Information About Plumbing Slab Leaks

Posted on November 5, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Beneath most homes is solid concrete foundation. Within these foundations are the property’s interior plumbing systems and piping. Slab leaks occur when these pipes leak. There are several signs, symptoms, and causes of plumbing slab leaks; and most often, it requires a licensed master plumber or professional plumbing contractor, to properly diagnose and repair the problem. Continue reading to learn more about slab leaks, and who to call for honest and affordable plumbing repairs and diagnostics
in your local neighborhood.

Underground Piping Systems

Many modern homes are built with underground plumbing. Building contractors prefer to install interior plumbing works for several reasons, most having to do with money and labor. For one, it costs much less to simply install underground plumbing, and then have the pipes connect to the main line that leads to all the home’s fixtures and appliances. Not only does this save money, it saves time and labor too. No need for drilling or strapping pipes to the wall, and very little material is needed. Also, protection doesn’t need to be installed to cover the pipes because they are naturally insulated from harsh climates and weather.

When pipes and plumbing are built above ground, they have to have insulation around them to prevent frozen or cracked pipes in the winter, and losing cold water capacity in the summer. These reasons and more are why construction contractors and builders choose to install plumbing pipes underground; but because of this, pipes are out of sight, so not much is known about slab leaks and other plumbing mishaps that can occur beneath a home’s flooring.

Signs and Symptoms of Slab Leaks

Slab leaks are a major threat to a property. Because the signs are extremely subtle, discovering a slab leak can be difficult; and often times, as a result, slab leaks go unnoticed and cause extensive and expensive damages. As for homeowners, it is important to know what the common slab leak signs and symptoms are, in order to catch a water leak problem before it becomes a costly and tedious repair. Here are the most common signs of a slab leak:

• Increased Utility Bills, Particularly Water
• Noisy Plumbing Fixtures, Like the Sound of Running Water
• Cold Spot on the Floor
• Hot Spot on the Floor
• Soppy Wet Areas or Puddles in the Yard
• Wet Areas Inside the Home (i.e. wet walls, flooring, ceiling, etc.)
• The Sound of Running Water Coming from the Floor

Slab leaks are troublesome plumbing problems that require the astute knowledge and capacity of an Indianapolis slab leak repair contractor or licensed master plumber. Plumbing slab leaks can occur as a result of countless circumstances and sources, but the most common causes for slab leaks include the following and more:

• Corroded or Deteriorated Copper Piping
• Inadequate Insulation Fittings and Installation
• Friction Beneath the Ground
• Kinked, Cut, or Clogged Plumbing Line

When it comes to slab leak repair, there are many options available for all incomes and budgets. If pipes are corroded, however, all piping would need to be removed and replaced. This can be costly, but a reputable plumbing company may be able to work with your budget. For all other underground slab leaks, comprehensive diagnostics and pipe repair are the most effective solutions.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for details about slab leak repair and underground copper re-piping services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is a state licensed plumbing contractor with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We strongly believe in integrity, honesty, and quality service, and have remained dedicated to these values since the start of our family owned and operated plumbing company in 1901. We offer a wide range of services for both residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair and re-piping services in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties today.

Got Low Water Pressure? Find Out Why!

Posted on October 17, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Are you tired of dealing with low water pressure at home? Are your bathtubs, sinks, showers, and hoses giving you a hard time? Does it take longer to rinse shampoo out of your hair? Does it take a long time for the bathtub to fill up? If so, it is time to diagnose the issue! Continue reading to learn what the underlying plumbing issue is, and how to get that fast and healthy water pressure you’ve been longing for!

Water Pressure and Plumbing

It’s completely normal to be puzzled, stumped, and thrown for a loop when water pressure begins to fail. Two common scenarios are people who move into a home with great water pressure, only to see it fade away over the years; while the other scenario is families whose homes have always had weak water pressure, and cannot find a remedy to turn it around. These can be very frustrating circumstances, because lack of knowledge leaves homeowners in the dark. It is highly suggested to consult an Indianapolis master plumber for accurate diagnostics and service. They retain the proper training, licensed, experience, and resources to accurately diagnose the issue, and render solutions you can afford.

