Plumbing Repairs You Do Not Want to Ignore

Posted on July 14, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

A plumbing system doesn’t require constant care an attention; however, there are certain signs that your home will give off to warn you that repairs may be needed soon. Educate yourself on these signs so that you can spot warnings and resolve the situation before it turns into a residential plumbing emergency. These types of repairs can be costly and time consuming.

Continue reading to learn some common warning signs that point toward plumbing repair.

Plumbing Clogs and Back Ups

Plumbing clogs come in many forms; clogged bathroom drain, kitchen sink, backed up toilet, and more. The list can go on and on depending on the home. If your home is experiencing frequent clogging in these areas, or others, this could be a sign of a much needed repair. Clogged drains and backed up systems can cause other plumbing problems. This is why it is important to take action right away, and repair any plumbing issues your home is having. Call a professional to diagnose the issue causing the clogs.

Cracks in Pipes

If you happen to notice cracks in your plumbing pipes, this is a problem that needs immediate attention. Call a professional plumbing company and have the system inspected thoroughly. They can handle the rest of the repair process from there. This sounds easy; but unfortunately, it isn’t very common for homeowners to spot any cracks in their pipes. There are other signs that suggest you have cracked pipes. If you are experiencing leaky pipes and faucets, it could mean you have cracks somewhere in your indoor or outdoor piping system.

Plant Roots

It you find that your pipes have root growth in them; it is a sign that you need professional plumbing repair. It is very common for homes near wooded areas, trees, or shrubbery to experience root growth in plumbing systems. There are many products and solutions on the market that prevent root growth in pipes, but this will not solve the problem. A professional retains the proper equipment, training, and knowledge on pipe repair, plumbing services, and much more. They are the ones to trust with plumbing complications such as these.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumbing services in Indianapolis or any of the surrounding counties and neighborhoods. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has decades of experience in the plumbing industry. He and our team of honest and proficient plumbers, are happy to answer questions about residential or commercial plumbing problems and much more. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about all the plumbing repair and replacement services we offer in Indianapolis, and get your home or building’s plumbing back on track today!

The Trouble With OTC Liquid Drain Cleaners

Posted on July 10, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Clogged Drain Repair 317-784-1870

A clogged drain is never a good sign for your plumbing. It is a frustrating situation that seems to pop up at the most inconvenient times. Whether it’s the bathtub or kitchen sink, no one can live harmoniously with a drain that doesn’t drain. When a clog occurs, people generally turn to an over-the-counter chemical drain cleaner for a fast and effective remedy. These can be purchased at any local general store or home improvement store at relatively low prices. This, along with their unwavering effectiveness, makes them a popular product for drain cleaning and clearing. But have you ever heard the phrase, “Too Good to be True”? Well, it applies to chemical drain cleaners.

Continue reading to learn the trouble with liquid drain cleansers and why they are hazardous to our plumbing.

Pipe Damage

Chemical drain cleansers, like Drano, are damaging to pipes. Whether plastic or metal, the chemical content in OTC drain cleaners will eat away at PVC or sit inside metal pipes and corrode them overtime. This could lead to whole-house plumbing and pipe replacement; a costly and tedious undertaking. Plumbers only recommend to use chemical liquid drain cleaners at certain times, and even at those times, with great caution.

For example, small drains that are clogged or need cleaned can be managed well with a liquid drain cleaner; however, it can still pose a risk to the plumbing pipes. And the more frequent these harsh products are introduced into a plumbing system, the more structural damage will occur overtime. This is why a plumber is the best solution for re-occurring clogged drains. A plumber retains all the tools and resources needed to provide natural and safe drain cleaning and clearing services within a convenient time-frame. This solves the problem the first time, without jeopardizing the integrity of a property’s plumbing system.

