Category Archives: Plumbers

How to Make Greener Plumbing Choices

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There are plenty more benefits to greener plumbing other than lower monthly utility bills. In fact, you cannot even imagine the positive impact you are having on the world simply by making greener choices. If you are interested in making the switch to green plumbing, you are on your way to cleaner water, healthier family, and enhanced water conservation. Not only does this benefit you and all of your home’s occupants for the time being, it sets up a path of leaving your children’s children in a cleaner, more energy-efficient world.

Continue below to learn some of the most common ways homeowners are incorporating greener plumbing choices in their homes, and how you can too!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

How You Can Make the Switch to Green Plumbing

☙ Decreasing Your Home’s Energy Consumption

There is no better place to start than with an initiative to reduce home energy usage with green plumbing in order to support a greener world. After all, we are all guilty of leaving on a light or two in our lifetime. So, in order to decrease your level of energy usage in your home, you can insulate your plumbing pipes, relocate any plumbing that runs through exterior walls, install an Instantaneous hot water circulation pump, or even install a new, modern water heater.

☙ Supporting a Healthier Homestead

Did you know that poor quality plumbing can make you sick? If you wish to make greener plumbing choices for the sake of having a healthier home, consider examining your municipal water quality report to ensure your water supply is safe and does not pose any immediate or long-term risks. Or, you can have your water tested at home by a local and independent water purification company. Other options for making your home healthier with green plumbing include installing chlorine filters on all shower heads, a reverse osmosis system, activated carbon water filters, or even a whole-house water filtration system.

☙ Promoting a Healthier Environment

If your goal is to protect our surrounding environment through greener plumbing practices, you can start with a plan to reduce your water consumption. Do this by installing low-volume water restrictors on plumbing fixtures like faucets and shower heads, faucet flow reducers, or a water leak monitoring device. You can also switch to low-flush toilets and other energy efficiency appliances.

Where to Get Expert Green Plumbing Service and Free Advice in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a knowledgeable and licensed Indianapolis master plumber about water quality improvements in your home, today. Our state-licensed plumbing professionals are happy to answer any questions you have about water heating, water softening, plumbing repair, routine plumbing service, water testing, and more. Our licensed plumbers also offer a wide range of other plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties, as well as, free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

How Does Hard Water Compare to Soft Water?

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When it comes to your home, you want the finest amenities and conveniences available within your budget. Something widely overlooked but highly beneficial and affordable regardless of income? Soft water. All homes and businesses should be equipped with some form of hard water abatement system, as the options are wide-ranging, such as water conditioners, reverse osmosis systems, whole-house water filtration systems, well water iron filtration systems, and more. If you are noticing problems with your water bill, energy bill, hair, skin, laundry, dishes, or water-based meals and drinks, you might have a hard water issue on your hands.

Continue reading to learn how soft water compares to hard water for a better understanding of just how important water purification and conditioning is for a home or commercial building.

Indianapolis Water Softening Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Water Softening Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Explanation of Hard Water

Hard water is water that contains high traces of mineral salts. These minerals mostly consist of magnesium, iron, calcium, and other bicarbonates and sulfates. Water is naturally soft when it falls to the earth in the form of rain. Once rainwater has passed through the soil, bedrock, sand, and other layers of earth, it collects an abundance of hard minerals and ions. This changes the composition of the water and makes it higher in mineral salts. Such dissolved mineral ions accumulate over time in the form of scale, which is a thin white film that has several negative effects on plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances, as well as, hair, skin, nails, laundry, and dishware.

We measure this mineral capacity in grains per gallon, and the level of hardness on a scale from 1 to 10. Although hard water is generally measured in grains per gallon, it can also be read in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (mg/L) of calcium carbonate. The more grains, the harder the water, which means the degree of “hardness” varies on a spectrum. Water can be anywhere between marginally hard to very hard. It depends on where you live, how you obtain your water, regional soil conditions, crops, farming, and more.

