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.

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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.

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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.

Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?

Posted on September 11, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

As a homeowner, you are responsible for all of the systems in your home. Among the most important is your plumbing. Residential plumbing systems are made up of various components that all play an important role, both individually and collectively. For this reason, and many more, it is important to maintain your plumbing system to the best of your ability.

With routine maintenance and inspection, you will be able to ensure that all of your systems are in good condition. You will also be able to tell when it is time to have certain components replaced. It is easier to identify a need for replacement in many of your home’s plumbing systems, such as the water heater, washing machine, dishwasher, sump pump, and similar appliances.

However, components like plumbing pipes are a bit more challenging to supervise on a regular basis. After all, you can’t reasonably commit to crawling around your crawlspace, basements, and subareas of your property. For this, you will need the help of a licensed plumber who can diagnose plumbing pipe issues, and recommended necessary repairs and replacements to resolve any issues.

Although you will need to have a licensed master plumber inspect and service your piping, you can get a head start by learning more about plumbing pipe replacement. Continue below to learn the average life expectancy of plumbing pipes, and when you should have your plumbing system inspected for repair and replacement needs.

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Average Life of Plumbing Piping

In order to know when you should have your home’s plumbing replaced, you must first confirm which type of material the pipes are made of. Different types of metals and materials vary in life expectancy, so avoid premature or needless replacement by learning which type of plumbing pipes you have.

? Which Type of Plumbing Pipes Do You Have?

↣ Copper – 50 Years
↣ Brass – 40 to 70 Years
↣ Galvanized Steel – 20 to 50 Years
↣ Cast Iron – 75 to 100 Years
↣ PVC – For life

Contact a Trusted and Licensed Indianapolis Master Plumber

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for home plumbing inspections 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.

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.

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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.

How to Use Plumber’s Putty for Everyday Plumbing Fixes

Posted on July 11, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumber’s putty is one of those products that can instantly broaden your world of DIY household repairs. It is basically a pliable sealing compound that is designed to provide air-tight seals against water leaks in plumbing pipes and fixtures around the house. If you have some issues with things like dripping faucets, leaky drains, and cracked hose lines, Plumber’s putty might be right for you.

Continue reading to learn the best ways to apply this popular and effective plumber’s product to your everyday plumbing fixes.

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Plumbing Putty Basics

Plumber’s putty is a bit outdated for most plumbing repair applications, and nowadays, is often replaced with caulk. However, there are still many areas of plumbing repair and maintenance that are better suited for putty. In fact, it is still a staple in every plumber’s tool bag. The main difference between Plumber’s putty and caulk is that Plumber’s putty is not adhesive. Silicone and similar plumbing caulks are designed with adhesive properties, while putty is not.

Benefits

So why do plumbing pros still use it? Plumbers still choose to use plumbing putty because it stays soft, which means it does not dry out and crack prematurely. Also, Plumber’s putty can be easily removed and replaced down the line, while caulk and silicone would require extensive scraping and caulk removal. Furthermore, not only is silicone difficult to work with, it does not retain the same amount of density as plumber’s potty, making it a poor choice for wide gaps and holes. Lastly, caulk products take a long time to dry, whereas Plumber’s putty is instantly ready to go, making it the best choice for certain plumbing applications.

Using Plumber’s Putty

There are many applications for plumber’s putty. It can be used on drains, faucets, sink and bathtub fixtures, garden hoses, and more. Plumber’s putty is often a go-to choice for sealing the undersides of sink strainers and pop-up drain fittings. The general rule of thumb is to apply it along the base of plumbing fixtures before setting them into place so that it remains hidden underneath a flange, lip, or edge. Simply follow manufacturer’s instructions to learn how to use it for your intended repair or installation, or refer to the quick guide below!

STEP 1 – Scoop out a small, ball-sized quantity of Plumber’s putty with your fingers.

STEP 2 – Using your palms, roll the putty back and forth until you create a rope or snake-like shape. The diameter of your putty snake should be slightly bigger than the hole you need to fill.

STEP 3 – Place the putty in your intended seal, working in a continuous circle until you meet back at your starting point. Then tear off any excess ends.

*Putty rope too short? Better to start all over from the beginning.

STEP 4 – Very gently press down the putty, but only enough to keep it in place when you flip the component upside down. Be very careful not to deform the shape.

STEP 5 – Install your desired part or fixture and tighten it down all the way. If excess putty squishes out, that is a good sign that you used enough. Wipe away any excess putty.