Note: Never use liquid drain cleaners in toilets. Synthetic chemicals will sit in a toilet’s tank and seep into the porcelain. Then it can heat up and cause the toilet bowl to crack, or even explode! When it comes to toilet clogs, remember this motto: If a plunger can’t fix it, call a plumber.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional drain cleaning and clogged drain services in Indianapolis. You can speak with a friendly company representative, or with master plumber and owner, Mark Weilhammer himself! We offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. We even offer plumbing repair coupons! Call 317-784-1870 for drain repair and plumbing service in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Standard Plumbing Valves and How They Work

Posted on July 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

There are three basic styles of plumbing valves: gate valves, stop valves, and ball valves. Each valve-type has its own individual characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and purposes. However, they can only be used for oil, water, and airflow control if the castings are labeled with the acronym, “WOG”, which stands for water, oil, and gas. Continue reading the learn more about stop, gate, and ball valves, how they work, and how they differ from one another.

Stop Valves

Stop valves operate with the aid of a rubber gasket that shuts off water flow in a pipe. To close off water flow, the rubber gasket is screwed onto a seat located in the middle of the valve. Appliances like sinks, toilets, and outdoor faucets commonly use smaller versions of stop valves. In order for stop valves to work properly, they must be installed in the right direction, in the way of the arrow, so that water flows against the bottom of the rubber gasket. If installed in the wrong direction, the water flow will force the gasket away from the valve.

Gate Valves

Also referred to as, “full-flow” valves, gate valves are commonly used in commercial and industrial pipe and plumbing applications. They are multipurpose bi-directional shutoff valves that are manufactured in a variety of metals, including cast iron, brass, and bronze. They retain a gate-like component inside that either raises or lowers, allowing or discontinuing water flow in a pipe. This gate is controlled by a knob at the top of the valve that twists right and left to open and close the metal gate component. Gate valves are not intended to customize water flow and pressure by adjusting the gate height. They are only intended to be opened all the way, or closed all the way. One downside to gate valves is their vulnerability to corrosion, which overtime, can cause the gate component to stick in the up or down position.

Ball Valves

Ball valves use a stainless steel (or sometimes brass, bronze, copper iron, and more) rotating ball with a hole drilled in its center that pivots in plastic bushings. The ball is generally controlled by a lever that is directly connected to it. It is similar to a gate valve because it also a full-flow type valve. The position of the lever indicates whether the valve is open or closed. The valve is closed if the hole in the ball is perpendicular to the flow of water. If the hole is parallel to the pipe and water flow, the valve is open. Ball valves differ from full-flow gate valves because the flow of water can somewhat be controlled by adjusting the opening of the valve. However, ball valves are not the best option for controlling water flow.

Additional Types of Valves:

• Check Valves
• Diaphragm Valves
• Globe Valves
• Butterfly Valves
• Pressure Balanced Valves
• Knife Valves
• Ball-Check Valves
• Ball-Diaphragm Valves
• Zone Valves
• Locking Valves
• Solenoid Valves
• Sluice Valves (another name for gate valves)

Contact a local master plumber for expert advice regarding plumbing repair, plumbing parts, products, advice, and more. In most cases, water flow issues are best addressed by a trained professional that retains proper tools and resources to effectively undertake a plumbing issue or repair that could possibly lead to indoor flooding.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state licensed master plumber with more than 40 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has been a family owned and operated Indianapolis plumbing company since 1901, and continues to provide proficient plumbing services to all Hoosier communities at the fairest prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about all our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

What is a Plumbing Emergency?

Posted on June 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

A home encompasses a long list of appliances and systems that can defect at any moment. One of the most serious of household emergencies involves the plumbing. Plumbing emergencies can be the messiest and the most costly. Costs can arise from not only plumbing repair and replacement, but also from structural damage renovations and emergency service fees. One way to reduce these costs is to implement proper plumbing maintenance and routine inspections in order to catch an issue early on before it gets out of control. Another way to reduce these costs is to know which plumbing issues are emergencies and which are not.

Emergency services do cost more, but can save thousands in the end. Even if the emergency happens in the middle of the night or on a weekend, like most so-inconveniently do, it is vital to get an emergency plumber to your home immediately. If something is not a crisis, you can save on these particular costs by waiting to call a plumber during regular hours or business days.

