Top 3 Plumbing Tips for Sewer Maintenance

Posted on November 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Last week, we discussed the top three ways you can prevent your outdoor faucets and spigots from freezing over this winter. This week, we want to focus our attention on sewer line maintenance. Many homeowners are unaware that their certain precautions they can take to ensure their sewer systems remain functional and efficient all year long. Proper sewer line maintenance should be a top priority for all homeowners considering no one wants to get stuck dealing with the sewer overflow or backup.

Continue reading to learn the top three recommended plumbing tips for residential and commercial sewer maintenance.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Risks of Sewer Overflows and Backups

In the case of a sewer overflow or backup, not only is the situation incredibly tedious and costly to resolve, it can pose several health and safety risks to people and pets. For this reason, it is important to make sure your sewer line system is always operating optimally and efficiently. Below are the top three tips you can use to enhance your sewer line maintenance plan. It is also recommended to talk to a professional Indianapolis plumber for answers to your sewer line repair and service questions.

Have Your Drains Cleaned Routinely

It is important to have your drains professionally cleaned on a routine basis. Not only can this help prevent issues of sewer lines, it can prevent several other plumbing breakdowns and implications. This saves you both time and money in repairs and inconvenience. In between professional cleanings, you can also clean your drains on your own. See our blog, “Unclog Any Drain With These 4 Simple Steps” to learn more. It is recommended to have your drains professionally cleaned at least once a year; but for homes with four or more occupants, it is better to have your drains cleaned twice a year.

Choose Your Landscaping Wisely

Many homeowners are unaware that several different types of tree and shrub species can be invasive enough to damage your underground utilities and plumbing, including your sewer lines. Trees such as Willows have heavy and aggressive root systems that can sometimes enter underground plumbing pipes and sewer lines. Even tree species that are not known to have invasive root systems can do damage. So before remodeling your landscaping, consider how it might affect your property’s underground plumbing systems.

Pay Attention to Sewer Line Clean-Outs

You know those plastic white tubes with caps sticking out of the ground on your property? These are your clean-outs, and they provide direct access to your sewer lines. Without proper routine maintenance and cleaning, they’ll eventually begin to produce a stinky gas smell, which is something incredibly off-putting for anyone who cares about their quality of comfort around their home. Every few months, give your clean-outs a check, and be sure they are filled with water. If one of the caps is a little loose, be sure to get it tightly secured again.

Indianapolis Sewer Line Plumbing Services

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for home plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Our state-licensed Indianapolis master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Top 3 Ways to Prevent Frozen Outdoor Faucets

Posted on November 21, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Indiana has already experienced the first snowfall of the season, which means it is prime time to complete the remainder of our outdoor home improvement and maintenance tasks for the winter. One of the most vulnerable plumbing components found outside are your faucets, as they are highly susceptible to freezing since they host water. Fortunately, there are three incredibly effective and proven strategies that will prevent your outdoor spigots from freezing up in cold climates.

Continue reading to learn all three, as well as, what you can do if your outdoor faucets ever do freeze over this winter.

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Winter Outdoor Faucet Protection

The top three ways to protect your outdoor faucets from freezing over in winter weather are to cover them up, turn off the water that runs directly to the spigot, and install freeze-resistant hose bib spigots. You can choose the use one of these methods, or a combination of them, to find the best winter plumbing maintenance solution for your property.

❶ Main Water Shut Off

Your first option for preventing outdoor frozen faucets in winter is to simply cut off the water supply line that runs to the particular faucet, however, this is not always possible unless the property has multiple main water shut offs. In most homes, there is only one main water shut off for all water lines, so in most cases, you cannot choose this option if there are occupants within the home. For some buildings, such as apartment buildings, there might be multiple main water shut offs, in which case, it could be possible to pick and choose which faucets to turn off.

❷ Spigot Covers

Spigot covers are one of the most common and widely used methods of protecting outdoor plumbing and faucets from freezing temperatures in the winter. Stay away from outdated and ineffective methods your Granddad might encourage, such as using newspaper, old towels, and garbage bags. Instead, shop around for some foam-insulated nylon hose bib covers at your local home improvement or garden store. We recommend the Duck Brand spigot covers.