Reasons Why Your Water Pressure Might Be Low or Diminishing:

• Underground Piping Disruptions

• Tree roots, Poor Foundations, or Leaking Pipes

• Calcium Buildup in or on Plumbing Pipes and Fixtures (Common Reason for Slowly Fading Water Pressure)

• Large Chemical Deposits

• Thin Piping (Common in Older Homes)

• Mineral Buildup on Faucets and Shower Heads (Simply Replace)

• And More

If you are experiencing water pressure problems in your home or commercial property, call a licensed plumber for professional service and diagnostics. Great water pressure is a true asset for any home, and can even increase a property’s value.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

For more information about low water pressure in Indianapolis, call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 today. Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber, provides exceptional plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. We have been a family owned and operated company since 1901, making us one of the oldest Indianapolis plumbing companies in the state of Indiana! We offer free estimates, DIY advice, free plumbing information, emergency services, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about water pressure repair and plumbing service today!

A Guide to the Homeowners DIY Plumbing Kit

Posted on October 10, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to plumbing repairs and needs, not all require the assistance of a master plumber. In these cases, a handy homeowner can implement some DIY strategies to combat their plumbing problems on their own. So what does every homeowner need to complete their “do-it-yourself” plumbing kit? The answer is below!

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

DIY At-Home Plumbing Kit

There are specific tools, gadgets, and equipment needed to tackle all the different plumbing emergencies and repairs a homeowner might do themselves. A handy homeowner can accomplish a wide array of plumbing endeavors around the house if properly equipped. Depending on your experience and “level of handiness” choose plumbing tasks that are comfortable for you. Call a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for plumbing repairs that require a more professional touch. Think about it; with the right materials, you can save hundreds of dollars fixing that dripping faucet, unclogging a toilet, cleaning calcified fixtures, snaking drains, and much more all on your own!

Whether it’s a leaky faucet, or a clogged toilet, these tools will have you prepared for that next unexpected plumbing repair. Here is a list of the items you should purchase and have gathered in a kit for all your DIY plumbing projects and undertakings.

• Plunger
• Pipe Wrench
• Drain Snake
• Drain Cleaner Solution
• Rubber Gloves
• Calcium-Lime-Rust Remover (CRL)

A plunger is the most basic and necessary tool for any home. It is used to dislodge buildup and fix clogged toilets. A pipe wrench is equally necessary for anyone who wishes to stop a dripping faucet, or a leaky pipe under the sink. These wrenches are adjustable and easy to use; and can be fitted to most pipes and fixtures. Snaking a drain can be done just by using an old wire hanger, but several products are available on the market that provide a snake and a drain cleaning solution. These are great products to have on-hand in the case of a clogged or backed-up drain. Rubber gloves protect the hands from harsh cleaning and drain clearing solutions, including CRL. CRL is a popular calcium, lime, and rust remover that can remove white scum and buildup from plumbing fixtures.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for superior DIY plumbing information and advice in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry. He can provide plumbing repair, replacements, diagnostics, installations, equipment sales, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 and learn more about the various plumbing repair services we offer in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.

Look Out For Water Damages in Your Basement

Posted on October 3, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Leak Inspection 317-784-1870

It is very common, as homeowners, to worry a lot about the threat of mold and water damages your basement. It is important to know whether or not you are accumulating puddles of water or airborne moisture in your home. How do you know if you have this problem? The answer is attention to detail and follow-through. Continue reading for tips on areas in your home that you should inspect, or pay attention to, after a heavy storm, wet weather, or periods of excessive moisture.

Where to Look for Water Damage

When it storms hard, or rains for an extended period of time, moisture and water can seep into our homes through cracks, crevices, and other vulnerable areas. It is vital to keep a lookout for red flags, indicating you have a water problem in the works, in order to prevent a small water leak or small area of damage to turn into a huge, costly repair or renovation. Here are the areas of a residential basement that should be supervised after heavy rain or moisture:

HVAC System

Although heating and cooling systems are not always installed in basements, the ones that are can be damaged by water leaks and flooding. Older homes are generally the properties that have HVAC systems in the basement. They are also properties that are more likely to experience water leaks; so beware and keep an extra eye open for water damage in the basement, if your home is older than 50 years. Basement heating and cooling systems need a little more maintenance on a routine basis to ensure proper performance and efficiency.

Be sure to check the drain pans regularly, especially after a storm, and clear them of any obstructions or debris. This will ensure consistent and normal water flow. Also, be sure to swap or clean the air filters. This can also prevent system complications that lead to water back-flow. Check for puddles around the unit itself, or condensation on the exterior of casing. If you notice excessive condensation, strange noises, or water puddles, contact an Indianapolis plumber for emergency plumbing repair.