Emergency Plumbing

It is important to know the difference between a plumbing issue that can wait until morning or the next business day, and a plumbing emergency that requires immediate service. Service costs are not cheap, and emergency ones are even more, so knowing this difference can save homeowners’ hundreds of dollars. For example, things like minor water leaks can be managed on your own by simply turning off the main water valve at night and placing a bucket underneath it during the day until you can get service. Continue for more examples of plumbing emergencies and non-emergencies.

EMERGENCIES:

• Gas Leaks or Lingering Gas Smells
• Flooding (i.e. carpets, floors, basement, lawn, etc.)
• Wet or “Sweaty” Walls
• Large Amounts of Standing Water in Lawn
• Burst Pipes
• Frozen Pipes
• Sump Pump Problems and Defects
• Major Water Leaks that Can’t Be Controlled with Main Water Shutoff Valve
• Etc.

NON-EMERGENCIES:

• Clogged Toilet or Drain
• Running Toilet
• No Hot Water
• Small Water Leaks (i.e. faucet, showerhead, sink, etc.)
• Moderate Leaks that Can Be Stopped with Main Water Shutoff Valve (i.e. water heater, water softener, cabinet pipes, etc.)
• Broken Plumbing Fixture
• Etc.

When determining whether or not a plumbing issue is an emergency, ask yourself these questions:

Can it Wait?

Think about the seriousness of the issue and if leaving it alone until morning or the next business day will cause more damage. If you can mitigate the issue, like catching dripping water in a bucket, you probably don’t need emergency service. On the other hand, if it is something that needs to be functioning at all times, like if you only have one toilet, it could be an emergency.

Will Turning Off the Main Water Valve Help?

As mentioned, some plumbing leaks can be managed on your own through the night without calling for emergency service. A leak can be managed through the night by turning off the specific and main water valves; and then calling for plumbing service the next day. On the other hand, larger water leaks, like burst pipes, need emergency repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides a wide range of plumbing repair services for residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need minor or major plumbing work, our highly trained and qualified plumbing contractors retain the proper resources and expertise to implement accurate plumbing repairs in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our Indianapolis master plumber services, prices, and availability today.

A Brief Reflection of Plumbing History

Posted on June 9, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Leak Repair 317-784-1870

It is interesting to think about how society’s first plumbing pipes were made from clay and wood. Of course once the world figured out that these didn’t work too well, we eventually switched to using a lead and galvanized iron piping system, carved with local engravings on all the pipes to thwart water theft. In fact, the Latin word for lead is “plumbum”, and the weight that was located on the end of a line for perpendicular alignment was called a “plumbus.” These words are where the term “plumber” comes from.

Today, our plumbing is made using copper, steel, and plastic (PVC).

Roman Plumbers

Plumbers back then were skilled roman artisans that were fluent in lead works, aqueducts, piping systems, water distribution, and waste management; providing soldering, repairs, maintenance, installations, and more. Bath and steam houses were also introduced at this time and Roman society got its first taste of an effective plumbing and water distribution system. It wasn’t until the 20 century that society’s piping system and technology changed, as did the role of plumbers.

English Plumbing

In the early 1800’s, England passed a national Public Health Act that later influenced historic and modern-day plumbing code. This legally mandated that all homes have a sanitary arrangement, like a privy, a flushing toilet, or an ash pit. This is also when the British established and began government-funded programs for sanitary research and engineering.

Innovative Plumbing

Plumbing and sewage systems only got better from here! Public lavatories were built and became common parts of societal practice, and eventually sanitary closets and toilets were being invented and redesigned too! Later down the line, in the mid-20th century, plumbing was dramatically reinvented and our innovators continued to perfect the industry into the modern plumbing advancements and technologies we have today.

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. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a licensed master plumber with decades of experience in the plumbing industry. Our company has provided trusted plumbing service and repair to the Hoosier communities since 1901, making us part of Indiana’s plumbing history too! We offer a wide range of services for both residential and commercial properties, all for the lowest and most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 and speak directly with a licensed master plumber about plumbing repair services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

What is a Hybrid Water Heater?

