The Benefits of Epoxy Pipe Lining

Posted on October 9, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Plumbing pipes corrode over time. And neglecting to address this issue until a clog or rupture occurs will cost you a lot. Corroded pipes that burst or backup is an extremely messy, tedious, and invasive repair project. The results can force a person or family out of their home for quite some time, influence tenants to break leases, and even pose health hazards.

For this reason, proper and routine plumbing care is necessary to avoid pipe damage and health problems, as well as, to protect your home’s structural integrity. One innovative and effective method to preventing pipe corrosion and subsequent problems is epoxy pipe lining. Continue reading to learn more about epoxy pipe lining, how it works, and how it can benefit your home for years to come.

Plumbing Pipe Repair

Pipe repair, also referred to as “re-piping” in the plumbing industry, is not a quick and simple process. In fact, it requires the skills of a true licensed master plumber, not just a standard or contract plumber. These plumbers are fully-certified to manage the most complex and dangerous plumbing services, designs, and repairs. Re-piping is invasive, and simple replaces old piping materials with new ones; new ones that will only need to be replaced over and over again. It requires a long stint of work, time, money, and mess, and doesn’t always fix the underlying problem. Fortunately, there is an alternative to re-piping called epoxy pipe lining.

Epoxy pipe lining is a new, innovative plumbing technology that allows pipes to be repaired without all the invasive work and demolition. The process simply involves relining the existing plumbing pipes with the epoxy coating, to reinforce and stabilize existing pipe works. It is a cutting-edge, efficient method to repairing cracks, breaks, and vulnerabilities in plumbing pipes, without all the hassle and frustration. This technology allows pluming pipe problems to be foreseen and managed before they even occur.

Not only is it efficient and less-evasive, it is cost-effective as well. Rather than starting demolition on location, digging holes and drilling into underground piping, epoxy pipe lining simply uses existing entrance points to access the plumbing pipes that need repaired. This saves a substantial amount of time, labor costs, money, and mess. The epoxy pipe lining inner coating material is safe and non-toxic, keeping drinking water contaminant-free and safe to use for all applications. It inhibits sewage from entering local water systems as well. A master plumber can explain all the details to pipe re-lining and repair in regards to your particular and unique plumbing system.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumbing pipe repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is eager to solve your plumbing problems! We offer the most competitive prices for residential and commercial plumbing repair in town!

The 2 Basic Types of Water Shut-Off Valves

Posted on December 13, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When it comes time to buy a new water shutoff valve for your home or office, it is important to start by learning the two different types. By learning the two different types of water shutoff valves, you are more likely to choose the one best-suited for your property. When you begin to shop around for water shutoff valve stops, you will notice that you have the option of choosing between a multi-turn valve and a quarter-turn valve.

Keep in mind that there are several more options within these two categories since all water shutoff also come in two versions, either angled or straight; and they also come in several other designs for different plumbing applications, including compression fittings, barbed fittings, threaded fittings, push fittings, sweat fittings, and more. Continue reading to learn more about these two water shutoff else, so that you may make the proper selection.

Multi-Turn Water Shut Off Valve Stops

Multi-turn water shut off valves stops are the cheaper option in comparison to quarter-turn stops. They are manufactured and designed with a plastic stem and compression washers. These valves will require you to turn this damn several times in order to stop the water flow completely. As they get older, it is common for these valves to leak since they are left in the “ON” position for a long period of time. This means that they will require periodic maintenance and inspection.

Quarter-Turn Water Shut Off Valve Stops

Quarter -turn water shut off valves stops are a little more expensive than multi-turn valves, however, they are more dependable because they are manufactured really well. These stops use a positive action ball valve to control the flow of water to the property, and only require a quarter turn to open and close them. They are most admired for being hassle-free and consistent.

The price points for both valves depend on the retailer. You can find both valves, and several versions of each, at any local home improvement or hardware store. You may also find products available through online vendors.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a reliable Indianapolis plumber that will show up on time and ready to work. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed and insured plumbers, retained decades of experience in the plumbing industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing service and repair for both commercial and residential properties.

Call 317-748-1870 to request free estimate for plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana.

How to Drain Your Plumbing System

Posted on December 6, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

You may never have to drain your home’s plumbing system, but sometimes, it is the best solution to a range of problems. The most common reasons to drain the plumbing is to fix a water hammer issue, lock up a seasonal property for winter, or to repair and replace plumbing lines.

If you are facing any of the above plumbing challenges, draining might help. If you are not comfortable taking on this task yourself, simply hire a licensed plumber for professional plumbing service.