❸ Frost-Proof Spigots

If you really want a long-term, “set it and forget it” type of approach, you might consider installing brand new, frost-proof, freeze-resistant hose bib spigots. These can be found at your local home improvement store, and range in price from $9 to $35, depending on the brand. We recommend ZORO SELECT® Anti-Siphon, Frost Proof Sillcock, available at Home Depot.

Outdoor Plumbing Service in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed outdoor 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.

New Homeowner Plumbing Advice

Posted on November 14, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

If you are preparing to move into a new house, whether several years old or new construction, there are plenty of important considerations you need to make regarding your plumbing systems. This includes your standard plumbing pipes, lines, and fixtures, as well as all water-related appliances, such as water heaters, water softeners, dishwashers, washing machines, and more.

To get started on the right foot, continue reading to learn the top plumbing tips for new home owners.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Get Inspected

Although it is best to get your plumbing systems inspected before you move in, it is still vital to move forward with a comprehensive inspection even if you are already living in your new house. An inspection is one of the most important tasks to follow through with because it will serve to locate minor problems or needs early on, which prevents costly, invasive plumbing disasters down the line. It can also help set up your home for optimal plumbing efficiency.

Find Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

During your plumbing inspection, your contractor will show you where your home’s main water shut-off valve is located. This will be incredibly important to you if you ever experience a plumbing emergency or water leak, or simply need to leave out of town for a trip. Be sure to learn how to move and operate your valve during your inspection.

Have Your Drains Cleaned

Although this is not as important for new construction homes, professional drain cleaning is a must for anyone moving into a house that was previously occupied. You would be astonished to learn what plumbers find in pipes and fixtures during a drain cleaning project. Things like feminine hygiene products, paper towels, dental floss, hair accessories, and even small toys are common.

These things can cause major blockages and inefficient performance, all of which costs you money. Once you have your drains cleaned professionally, be sure to maintain their condition with routine, DIY drain cleaning. Read our blog, “Why You Need to Stop Using OTC Drainage Cleaner” to learn important safety information about cleaning your drains at home.

Winterize Your Outdoor Plumbing

If you are moving into your new house right before the winter, take the initiative to winterize your outdoor plumbing. It is recommended to cover outdoor exposed plumbing pipes, and detach all garden hoses from their spigots. This will help prevent frozen pipes, which can ultimately lead to burst pipes in the spring. See our blog, “Tips for Winter Plumbing Maintenance” for more help.

Keep a Trusted Indianapolis Plumber on Speed Dial

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need licensed Indianapolis plumbing services 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 advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Why Does My Bathtub Drain Smell Bad?

Posted on October 23, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

If your nose is starting to pick up on a sewage-like smell in your bathroom, don’t assume it’s your toilet. Often times, bathtub drains can start to emit a smell that is similar to sewer water or even rotten eggs. There are industry-proven reasons why this plumbing circumstance occurs, and several easy solutions to treatment and prevention!

Continue reading to learn what’s causing your bathtub drain to stink, and what you can do to fix the problem.

Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Smelly Bathtub Drain

Are you someone that usually showers, but every now and then takes a nice soak in your bathtub? If so, you are likely more prone to a stinky drain problem. One of the most common causes for a smelly bathtub drain is bacteria accumulation or growth, which can occur if there is standing water within the plumbing pipes near the drain.

A rotten egg smell suggests that your water has a high concentration of hydrogen sulfide gas, which comes from bacteria growth as a result of soap, dirt, hair, and other materials sitting inside the pipes. A simple way to remove the smell is to simply run some hot water for a few minutes, and move the standing water through your plumbing system.

Still Smells Bad?

Sometimes, even after clearing the standing water, the drain will still emit a slight odor, or later, the odor will come back full-strength. This happens as a result of residual bacteria within the drain and surrounding pipes. To resolve this issue, simply concoct a homemade, non-toxic drain cleaner and use it to cleanse and sanitize your bathtub drain. To use your solution, start by emptying all the water from the tub.

