Plumbing Tips for the Basement

Posted on January 22, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

The most common consequence of basement plumbing problems are basement floods. Flooded basements happen as a result of a number of reasons, most of which can be prevented. This is why regular plumbing maintenance for basements is so important. It will not only protect and preserve your basement plumbing systems, it will also reduce the chances of costly plumbing repairs down the line.

Common plumbing systems in basements include water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic tanks, sprinkler line valves, washing machines, bathrooms or kitchens, and more. All home plumbing systems are different, but they will all have one thing in common in terms of basement plumbing: the need for regular maintenance. Continue reading to learn some tips for proper basement plumbing care, and who to call when you need a master plumber in your neighborhood.

Where to Start…

It is important to first consider safety when you are inspecting and servicing your basement plumbing appliances and systems. Never store flammable liquids or chemicals near water heaters, gas furnaces, or any other type of fuel-powered appliance. This includes gasoline, propane tanks, liquid adhesives, solvents, and anything else that has a flammable warning. On the topic of natural gas, it is important to make sure sewer gases are not building up too much within household drains, mostly drains that are not used as often like basement floor drains. To prevent sewer gases from backing up, simply pour a bucket of clean water down the drain every other month to keep the trap seal full.

Moving on, you should always inspect and pump your home’s sump pump periodically to prevent costly repairs like filter field replacement. Do this every three to five years, depending on the size of the home and the age of the sump pump. Another area of concern for basement flooding is your washing machine. Be sure to regularly inspect the machine and the connective hoses to check for bulges, leaks, and kinks. Catching a washing machine problem early on will not only save money on potential flooding repairs and renovations, it will also avoid having to buy a new washing machine.

If you like to save energy, be sure to also maintain a moderate water heater temperature setting. Not only does this reduce energy consumption, it also prevents dangerous scalding accidents. A good temperature setting for water heaters is anywhere between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater temperature is set above 120, consider lowering it a bit for safety and energy efficiency.

If you have water hammering problems, or loud noises from water usage, consider installing shock absorbers. These absorb vibrations in the water lines, muffling the obnoxious sounds made from water hammering. And for water leaks, there is an easy way to test for them that should be done every month or so. During a time that water is not being used in the house, simply read your water meter, taking notes on what you see, then check the meter again 12 hours later to see if anything has changed. If there has been a radical change in the past 12 hours that water was not used, it could be an indication of a leak. In this case, you would need to call a master plumber for professional water leak diagnostics and repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer is happy to answer your questions about basement flooding, sump pump repair, water heater repair, water softener repair, and all other plumbing problems! We offer a wide range of plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties. Just call 317-784-1870 to speak with a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN today.

Manage Snow Buildup to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Posted on January 12, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Winter is a fun and enjoyable time of year for people of all ages. We look forward to wintertime and snowfall because it brings with it the opportunity to enjoy several activities, like sledding, ice skating, ice fishing, and more. But it is important to not let the festivities of winter distract you from your home owner responsibilities! One of the most important systems in our homes is plumbing, and it is most vulnerable to damage in the winter.

One common problem that can lead to plumbing damage and repair is excessive snow accumulation. It is important to constantly manage the snowfall as it builds up around your home. This will not only prevent inconvenient plumbing problems, it will also save money on costly plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn some possible plumbing problems that snow buildup can cause, and what to do if you find yourself in the same situation.

Sump Pump and Foundation

Your home’s foundation can be effected by large snow accumulation once the snow begins to melt. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. This water can continue to seep into the basement and lower floors of the home. Needless to say, this can cause a lot of destruction. Personal belongings, clothing, and furniture can be destroyed by flooding, as well as, an extensive list of structural damages. Not only is this devastating for families, it is usually very stressful and costly to undo.

For this reason, in the case of large snow build up around your home, it is wise to check on your sump pump to ensure it is capable and ready to do its job. Start by inspecting the check valve to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line. You can actually hear the pump running, so you’ll know if it’s running too often.

Gutters and Drains

Even though the temperatures are below pleasing, it is important to still keep up with outdoor winter maintenance if you want to prevent costly repairs and problems. Start by regularly keeping your gutters clear of dirt, debris, and snow. Also, be sure all exposed drains are clear of snow as well. This will prevent plumbing clogs and backups.