If You Need the Help of a Licensed Plumber, Don’t Hesitate to Call…

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free plumbing advice. 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.

FAQS About Laundry Room Plumbing Problems

Posted on July 4, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Does your laundry room give you trouble every time you need to run the washing machine? If so, you are not alone. Several homeowners struggle with the same kinds of laundry room plumbing issues. Fortunately, there is always a solution right around the corner. Continue reading to review some of the most frequently asked questions about such plumbing problems, and learn what you need to know about getting your laundry room back in order.

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Why Does Smelly Water Come Up Through the Floor Drain When I Do a Load of Laundry?

When the drain nearest your washing machine seems to overflow with smelly water every time you run a load, it is likely due to a blocked vent or branch line. To determine the actual cause, and to implement a solution, you will need to hire a licensed plumber. If you do not want to jump straight into hiring a professional, you can try to unclog the drain yourself using a drain auger or drain snake.

See our blog, “Choose the Right Auger for Serious Plumbing Clogs” to learn what you need to know about these tools. Whatever you do, do not use a liquid drain cleaner; not only is this ineffective, it can be damaging to your plumbing. Furthermore, if your pipes are made of steel or cast iron, you need to avoid acid-based cleaners, as these will eat through the zinc coating on galvanized pipes, and lead to exponential corrosion.

Why Does My Washing Machine Bubble and Overflow?

One of the top causes for an overflowing washing machine is overloading. Running a cycle that is too big for the machine can cause bubbling, overflows, and decreased efficiency. Another top cause for an overflowing washing machine is too much detergent. Check to ensure you are using the recommended amount of detergent, whether in liquid, powder, granule, or capsule form. Keep in mind that some detergents are concentrated, which means you use significantly less than a conventional product.

If these are not the cause, you will need to hire a licensed plumber to diagnose the issue. It could be due to pump failure, or a clogged drain or sewer line. If you catch your washing machine overflowing or bubbling over, immediately stop the cycle and turn the machine off. If the water is still overflowing, it could be due to a defective water inlet valve or pressure switch. You could also have water pressure issues.

Can I Increase My Energy Efficiency in My Laundry Room?

Yes! All you have to do is make a few small changes to your routine and surrounding environment. For starters, use cold water instead of hot water to wash your loads. The majority of energy a washing machines uses is to heat water, so by using cold cycles, you can save a substantial amount of energy. If you really need to use hot water, consider adjusting your water heater temperature setting to 120 degrees, rather than the default 140 degrees. Also, be sure you are washing full loads, and if you are not washing a full load, be sure to adjust the water settings to avoid wasting too much.

Indianapolis Plumbing Inspections and Repairs

How to Install a Sink Faucet

Posted on June 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Are you tired of dealing with your old, inefficient sink faucet? Perhaps you are ready for an updated model? Or maybe you just want something that feels more comfortable to use? Either way, it may have crossed your mind to install a new one. But whether you are working on a bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor sink faucet, it is important to understand what the job entails in terms of labor, supplies, cost, and time. It might turn out that you can perform your own sink faucet installation! Or you may just realize that the job is a bit too big for you, and a plumber is the better option.

So, to get started, let’s review the basic steps of installing a new faucet, including what you will need and who to call if you don’t feel comfortable with DIY plumbing work.

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What You Need

When it comes to home improvement, sink faucet installation is something that is entirely doable in as little as one hour’s time, so long as you are properly equipped with the right knowledge, tools, and supplies. Here is what you will need to implement a proper faucet installation project:

→ Your New Faucet
→ Basin Wrench
→ Plumber’s Tape (Teflon™)
→ Plumber’s Putty (Not just any caulk; it must be plumbing putty, like Sta Put®.)
→ Plastic or Rubber Gasket (You may or may not need a new one.)
→ Flexible PEX Lines (Most faucets come with these connections already.)
→ Spackling Knife (If you need to scrape away old putty.)

Basic Sink Anatomy

First, learn how a sink’s plumbing is fundamentally set up. The basic parts of a sink are the hot and cold water lines, which are located underneath the sink and distinguishable by their knobs or levers, as well as, a drain pipe, the sink basin, and the faucet.

When shopping around for a new faucet, be sure to count how many holes are in your existing sink basin ahead of arriving at the home improvement store. Unless you are also purchasing and installing a new sink basin, the hole count is a vital part of choosing a proper replacement faucet.