Explanation of Soft Water

Soft water is the opposite of hard water because it is free of hard mineral salts. Rainwater is naturally soft. It only becomes hard when as it accumulates mineral salts as it passes through rock, chalk, and limestone in the ground. Neighborhoods that have hard water are probably located on top of a large bed if limestone; or their water supply facility is located near high mineral areas. This is why certain regions have softer water than others. It all depends on what’s beneath the ground, and how the water is treated at the local water plant.

➤ Soft Water – 0 to 60 mg/L
➤ Moderately hard Water – 61 to 120 mg/L
➤ Hard Water – 121 to 180 mg/L
➤ Very Hard Water –  Over 180 mg/L

Choose a Water Softener for Instant Gratification

In order to lessen the hardness of water, you must implement a water softening system. The most popular approach is to install a water softener, also known as a water conditioner. Water softeners use ion-exchange technology to eliminate hard minerals in water. The water softener conditions the water and then stores it in a tank for on demand use, whether that be your shower or kitchen sink faucet! You can also combine a water softener system with another form of water purification to further enhance the taste and quality of your water, such as whole house water filters, water purifiers, and reverse osmosis. See our blogs, “How to Choose a Residential Water Softener Based on Occupancy” and “FAQS About Water Softeners and Hard Water” to learn what you need to know about water softening.

Indianapolis Water Softener Repair and Installation Services

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a reliable water softener installation or water softener repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our licensed master plumbers specialize in water softeners, and are happy to answer your questions and provide advice free of charge! We offer a wide range of water softening and plumbing services for both commercial and residential properties, including water softener sales, repair, installation, replacement, and more. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today!

Advised Maintenance for Vital Plumbing Systems in the Home

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All too often, homeowners only resort to calling a plumber once their plumbing issue turns into more of a plumbing emergency. But you should always contact a plumber as soon as you notice changes in any plumbing system, far before an emergency can develop. You see, regular plumbing maintenance and inspections can drastically reduce the chances of another plumbing disaster or repair. A small plumbing issue can become a larger and more costly repair if not caught in time. Basement flooding, water leaks, burst pipes, and more can cause thousands of dollars of damages that could have otherwise been avoided with some simple routine maintenance and repair. Fortunately, there are several things a person can do to prolong the life of their plumbing system and prevent plumbing emergencies.

Continue reading to learn how to care for your home’s plumbing, properly, and who you should call if you require plumbing repair services.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Emergency Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Basic Plumbing Maintenance and Care

Always remember that a little preventative maintenance goes a long way for a residential plumbing system. Preventing emergencies like clogged drains, toilet overflows, water heater failures, and more can feel very good to a homeowner’s budget. Preventing these issues also prevents larger disasters from occurring. This saves a household thousands of dollars each year! A properly cared-for plumbing system simply won’t require as much repair and replacement. Check out some DIY methods below to prolonging and caring for your home plumbing and start preparing your system for the long-haul!

Water Leak Inspections

Regularly inspect all areas of your home for potential water leaks. This means checking the faucet for excessive dripping, inspecting all water-using appliances for possible leaks, looking out for moisture accumulation on pipes or walls, and more. This should be done at least one time a year. Finding a water leak in its beginning stages can stop possible flooding situations, structural damages, and mold problems, saving a home owner a lot of money.

Septic Tanks and Sump Pumps

Septic tanks can cause severe home disasters. For anyone who has experienced a septic tank flood will tell you it’s a nightmare and costs thousands of dollars to cleanup and repair. Severe storms and system defects can cause septic tanks to malfunction or overflow, causing extreme home damages. It is strongly encouraged to install a battery-powered back-up sump pump for emergencies. Also, have your tank checked by a licensed master plumber at least once a year; or more if your city experiences higher precipitation levels and rainy seasons.

Water Heaters and Water Softeners

Water pressure can be an indication that something is not quite right with your plumbing. Check the shower heads and faucets for reduced water pressure. This can be a sign that you have sediment buildup in your plumbing system, or worse, a faulty water line. You may also have sediment buildup in your water heater, causing loss of performance and corrosion. It is important to have a licensed master plumber empty your water heater, and clean the sediment from your system a few times a year. This can reduce several costly problems and repairs.