Then pour one cup of baking soda down the clogged drain. Use a wooden spoon to pack it all the way down inside the drain. Follow up with one cup of distilled white vinegar and allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Finish by running hot water from the faucet down into the drain for several minutes. If the clog still hasn’t cleared, repeat this step or contact an Indianapolis plumber for emergency drain service.

Drain Protection and Prevention

Routine drain cleaning is one strongly recommended approach to ensuring optimal drain performance and utility. However, it is also important to ensure you do your part to prevent clogged drains and defects. See our blog, “Don’t Make These 5 Drain Cleaning Mistakes” to help you organize a safe and effective care plan for your home’s drains. Got a sink drainage problem, instead? Read our blog, “How to Fix a Slow Draining Sink” to learn what you can do.

Need Professional Drain Clearing in Indianapolis?

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for residential and commercial drain clearance and plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Why You Need to Stop Using OTC Drainage Cleaner

Posted on October 16, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When you have a clogged drain at home, do you instantly reach for a bottle of liquid drain cleaner? If so, it is time to put that habit to rest. Using over-the-counter drainage detergents is a risky and consequential approach to DIY drain clearing. Not only can it decrease the life of your plumbing pipes, it can affect your monthly water and energy expenses as well.

Continue reading to learn why OTC drain cleansers are terrible for your home’s plumbing pipes, as well as a safer alternative to do-it-yourself drain cleaning.

A Warning About Liquid Drain Cleaners

Consumers use liquid drain cleaners because they work fast; but the reality is that they only solve the issue temporarily. Long-term use of liquid drain cleaner can lead to more serious problems with your home’s plumbing, which in turn costs you a lot of money in repairs.

You see, popular OTC drain cleaners, like Drano®, are formulated with harsh ingredients, like salt, bleach, lye, aluminum, and sodium nitrate, all of which are highly damaging to galvanized piping and even copper plumbing. It can lead to toilet bowl cracks, melt PVC piping, and corrode the adhesive that connects metal plumbing pipes together.

What’s even more troubling is the fact that liquid drain detergents are incredibly caustic, and can cause severe injury to your skin, eyes, nose, throat, mouth, and lungs. This is especially hazardous to young children and pets. It is also possible to liquid drain cleaners to pollute and contaminate the local water supplies, and thus, cause harm to the surrounding environment.

Make Your Own Drain Cleaner

All you need to clear a clogged drain is a simple drain auger, also known as a drain snake, and a few safe, non-toxic household ingredients, like baking soda and distilled white vinegar. Simply poor a ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of distilled white vinegar. Allow the drain to fizz for a few minutes, then run hot water through the drain until it is unclogged. Toss in a few push and pulls of a drain auger (or plunger), and you have yourself a fail-safe approach to drain cleaning, without all the risk!

Got a Clogged Drain That You Can’t Seem to Fix?

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need trusted residential plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Our state-licensed master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Quick Guide to Unclogging Your Bathtub

Posted on October 9, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When your ankles are underwater, you can’t feel really good about your shower experience. Accordingly, wiping away a residual dark ring around the perimeter of the tub is not something anyone wants to add to their daily bathing routine. Fortunately, with a quick unclogging, your bathtub will be a place of tranquility once again. Worried about the process? Don’t be; unclogging a bathtub drain is really simple so long as you have the right supplies and knowledge. You can even appoint your preteens and teens to do the job for you!

Continue below to learn what you need and how to get started, as well as, what to do if your bathtub drain is too clogged to fix yourself.

Indianapolis Bathroom Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

What You Will Need:

✑ 4-in-1 Screw Driver
✑ Drain Auger (or wire coat hanger)
✑ Rubber Gloves
✑ Trash Bag
✑ Baking Soda
✑ Distilled White Vinegar
✑ Boiling Water

Instructions:

❶ Start by removing your bathtub stopper. If it is a plug, then you can move onto the next step. To remove a drop stopper (the kind you twist and push-in), use a Philips head screwdriver. You’ll find the screw underneath the stopper head, on the shaft. For push and lock stoppers (push in to close and push in to open), you will just need to unscrew the stopper using your fingers. Then remove the shaft using your screw driver. Be sure to set your stoppers off to the side somewhere safe.