However, if you are a regular handyman or women, you could get the job done so long as you have the right knowledge and supplied. Continue reading for a brief guide to draining your plumbing system.

Getting Started

First

You will need to locate and shut off the main water valve before the meter, on the supply side. If you are having trouble locating your main water valve, just look for your water meter. Then follow the supply lines into your home. If you are still having trouble, call your local plumber for quick, over-the-phone assistance. Once you turn off the main water supply, you can move on with the remaining steps.

Second

If your home has multiple levels, start at the highest level and open all of the sink faucets. Work your way down to the basement or bottom level.

Third

Once you are on the lowest floor in your home, open the laundry tub faucet and let all the water drain out from upstairs.

Fourth

Repeat the second step, except instead of opening all the sink faucets, open all the shower and bathtub faucets.

Fifth

Flush all the toilets in your house, starting on the top floor and working your way down.

Sixth

If you are leaving a home unattended for a long period of time, like an entire season, leave all faucets in the open position. This is common for vacation homes and seasonal properties.

Seventh

Do a final check-through on all floors to ensure that all faucets are open and not dripping water. It is okay for faucets on the first floor to have a slow residual drip. But other than that, there should be no water coming out of them.

Eighth

If you are leaving the home unattended for a long period of time, block all the toilet bowls and tub drains with wadded cloths or plastic wrap to prevent leaking sewer gasses.

Ninth

Close all faucets in the home, and turn the main water valve back on!

Tenth

If you are still experiencing a water hammer problem, or any other plumbing issues, contact a licensed plumber for professional assistance. Do not take any chances with your plumbing! Small issues can quickly turn into large, costly ones in a matter of hours!

Indianapolis Plumber

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need an experienced Indianapolis plumber you can trust. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to help! We are a family owned and operated company that has served the Hoosier communities for over 100 years! We are a top-choice for trustworthy and affordable plumbing service and repair in Indiana. Call 317-784-1870 to request free plumbing estimates and advice, anytime!

The 5 Rules to Avoiding Plumbing Disasters

Posted on September 8, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether the sink, toilet, tub, or drain, when you take on a DIY home plumbing job, it can go from “manageable” to full-on “disaster” in a matter of minutes. Many homeowners will start a plumbing project, but quickly end up over their heads in tools, parts, blueprints, sludge, and water. So it is important to protect yourself from plumbing catastrophes like this with proper knowledge, practice, and assistance. Continue reading to learn the top five rules to avoiding do-it-yourself plumbing mishaps and regrets.

Avoid Direct Copper-to-Steel Connections

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When replacing parts of your plumbing pipe, avoid connecting copper pipes and galvanized steel pipes directly. And a thin layer of thread sealant or Teflon tape won’t cut it either. Steel plumbing pipe can begin to corrode as soon as the connection to copper is made tight. Instead, use a fitting device called a dielectric union to connect copper plumbing pipes to galvanized steel plumbing pipes. It is essentially a metal collar that uses isolation brushings, one half steel and the other half copper. That way, each part is kept separate.

Know the Proper Plumbing Code for Big Projects

There are rules to home plumbing and construction, namely codes. These codes are very complex, with meticulous and detailed rules that dictate how, what, and where you can do plumbing work. For instance, you must know how far you can place certain fixtures from a drain waste vent-line according to its pipe diameter and other specifications. These details are important to know if you want to ensure the safety and integrity of your residence and all its utility systems. Purchase a copy of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and a book called Code Check before attempting any major DIY construction projects.

Know the Exact Location of Your Plumbing Pipes

Before taking a hammer or drill to your drywall, it is important to make sure you know what you are drilling or hammering into. A common mistake homeowners make is rupturing copper or plastic supply or drains inside walls. Purchase a stud sensor to check your walls before any sort of demolition. This device will detect both pipes and electrical wiring.

Always Perform a Water Leak Test Before Finishing Up

At the conclusion of your plumbing project, it is important to always check for water leaks before sealing everything back up. If installing new valve components, you’ll want to check that it opens and closes, and also run hot and cold water through it to see that it drains properly. In fact, you’ll want to check drains and faucets like this. You can purchase a leak detector detergent at a hardware or home improvement store to check for gas line leaks as well.