Gas and Water Shut Off Valves

Every homeowner should know where their gas and water shut off valve is located, and how to operate it in the case of an emergency. If you ever need to turn your water off, be sure to also turn off your water heater so to not damage the heating elements within it. If you ever smell gas, act immediately. Turn your gas valve off and leave your home. Also, at the same time, do not flip off light switches or use anything that can create a spark. Just leave the premises and call for a master plumber to inspect your home. Gas leaks can be fatal, so it is vital to always take immediate action if you think you smell gas. 

Plumbing maintenance can prevent very expensive plumbing disasters, emergencies, and repairs, and even save lives. Don’t wait any longer to have your plumbing inspected by a licensed professional. You can save yourself thousands of dollars by catching a plumbing problem ahead of time, and having it fixed by a trained plumber.

The Indianapolis Emergency Plumber to Call for Fast and Affordable Service

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for trusted and affordable emergency plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber repair services for both residential and commercial properties, including home plumbing inspections, water heater repair, water softener repair, septic tank repair, and appliance sales. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

The True Facts About Electric and Gas Water Heaters

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When it comes time to buy a new water heater, whether for a new construction home or an older one you’ve been living in for a while, you will be faced with the decision to remain with the power source your property is equipped with, or swap out for something different. There are various make and model hot water heaters to choose from, including tankless, instantaneous, solar-powered, and more. But, the top two most common and popular choices are gas water heaters and electric water heaters.

Continue reading to learn the difference between gas and electric water heaters, and how to determine which one is right for your property’s needs.

Indianapolis Water Heating Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Water Heating Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Gas Water Heaters

A gas water heater is powered by, you guessed it, gas. It burns gas to heat the water. The most common make and model gas water heaters include Rheem and Bradford White. These are among the top-performing water heater appliances on the market, and economically-priced. When it comes to gas water heaters, they are usually a good choice. However, see our blog, “The Dangers of FVIR Gas Water Heaters” to learn why you should not consider a Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant water heater.

Electric Water Heaters

An electric water heater uses a property’s energy and electricity supply to heat water. It works by using electric resistant coils to heat the water and distribute it throughout a building or home. They come in two primary models, tankless and tank-style. When choosing an electric water heater, the most important feature to look for are heavy-duty stainless steel heating elements. These will last a long time, while others will burnout and require replacement. Non-recommended water heater brands with low review scores include A.O. Smith, Whirlpool Energy Smart, Sears, and State Select water heaters. See our blog, “Electric Water Heaters: Need to Know Info” to  learn more about these brands.

Comparison of the Two

According to personal reviews, statistics, and industry testing, gas water heaters are said to heat up water faster than electric units. They will even continue to supply hot water if the power goes out! They are perfect choices for larger families and properties with many people. An electric water heater has trouble keeping up with a steady hot water demand. This makes them perfect for homes with one or two people, such as single-family homes and apartments.

When it comes to cost-efficiency, gas water heaters are a more lucrative buying option over a long period of time. This is because they use gas rather than electricity, saving money on monthly utility and energy bills. Electric water heaters are still a popular choice because many people do not want an open flame constantly lit beneath the unit. Also, electric water heaters are perceived as more energy-efficient, and can last longer with less maintenance than gas units.

How to Determine Which One is Right For You

In most cases, if a property is already set up for gas usage, then a gas water heater would be the most convenient and cost-effective choice. On the other hand, if your property is set up for electricity usage, then an electric water heater would be a great choice. In order to choose the right gas or electric water heater for your property, you must consider these important factors:

☑ The number of occupants within the property.
☑ The square-footage of your property.
☑ Your property’s monthly water usage.
☑ Your future water heating needs.
☑ The amount of time you plan on living or occupying your property.

With the answers to all these questions, you can gauge which size, capacity, and power-source of water heater is best for your budgeting and your plans. Talk to a licensed Indianapolis plumber to get professional water heater procurement advice you can trust.

Where to Get Trusted Hot Water Heater Installation and Service in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional advice, installation, and repair for all make and model water heaters in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber who employs a team of licensed and insured plumbing contractors with decades of experience. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, and specialize in water heater installation and repair. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis water heater installation, today.