A Guide to Faucet Installation

Your very first step is to turn off the water supply to the home via the main water shutoff valve.

Before installing your new faucet, you will need to remove the old one. If it is very old or rusted, be prepared for this step to take longer. You may even require additional tools, like a sledgehammer. If this is the case, professional plumbing service is likely your best option. Most faucets attach to a sinks via a plastic or metal nut, which can be accessed underneath the sink in the cabinet. Other faucets are bolted down on top of the sink. You will also need to remove the water connections in this step.

Now you are ready to install the new faucet. Begin by adding the gasket, which serves as a seal between the faucet and the sink. If you do not have a replacement gasket, you can use your plumber’s putty to form the seal.

Next, position the new faucet on top of the sink, lining up all the proper holes. Then, go underneath the sink and secure the plastic nuts. Here is where you would use your spackling knife to clear away any old plumber’s putty.

You should be ready to connect the water lines now. Most faucet brands come with flexible PEX hoses (i.e. Deltaâ), but if your new model did not, you will need to use your own. If your faucet came with hoses, simply connect them to the water lines underneath the sink. If you are using your own lines, first connect the piping to your lines, and then to the faucet. As you are implementing this step, be sure to use your plumber’s tape around the connections on the water lines and hoses to create a water-tight seal.

You are basically ready to check your work now, so turn your water back on and check your lines and faucet for any leaks. If there are leaks, you will need to remove all seals, tighten all hose and water line connections, and reapply your plumber’s tape.

If it STILL Doesn’t Work…Hire a Plumber!

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for help with your plumbing repairs 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.

3 Ways to Instantly Upgrade Your Plumbing on a Budget

Posted on June 13, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

As a wise investor, budget means everything to you, which sometimes means leaving out desired home improvement projects that would otherwise enhance the quality and comfort of your property. But if you have an itch to give your home a bit of a facelift this summer without spending too much, you can opt for some easy and inexpensive plumbing upgrades that can be done all on your own. A quick trip to your local home improvement store is the first step, and the second is all up to your personal style.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to enhance the look and performance of your home’s plumbing without sweating the price tag.

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❶ Faucets and Fixtures

Your home is likely full of faucets, from kitchen sinks and wet bars, to bathrooms, mudrooms, and more. Want an easy way to make your home look and feel different without spending an entire week’s pay? Simply switch out your old faucet systems for new ones! Not only is there a wide selection of styles and finishes to choose from, there are plenty within an economical price range. Best of all, you can easily install a faucet fixture on your own, which saves you money on labor.

❷ Shower Heads

Although guests won’t necessarily be able to appreciate the appeal unless they stay over, swapping out your old shower head fixtures for new, upgrades models is a terrific way to enhance your home life. A better quality shower head instantly makes a shower look nicer and newer, and it provides a higher level of pleasure and comfort for your daily shower time. Furthermore, a good shower head can be more efficient, saving you money on water and energy bills.

❸ Toilet Seats

Toilets are not much to look at. But when you decide to change the toilet seat to an upgraded version, you will understand just how easy it is to add some life back to you bathrooms. Best of all, you can find really great styles and designs, all for under $50. You can also consider installing toilet bowl LED lights that turn on when you lift the seat. Not only are these lights inexpensive and easy to install, they come in a variety of colors and patterns, and can help improve the safety of nighttime bathroom trips.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Advice

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality plumbing service and installation 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.

Plumbing Noises That Should Be Taken Seriously

Posted on April 17, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Your plumbing system makes all sorts of noises, most of which are perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, there are some noises that should be taken seriously, as they may be an indication of something seriously wrong within your plumbing system. Continue reading to learn how to tell the difference between normal and abnormal sounds coming from your home’s plumbing.

Normal Sounds

You have various components in your plumbing system, from water heaters and water softeners, to fixtures, pipes, and more. Loud sounds like whizzing, clinking, vibrating, and even banging are typically normal because they are simply residuals noises that result from standard plumbing operations. But any other noises outside of these may call for some concern.

Abnormal Sounds

As mentioned, some plumbing sounds are signs that something within your plumbing system is defective, failing, or broken down. Although there are various strange noises that point towards plumbing problems, some of the most concerning noises to look out for include whining, dripping, and bubbling.

If you hear any of these kinds of noises coming from your washing machine, sump pump, water heater, water softener, shower, plumbing pipes, or anywhere else in your plumbing system, you must act fast to diagnose and resolve the issue before it can lead to costly repairs and invasion renovations from water and mold damage.