Never Over-Tighten Plumbing Connections and Components

Since you cannot always trust the fit or quality of all plumbing components, you may be tempted to over-tighten connections to ensure a good fit. But this is not only in-effective, it is detrimental to your plumbing components. A simple half-turn past the tension point is all you need to properly tighten and close up all your connections. Things like brass copper gas fittings are more susceptible to wrench damage than steel plumbing pipes, but in all cases, proper tension should be used.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing advice and plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is eager to help you find affordable and effective solutions to your plumbing problems. Our licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to speak with a licensed Indianapolis plumber, today.

How to Retrieve Items that Fall Down the Sink Drain

Posted on July 28, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

When you drop something valuable into a sink, you instinctively let out a huge gasp of fear while simultaneously rushing to grab it before it falls down the drain. This is a common reaction for most people because no one wants to lose something of value, especially if that “something of value” is a diamond earring, gold cuff link, or worse, wedding ring! And unfortunately, plumbers get a lot of calls about lost jewelry items like these. But even when you drop something down the drain that is not necessarily “valuable”, it is only natural to want it back.

So if you are someone with clumsy hands, a small bathroom counter, or a lost item down a sink drain, then this blog is for you! Continue reading to learn an easy method to retrieving lost items that have fallen into drain pipe abyss.

Professional Drain Retrieval Services

We only lead with this because there is no shame in calling a plumber for help with retrieving lost items in your sink drain. Even if you could do the task on your own, sometimes it is more efficient to let a professional manage the problem for you. They retain the proper tools and knowledge, and of course hands-on experience, which allows them to get the job done quickly and safely. This way, you won’t have to worry about accidentally damaging or jeopardizing your home’s plumbing system in any way, and you can avoid the trouble you would experience in the case that you run into larger plumbing problems as you open up your drains and dive into the process.

But if you are confident that you are equipped and capable of doing it on your own, you should still consider contacting a local licensed Indianapolis plumber for free plumbing drain advice. Trusted and honest plumbers will happily provide free advice upon request.

What You’ll Need:

• Slip/Lock Nut Wrench
• Rubber Gloves
• Old Bath Towel
• Flashlight
• A Partner (optional)

Getting Started:

Locate the water valve under the sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply. You may need to use your wrench to turn it. If you cannot turn it manually, try your main water shut-off valve for the whole home.

Clear out all the items from under your sink. Place your old towel under the sink pipes to control any leakage or mess.

Locate the pipe catch. Also called the “P trap”, “J bend”, “J pipe”, or U valve”, this pipe piece is curved and has two slip nuts at each end. Since this part of the sink piping is bent, most lost items are found there.

Note: In the picture above, you can clearly identify both the slip nuts and the pipe catch. The wrench is on the vertical slip nut, and the hand is on the pipe catch.

Remove the pipe catch. To do so, loosen the slip nuts by turning them counter-clockwise, either with your hands or your wrench.

When opening plumbing valves, it is helpful to remember the popular phrase, “Lefty-Loosey, Righty-Tighty”, which means counter-clockwise opens and clockwise closes.

Once you have the pipe catch off, you can inspect the contents inside to look for your lost item. Depending on how clean your pipes are, there could be a lot of gunk and bacteria inside. So be sure to wear your rubber gloves for safety, and use your flashlight for a better view.

If you found your item, then congratulations! If you did not find it, then you at least put in the effort to find out whether or not your item was still there. And for that, great job! Now move on to the last step.

Reattach the pipe catch by holding it in place and turning the slip nuts clockwise. You may need a partner to assist you with this step. This can be anyone capable of holding the pipe catch in place, so feel free to appoint your inquisitive 3 year old for help! What a great learning experience!

Be sure to catch next week’s blog for a guide to retrieving lost items in the shower drain!

Plumbing Service and Repair in Indianapolis

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for free plumbing advice from a state-licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing problems. With more than 50 years of experience, you can trust him for accurate and honest plumbing advice. Our family-owned and operated plumbing company has served Hoosiers with residential and commercial plumbing repair for more than 100 years! So you can feel confident that we are the right choice for plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Call 317-784-1870 to speak with a friendly plumber, today.

Why is My Tap Water Brown?

Posted on April 13, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Softener Repair 317-784-1870

Municipal water plants and home plumbing is an essential technology that sets us apart from our earlier ancestors. Clean, fresh water right from the tap is a luxury we didn’t have hundreds of years ago, and a privilege that many of us take for granted. As long as our water stays the same, we don’t give it much thought. But homeowners do start to take interest in their water supply once it starts to change or take on some peculiar traits.