How to Solve 4 Everyday Toilet Problems

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The toilet is perhaps the most valuable piece of indoor plumbing in a house or building. It is something we use every single day of our lives, so it is no surprise that toilet issues come to light every so often. Fortunately, most common toilet problems are minor, and can be solved all on your own, so long as you have the right knowledge. In fact, continue reading to learn just how to solve the top 4, everyday toilet issues, and what to do if your toilet issue is more than a minor situation.

Toilet Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis 317-784-1870
Toilet Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis 317-784-1870

❶ Loose Toilet Handle

To tighten up a loose toilet tank handle, start by locating the water shut-off valve for the toilet. Once the shutoff valve is closed, remove the toilet tank lid. You will now need to empty the tank of water. Now look for the metal nut that secures the toilet lever to the inside of the tank. Use your adjustable wrench to tighten the nut. Next, test the lever’s tightness and performance by pressing it as if you were flushing the toilet. Now just turn your water back on!

❷ Toilet That Won’t Flush

First, look for the water shut-off valve at the base of the toilet, and then turn it all the way to the left until it’s in the full, open position. To check if your issue is solved, simply flush the toilet to see if it works! If that is not the issue, you need to check if your pipes are clogged. 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. Open the lid of the back of the toilet and, if the chain is kinked up or the plug is knocked out of place, simply use your fingers to set it back on track.

❸ Running Toilet Handle

To fix a running toilet lever, start with shutting off the toilet water supply valve by turning the handle clockwise. Next, remove the tank lid and flush your toilet. Once the toilet is flushed, press the handle down a few times to observe the mechanical operation and see where the hang up is coming from. If the float and connecting rod are in the way of the lever assembly, including the chain or wire, move it in another direction to stop the obstruction. If you see a kink or snag in the chain, release it and set it straight. Turn on your toilet water supply and flush your toilet to ensure smooth operation.

❹ Clogged Toilet

After you know that your toilet is clogged, stop flushing it. Once it is not running anymore. use your plunger to release the clog by placing it over the top of the opening inside your toilet bowl, and then pumping the plunger 2 to 3 times. Once you are done, you can then flush the toilet to see if the clog has been released. If the toilet completes a flush successfully, you have fixed the issue! If it does not, repeat the two-step method. If it still does not work, contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for help.

Indianapolis Toilet and Bathroom Plumbing Repair at an Affordable Price

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed bathroom plumbing services in Indianapolis at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Do I Need to Empty My Septic Tank?

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Your priority as a homeowner is to maintain the value, function, and safety of your house. One of the most important systems in your home to maintain is the plumbing, namely, the septic system. The problem is that many people are quite confused on what the proper maintenance is for a septic system. Furthermore, many people confuse sump pumps and septic systems. If you are having the same questions, such as, “what is the difference between a sump pump and septic tank?”, or “when should I empty my septic tank?”, you are in the right place.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about taking good care of your property’s septic system, including when septic tanks should be emptied.

Zoeller Sump Pump Installation 317-714-0759

Septic System Basics

First let us discuss the basics of a septic system so that you understand the difference between a sump pump and a septic tank. You see, a septic tank is a component of plumbing that collects sewage and wastewater, and naturally decomposes them using a bacterial action. They are usually constructed of precast concrete, concrete blocks, or reinforced fiberglass, and buried in the ground somewhere on the property.

A sump pump is a device that is outfitted to a sump pit for the purpose of removing excess water and liquids from the pit. They are usually connected to a municipal sewer line or storm drain, and equipped with a flotation device that forces them to clink at particular levels of flooding. If the power is out, there is a manual lever that allows people to release excess water. If the water level reaches or exceeds a preset level in the pit, the pump initiates and sucks up enough liquid to remedy the risk of overflow.

Cesspools

Now where does the cesspool come into play? Well, not every property has a cesspool. Some homes are equipped with cesspools instead of septic systems. Although both collect organic waste and decompose them naturally, cesspools are a much older waste disposal technique compared to the modern-day septic tanks. The general rule of thumb is to have your septic tank inspected and serviced by a professional plumbing company every 1 to 3 years.

