Most Likely Reasons Why Your Bathtub is Draining So Slowly

Posted on October 28, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

If your bathtub is draining slowly, there are a few different things that could be causing the problem. First, check the drain for a clog. If the drain is clear, try to clean out the P-trap. If neither of these solutions works, you may have a leak in the drainpipe. Continue below to learn more about these 3 common bathtub drain problems, plus what to do about them.

Learn how to repair a slow draining bathtub drain! — Bathtub Plumbing Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Top 3 Causes of a Slow Draining Tub

One of the most common reasons why your bathtub is draining slowly is because of a clog in the drain. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can build up in the drain, causing a blockage. This can cause water to drain slowly, or even back up into the tub. If you notice that your bathtub is draining more slowly than usual, you may want to check the drain for a clog.

Another reason why your bathtub may be draining slowly is because of a problem with the P-trap. The P-trap is a curved pipe that connects the drain to the main sewer line. It traps water in order to prevent sewer gases from entering the home. Over time, the P-trap can become corroded or clogged, which can cause water to drain slowly. If you suspect that the P-trap is the problem, you can try to clean it out with a plunger or a plumber’s snake.

Finally, another possibility is that there is a leak in the drain pipe. This can happen if the drainpipe is old or has become damaged. A leak in the drainpipe can cause water to drain slowly, or even to back up into the tub. If you think that there may be a leak in the drainpipe, you should call an Indianapolis master plumber to have it repaired.

Troubleshooting Bathtub Drainage Issues

Bathtub drains can be a source of frustration when they become clogged or slow to drain. Luckily, there are a few simple troubleshooting tips you can try to get your drain flowing again. If your tub drain is clogged, the first step is to try using a plunger to dislodge the obstruction. In the case that doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake or auger to reach down into the drain and clear the blockage. If the bathtub is slow to drain, it may be due to a build-up of hair and soap scum, as mentioned earlier. Again, you can try removing this buildup by using a plumbers’ snake or a drain cleaner specifically designed to break up soap scum.

If you’re still having trouble with your bathtub in any way, shape, or form, it’s time to call in a professional plumber in Indianapolis for help. They will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and get your drain flowing freely again.

Do you have some bathroom or household plumbing issues that are wasting water and money? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial customers.

How to Solve Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan Problems

Posted on September 29, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

The bathroom exhaust vent fan requires annual maintenance to increase its performance value and lifespan. It is used for removing excess moisture in the air after a hot shower or bath. If never removed, this moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which is simultaneously dangerous to our health and destructive for our homes.

Continue reading to learn how to properly clean and maintain bathroom exhaust vent fans.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

How Bathroom Fans Work

Bathroom exhaust fans are powerful enough to exhaust nearly two million cubic feet of air per year if turned on for one hour each day! They draw air from the bathroom and vent it outside. As the vent draws air in, other airborne particles come with it, like dust, dander, and debris. These particles accumulate on the outer grid cover and fan motor, reducing performance value and efficiency. Both of these areas must be cleaned in order to maintain an operational bathroom exhaust vent. Dust and debris should be wiped clear every six months to a year, depending on the size of a bathroom and the number of occupants in a home.

How to Clean the Bathroom Exhaust Vent:

To get started, you will need a vacuum with a brush attachment, a step stool, and a towel. The first step begins at the circuit breaker box. Be sure to flip the fuse to the bathroom fan so it has no power. This will eliminate electrocution accidents and injuries.

Next, use your step stool to get in arms reach of the vent. Most are located on the ceiling, but some may be on the side of a wall, right beneath the ceiling.

Slowly pull the grid cover to the vent down until it is a few inches from the ceiling. At this point, you will be able to see metal spring clips on each side of the grid cover. Press them together simultaneously and release them from their slots in the fan housing, then remove the cover from the ceiling entirely.

Place the vent cover on the towel and vacuum it clean with your brush attachment. You may also use paper towel and mild cleaning solution to wipe it clean after vacuuming. Do this for both sides.

Next, using your brush attachment, gently vacuum the fan housing and blower motor. You can choose to use the crevice tool vacuum attachment to reach deeper, harder-to-reach spots.

Now you are ready to attach the cover back to the ceiling and exposed fan housing.

To do this, hold the vent cover while pressing together both metal spring clips. Slip the clips back into their slots inside the fan housing. Gently push the cover back onto the ceiling.