❷ Put on your rubber gloves and peek into the drain. You will most likely see a clump of hair or some slimy residue. This is normal. Grab your drain auger and trash bag. And get ready to dive in.

❸ Insert the drain auger into the bathtub drain as far down as it will go. Then pull it up and out all the way. This may take a few tries. But don’t give up. It will fit down there. You can help release some of the clog by pouring a small amount of liquid dish soap into the drain. It can help to loosen the debris and allow the auger to reach farther.

❹ Place the removed debris into your trash bag, and continue to repeat step 3 until you can no longer bring anything back up.

❺ Pour a homemade drain cleaner down the drain and follow its instructions. To use your own, pour 1 cup baking soda into the drain, followed by 2 cups of boiling water. Then pour another cup of baking soda into the drain followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain, allow it to sit for several minutes, and then rinse with 2 more cups of boiling water.

❻ Replace your bathtub stopper. And now you are done!

✨ If the clog persists or turns out to be too severe, contact a licensed plumber right away. They have the tools and training to deliver safe and effective solutions at a fair price.

The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust

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.

Advice for Shutting Off Your Water When Away From Home

Posted on October 3, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When you preparing to leave your house for an extended period of time, there is a list of certain duties you tend to in order to protect your home from certain disaster while away. From turning off all the lights but one, to locking all doors, putting a stop on your mail, charging your exterior security devices, and more. But of all the important tasks that must be done before you depart, it can be argued that the most crucial point of interest is the main water.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about shutting off your main water prior to taking a trip.

Indianapolis Master Plumbers for Water Heaters 317-784-1870

Flood and Water Damages

Most homeowners, and even tenants, know to turn off the main water when leaving for a long period of time. Too often, people have come back from a vacation or business trip to find their living room under water. This is not something anyone wants to deal with, as the costs and time involved in restoring flood and plumbing damage can be quite extensive. Fortunately, water damage and flooding accidents can be virtually 100% avoidable so long as you turn off your main water valve before taking off.

Main Water Shut Off

You must plan around your personal water needs on the day of your departure. You don’t want to turn off your water, and then realize you still want to brush your teeth or wash your hands one more time. Be sure to take care of all your tap water-related needs before turning it all off.

It is recommended to turn off your water a few minutes before leaving the house. This way, you can give the system some time to adjust, and you can check to see that it’s fully off. In order to turn off your main water supply, you must know where the valve is located. Generally, you will find it in the utility room, or near the water softener and water heater.

Most often, this valve can be adjusted manually, but sometimes, older valves are more stubborn, and might require a set of pliers or a wrench. If you have never adjusted the main water valve before, it is strongly encouraged to ask someone for help a few days before you are set to depart. This “dry run” will give you the confidence to locate and adjust your main water valve as needed.

When You Come Home

Once you arrive home from your trip, you will likely want to wash up as soon as possible. For this reason, the first thing you should do after setting down your bags and switching on the lights is to turn your water back on. While you bring the rest of your house back to life, the water system can adjust and your water heater can warm up.

Keep in mind, it can take up to 48 hours (yes, 2 days) for your water heater to warm your water back up to the temperature you are used to. If your water does not warm up sufficiently after a few days, check the temperature setting to see if it was turned down. If it is still set where you want it, contact a local Indianapolis water heater plumber for an emergency inspection and service.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair Plumbers

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing and water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free advice, anytime. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services. And as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Request a free estimate, today.

The Difference Between Master Plumbers and Plumbers

Posted on August 20, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Everything from minor plumbing repairs and replacements to plumbing emergencies, scheduled plumbing maintenance, pipeline work, and more, are handled by professional plumbers. But who is the person for the job? How do you know when to hire a master plumber and when to hire a regular plumber? Is there even a difference?

