wildly minuscule compared to the infinite benefits of owning a dog or cat, it will still have us purchasing extra lint brushes, washing one or two more loads of laundry, or running the vacuum on a twice-a-day basis.

Clothing and chores aside, one real problem that people may not even know they have is pet hair in their plumbing! This is simply a place we don’t think about pet hair getting into, but it is well-known for causing plumbing clogs and set-backs in homes with pets. For this reason, it is important to do what’s necessary to keep pet hair out of your plumbing pipes and drains.

There are a few easy methods that have been proven to do the trick when it comes to keeping pet hair out of the drains, and out of your home’s plumbing system. Fortunately for all of us, these methods are not just easy, they are inexpensive too! And the best part is, you can get started today! Continue reading to learn how to avoid dog and cat hair in your plumbing, and what to do if you suspect your pipes are clogged.

Open Drains and Exposed Pipes

If you have exposed drains or pipes in your home, be sure to block access to them to prevent pet hair in your plumbing, as well as, damage to your pipes. Some dogs and cats see exposed plumbing pipes or drains as toys, and they can potentially cause them structural damage. But most often, the open or exposed drain pipe can be vulnerable to pet hair exposure. Use furniture and other set-ups to block pets from accessing these exposed areas in your home.

Drain Strainers

If you do not already use drain strainers, you should strongly consider buying some for your sinks, tubs, and showers. And this is especially true for homes with dogs. If you are a DIY pet groomer, and bathe your precious pup in the sink or tub at home, you will greatly benefit from drain strainers. These little strainers keep human and pet hair out of plumbing pipes, which in turn reduces the chances of clogs and costly repairs. They also block other foreign objects that shouldn’t go down the drain, like dental floss, razors,
jewelry, and more.

Toilets

Many people who groom their pets may be tempted to flush the excess hair down the toilet as a quick and easy means of disposal. But this is not good for the home’s plumbing. In fact, flushing hair down the toilet can cause plumbing issues overnight. Yes, the toilet is so close when you are cleaning out the pet brush or emptying the handheld vacuum cleaner; but it is an easy fix that can come with some costly consequences in terms of plumbing repair. Just stick to throwing pet hair away in the trash can; after all, it is biodegradable and eco-friendly!

If you suspect your plumbing system is experiencing issues, call a licensed plumber for professional service you can trust. It is highly beneficial to catch a small problem early on before it can turn into a large costly one. A professional plumber can provide this service, as well as, preventative maintenance tips to avoid future plumbing problems.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a professional master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about your plumbing problems and concerns. We offer residential and commercial plumbing repair services, including water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic systems, and more, all at the fairest price in town! Call 317-784-1870 for affordable plumbing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

How to Perform a Water Leak Inspection for Residential Plumbing Pipes

Posted on December 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Leak Repair 317-784-1870

It is important to implement regular inspections of your home plumbing pipes and system because they are one of the most significant and vital components of a modern-day household. When or if something goes awry within these pipes, major costly renovations and replacements can ensue. It is a huge liability to have leaky water pipes and water leaks anywhere on, around, or inside your property. Get in the habit of performing regular annual inspections of all areas of your home where water flows
or passes through.

Continue reading to learn which areas to examine, what to look for, and who to call for professional assistance you can trust.

Annual Plumbing Inspections

Early spring is the perfect time to plan these annual inspections for water leaks and water damages. This is when the ice and snow have melted away and plumbing pipes should be free-flowing. Although it is best to plan water leak inspections in the spring, do not wait until that time to initiate your first inspection. Finding a pipe leak early on is the best way to avoid costly plumbing renovations, re-piping, or repairs. You know a pipe has a leak if there is a thin white circle around it. This is a sign that something is not secured properly.

To begin an inspection, start with the kitchen and bathroom. Clear out any and all clutter beneath the sinks and thoroughly inspect the integrity of the pipes. Take note of any condensation or moisture, mold, mildew, cracks, and anything else that looks like it could be a problem.