Posted on June 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

When looking to buy a new water heater for your home or office, it is vital to consider your hot water needs, as well as, other influential aspects, in order to choose the right one. Aspects like a property’s square-footage, the number of occupants, the local water table levels, eco-friendly agendas, and more all influence the type of water heater that’s right for you. There are several make and model hot water heaters on the market, from the traditional gas and electric, to the more modern tankless and portable styles. But many consumers are starting to hear about a new type of water heater that combines both tank and tankless styles. These water heaters are called hybrids.

Continue reading to learn more about hybrid hot water heaters and whether they are right for your home or office.

Hybrid Water Heaters

Hybrid water heaters are applauded for their energy-saving benefits. On average, twenty percent of a home’s energy usage is from heating water. This number can be dramatically reduced with the installation of a hybrid water heater. Not only does this help the environment, it saves money on monthly utility bills too. There are other styles of water heaters that are also very energy-efficient, so talk to your local plumbing contractor about those options too. But as for hybrid water heaters, they are highly beneficial for more than just energy-efficiency.

How They Work

Tankless and tank-style water heaters heat water from the bottom of the tank. Tank-styles heat water from the bottom of the tank, making air to rise up and exit from the top, allowing some heat to escape. Tankless water heaters also heat from the bottom but the water travels through copper piping rather than stored in a tank. In a hybrid system, it uses both pipes and a tank to heat and store water. Rather than just copper piping, like tankless styles, a hybrid water heater uses several pipes, up to 40 or more, that heat up. When water flows through them, it heats up fast. Unused heated water is transferred to a reservoir inside a hybrid water heater, and stored for future demand.

There are only a few models of hybrid water heaters on the market, such as the Eternal Hybrid Water Heater or the GE Hybrid Water Heater. The GE version has technology that absorbs heat from the surrounding air to warm water, while other versions involve other technologies like super capacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and more. Hybrids are more expensive than traditional models, costing anywhere between $2,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the retailer.

Again, talk to your local master plumber for details about choosing the right type of water heater for your home and the installation and maintenance process.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for information about water heater installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has been in the industry for more than 50 years! He and our team of licensed master plumbers retain all the knowledge, resources, and experience to provide accurate diagnostics and information regarding hot water heaters and more. Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN about hot water heater installation, sales, repair, and more.

Do You Need Bathtub Repair or Bathtub Replacement?

Posted on May 19, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

A shower curtain can only do so much to hide an old, outdated, stained, or rusted bathtub. Eventually at some point in time, it will be necessary, and lucrative, to address your bathtub woes. Determining whether or not a bathtub needs repaired or replaced can be tricky, which is why it is helpful to review some basic factors regarding bathtub plumbing to better understand your home’s needs.

Although bathtub replacement seems like a scary possibility in terms of cost and installation, it is much more affordable and efficient than many think. So if it turns out that your home needs an entire bathtub replacement, do not fear the costs and labor associated with the process. Continue reading to learn how to tell which service your bathroom requires, what to expect, and who to call for professional plumbing you can trust.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathtub Repair

Not all tubs will need a replacement. Sometimes some simple repairs is all it takes to instantly solve, update, or upgrade your bathroom focal point. If a bathtub doesn’t pose any internal or external plumbing issues, then homeowners can opt to have their tubs refinished. Tub refinishing is perfect for bathtubs that are in good condition physically, but may contain stains, discoloration, texture defects, and unsightly marks. This process costs substantially less than tub replacement, and makes bathtubs look brand new. For further protection and longevity, homeowners can opt for bathtub liner in addition to refinishing. Although a bit pricier than refinishing alone, it is a fantastic way to further protect your investment.

Bathtub Replacement

Sometimes, a bathtub cannot be repaired, or the repair costs would exceed the cost of replacement. In these cases, replacement is necessary. Even for tubs that are not defective, replacement might be necessary for bathroom remodels, updates, and upgrades. Keep in mind that the after effects of a water leak are much more costly and tedious to repair than the cost to replace a defective, cracked, or deteriorating tub.