One common peculiarity is brown or discolored tap water. When this happens, it is important to take immediate action to resolve the issue and restore your home comfort before the root of the cause becomes worse, and more costly to repair. It is best for a small problem to be caught early on before major damage can occur to your home’s plumbing or appliances. Continue reading to learn why this happens to tap water and how to fix the problem within a reasonable budget.

Brown Faucet Water

Tap water should be virtually crystal clear, odorless, and have a neutral taste. But under poor circumstances, water can change color, lose clarity, and even have a metallic or rotten taste. These poor conditions can cause water to range in color, from light yellows and gold tones, to dark grey and brown tones. Solid particles and debris may also be visible in discolored tap water. Whatever the cause for the discoloration, it is not necessarily dangerous but certainly alarming, and a sign that something else is going wrong in your home plumbing. Fortunately, most circumstances that cause water to turn colors are easily reversible and inexpensive. But before fixing the problem, a licensed master plumber must first determine the cause.

Common causes for discolored or brown tap water:

Aging or rusted plumbing pipes. If the discoloration of tap water generally occurs first thing in the morning, or after a brief time away from home, it could very-well be rusty-old galvanized water supply lines. This is even truer if it is just one faucet delivering discolored water. The pressure caused by switching the water on and off loosens the rusted particles off of the piping, sending it straight out to the bathroom or kitchen faucet. Sometimes, this peeling exposes iron beneath the galvanic coating on the inside of the pipes, also causing the water to turn shades of brown.

High magnesium and iron levels. When tap water has excessive levels of iron and magnesium, it can cause water to change color and appear brown. This is common for homes supplied by underground wells. Sometimes, soil has high levels of iron in it, jeopardizing the ground water coloration.

Water main break. If a local water main breaks, or fire hydrants are being flushed, it can cause contaminants and debris to leak into home water supplies. These cases tend to work themselves out on their own once the water break is repaired. It usually takes about an hour or so for the water to clear up. For this reason, it is best to check with your local department before replacing any pipes or water heaters.

Water heater problems. If the brown or murky water is only coming from the hot water tap, you may need to steer your attention toward your water heater. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may need replaced. Otherwise, it needs inspected and serviced by a qualified professional to eliminate these kinds of problems.

Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved with professional water heater repair, water filtration services, and water softening systems. Talk to your local and trusted plumbing company for help with water discoloration and plumbing problems in Central Indiana.

Weilhammer Plumbing CO. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water heater repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry and knows just how to solve your meet your water heater problems. We offer free estimates, free advice, and a wide range of plumbing, water heater, and water softener services for commercial and residential properties. Call 317-784-1870 for water heater repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Outdoor Plumbing Advice for Homeowners

Posted on March 17, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

With spring nearly upon us, many homeowners are eager to fix up their patios and lawns after a long winter season. Mulching, gardening, and purchasing new patio décor is generally at the top of the priority list this time of year, however, there is more to consider in terms of outdoor maintenance. A major component to outdoor maintenance is plumbing. In fact, there are several areas that can influence the plumbing quality in and around your home.

Continue reading to learn how to manage your outdoor plumbing and prepare it for the spring and summer.

Outdoor Plumbing Tips

When it comes to preparing your outdoor living spaces for the spring, the first step is an inspection. Take some time to walk around your home and check for issues regarding your outdoor plumbing. Once you complete this inspection, you have a better idea of what actions need to be taken next. Here’s where to start:

• Check all outdoor drains, gutters, window wells, and downspouts for blockages and damage. • Check all hose bibs and faucets to ensure water flow is normal. • Check all plumbing vent pipes (including the outside dryer vent) for blockages. • Check the septic tank filter field for damage or clogs.

Blockages in these areas commonly include leaves, pine cones, twigs, trash, birds’ nests, and other miscellaneous debris. It is important to inspect for these obstructions as often as possible in order to prevent costly structural damage repairs. Once you finish your initial inspection, it is recommended to carry out the following tasks:
• Remove all blockages from drains, gutters, vents, downspouts and window wells. • Repair any damages to the above areas. • Apply a quality root-killing drain cleaner to your drain line. • Have your septic tank pumped if necessary. • Hire a licensed plumber to provide comprehensive inspection services.

It will probably require professional service to repair any damages to gutters, downspouts, vents, and drains, as well as, make any replacements. It is not safe to attempt these tasks without certified training, ample experience, and proper equipment. When it comes to the septic tank, it is important to have it pumped every 3 to 5 years. This will reduce the need for expensive filter field replacement.