When and How to Empty the Septic Tank

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having your septic tank inspected every three years by a licensed Indianapolis master plumber. They further recommend adhering to the professional advice given by the plumbing contractor in regard to routine de-sludging and septic service. Basically, you need to hire a licensed plumbing contractor to perform all septic and cesspool work, no matter how inclined you feel on doing it yourself. These are important systems, and one wrong move or mistake can leave you with some very messy, and extremely unsanitary conditions.

Where to Get Professional Sump Pump Service and Repair in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable master plumber about sump pump service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are happy to answer any questions you have about septic tank and sump pump installation, maintenance, replacement, repair, problems, and more. We even offer 24 hour emergency services for water leaks, floods, and more. Owner and Master Plumber, Mark Weilhammer, recommends installing the Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pump in your sump pit along with your main sump pump. The Aquanot ll® is the most reliable back up system on the market today. Call 317-714-0759 for professional sump pump services in Indianapolis you can trust!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garbage Disposals

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Are you experiencing some issues with your garbage disposal unit? Perhaps you don’t have a garbage disposal, but wish to learn some benefits of having one installed? Either way, you are in the right spot for getting the help you are looking for. Continue below to review the answers to the most frequently asked questions about garbage disposals.

Garbage Disposal Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Garbage Disposal Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

What Can Go Down the Garbage Disposal?

The only foods that should be shredded in your disposal should be soft, non-fibrous, chopped, liquid, and similar foods in small amounts.  The key word here is “small amounts.” Things that should NEVER go down the disposal include fatty oils, starches, fibrous waste, fruit and vegetable pits, coffee grounds, and paper trash.

Why Does My Garbage Disposal Smell?

Food and bacteria residues are a top cause of garbage disposal odors. To abate lingering odors, it is important to clean your disposal regularly. On a routine basis, grind some ice cubes while running cold water for a minute. This will keep the blades fresh and sharp. You can also grind citrus rinds for a fresh scent. Also, while the disposal is running, pour some liquid dish detergent inside the drain to eliminate bacteria and other contaminants. Finish by running cold water down the drain for a couple of minutes. It is recommended to clean your garbage disposal every few weeks, and more often for those who use it frequently.

Do I Need a Garbage Disposal Unit in My House?

The primary benefit of having a garbage disposal unit is the convenience it provides. Food preparation, trash disposal, rodent and pest control, and efficiency, are just a few ways garbage disposals provide convenience around the house. Not only do garbage disposals provide convenience, they also provide investment protection, which ultimately saves homeowners money. By reducing the likelihood of clogging up drains and pipes, homeowners save money by avoiding costly repairs, services, and replacements. This also protects the structural integrity of plumbing pipes, keeping them functional for years to come.

How Does a Garbage Disposal Help With Pest Control?

It may not be obvious at first, but a garbage disposal is an excellent contributor to pest control, more so in commercial kitchens. In areas where extensive food preparation takes place, such as a restaurant or school cafeteria, large amounts of food scraps are produced. And large amounts of food scraps just sitting around can attract rodents’ other pests, like fruit flies, gnats, ants, and other insects. A garbage disposal allows kitchens to efficiently discard food scraps, and keep a cleaner workspace.

Why Does My Garbage Disposal Leak?

The top two causes for garbage disposal leaks are a leaky gasket or a leaky flange. When a rubber gasket gets old, or goes unused for a long period of time, it can dry up and develop a crack, which in turn leads to a leak in the gasket. It can also be caused by improper installation. If the leak is coming from the top rim where the seal mounts to the flange, it could be caused by a leaky gasket. A disposal flange can develop a leak if the plumbers’ putty dries up, or if the bolts that connect the flange to the sink comes loose. If the leak is coming from the very upper portion of the unit, it could be a flange leak.

What Kind of Maintenance Does a Garbage Disposal Require?