Mold and pest infestations are common beneath bathroom and kitchen sinks because of the cold, dark environments. Both of these problems should be treated right away, along with any pipe leaks. Also, try to limit the amount of items you store underneath these areas because glass bottles and other items can cause damage to piping and more.

Once you have inspected the bathroom and kitchen plumbing, take your inspection a bit further and examine the condition of the plumbing pipes that connect to your water heater and water softener. Again, check for signs of a leak; such as white calcium buildup around the pipe, moisture, condensation, mold, mildew odor, and more. From there, inspect all the valves in your home. If the water shut off valve is too difficult to move, do not force it because it could break. Instead, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. Lastly, shut off all faucets and then take a look at your water meter. It should not be moving, so if it is, you can assume you have a leak somewhere. This means you need professional plumbing diagnostics from a licensed master plumber.

Indianapolis Water Leak Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbers’ industry. He provides residential and commercial plumbing service at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need water leak inspections or repairs, our licensed plumbers can do it all in a time frame that’s convenient for you! Call 317-784-1870 for professional water leak repair and inspection services in Indianapolis, IN.

A Brief Look at a Home’s Plumbing System

Posted on December 8, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

Whether a property owner or renter, it is wise to have a basic understanding of your home’s plumbing system and set-up. This general plumbing knowledge and comprehension can better protect you from costly and messy plumbing issues and repairs later on. It can also better help you manage easy plumbing repairs on your own, like clogged toilets and leaky faucets. But most importantly, knowing how your home’s plumbing system works will allow you to prevent major plumbing problems in the future and give you more confidence when hiring a plumber.

Although plumbing repairs and services are generally very complex and technical, understanding a home’s plumbing system is actually not as complicated as you would think. You see, your home’s plumbing is divided into two separate sub-systems: one to bring fresh water in, and another to eliminate waste water outside.

Water Supply System

The fresh water supply system brings clean water in the house to use for washing, bathing, cooking, drinking, and laundry. Your home, like all others, have a water meter located on the outside of the house or building. It measures and records all the fresh water taken into the home. This is how the water utility company bills you for water consumption. The most important operation within this particular sub-system is water pressure. Without sufficient water pressure, the fresh water system cannot adequately pump clean water to all levels and areas of a home.

Generally next to the water meter, you will find your home’s emergency water shut-off valve. It is vitally important to know where this valve is located and how to operate it in the case of a burst pipe or indoor flood. It will start and stop all water flow to the house. Many home appliances, like toilets and water heaters, have their own water shut-off valves, and can be used instead of the home’s main shut-off valve in the case of overflows, leaks, and floods.

When fresh water is taken into the home, it is cold and ready to use. But if you are requesting warm or hot water, it must pass through your plumbing pipes, and then through the water heater, to be heated to the demanded temperature. Then it is sent through your home’s hot water lines to the specific area of request, such as a shower or kitchen sink. The water temperature for your home can be preset on your water heater. It is generally recommended to have it set anywhere between 120 and 140 degrees, a bit lower for homes with children. Anything higher can result in accidental scalds and burns.

Water Drainage System

The waste water drainage system is equally important as your home’s fresh water supply system. It eliminates all the water that is flushed or drained in the home. This includes toilets, showers, bathtubs, sinks, water softeners, and water heaters. Whether your residence operates on a septic system or sewer system, they basically provide the same service.

Unlike your home’s supply system, the drainage system does not rely on water pressure. Instead, it requires properly positioned drainage pipes, angled (pitched) in a downwards angle to release the waste water by means of natural gravity. These “pitched” drainage pipes lead to either a septic tank or farther into sewer lines and eventually to a sewer treatment facility.

If you are experiencing plumbing problems, contact a licensed and experienced plumber right away. It is important to stop a plumbing issue before it can turn costly and tedious. Avoid extreme plumbing repair bills and invasive renovations by calling a qualified plumber before it’s too late.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer is eager to help solve your plumbing problems at the fairest price in town. With more than 100 years in business, and more than 50 years of experienced, you can trust we know our stuff! We offer free estimates, free advice, and free haul-away service for both residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for affordable and fast plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, IN today.