For safe and secure solutions to all your plumbing maintenance and repair needs, be sure to contact a qualified and licensed Indianapolis plumbing company that can provide comprehensive bathroom plumbing repair services and more.

Are you ready to have your bathroom plumbing inspected and repaired by a licensed plumber in your area? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing inspection service and plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial service throughout Central Indiana.

Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Plumbing

Posted on September 16, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or have owned your house for a long time, it is vital to stay up to date with your plumbing systems. Reviewing some common tips and general information from time to time can refresh your memory and help you do a better job of taking care of your home. Continue reading to review some unique, but important, frequently asked questions about home plumbing.

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Home Plumbing FAQS You Want to Know

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that is polluted with high levels of contaminates, such as iron salts, calcium, and magnesium. If you are starting to notice subtle changes in your dishes, skin, laundry, and plumbing fixtures, it may be related to a hard water issue. A water filtration system, coupled with a quality water softener, can eliminate these mineral ions plus reduce the level of hardness in your home’s water.

Why Does My Water Take So Long to Heat Up?

There are some common reasons why your water heater might be taking too long to heat your water up. Most often, the water heater is just too old or defective. Otherwise, you could have too much sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, low volume restrictors installed on your plumbing fixtures, or too much distance between the location of the water heater and your point-of-demand. To fix this problem, you will need to contact a professional Indianapolis plumber who specializes in hot water heater repair and service.

How Do I Unclog a Backed Up Toilet?

Large debris can get stuck, like toilet paper, hair ties, and more. In this case, you will need to use your plunger to plunge the toilet bowl for 30 seconds. But before you do, be sure there is not too much water in the toilet bowl. If there is, empty as much water as needed with a separate cup or bowl. Try flushing the toilet to see if the plunger loosened up the clog. If it didn’t, try again or check to see if the flapper is the issue. If you cannot clear a clogged toilet bowl with a plunger, then you will need to call a licensed plumber for help.

How Do I Remove the Crusty Substance on the Shower Head and Faucet?

Remove the shower head by unscrewing it from the spout. Place it in a bowl with hot water and one cup of household vinegar. Leave it overnight then scrub it clean the next morning. If you cannot screw the shower head off, put the vinegar solution in a plastic bag and place it over the spout, attaching and securing it with a tie. If the substance does come off completely, re-do the process using less water and more vinegar.

How Do I Get Rid of Odor in My Garbage Disposal?

The odor most likely is coming from an accumulation of food scraps and other debris. To remove the smell, you can put a mixture of ice cubes and lemon peels down the disposal and run it, then with disposal still running, flush it with cold water for a minute. If this does not do the trick completely, add a few drops of dish soap with cold water for another thirty seconds. This household remedy is a popular solution to foul smelling garbage disposals.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Pumped?

An inspection or cleaning should be done once every few years or so, depending on the size of the make and model septic system in place. In smaller systems, once every three years is sufficient; however, a large tank would require an inspection once every two years or less. The larger the system, the more often it will require service.

Am I Smelling Natural Gas in My House?

Natural gas smells like rotten eggs. If you smell this in your home or building, first, turn off all appliances that use gas. Then open a few windows or doors to let the gas air out. Once you have done this, check the range, water heater, and furnace pilot lights; if one light is out, relight it. If they are not the issue, call your local gas provider and report the smell right away.

Why Did My Plumbing Pipes Go Bad?

There are several reasons why plumbing pipes go bad. It can be due to old age, poor installation, incompatibility, material quality issues, corrosion, external structural damages, and much more.

Should I Re-Pipe or Repair the Plumbing?

In many cases, plumbing pipes do not require replaced, but rather repaired. If one or two plumbing pipes burst or incur some sort of damage, they can simply be replaced through trenchless piping or other repair techniques. However, there are other cases in which the whole house plumbing system should be re-piped. Talk to in Indianapolis plumber to determine the best course of action for your plumbing pipe renovation needs.

How Do I Know if I Have a Plumbing Leak?

As someone who regularly pays your water and energy bills, you know when something is a little off. Suddenly higher utility bills are one of the first signs of a hidden plumbing leak in the home. If you are utility bills are higher than usual, or have seen a sudden spike in cost, it could be an indication that you have a hidden plumbing leak somewhere in your system. First, contact your utility company to confirm that your bill is correct, and if it is, your next step is to contact in licensed plumber for a home plumbing inspection in Indianapolis.