Be sure to hire a licensed master plumber for bathtub repairs and bathroom plumbing services. They retain the proper tools, training, and resources to provide a professional and accurate job within a time-frame that’s convenient for you.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for bathroom plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for more information about our affordable Indianapolis plumbing repair and bathroom plumbing services.

How Do Tree Roots Affect Sewer Lines?

Posted on May 12, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Master Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Now that summer is mostly here, plants and trees are growing at full speed. Roots grow long, absorbing water and nutrients and passing them along to their host. Tree roots are generally longer, stronger, and bigger than any other plant root; and they only continue to grow in girth and length as time goes on. In fact, trees can grow and thrive for hundreds of years in the right condition!

Although majestic and beautiful, trees and their roots can cause problems for property owners. Aside from the occasional fallen tree or unsightly stump, trees also pose problems as a result of their roots. One of the most common areas affected by tree roots on residential and commercial properties are sewer lines. Now we all know how important our sewer lines are, without an in-depth description of what they do and why they are so beneficial to modern-day plumbing. So with that being said, continue reading to learn how problematic tree roots can cause issues with residential and commercial sewer lines, and what to do about it.

Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

Tree roots can grow strong and penetrate plumbing pipes and sewer lines. This can lead to messy, costly, and tedious repair projects. Sewer lines can backup and become clogged with tree roots and plant matter, over time. Pipes can burst, break, corrode, and deteriorate as a result. Unfortunately, the environments inside sewer lines and plumbing pipes are absolutely ideal for tree roots, which is why they tend to gravitate toward them. The dark, moist environments seem like they would not be a good place for root growth, but in fact, they are. Pipes have everything roots need and want: oxygen, nutrients, and of course, water. They are also attracted to the vapors within sewer lines that escape into the surrounding soil.

Tree roots access pipes by growing into loose joints or cracks. They grow in hair-like masses, creating a perfect obstruction-causing filter for sewer line debris like toilet paper, hair, feminine hygiene products, waste, grease, and other debris that flows through sewer lines. This prevents sufficient water flow, causing clogs that eventually backup the lines. This makes a toilet entirely useless! Routine pipe inspections can help prevent tree roots from penetrating and entangling plumbing pipes and lines.

If you are hearing strange noises coming from your toilet, or notice other issues with your plumbing, you may have a clog in your sewer line. Contact a master plumber for professional inspections, diagnostics, and repairs you can trust.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for expert plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of equally qualified and licensed plumbing contractors, offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. If you need sewer line repair, burst pipe repair, toilet repair, or any other plumbing service, we are the professionals to trust for the best service and most competitive prices in town! Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about sewer line repair and more, today.

Bathroom and Kitchen Faucet Replacement Tips

Posted on May 6, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

There are a few indicative signs that suggest your kitchen and bathroom faucets might need replacing. These signs should never be ignored, especially since replacement faucets are affordable and easy to install. For one, if a faucet continues to drip, even after re-fastening or repairing, it needs to be replaced. Second, if a faucet is moderately-outdated, tarnished, or rusted, it needs replacing. This is especially important for kitchen and bathroom remodels, and can even provide an instant upgrade for quick redecorating projects. And last, if a faucet is simply broken or defective, it’s time to replace it. Continue reading to learn what to do when it comes time to replace your bathroom and kitchen faucets.

Faucet Size

The first consideration for faucet replacement is the size of the unit. Faucets comes in all different sizes and shapes, so it is important to measure the distance between the holes in the lavatory to know which size your sink needs. To do this, the faucet has to be removed in order to expose this area. Small lavatory setups generally have three holes, ranging between 3 and 4 inches apart. This setup uses two handles (hot and cold) and a spout that are all connected by an escutcheon plate. When replacing an old faucet, it is necessary for the new setup to match the same configuration. Other setups include single-hole two handle faucets, and single-hole and handle faucets.