In order to ensure your outdoor plumbing is leak-free and in good condition, you need to hire a licensed plumbing company for professional inspection and diagnostic services. They retain the proper tools, equipment, and training to accurately identify areas of concern, and recommend effective and affordable solutions for plumbing problems. Catching a problem early on is cheaper than waiting for it to become a big, costly repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call state-licensed master plumber Mark Weilhammer at 317-784-1870 when you need professional plumbing service in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Here at Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc., we are passionate about providing exceptional plumbing services at economy-based prices. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair services, for both residential and commercial properties. For prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair, call 317-784-1870 today!

How to Avoid Pet Hair in Your Plumbing Pipes

Posted on January 6, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

We love our pets! Dogs and cats can be just like real members of the family for many people in many different cultures. But as we pet owners know so well, one of the most common drawbacks to owning a pet is managing the spread of pet hair; all around our homes, in our cars, and even on our clothes! Although this issue is wildly minuscule compared to the infinite benefits of owning a dog or cat, it will still have us purchasing extra lint brushes, washing one or two more loads of laundry, or running the vacuum on a twice-a-day basis.

Clothing and chores aside, one real problem that people may not even know they have is pet hair in their plumbing! This is simply a place we don’t think about pet hair getting into, but it is well-known for causing plumbing clogs and set-backs in homes with pets. For this reason, it is important to do what’s necessary to keep pet hair out of your plumbing pipes and drains.

There are a few easy methods that have been proven to do the trick when it comes to keeping pet hair out of the drains, and out of your home’s plumbing system. Fortunately for all of us, these methods are not just easy, they are inexpensive too! And the best part is, you can get started today! Continue reading to learn how to avoid dog and cat hair in your plumbing, and what to do if you suspect your pipes are clogged.

Open Drains and Exposed Pipes

If you have exposed drains or pipes in your home, be sure to block access to them to prevent pet hair in your plumbing, as well as, damage to your pipes. Some dogs and cats see exposed plumbing pipes or drains as toys, and they can potentially cause them structural damage. But most often, the open or exposed drain pipe can be vulnerable to pet hair exposure. Use furniture and other set-ups to block pets from accessing these exposed areas in your home.

Drain Strainers

If you do not already use drain strainers, you should strongly consider buying some for your sinks, tubs, and showers. And this is especially true for homes with dogs. If you are a DIY pet groomer, and bathe your precious pup in the sink or tub at home, you will greatly benefit from drain strainers. These little strainers keep human and pet hair out of plumbing pipes, which in turn reduces the chances of clogs and costly repairs. They also block other foreign objects that shouldn’t go down the drain, like dental floss, razors,
jewelry, and more.

Toilets

Many people who groom their pets may be tempted to flush the excess hair down the toilet as a quick and easy means of disposal. But this is not good for the home’s plumbing. In fact, flushing hair down the toilet can cause plumbing issues overnight. Yes, the toilet is so close when you are cleaning out the pet brush or emptying the handheld vacuum cleaner; but it is an easy fix that can come with some costly consequences in terms of plumbing repair. Just stick to throwing pet hair away in the trash can; after all, it is biodegradable and eco-friendly!

If you suspect your plumbing system is experiencing issues, call a licensed plumber for professional service you can trust. It is highly beneficial to catch a small problem early on before it can turn into a large costly one. A professional plumber can provide this service, as well as, preventative maintenance tips to avoid future plumbing problems.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a professional master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about your plumbing problems and concerns. We offer residential and commercial plumbing repair services, including water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic systems, and more, all at the fairest price in town! Call 317-784-1870 for affordable plumbing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Tips for Winter Plumbing Maintenance

Posted on December 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Wintertime in Indiana can either be really mild, really harsh, or somewhere right in between. Basically, we never really know what to expect come winter season when you live in Indiana; but one thing is for sure, it’s going to be cold! Cold temperatures and precipitation can negatively affect your home’s plumbing system, so it is important to take some necessary precautions and stay informed on proper winter plumbing maintenance. Continue reading to review some winter plumbing tips, and be better prepared for whatever weather we will soon face.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Water leaks

Water leaks can create a long list of expensive and time-consuming problems. Be sure all pluming leaks are properly repaired and sealed before temperatures drop too low. When temperatures are at freezing, a plumbing leak can quickly turn into a huge, costly issue. So be sure to regularly inspect your exposed plumbing pipes (i.e. under sinks, outside, attic, crawl space, indoor appliances, etc.) throughout the winter time to avoid water leaks and frozen pipes. When you catch a leak early on, you can save yourself a substantial amount of time, money, and inconvenience.