It is important to regularly clean out the grind chamber of your garbage disposal. You can do this safely and effectively by dropping in a few ice cubes, then grinding them up until they are gone. Do not put lemon rinds or fruit in your disposal to make it smell better. Instead, try a few drops of some lemon or citrus-scented essential oil. Other than regular cleaning, it is wise to have your unit inspected by a licensed Indianapolis plumber. This will help maintain optimal efficiency and safety, as well as, catch small problems early on, before than can become disastrous or costly.

Residential and Commercial Kitchen Plumbing Services You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need kitchen plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis at an affordable price. We provide garbage disposal replacement and carry a line of top-quality In Sink Erator®(ISE) Garbage Disposals at market low prices. Our licensed plumbers also offer a wide range of other plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties, as well as, free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

Top 3 Methods of Cracked Pipe Repair

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In last week’s blog, we discussed the common signs and solutions for cracked plumbing pipes. We went over facts regarding the causes of cracked plumbing pipes, the importance of maintaining good plumbing through routine service, and of course, how to detect cracked plumbing pipes. Today, we will briefly describe the top 3 methods used to repair cracked pipes, which include trenchless pipe replacement, trenchless pipe lining, and trenchless pipe bursting.

Continue below to learn more about each type of cracked pipe repair method, and where you can get professional master plumbing repair service for your home or business’s cracked pipes.

Indianapolis Plumbing Re-Piping Services
Indianapolis Plumbing Re-Piping Services 317-784-1870

The Key to Great Plumbing

In order to ensure your plumbing piping remain in good condition, you must adhere to a recommended plumbing maintenance plan. All appliances, water lines, and plumbing fixtures should be annually inspected and serviced by a licensed plumber. However, as mentioned in last week’s blog, “Common Signs and Solutions for Cracked Plumbing Pipes”, sometimes there is nothing you can do to prevent certain plumbing breakdowns. In fact, the number one reason why most pipes experience cracking is due to old age.

In the case of cracked pipes, you might not have been able to stop it from happening, no matter how steadfast you are with your routine plumbing maintenance, especially if yours are 30 to 40 years old. The top methods of cracked pipe repair are trenchless pipe replacement, trenchless pipe bursting, and trenchless pipe lining. Each method uses a different technique and science to repair or reseal an underground plumbing pipe.

Common Methods of Trenchless Pipe Repair:

❶ Trenchless Pipe Replacement – Trenchless pipe replacement can reinstate your cracked pipes back to their original level of efficiency. This method uses two access points, which reduces excavation and labor. Pipes are fully replaced without the need for digging or heavy machinery.

❷ Trenchless Pipe Bursting – This method is used for underground piping systems that have many cracked, and require a full replacement. The job is completed by using a bursting head that simultaneously breaks away old piping and lays new piping.

❸ Trenchless Pipe Lining – This method of trenchless pipe repair uses a felt liner saturated with epoxy resin, which is inserted directly into the piping system from a designated access point, and pushed through. As it moves, it coats the inner pipe with the epoxy material. Once the resin cures, it is removed, and all cracks are fully sealed.

Indianapolis Master Plumbing Repair You Can Count On

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for details about underground pipe replacement services and slab leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties, including water leak inspection and repair, slab leak repair, and more. 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 also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Common Signs and Solutions for Cracked Plumbing Pipes

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In the past, a cracked plumbing pipe was a monumental problem for a property owner. Aside from the invasive and tedious repair process it required, which included substantial digging and heavy labor, simply diagnosing a cracked pipe was a massive effort. Fortunately, today’s modern plumbing industry is gratefully bestowed with innovative technologies and methodologies that make cracked pipe diagnostics and repair simple and efficient. Concerned you might be dealing with some cracked pipes?

Continue reading to learn some common causes and signs of cracked pipes, as well as, what you can do to prevent and repair them.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870

Causes and Signs of Cracked Pipes

The number one reason why most pipes experience cracking is due to old age. Plumbing pipes are not meant to last forever. So, if yours are older than 30 or 40 years, you might need to consider making some replacements, repairs, and upgrades. See our blog, “Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?” to learn more about pipe aging and replacement. Other common causes of cracked plumbing pipes include lack of routine plumbing maintenance, invasive tree roots, pipe corrosion, soil erosion, improper landscaping digging, and construction damage.