Faucet Handles

The second consideration involves the number and the type of faucet handles. You can make this decision by thinking about who will use the faucets. For children, a single-handle faucet is safest to avoid scalding accidents. Parents are familiar with the fact the children often reach for one bathroom or kitchen knob, and they hope it’s the cold one! Single-handle faucets can reduce the likelihood of burn accidents with children because they are not likely to be in the “hot” position. Some single-handle units come with flow-mechanism options that will control how much hot water is available through the faucet. This is helpful for homes with young children. Aside from children, some people, like the elderly, might have trouble turning knob-style faucet handles. They too can benefit from a single-handle faucet setup because they come with rotational-limit stops and short-turn options.

Faucet Valves

Faucet valves are called control valves because they literally control the water flow. They open and close in different measures, controlling the water flow, the water stop, and the amount of water that comes through the faucet. There are various types of faucet valves, each meant for different faucet setups. Compression valves are used for two-handle setups and use a rubber washer to control water flow. Rubber washers will require replacing overtime but this only costs a few cents and is easy to do. Other two-handle faucets might use sleeve-cartridge valves. Sleeve-cartridge valves are also used for some single-handle setups. Brass cartridges are better choices compared to plastic ones. For other single-handle faucets, ball valves are used. These use spring-loaded seals and metal balls to control water flow. Although inexpensive and durable, they are a bit complicated to install. One of the most recommended faucet valves are called ceramic disk valves. They operate using a two-part disk that revolves, controlling the flow of water. Disk replacement is quick, simple, and inexpensive. These are great for areas with higher levels of hard water.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer Indianapolis Indiana, is happy to answer your questions about faucet repair, plumbing fixtures, plumbing repair, and more. Our team of licensed plumbers offer a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including installation, repair, maintenance, inspections, and sales. Call 317-784-1870 for affordable and fast Indianapolis plumbing repair services you can trust.

These Bad Habits Can Cause Plumbing Problems at Home

Posted on April 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to residential plumbing, a professional would advise against a long list of bad habits that lead to costly repairs and problems. Among this long list of bad habits, there are a few that tend to cause the most issues with a home’s plumbing. Continue reading to learn which bad habits your plumber wants you to stop!

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Toilets

So many of us are guilty of using the toilet as a garbage receptacle. The occasional goldfish is not going to cause any problems with your toilet and plumbing, however, actual trash or garbage is not a good idea. Cotton swabs, cotton balls, feminine hygiene applicators, razor cartridges, toilet paper tubes, hairbands, shower caps, paper bags, newspaper, plastic materials, and more are common items flushed down residential toilets on a daily basis. All of this trash can clog the toilet, as well as, cause major blockages in your home’s plumbing, leading to costly repairs and replacements. Do not use your toilet as a trashcan! Simply place a trash can near your toilet to thwart you from this bad habit.

Garbage Disposals

Another area that we tend to use as a trash can even though we shouldn’t is the kitchen sink garbage disposal. Yes this appliance can shred soft, non-fibrous foods, but that doesn’t mean it’s an industrial shredder that can manage all your other garbage as well! Items like plastic wrap, fruit peels, egg shells, flowers, fruit and vegetable cores, and more are commonly tossed down residential garbage disposals, only later to cause major damage to the appliance and the home’s plumbing.

Drains

Aside from trash, people tend to have a bad habit of pouring harmful or toxic chemicals down bathroom and kitchen sink drains. Bathtubs, showers, outdoor sinks, kitchen sinks, and bathroom sinks have drains that can clog, but this does not mean reach for the harsh drain cleaning solution right away. Try other forms of clog-clearing before resorting to toxic drain cleaners, such as drain snakes. These chemicals can cause plumbing pipes to corrode and deteriorate, leading to leaks and major damages.

Outdoor Hoses

Forgetting or neglecting to disconnect your garden hose from the outside spout before wintertime can cause some major problems with your home’s plumbing as well. This allows moisture from the inside of the hose to enter the home, eventually freezing, leading to frozen or burst plumbing pipes. This is not an easy or inexpensive fix, but can be avoided with a little annual reminder and initiative.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 the next time you need a master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with over 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry. He and our team of licensed plumbing contractors are eager to answer your questions about plumbing repair and more. We offer residential and commercial properties a wide range of plumbing services, including septic tanks, water heaters, sump pumps, water softeners, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for superior plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.