Do you think your plumbing system could use some TLC? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients and are state-licensed master plumbers.

3 Simple Ways to Conserve Water in the Bathroom

Posted on August 12, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Contributing to the betterment of the environment is something anyone can do. In fact, it is easy, and it can save you money! If you’re interested in helping the planet Earth, a good place to start is water conservation. After all, water is precious and none of it should go to waste. Which room in your home uses the most water? Arguably, you could say the kitchen, but most often, it’s the bathroom!

Continue reading to learn 3 simple ways to conserve water in the bathroom, plus what to do if you are dealing with plumbing issues that are wasting water and increasing your utility bills.

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Bathroom Water Conservation

Because bathroom water conservation is so easy to do, you can get your entire family or roommates involved too! Here are the three easiest and most cost-effective ways to cut back on water consumption in the bathroom:

Install Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures

Shower heads and faucets are plumbing fixtures that are notorious for wasting water. The flow of water ejected from these fixtures is so strong that the average showerhead or faucet can fill a 5 gallon tank every minute. You can reduce the amount of water your plumbing fixtures emit by installing low-flow showerheads or low-volume water restrictors in your faucets. These plumbing fixtures can reduce water flow down to two half gallons per minute. Not only does this help the planet by conserving water, but it also significantly reduces your water bill every month.

Reduce Bathing Time

Although it can be really challenging to do after a long day of work or a really hard week, one way you can easily conserve water in the bathroom is to reduce your bathing time. Cut back on how long you run a shower before you get in, plus how long you take a shower. Also consider ways to avoid leaving the faucet running while you do other things in the bathroom, like brushing your teeth, washing your hands, removing your makeup, or shaving. For instance, use a mug of water to rinse your razor in between strokes, and simply shut the faucet off while you’re scrubbing your teeth or face clean.

Stop Using the Bathtub

Many people enjoy a good long soak in a hot bath every once in a while, which is perfectly fine. But if you are someone who frequently takes baths, you might want to reconsider your options. The average bathtub holds and drains between 35 and 50 gallons of water. In comparison, a ten minute shower will usually consume around 25 gallons of water.

Bonus Tip:

Another effective way to conserve water in the bathroom is to have any water leaks repair right away. A dripping faucet can waste a lot of water, more than you would think. In fact, a leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water a day. Think about how this could impact your water bill each month.

Why You Should Hire a Professional for Drain Cleaning Service

Posted on July 15, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Although there are drain augers and plastic drain snakes available on the market, these should only be used for minor clogs. If you are experiencing moderate to severe drain issues, you need comprehensive drain cleaning, which is a service that should only be carried out by a licensed and insured plumbing professional.

Continue reading to learn why such plumbing services are strictly for trained and equipped professionals, plus where to get a free estimate for drain clearing and cleaning in Indianapolis.

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Common Signs of Drain Trouble

It is easy to tell when you have a minor clogged drain problem. A slow draining sink or bathtub is likely the result of a minor obstruction or blockage within the drain itself. Typically, this is caused from shampoo and soap residues, hair, and general dirt and debris. Even if the drain is entirely clogged, it is likely a minor blockage that can be dislodged using a plunger or drain snake. On the other hand, a drain snake does not work on tougher drain problems, which tend to evade your attention for some time because they happen out of view. This is why regular home plumbing inspections are important.

Some common signs of moderate to major drain clogs include:

▭ A clogged drain that will not dislodge with a plunger or drain snake.
▭ A burst or leaking plumbing pipe.
▭ Water leaking from the base of the toilet.
▭ A bubbling toilet.
▭ Drains that smell bad.
▭ Puddles around the bathtub, shower, or sink.

If you are experiencing one or more of these drain issues, you will need to quickly hire a licensed plumber who can provide professional drain clearing and cleaning services.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional for Drain Repair and Cleaning

Professional plumbers are licensed and insured to perform comprehensive drain repairs and drain clearing services. They retain the proper permits, training, equipment, and resources to clean drains according to local building codes. In many cases, moderate to severe drain problems must be approached using video pipe inspection equipment and high-powered hydro-jetting technology, which uses high pressured hot steam to release and clear drain blockages. For less serious drain issues, a plumber may use a commercial hand-crank drain snake or motorized auger with success.