⚟ Whining Sounds

If you are hearing whining, whistling, squeaking, or other high-pitched noises coming from pipes or any other plumbing-related system, especially when you turn on a faucet, it could mean that you have a damaged or defective pressure-reducing valve. If you fail to have this issue repaired, it could cause burst pipes, flooding, and more.

⚟ Dripping Sounds

Any kind of dripping noise within your home is a cause for concern, as it most definitely means there is a leak at large somewhere. Whether it is a barely-audible dripping, or a loud, fast one, you must take action as soon as possible to repair the leak and prevent costly flooding and water damage. Never take your chances when you hear water dripping.

⚟ Bubbling Sounds

Bubbling, sloshing, and gurgling noises are usually an indication that there is air trapped within your pipes. It can also mean that you have an unresolved clog or even a sewer problem. Regardless of the cause, this is a serious plumbing issue that can lead to even more serious pecuniary consequences. Keep in mind, this kind of problem will only worsen overtime, so act fast!

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How to Locate and Adjust Low Volume Water Restrictors

Posted on March 21, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Low volume restrictors, also known as “flow” or “water” restrictors, are small, disk-shaped barriers that can be installed on certain plumbing fixtures, namely faucets and shower heads, to reduce the amount of water flow for the purpose of conserving water and energy. They are installed in various configurations, and come in numerous brands, makes, and models. Commonly, they are either added as a whole unit to replace a standard flow-directing screen on a plumbing fixture, or built in as a part of the fixture.

Now that you have a better understanding of these efficiency plumbing devices, you may have questions about how to locate and adjust them on your own. Continue reading to learn this and more!

Water Faucets

To remove, replace, or clean a low volume restrictor in your sink faucets, the first step is to close the sink drain so you do not lose any important components in the process. Keep in mind, you need to remember the order of the components as you take them out so that you can put them back together properly. Next, take a look at the end of your faucet to find a screen. Once you confirm there is a screen at the mouth of your faucet, locate the end piece that screws onto the tip of your fixture. If you cannot locate these units, contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for help. They can sometimes walk you through the process right over the phone!

Using your fingers, loosen the small unit at the tip of the faucet by turning it counter-clockwise. If it is too tight, wrap a rag around it and gently use pliers. After the unit comes free, inspect the end of the faucet for the flow restrictor screen. You may need a hand mirror to get a good look. Sometimes the flow restrictors are built in, and other times, they are installed inside a pre-existing unit. Also, there might be a second unit at the end of a faucet that would also need to be removed.

Once you have your flow restrictor located and removed, you must choose to clean it or replace it. To clean water restrictors, simply soak them in a white vinegar and baking soda solution; and then use a small needle or pin to push out large deposits. If you are replacing your restrictors, consider upgrading to an adjustable flow restrictor, which allows you to control water flow, volume, and even temperature. Talk to a licensed plumber to learn more about these effective, energy-saving devices!

Shower Heads

Locating and removing low volume restrictors on shower heads is a more tedious project that requires some experience with handyman work. You will need a wrench, ladder, work gloves, plumbers’ tape, rag, and paper clip. Your first step will be to remove the shower head from the fixture arm. Once you have this removed, look inside the shower head; there will either be a gasket or black O-ring that you will need to pry up with your paper clip and remove.

Once you have the gasket or O-ring removed, you should be able to see the water restrictor screen. It should be behind a star-shaped metal piece. Using your paper clip again, remove the screen and clean it, or replace it altogether. After you reassemble your shower head, be sure to use your plumbers’ tape to reseal the connections.

Maintenance

Low volume restrictors save a lot of water and energy since they allow less volumes of water to pass through plumbing fixtures, like faucets and shower heads. However, they accomplish this primarily because of their design, which includes a disk-shaped barrier and a small central opening. This opening tends to clog easier and quicker as it accumulates the hard mineral deposits found in tap water. After sometime, these water restrictors can lose performance value, thus requiring cleaning or replacement.

Plumbing maintenance is vital, as it is the key to plumbing longevity and dependable performance. Be sure to provide routine maintenance for all your plumbing-related appliances and systems; from as small as these flow restrictors, to as large as your water heater and sump pump. If you have questions about plumbing maintenance or repair, contact a local and licensed Indianapolis master plumber for free information you can trust.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service You Can Trust!

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing service you can trust. We have been in 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. Call owner, Mark Weilhammer, at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or plumbing advice, today.