Drain Pipes

While on the topic of condensation, check that your basement’s drain pipes do not appear “sweaty” or have moisture on them. Pipe condensation can cause mold and mildew growth which can be detrimental to your health, and lead to several more serious complications and costly repairs. It can also cause your plumbing pipes to corrode. Installing good-quality insulation for your basement pipes is an effective way to prevent this issues from occurring. Even with good insulation, it is recommended to check the pipes after a big storm or muggy climates.

Walls and Ceilings

Interior water damage can happen after excessive rain or moisture. Water miss-flow and accumulation can cause walls and ceiling areas to look saggy, discolored, wet, and even drip. This is a sign that you need immediate emergency water leak repair. A small interior water leak can quickly turn into a large and very expensive repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for more information about water leak repair and plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state licensed master plumber that offers a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services. Our company has been in business since 1901, providing reputable and effective plumbing repair that all families can afford. As a family owned and operated business, we value the dollar, and offer the most competitive and honest plumbing prices in town. See for yourself, and call 317-784-1870 for reputable and licensed plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Home Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Posted on September 20, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

In our current economy, budget-awareness is no stranger to most homeowners. Many people who own real estate, residential or commercial, are operating on a stringent financial plan. When a family is struggling to pay the bills and keep food on the table, it is easy to ignore or skip certain plumbing and home maintenance needs. In this blog, we will touch on cost-effective ways for homeowners to implement necessary plumbing maintenance services in order to keep their property protected.

Although some plumbing problems call for the services of a trained and licensed Indianapolis master plumber, there are several do-it-yourself methods for plumbing maintenance and repair. Continue reading to learn some budget-management options and tips for plumbing problems and common home plumbing issues.

Clogged Toilets

Most clogged toilets can be fixed with a few pumps of a standard plunger. Now we have all probably used this device once in our lives, but for those who are unfamiliar, simply insert the plunger, rubber-side down, into the toilet bowl and proceed to pump or jab the opening until the contents of the bowl flush. Do not attempt to flush the toilet while plunging; instead, plunge a few times, then flush, and then repeat if necessary. For major toilet repairs, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed plumber for proper service. If you need fixtures installed or replaced, it is wise to also use a master plumber. The plumbing components of a home can be very complex and complicated, and a homeowner can risk adding to the damage if they attempt to install their own fixtures. If you need a toilet replaced, call a professional. It is worth the money in the long run.

Clogged Drains

For drains that just don’t seem to rid the water as quickly as they used to, you can purchase inexpensive drain-cleansers and products at your local store. Some of these products actually come with a “drain snake” that allows you to manually unclog a drain, then pour the solution in after to clear it completely. A snake looks like a long perforated wire that is inserted vertically into a clogged drain. If a products does not come with a snake, simply cut and bend a wire hanger. Once inserted, simply pull out slowly, removing hair, soap residue, and more. These products are fairly inexpensive, and most are pretty effective. Be sure to follow all directions carefully because some can be hazardous if ingested or comes into contact with the eyes, and others can be corrosive to surfaces and counters.

Lead By Example

Teach your kids responsible plumbing usage and lead by example. Teach them about proper toilet practices; such as using an appropriate amount of toilet paper, and not flushing large or foreign objects down the toilet. This can greatly prevent toilet overflows and burst pipes that can lead to costly repairs and potential replacements. Also, teach your children how to use the garbage disposal responsibly, as well as, drain care, water pressure management, and more. The more they know, the more you can stop plumbing complications at home.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call 317-784-1870 and speak with master plumber Mark Weilhammer, owner and operator of Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide selection of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. We have been in business since 1901, and continue to be a trusted Indianapolis plumbing company to this day! We offer the most competent plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today!

How to Choose a Good Plumber

Posted on September 12, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

Plumbing repairs and problems typically come at the worst time, the busiest time, or at the most unexpected time. When it comes to plumbing emergencies, we put very little thought into the plumber we hire for the job. This is because our main objective is to fix the plumbing problem or water leak as soon as possible, while juggling the rest of life’s responsibilities at the same time. With everything else on our plate, we homeowners often “jump the gun” when it comes to finding responsible and reputable plumbing services. Unfortunately, this can further your plumbing issues. A good plumber will repair or diagnose a problem accurately and efficiently, while an experienced contractor may overlook underlying issues that can cause even more problems, and monies spent, down the road. Fortunately, it is easy to identify the good plumbers from the rest of them, so long as you know what to look for.