Are you worried that your drainage system might be having trouble? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing inspection service for drains, pipes, and more. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services in Indianapolis all throughout Central Indiana.

Do Not Let Your Guests Flush These Things Down the Toilet

Posted on July 8, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Summertime is a time for loved ones. With school out all season long, now is the prime time to visit family. Although enriching and enjoyable, hosting family from out of town can certainly pose some challenges, especially when kids are involved. Yet somehow, regardless of age, house guests tend to cause some plumbing challenges during their stays, particularly with the toilet, which is problematic considering the acute importance of having a functional toilet at all times, even more so when people are staying with you! So, if you are preparing to have family come into town for a visit, do your due diligence to ensure they don’t flush the wrong things down the toilet. Your plumbing and sewer system will thank you!

Continue below for a list of things that you might want to warn your house guests about before showing them to their rooms!

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Stick to the Obvious Flushing Rules

People tend to overlook the fact that most things do not belong in the toilet. Other than human waste, and toilet paper, nothing else should be flushed down the commode. This makes the list of incompatible items quite long, as you can imagine. But when it comes to house guests, there are some items that are more commonly a threat to your toilet. Give your guests a customary orientation on what not to flush down your toilets and sleep easier knowing you won’t be waking up to a mass overflow or backup.

Common Items That Should Not Be Flushed Down the Toilet

Avoid inconvenient toilet disasters and costly plumbing repair bills by telling your guests not to flush these items down the toilet:

Moist Towelettes and Wipes

Moist towelettes, disinfecting wipes, alcohol pads, and bathroom wipes should not be flushed. Even bathroom wipes that are advertised as “flushable” are not really flush-friendly nor do they disintegrate well. These items are notorious for causing backups in sewer systems and plumbing pipes. This can lead to pipe bursts, water leaks, and hefty repair bills.

Paper towels and tissue are also bad news for toilets. They should never be flushed, even if they are totally saturated.

Feminine Products

Items like tampons, maxi-pads, disposal underwear, incontinence products, and more are not meant to be flushed. These items expand in water and will quickly clog up your system. Rather than flushing, instruct your house guests to wrap them in toilet paper and toss them into the trash bin. The same applies to contraceptives like condoms.

Cotton Swabs, Balls and Pads

You wouldn’t think something as small and flimsy as a cotton swab or cotton ball would harm your plumbing system, but as it turns out, they are a common culprit behind toilet and sewer system backups. Like the other items listed, cotton balls, swabs, and rounds are made using highly absorbent materials, so they expand inside plumbing pipes and obstruct the flow of wastewater. Never allow your guests to toss these into the toilet.

Baby Diapers

Disposal and cloth baby diapers should be an obvious flushing no-no, yet they tend to top the list as far as toilet clogs go, especially in public restrooms. Never attempt to flush a diaper down the toilet, no matter how small or clean. They are large and highly absorbent, making them an instant plumbing obstruction.

Fireworks

Although the Fourth of July comes once a year, fireworks tend to linger all summer long. But do not let your curious niece or nephew drop a firecracker down the toilet! Placing a lit firework in the toilet will break the toilet, guaranteed. And if it doesn’t crack the porcelain bowl entirely in half (which is what normally occurs), it will damage the internal trap and fail to hold in the water. Can you say, toilet replacement?

Dead Fish and Amphibians

You may have been raised flushing dead goldfish, crawdads, and minnows down the toilet, but this is actually bad practice. Not only can fish and shellfish caused obstructions in the sewer system, but sometimes they are not actually dead, which can lead to an infestation. Stick to burrowing your dead pets or tossing your deceased fishy into the neighborhood pond.

Additional Items to Warn Guests About:

□ Dental Floss
□ Hair
□ Dryer Sheets
□ Razor Blades
□ Cosmetics
□ Plastic Wrappers
□ Toys

Are you having toilet or plumbing issues? Do you need plumbing service or repair before your family arrives for a summer visit? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need professional and affordable plumbing services for toilets, drains, showers, tubs, water heaters, water softeners, and more. We serve residential and commercial clients in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana.