Pipe Insulation

If you haven’t already, it is a good idea to insulate your plumbing pipes to prevent freezing, water leaks, and more. Simply wrap all exposed plumbing pipes with plumbing insulation foam. This is not only inexpensive, it is easy to install and easily removable. They also enhance energy-efficiency and prevent air leakages. Be sure your pipes insulation is well-kept during the winter time, and replace as needed to maintain proper insulation.

Swamp Cooler

If you have a swamp cooler, also called evaporative cooler, it needs to be drained before the harshest part of winter arrives. You must turn off all power and water to the unit before draining it. The water supply line should be drained as well. It is also a good idea to change the pads and filters within the cooler at this time as well.

Pump House

If your water supply comes from a well, it is important to take certain precaution to prevent freezing well water issues. Do this by making sure your pump house is well-insulated and checking that your heating is working properly. Without sufficient heat, your pump house can freeze up even if it’s insulated.

Hose Bibs

Everyone hates to forget to unscrew their garden hoses before the temperatures hit below freezing. Freezing water trapped inside a hose bib can result in hose and faucet damages. Prevent these frustrating circumstances by getting a head start before the snow, and removing all hoses from outdoor faucets before temperatures drop too low. Then be sure to drain all your hoses entirely and store them in a dry, warm place to prevent them from becoming brittle.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for winter plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to help you prepare your home’s plumbing for plummeting temperature and harsh winter weather! We offer a wide range of plumbing service and repair at the most competitive prices in town. Whether commercial or residential, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has everything it takes to provide professional plumber service to any size property. Call 317-784-1870 for information about our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Don’t Make These 5 Drain Cleaning Mistakes

Posted on November 10, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Homeowners are known to do whatever it takes to manage their drains without having to pay for plumbing services. The problem is that there are several “do-it-yourself” drain cleaning mistakes that have the potential to do more damage than advantage, and ultimately require the services of a master plumber.

If you are the type that insists on doing it yourself, be sure you don’t make the 5 most common drain cleaning in order to avoid extremely costly and invasive plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn them all.

Mistake #1 Using a Garden Hose to Clear Drains

It is a bad idea to use an outdoor hose to clear outdoor, or indoor, drains. Some people make the mistake of assuming the added water pressure will be a surefire way to clean and unclog a drain, but this is not true. Using a garden hose to clear a drain will cause a whole heap of problems you are not equipped to manage yourself. This will not only damage pipes, it can also create flooding issues and more. Learn the best methods to drain cleaning and leave the garden hose behind!

Mistake #2 Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

Over the counter drain cleaners are not all bad. For emergencies, they can do the trick. But they are not to be used for long-term drain cleaning and clearing solutions. This is because chemical drain cleaners contain harsh ingredients that can corrode and deteriorate plumbing pipes over time. This only leads to costly pipe replacement and repair. Try using natural, organic ingredients to make eco-friendly, non-toxic drain cleaners at home. These recipes generally involve baking soda, vinegar, and other natural ingredients.

Homemade Chemical-Free Drain Cleaner Recipe
1 Cup Distilled White Vinegar
1 Cup Baking Soda

Mistake #3 Using a Clothing Hanger

A nifty trick handed down from generation to generation, anyone who uses a clothing hanger to unclog drains has surely learned this technique from an elder. Although very effective at times, unclogging drains with an un-wound clothing hanger can do more bad than good in the long run. For instance, plumbers receive calls all the time about clothing hangers getting stuck inside drains and pipes. Not only is this a frustrating situation, it can require lengthy plumbing repairs and related costs.

Mistake #4 Using a Drain Auger

Yes drain augers are meant for drains, but they are serious tools that should be used by a trained professional in the industry. If used incorrectly, a drain auger can cause extensive damage to a person’s plumbing pipes and draining system. It may even cause injury in the hands of a novice. Trust a professional plumbing for large drain clearing jobs and auger work.

Mistake #5 Doing It Yourself

The whole “DIY” approach really doesn’t translate well in the plumbing industry. A home’s plumbing is the most significant and complex system. It truly requires the knowledge, training, and skill of a licensed plumber to efficiently repair or service areas of a home’s plumbing in the safest way. A running toilet is one thing, but a severely clogged drain, water heater issue, or pipe leak is something better left to a master plumber.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing repair and service you can afford in Indianapolis, IN. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provide a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. With more than 100 years in business, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is your best solution for plumbing repair in Indianapolis, IN. Call us today at 317-784-1870 for a free estimate or for prompt plumbing service at an affordable price!