Continue reading to learn the most important qualities to look for in a proficient and responsible plumber.

A State License

Many wannabe plumbers can claim they have qualifications and experience in the plumbing industry, or have provide “handyman work” for many years; however, true master plumbers are actually state licensed and carry a license number to prove it. If a plumber does not have a state-issued license, then they are not master plumbers. Without this license, you can assume that plumbing is just a hobby of theirs. A licensed plumber, on the other hand, retains the proper equipment and training to carry out minor to major plumbing repairs and projects. The first thing to ask for is their license number. It should be a six-digit number accompanied with a physical permit or paper describing their expertise. You can also enter their license number on state regulated websites to confirm it is a valid and active license.

Experience and Credentials

Yes, all plumbers must start somewhere; but that’s what apprenticeships and entry-level positions are meant to provide. If you need a plumber, be sure they are already experienced. The more experience under their belts, the more knowledgeable and well-versed they should be when it comes to plumbing systems and repairs. At least one decade of experience is a good place to set your bar. Credentials are equally important. All plumbing companies should have some type of professional qualification; such as a BBB membership, awards, or Angie’s List Approved.

Customer Reviews

No one says it better than a previous customer or client. Look up a plumber’s credentials by reading customer reviews online. The better the reviews, the more trustworthy they prove to be. Don’t let one bad review ruin it though; it is important to remember there is always going to be an unsatisfied client or customer somewhere. Use your best judgment and read all the reviews, basing your judgment on the consensus of them all. If you cannot locate any customer reviews online, this could be a bad sign. In this day and age, most reputable services offer a website and online customer review portals to prove their competence and professionalism. If you are dealing with a new or start-up company, or a plumber that is not mastered and licensed, they probably won’t have these tools for you to use. You might want to move on; or you can simply ask them for actual client references.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, master plumber and owner of Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana. Just dial 317-784-1870 to speak with Mark or one of his friendly plumbing service representatives today. We offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. We are state licensed master plumbers (#106214) with more than 60 years of experience! Call 317-784-1870 and ask a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about plumbing repair services and recommendations today.

Checking on Your Water Heater Warranty

Posted on September 5, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

As a home owner, it is important to know how old your hot water heater unit is, and how long it’s under warranty. Do you know how old your device is? The older the tank, the less likely it’s still covered by its manufacturing warranty. If your water heater is five years old or more, it is probably not covered at all. At this point, it is encouraged to have your water heater tested for any damages. Leaky water heaters cause an incredible amount of destruction; especially in basements where mold mixed with moisture has the perfect environment for growth.

A professional diagnosis can detect any water leaks and subsequent damages. The results will determine whether or not you need to make any changes, or replace your tank altogether.

Water Heater Inspections

There should be a panel located on the side of your water heater tank. Located the serial number on this panel. Within it lies a date of purchase. It can be difficult to see sometimes, but remember that it is in the serial number on the side panel of your water heater. If you cannot determine the date, a licensed plumber can easily make out the numbers for you. This serial number will tell the plumber whether or not the unit is still covered under warranty. From here, take a peek at the seams located on the outside of the tank.

Check for signs of leaking or liquid seepage, focusing more at the bottom of the tank. Look for mold, mildew, or water damages. If any of these signs appear, or if your tank is showing evidence of leakage, it is time to have your tank replaced or repaired. Again, a trained master plumbing contractor can facilitate these tasks for you. They retain the professional equipment, proper training, and industry resources to carry out any and all plumbing and water heater repairs.

If the warranty is not valid any longer, it is most lucrative to purchase a brand new unit with a new parts and labor warranty. Be sure to choose a reputable brand water heater, like Rheem or Bradford White. Ask your local Indianapolis master plumber for advice on the markets most reliable hot water heaters. If the warranty is still good, ask your plumber to validate it for you. Simply provide your plumber with the serial number, date, make and model, and size of the tank, and they will locate the parts, put you on schedule, and do the repairs so you are not without hot water for long.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, master plumber, at 317-784-1870 for more information about water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. He and his team of licensed plumbers have decades of experience in the plumbing industry. We repair, replace, install, service, and maintenance all make and model hot water heaters, as well as, give honest industry advice on the best brands to buy. We offer free estimates, DIY Advice, 24 hour emergency services, purchasing advice, unit sales, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for superior water heater services you can trust in Indianapolis, IN today.