What You Need to Know Before Installing a Steam Shower in Your Bathroom

Posted on June 24, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Modern technologies are truly gifting society with all sorts of luxuries these days. Right now, homeowners and real estate developers all across the nation are upping their master bathroom game with a trending new installation: steam showers. After all, what’s more relaxing than a hot, steamy, detoxifying sauna-like experience after a long day of work or play? With steam shower installation, anyone can have this spa-equivalent environment in the comfort of their own home. But before you make the call to place your order, there are some things you need to know.

Continue below to learn some important factors to think about before making any final decisions to have a steam shower installed in your bathroom this year, plus who to trust for the best bathroom plumbing advice near you.

Shower Installation Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Steam Showers are a Modern-Day Luxury That Come With a Cost

Steam showers are certainly a modern-day luxury, but like most luxury amenities in life, they come with a high cost. And that cost is not always a financial one. There are many considerations to review and discuss with a licensed electrician and plumber before jumping on the steam shower bandwagon. Let’s talk quickly about how steam showers work and how they are different from conventional bathroom showers.

How to Steam Showers Work?

Steam showers are connected to an electric generator that is designed to convert water into steam. The steam is pumped into the shower stall through water lines and other plumbing lines and managed by a digital control panel. The control panel will allow you to customize the intensity and temperature of the steam in real time. Steam showers can come as an entirely new shower installation, or you can add the generator setup and convert your existing shower stall into a steam shower. However, your shower stall must meet the installation requirements.

Important Considerations For Steam Showers

☑ Size

Steam showers require a lot of space. Not only do you need space for your shower installation, plus room for a bench or seat inside of the shower, but you also need room for the generator. Height also plays a major role in steam shower installation. The shower must be tall enough, ideally around 7 feet, to accommodate the operations of a steam shower. Too much space in the shower stall will require a lot of steam production, while too little space will fill up too quickly. You want to be able to sit down and steam for 10 to 15 minutes, which is why space (especially for a bench) area are important features to have in place before installing a steam shower generator system.

☑ Generator Location

The spot for the generator will need to be well-thought out before installing a steam shower system. If the generator is too far from your shower, it will not be able to adequately distribute the steam to your stall. Not only should the generator be close to the shower, but it needs to be in a warm area of the home to protect it from freezing, plus it needs enough space to be serviced as needed.

☑ Utility Costs

Because a steam shower generator uses electricity, typically 220 or 240 volts, you can expect your monthly electric bill to increase. The amount it increases will depend on how often you use your steam shower and for how long with each use.

☑ Condensation and Slippery Surfaces

Because steam turns into water, you can expect a lot of drippage during your steam session, plus an increased risk of slippery surfaces around the shower. Steam showers should have a sloped ceiling to prevent water condensation from dripping on your head while you enjoy your steaming. Furthermore, you will need to plan for some slip-resistant inclusions inside and outside of the shower stall to prevent accidents.

☑ Water Leaks

Your steam shower will create a lot of condensation and dripping water. For this reason, it is important to equip your shower and shower stall with air-tight sealed plumbing fixtures. Sliding glass shower doors are not compatible with steam shower installation and will need to be modified or replaced. If you have lights inside the steam shower, you will need to make sure they are vapor-proof, otherwise condensation can seep inside and short them out.

☑ Hired Assistance

Not only will you require the service of a licensed electrician to set up your generator and hook up the wiring for the digital control panel, but you will also need to hire a master plumber to install your water lines and more.

Are you ready to get some personalized advice on which shower installation is best for your home and water heating needs? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Unclog a Sink if the Drain Snake Does Not Work

Posted on June 9, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you call it a drain snake, plumber snake, or small drum auger, virtually every renter and homeowner has one. You can purchase a drain snake at the grocery store, the dollar store, the home improvement store, and at almost any online retailer of the sort. They are easily accessible and very inexpensive, so they are a highly recommended tool to have around the house. You can even use them to unclog toilets, showers, and tubs. But sometimes, plastic augers are just not enough to unclog a stubborn sink drain.

If you are attempting to unblock a clogged sink, but the plumber snake isn’t working out, continue reading for some drain clearing tips that will help you get past this common, but oh-so-frustrating, obstacle.

Sink Drain Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Why is the Drain Snake Not Working?

Drain snakes are easy tools to use, so you will know right away whether yours is working or not. To use a drain snake, you insert it deep into the drain, twist it around several times, and then pull it back up. The auger should pull out all sorts of unsightly materials, like hair, soapy residue, and dental floss.