Continue reading to learn what separates a standard plumber from a master plumber, and who to trust for the most dependable service in town.

Master Plumbers

Master plumbers are not your everyday general contractors; instead, they are highly trained and acute plumbing engineer specialists with years of strict formal training and experience. A master plumber is a person that has completed a stringent and complex line of testing, training, and work to achieve master status and a master plumbing license. In fact, if you do not see their state master plumbers’ license advertised, they are likely not a master plumber.

Master plumbers are the top dogs of the plumbing work force. They are not the ones that show up if your faucet is leaking. Instead, as specialists, they are commonly found engineering pipelines and setting up plumbing systems for new construction, municipalities, factories, commercial buildings, and industrial complexes, or ensuring all plumbing is perfectly up to code.

Their jobs are highly complex and sensitive, requiring an exceptional amount of knowledge and skill. Because it is very demanding to become a master plumber due to the degree of difficulty, dedication, time, and hard work, many apprentices go almost as far, but then opt for a general plumbing contractor’s license instead; which is still great!

Standard Plumbers

A licensed plumbing contractor is by no means less of a plumber than a master plumber. Their services are high in demand, and their skill requires lengthy training and experience as well. The major difference is the area and level of plumbing they work on. General plumbing contractors typically facilitate residential and commercial plumbing projects. They still repair, maintenance, service, install, and replace plumbing systems; as well as, provide site work and excavation services for new developments and properties.

Who to Call

Plumbing work comes in various shapes and sizes, which is why there is a level of plumber for each type of job. Depending on the needs of the community, the plumbing work will decide for itself. If you see an industrial factory, you are looking at the work of a master plumber. If you have a water heater repair, then a licensed professional plumber is the technician for you. This is how real estate owners can decide in the future, what type of plumber they are in the market for. If you are ever in doubt, always start with a local and trusted Indianapolis plumbing company for advice.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Service

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need licensed Indianapolis plumbing repair and service 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.

What is the Color of Your Mold Telling You?

Posted on August 9, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

With dampness and darkness, you are bound to have some form of mold growth at some point in time. When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, mold is an ongoing threat that must be controlled with routine cleaning and similar maintenance. If you have mold around your home’s plumbing fixtures or pipes, it is wise to understand the cause of the mold growth, and then combat the root of the problem with adequate methods of abatement.

The first step to understanding where your mold is coming from is to determine which kind of mold species you are dealing with. Did you know that simply looking at the color of mold can tell you this?

Continue reading to learn what the color of your mold is telling you.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Common Mold Colors and Potential Dangers

☣ Black or Gray – Mold that is black or gray might be Alternaria, which is one of the most common types of outdoor mold. It mostly grows near damp, dusty areas, as well as, soil and plants. It is often found in household dust, so be sure you keep up with your routine cleaning.

☣ Blue, Green, or White – Molds of these colors generally point to the Penicillium genus. Several years ago, this species of mold was used to make penicillin. At the present time, it is usually found growing on food or on walls. It can cause allergic reactions, allergies, and other respiratory problems.

☣ Green – Green mold is very vague since it can be any kind of unpleasant fungus. There are literally thousands of species of green mold, so green mold doesn’t tell you much, expect that it needs to be removed.

☣ Greenish-Black – Mold that appears greenish-black in color could be Stachbotrys genus, which is also known as “black mold.” Exposure to such mold has been linked to serious health conditions. It commonly grows on high-cellulose, low-nitrogen surfaces, such as drywall, gypsum board, paper, dust and lint that is constantly exposed to moisture.

☣ Olive Green, Gray, Brown, or Black – Molds that appear in these color formations likely belong to the Cladosporium genus. You can find this mold growing indoors and outdoors, on plant leaves, soil, walls, insulation, and damp carpeting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they are most commonly linked to minor health complications like skin, eye, and sinus infections; but they have also been known to brain infections like fungal meningitis.