Sump Pump Failures and Foes

Posted on August 29, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Sump Pump Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Over the past several decades of being a state licensed master plumber, I have seen my fair share of disturbing sump pump failures and foes. Many people, unfortunately, put too much trust in old sump pump equipment. People that own a 15 year old sump pump can surely expect to have a messy situation on their hands sooner than later. And if you are one of these people, and happen to have a finished basement, you might want to consider a sump pump and battery pack replacement before the “overflow” fairy comes to town. Failed sump pumps lead to costly basement flooding and property damages. Trust me when I say it is cheaper to replace or repair a sump pump rather than pay for basement and foundation renovations!

It’s not just the old and ugly sump pumps that can cause massive flooding and property damage. This is why the same warning goes for cheap, poor quality sump pumps and battery backup systems as well. Some cheap units are known to fail within the FIRST YEAR of ownership solely if the battery water level is not checked once every month! It is vital to invest in a high-quality and reputable sump pump back up system in order to evade messy situations and back up accidents. Water-operated brands are not recommended. They tend to malfunction a lot and flood basements.

Recommended Sump Pumps and Battery Backup Systems

The best way to avoid a sump pump accident and flood situation is to buy the very best brands of backup systems on the market. Take for instance:

The Zoeller Aquanot II

Zoeller Sump Pumps Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

This heavy duty, highly recommended, battery-powered sump pump comes with a 1 year labor warranty, a 3 year parts warranty, and a maintenance-free marine battery. It can be installed in residential properties, as well as, small commercial office buildings and spaces. Check out the customer reviews.

NON-RECOMMENDED BRANDS:

Sump Pro Sump Pumps, Ace in the Hole Sump Pumps, & Wayne Sump Pumps

If you have a low-end sump pump that hasn’t been serviced in years, you are in DIRE NEED of some healthy sump pump education. Contact a licensed Indianapolis Plumber as soon as possible for information about sump pump replacement and purchasing. The longer you wait, the higher your chances for a sump pump accident are. The next time it downpours, is your sump pump capable of handling the water intake? Ask yourself this question when deicing if your sump pump is in good condition or not.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for the most accurate and honest sump pump information and advice in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience working with sump pump repairs and replacements. We carry the Zoeller Aquanot sump pump and can install it for you at the most competitive price in town! Call 317-784-1870 and receive a free estimate for sump pump repair and service in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.

Water Softener Buyers Beware of Cheap, Sub-Standard Brands on the Market

Posted on August 28, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Okay folks, here it is; the BEST water softener brand in Indiana is the CLACK ON DEMAND. Our services provide installation for a NEW METERED 48,000 Grain Unit with a 2-Year LABOR Warranty and 5-Year Control Warranty for less than $1300 total! Just something to keep in mind if you are experiencing problems with your current water conditioning system. No matter how difficult and time-consuming, we can always figure out a way to get soft water for our clients at a price they can afford.

Best and Most Reliable Water Softeners

As just mentioned, CLACK ON DEMAND is a fantastic brand for water conditioners. The CLACK Valve is probably the most user-friendly water softener in the country. CLACK is simply the most advanced valve on the market right now. It substantially exceeds all other brand valves; including FLECK, CULLIGAN, AUTOTROL, and even KINTETICO.

NOT RECOMMENDED IN A MILLION YEARS: Whirlpool, GE, SEARS, and Morton Water Softeners

The above, non-recommended, brands are difficult to repair because not many plumbers will take on the responsibility. They know, just as we do, that there is no chance for them. We will not take your money and make empty promises for repair when it simply isn’t possible or highly unlikely. Cheap bargain brand water softeners typically have poor quality filter resin that is only made to last around 5 years in city water (hard water). On the contrary, CLACK ON DEMAND water conditioners retain mineral resin that is heavy-duty, long-lasting, and double the quality of bargain brand systems.

TAKE NOTE: From my experience as a master plumber, we have seen water heaters with excessive lime and sediment buildup from the city’s water. Think of it this way, a clean gas water heater costs around $300 per year to heat a property’s water; however, a dirty lime-ridden unit costs four times as much per year! This is one reason why water softeners are a smart investment. They essentially pay for themselves because they prevent this kind of mess and annual costs.

EXAMPLE: In 2008, I visited a client that owned a worn-out CULLIGAN water softener and needed a replacement. CULLIGAN quoted nearly $2000 for a GOLD SERIES replacement unit. Here at the WEILHAMMER PLUMBING COMPANY, we installed a brand new CLACK unit for less than $1100, instead! See the difference?

WARNING!!