Although very effective tools, they are not always the right choice for a clogged drain. In fact, there are many reasons why a drain snake might be ineffectively unclogging your sink. One of the most common in easily fixable reasons why a drain auger won’t work is because the old clogging material is still attached to the rod. Be sure to fully clean your drain auger before reusing it for another clog.

Another common reason why augers fail to do the trick has to do with the structural integrity of the auger itself. If you are using a small drum auger rather than a plastic drain snake, it is possible that the thumbscrew has come loose. If the thumbscrew is loose, the auger will not be able to effectively rotate. And if the auger will not rotate, it won’t be able to catch and pull any debris or blockage within the drain.

If you can’t even push the auger down into the drain, it’s because there is a heavy blockage that is denser than the overall tensile strength of the tool. In this case, you would need something more heavy-duty to dislodge the blockage, or perhaps even more invasive plumbing repair. Severe sink clogs are difficult to repair with a plumber snake.

What to Do About a Clogged Sink

If your drain snake is not working, but none of the above-mentioned reasons are to blame, you have two viable options: attempt to loosen the clog with a drain cleaner and repeat the auger process again, or save time and effort by contacting a professional Indianapolis plumber for drain clearing service. Just be sure you do not ignore a clogged drain, as they can lead to more serious plumbing problems, like burst pipes and water leaks.

Looking for a professional plumber who can make all of your plumbing problems go away without breaking the bank? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial customers.

7 Things You Can Do to Unclog Your Shower Drain

Posted on May 20, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Nothing quite drains the pleasure out of your morning or post-work shower than standing ankle deep in soapy water. If your shower drain is clogged, it is important to troubleshoot the issue as soon as possible, not just for the sake of your bathing enjoyment, but also for preventative maintenance purposes. Fortunately, there are many things you can do on your own that can solve the problem right away.

Continue reading to learn the top 7 things you can do to unclog your shower drain.

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How to Fix a Clogged Shower Drain

So, what causes a shower drain to clog up? Well, the answer is quite obvious. Mostly, hair, dirt, and soap residues are to blame, but shower drains can also fall victim to obstructions caused by thick shaving cream, lost jewelry, razor caps, toys, and all sorts of other common bath time accoutrements. Many people like to brush their teeth and floss in the shower, so floss is a common obstruction found in shower drains.

Not to worry, as there are plenty of ways to unclog that troublesome shower drain of yours! Here are the top seven things you can do to unclog your shower drain:

Manual Dislodging

The first thing you want to do to fix a clogged shower drain is to manually dislodge anything that’s obstructing the drain. Any visible obstructions like hair or soap scum should be cleared away of your shower drain before testing other methods of repair. Yes, this will be a slimy and unpleasant task, so put on some rubber gloves and possibly even a face mask.

Plunger

When your manual attempt doesn’t work, grab your plunger. Use the plunger over the shower drain in the same way you would use it in the toilet if the toilet were clogged. Place the plunger directly on top of the shower drain and pump it several times with force. Then run the shower to see if the water flows through the drain smoothly. If that doesn’t work, you may need to get deeper inside the drain. The next few methods will help you do that.

Boiling Water

If the first two methods don’t work, boil some water on top of your stove, and then pour it down your shower drain. Sometimes this can clear out shaving cream, dirt accumulation, and soap scum buildup. Once these residues are cleared, your shower drain should flow smoothly. Just be careful when you’re handling the boil water because it will burn you.

White Vinegar and Baking Soda

If boiling water isn’t strong enough, make a concoction of distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Then pour the solution down your drain. This is basically a homemade drain cleaner, but without all of the harsh chemicals and damaging ingredients. You may need to repeat this a few times to get the drain entirely cleared. Oftentimes, this vinegar and baking soda solution is well paired with an auger, also known as a drain snake.

Drain Snake

A drain snake is a long, thin, plastic, flexible, handheld auger that is used to dislodge any obstructions within a drain. Drain snakes can be purchased for as little as one dollar at any local department or grocery store. You can literally find them anywhere that sells regular home goods or household products. To use an auger, simply push it deep into the drain as far as you can, then turn it a few times before pulling it out. You will be shocked to see what comes out with it!

Wire Hook

You can also use a metal hook in the same way you would use a drain snake to dislodge any obstructions within the shower drain. Just be careful using this method because you can accidentally poke or stab yourself. Most people will take a wire hanger and unwind it to form a hook and handle. This works really well when you don’t have an auger on hand.