☣ Pink – Pink mold is often seen in the bathroom or kitchen, but it is not actually mold at all. It is a bacteria called Serratia marcescens. Although not a mold, it still presents hygiene and health issues, like urinary tract and respiratory infections.

☣ Yellow, Green or Black – Mold that appears yellow, green, or black could possibly be Aspergillus mold. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we breathe these molds in almost every day without getting sick. However, concentrated exposure can be hazardous, especially for those with existing lung problems or suppressed immune systems. In individuals like these, it can cause aspergillosis, which presents itself as coughing, wheezing, and sinus inflammation.

How to Clean Mold

It is strongly encouraged to wear a face mask or respirator, as well as rubber gloves, when cleaning mold. As a quick guide, start by generously spritzing the affected area with water to reduce the amount of airborne spores that have the potential of moving around when you disturb them.

Then dip a bristled brush or sponge into a soapy warm water solution, and scrub the mold off with. You can use standard dish detergent for your soapy solution. You cannot visibly see all mold, so be sure to scrub the entire area, as well as, all surrounding areas to make sure it is all gone.

When you are finished, repeat this process using bleach in place of soapy solution. If you do not have bleach or do not want to use it, distilled white vinegar works too. You can also choose to purchase a mold cleaning solution at your local department store.

Black Mold Clean Up

When it comes to black mold, you can possibly remediate on your own, however, large-scale black mold remediation require professional service. You should hire a mold remediation contractor to determine the size and scope of your mold outbreak. Aside from black mold, most mold problems can be resolved on your own with the right products and supplies, a little elbow grease, and patience.

How to Manage Mold Growth

When it comes to your plumbing, the best way to prevent or control mold growth is through routine cleaning and maintenance. Be sure to have your plumbing systems inspected and serviced professionally at least once per year. This includes all water-using appliances, such as water heaters, water softeners, washing machines, dishwashers, sump pumps, septic systems, toilets, baths, and more.

The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumbing service 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.

Top Two Causes for a Leaking Garbage Disposal

Posted on July 25, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When you discover that your garbage disposal unit is leaking, your first priority should be to mitigate the water damage. From there, you must determine the underlying cause before you can move forward with a repair. Fortunately, most garbage disposal leaks are caused by minor issues that can be easily repaired; sometimes on your own!

Continue reading to learn the top two causes for garbage disposal leaks, as well as, what you can do to repair them.

Garbage Disposal Maintenance

It is important to stay on top of routine maintenance when it comes to your home’s plumbing systems. After all, it is one of the most vital systems in a household. But typically, the garbage disposal is overlooked. On a routine basis, you should clean out the disposal to eliminate food and solid residues, sanitize it to eliminate bacteria and other contaminants, and most importantly, have it inspected and serviced by a licensed plumber when it starts to show signs of problems.

Garbage Disposal Leaks

There are many reasons why a garbage disposal might leak; however, the top two causes for garbage disposal leaks are a defective gasket or a defective flange. Take a look below to learn more about each, including how to fix them.

Leaky Gasket

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. But how do you know this is your problem? If the leak is coming from the top rim where the seal mounts to the flange, it could be caused by a leaky gasket.

To repair a leaking gasket, you will need to replace it with a new one. Visit your local home improvement store to purchase replacement garbage disposal gaskets. They are inexpensive, but just be sure to get the right kind. There are some garbage disposal units that require a special type of gasket. If in doubt, refer to your owners’ manual.

Leaky Flange

Another common cause for a leaking garbage disposal is a defective flange. 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. How do you know if this is your problem? If the leak is coming from the very upper portion of the unit, it could be a flange leak.

To repair a leaking flange, there are a few options depending on the cause of the leak. The unit may just need to be re-tightened from underneath the sink, or the flange itself will need to be replaced. In other causes, the unit might need to be removed so that the plumbers’ putty can be reapplied, or so the flange can be released and the garbage disposal can be rehung.

Indianapolis Garbage Disposal Repair

If your garbage disposal is on the fritz, contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for garbage disposal installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana its surrounding areas.