NEVER fall victim to “home show”, “high-pressure”, or “fly-by-the-night” salesmen, or conmen as I like to call them. They try to sell you 15 year old fancy-sounding equipment for up to $6,000! WE hear this complaint from customers all too often. Do not get swindled into buying old, over-priced equipment from home shows or conventions. Remember, we can install a brand new 48,000 grain CLACK unit for less than $1300.

Now let’s talk salt-free. Or better yet, just read these customer reviews and decide for yourself:

Salt-Free Water Conditioner Customer Review #1

Salt-Free Water Conditioner Customer Review #2

Weilhammer Plumbing Company – Indianapolis, IN

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. at 317-714-0759 for reputable and trustworthy plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have been a family owned and operated plumbing company for more than 112 years! This means we have earned the utmost respect and the trust of our Hoosier communities over the past several decades. We are state licensed plumbers that offer the most competitive plumbing prices in the state. We only want the best for our customers, so we retain the latest technologies for plumbing repair, and only the highest quality products and appliances. Call us today at 317-714-0759 for more information about plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis, IN and its nearby counties.

Learning About Sediment Buildup in Water Heaters

Posted on August 27, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Sediment refers to the small and often times, microscopic, particles that precipitate out of water at high temperatures. Sand, dirt, calcium carbonate, mineral ions, and any other solid debris commonly makes up the sediment found at the bottom of hot water heater tanks. Sediment buildup in hot water heaters generally depends on what kind of water you have. In some areas, there is virtually no sediment; while other areas contain water with high levels of sediment.

Regular flushing of your hot water heater helps prevent sediment build up. The heating of water in your water heater causes calcium carbonate to precipitate out and settle to the bottom of the tank. Steam bubbles form under the sediment when the burners come on, causing popping and other similar noises as the bubbles escape from under the sediment.

Why Is Your Water Heater Not Producing Enough Hot Water? It Might Be…

• A Broken Dip Tube
• Incorrect Temperature Setting
• Faulty Thermostat
• Sediment Buildup
• Faulty Electric Components
• Burned Out Heating Elements

What is a Dip Tube?

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

Do You Have a Noisy Tank?

Noise coming from gas water heater models are often times caused by the sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Steam bubbles form under the sediment; and when the bubbles begin to escape from under the sediment, it causes thumping and popping noises. On the other hand, sizzling noises can be caused by condensation dripping onto the hot burner; like falling water drops on a hot griddle.

Thermal Expansion

When water is heated, it expands. If an inlet is not blocked by a check valve, pressure reducing valve, or other device, the increase in water volume simply travels back into the source. If the inlet is blocked, this increase in volume will cause an increase in pressure; and sometimes to dangerous levels. The T&PR (Temperature & Pressure Release) valve relieves this pressure by discharging a small amount of liquid.

A thermal expansion tank can be installed in the line that will absorb the increase in volume, thus preventing the T&PR valve from discharging unnecessarily. T&P valves are strictly an emergency measure and should be replaced every 2 years. At 180 degrees, the temperature at which the T&P valve opens, damage can occur to your system and you may have voided the warranty on your water heater. The improper installation of backflow preventers can block the thermal expansion leading to operation of the T&P Valve.

What is Water Hammer?

When water travels through the pipes, it creates kinetic energy or energy of motion. When a valve abruptly shuts off, a shock wave results. Water hammer most often occurs when a valve shuts off suddenly. Commercial arrestors are available to combat this problem. They have a small air bladder within a cylinder plumbed to the piping system that is located near the problematic valve. Select hardware stores carry them. Also, when pipes appear to droop, adding a support system can solve the problem.

Is the Water a Milky Color?

Water contains dissolved oxygen, as well as, several other gases. When water is heated, it loses most of its ability to maintain these gases. So when the water pressure is lowered as the liquid comes out of the tap, these gasses can form tiny bubbles; which gives the liquid a milky appearance. Allowing the water to stand for a few minutes will permit these bubbles to rise out of the liquid; successively eliminating the milky-ness and restoring a clearer appearance. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, be sure to strap the tank to the wall in order to prevent damage and possible injury.

Water Heater Services – Indianapolis, Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber, has more than 60 years of experience repairing hot water heaters, water softeners, and plumbing systems for residential and commercial properties. He and his team are state licensed master plumbers (#106214), and highly trained to provide a wide-range of water heater repairs and services. We offer free estimates, emergency services, and water heater unit and product sales! Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable Indianapolis plumber today!