Signs That Suggest You Have a Cracked Pipe:

➥ Unexplained Increase in Water Bill
➥ Sounds of Rushing Water in Walls
➥ Standing Water in Lawn
➥ Soggy Home Flooring
➥ Concentrated Growth in One Area of the Yard

Trenchless Technology is Key

The current, go-to industry method for diagnosing cracked plumbing pipes is trenchless technology. This approach is minimally invasive and much less obtrusive to properties since it uses sewer line cameras and equipment to look deep inside underground plumbing. Sewer camera inspection technologies diagnose cracked pipes more accurately and efficiently, as they give a front-row view of what’s happening within the piping system.

Top 3 Methods of Cracked Pipe Repair:

➀ Trenchless Pipe Replacement
➁ Trenchless Pipe Lining
➂ Trenchless Pipe Bursting

? Check back next week for a more detailed explanation of each type of cracked pipe repair method!

The Indianapolis Master Plumber You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to speak directly with Mark Weilhammer, a licensed master plumber (License #106214), about trenchless plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber repair services for both residential and commercial properties, including home plumbing inspections for cracked and damaged pipes. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Easy Tips for Cutting PVC Pipe

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Whether you are building an epic tree house in the back yard, installing some sprinkler gear, or replacing a plumbing pipe in your basement, you might find yourself faced with the need to cut PVC pipe. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a thermoplastic material that is commonly used in the plumbing and construction industry due to its excellent and useful properties. It can last indefinitely, and requires zero maintenance other than routine inspections. In the plumbing industry, you will see PVC in the form of white plastic piping material that is typically used for piping and drainage systems, but it is also commonly used to create valves, fittings, and other liquid-management supplies.

As a valuable and useful material, you do not want to waste any of your PVC pipe by cutting into incorrectly. Continue reading to learn some tips for cutting PVC pipe to help you get started on the right track.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service
Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870

What You Can Use

There are several ways you can cut PVC pipe, but the top three include using a miter saw, handsaw, or an actual PVC pipe cutter, which you can purchase online or at any local home improvement store. The method you choose will depend mostly on your skill level, comfort-level, and supplies on hand. If you are not experienced with using heavy-duty, dangerous tools like saws and cutters, it is recommended to have someone help you that is experienced. Otherwise, you can lose some fingers in a flash!

Miter Sawing

A miter saw is easily affordable at any home improvement retailer. They are powerful electric sawing devices that come in a wide array of designs, sizes, brands, and prices. Choose one that is a good fit for the frequency and type of miter sawing you plan on doing. When using a miter saw to cut PVC, be sure to slowly low the blade onto your mark in order to ensure control and accuracy. Anything electric can easily cause you to lose control or slip your grip. If you cannot pass the saw all the way through the pipe, stop the blade and twist the pipe a few degrees so the saw can finish cutting.

Hand Sawing

To hand saw, all you need is a standard hacksaw or carpenter’s saw. Just keep in mind that you will be using a lot of elbow grease to cut through PVC piping this way. To help increase your luck, be sure you use a quality saw with sharpened edges. A dull blade will not stand a chance against PVC pipe. Since you are cutting by hand, it is more challenging to get a perfectly, 90 degree square cut. So, use a miter box to help guide your cuts. You want to move your saw slowly to ensure quality and control.

PVC Cutters

You can purchase PVC pipe cutters at any home improvement or hardware store. They come in a selection of brands and styles, all of which range in quality and function. As with a miter saw, you want to be sure you choose one that will be of use again for future projects. If you are cutting smaller pipe, 2 inches in diameter or less, you can use squeeze-style PVC cutters. For pipes larger than 2 inches in diameter, you will need a heavier, rotary-style PVC cutter. As with all saws, scissors, and cutters, be sure to keep your blade sharp for better cutting results.

⚠ Got a PVC plumbing repair that might be out of your league? Call a licensed Indianapolis plumber for help!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair service at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well.