Licensed Plumber

Your last resort is to contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for drain cleaning and clearing service. They have the proper tools and resources to promptly resolve drain issues. Because drain clearing is typically an easy and speedy service, you can expect it to be affordable as well.

Do you need some professional drain clearing and cleaning service for your shower, sink, bathtub, or outdoor drains? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Clean Around the House Using Lemons

Posted on May 13, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you go organic, large, small, or pre-squeezed, there are several ways to use lemons and lemon juice for cleaning around the house. Whether at home or on the road, you can trade the normal methods for everyday cleaning with a fresh-smelling, antioxidant, and Eco-friendly alternative: lemons! Manage upholstery stains, smelly laundry, clogged drains, limescale, mold, bacterial growth, and much more!

Continue reading for all the creative and non-toxic ways to clean around the house with store-bought lemons and a few other household ingredients.

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How to Clean With Lemons Around the House

Clothing Stain Removal

Aprons, clothing, uniforms, sheets, blankets, upholstery, curtains, tablecloths, place mats, serving napkins, and more can fall victim to staining. Blood, grease, dirt, rust, and grass stand no chance when using fresh lemon juice. It can help remove these types of stains and more! Simply dab equal parts of salt and lemon onto the stain and allow it to sit for an hour, then wash normally using detergent.

Disinfecting

Lemons can be used as disinfectants for several types of surfaces. For example, kitchen cutting boards are perfect hosts for lingering bacteria and germs. Lemon juice can eliminate these hazards, as well as, stains, with a simple and quick ten minute soak. Pour or squeeze the juice of a lemon onto a wood cutting board and allow it to sit for ten minutes before rinsing. And simple repeat if necessary.

You may also rub the exposed part of the lemon all over the surface for added effects. It is a fantastic way to kill germs naturally. Use on other surfaces as well, like tables and sinks. They are naturally scented too, making them free of chemicals that replicate the fresh smell of lemons people commonly associated with cleanliness. Never use lemon juice on granite or marble surfaces.

Hardwood Floors and Furniture

Polish hardwood furniture and floors the natural way by combining a cup of olive oil with a half cup lemon juice! Dab first on a cloth and use sparingly in circular motions. Buff the floors out with a clean dry microfiber cloth afterwards.

Kitchen Cleaning

You can clean dishware with just lemons and baking soda. Cut a lemon in half and dip the exposed portion into a pile of baking soda. Then just use the lemon as if it were your dishcloth! Citric acid is an effective de-greaser and will cut-through and loosen grime on dishware. You can also place a cup of lemon juice in the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run a cycle to deodorize it naturally.

The same goes for microwaves. Deodorize and eliminate bacteria inside a microwave by placing lemon slices in a microwave-safe bowl of water and heat for one minute. This kills the bacteria and humidifies the inside, allowing grease and stuck-on food to loosen. Just wipe the inside of the microwave out with a clean rag afterwards!

Drain Cleaning

To clean drains, pour half of a cup of baking soda down the drain and then pour a cup of hot lemon juice down afterwards. Allow this mixture to work itself in for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. To clean and deodorize garbage disposals, drop a few citrus peels down the drain and run the disposal with cold water from the faucet. Lemon wedges can be placed inside a refrigerator to eliminate bad odors as well.

Mold Remover

No matter what color of mold you have or where it may be, you can use lemon juice and good old fashioned elbow grease to remove it. Tiles, plumbing fixtures, and other surfaces can be scrubbed clean of mold with a pasty mixture of lemon juice and salt.

Limescale and Soap Scum Remover

Aside from mold, lemons can also be used to clean soap scum, limescale, hard water deposits, and other similar residues. For this, mix two parts of bicarbonate soda and one part lemon juice, and then apply the paste to the soiled area. Allow to sit, then scrub with cloth or toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly.

Additional Lemon Cleaning Applications:

◾ Glass Cleaner
◾ Mirror Polisher
◾ Shoe Shiner
◾ Metal Polisher
◾ Laundry Bleacher
◾ Air Freshener

Are you plumbing fixtures damaged limescale? Did a water leak cause a mold outbreak in your home? Perhaps you are ready to update some kitchen and mudroom appliances? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for water heaters, water softeners, water leaks, kitchens, bathrooms, and more. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services all throughout Central Indiana.