Plumbing Pipes

Many people think it is best to turn their heat down low, or entirely off, while they travel in the winter. This attempt to save money can actually be a start of a costly plumbing problem. When a home is too cold in freezing weather, the pipes can actually freeze. This leads to freeze/thaw cycles, and eventually, burst pipes. Not only is this an intrusive repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. This can be prevented by keeping your house adequately warm when you are home and away. Keeping the thermostat set no lower than 65 degrees should provide the protection your plumbing needs against freezing.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumber repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing service and repair industry. He repairs, services, replaces, and installs all plumbing parts and systems, as well as, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for information about our affordable and prompt plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

How to Perform a Water Leak Inspection for Residential Plumbing Pipes

Posted on December 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Leak Repair 317-784-1870

It is important to implement regular inspections of your home plumbing pipes and system because they are one of the most significant and vital components of a modern-day household. When or if something goes awry within these pipes, major costly renovations and replacements can ensue. It is a huge liability to have leaky water pipes and water leaks anywhere on, around, or inside your property. Get in the habit of performing regular annual inspections of all areas of your home where water flows
or passes through.

Continue reading to learn which areas to examine, what to look for, and who to call for professional assistance you can trust.

Annual Plumbing Inspections

Early spring is the perfect time to plan these annual inspections for water leaks and water damages. This is when the ice and snow have melted away and plumbing pipes should be free-flowing. Although it is best to plan water leak inspections in the spring, do not wait until that time to initiate your first inspection. Finding a pipe leak early on is the best way to avoid costly plumbing renovations, re-piping, or repairs. You know a pipe has a leak if there is a thin white circle around it. This is a sign that something is not secured properly.

To begin an inspection, start with the kitchen and bathroom. Clear out any and all clutter beneath the sinks and thoroughly inspect the integrity of the pipes. Take note of any condensation or moisture, mold, mildew, cracks, and anything else that looks like it could be a problem.

Mold and pest infestations are common beneath bathroom and kitchen sinks because of the cold, dark environments. Both of these problems should be treated right away, along with any pipe leaks. Also, try to limit the amount of items you store underneath these areas because glass bottles and other items can cause damage to piping and more.

Once you have inspected the bathroom and kitchen plumbing, take your inspection a bit further and examine the condition of the plumbing pipes that connect to your water heater and water softener. Again, check for signs of a leak; such as white calcium buildup around the pipe, moisture, condensation, mold, mildew odor, and more. From there, inspect all the valves in your home. If the water shut off valve is too difficult to move, do not force it because it could break. Instead, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. Lastly, shut off all faucets and then take a look at your water meter. It should not be moving, so if it is, you can assume you have a leak somewhere. This means you need professional plumbing diagnostics from a licensed master plumber.

Indianapolis Water Leak Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbers’ industry. He provides residential and commercial plumbing service at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need water leak inspections or repairs, our licensed plumbers can do it all in a time frame that’s convenient for you! Call 317-784-1870 for professional water leak repair and inspection services in Indianapolis, IN.

What is Hydro Jetting Plumbing Service?

Posted on September 4, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Hydro jetting is a plumbing service that uses high-pressure water at high speeds to clear clogged piping systems and pipe lines. Although more often used for commercial plumbing, hydro jetting services are highly beneficial to residential homeowners too. Continue reading to learn more about hydro jetting and how it benefits pipe systems in commercial and residential properties.

Hydro Jetting Plumbing Services

Clogged Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Hydro jetting, due to its simplistic approach and effectiveness, is usually the first choice for cleaning slowed or blocked pipe lines. For residential purposes, hydro jetting can eliminate silt, sand, and scale buildup, as well as, hair blockages, shampoo and soap clogs, and more in plumbing pipes. The process is quick and highly effective. A blast of water, up to 4000psi, shoots through the plumbing pipes and pushes solid deposits and buildup out. It can eliminate buildups 1000 times better than a snake tool ever could! For homes with frequent plumbing blockages, hydro jetting is an effective solution.

In terms of commercial purposes, hydro jetting is commonly a regular service. This is especially true for establishments like restaurants that deal with grease, oil-byproducts, and food particle buildup in their plumbing pipes. One of the greatest advantages of hydro jetting, aside from its effectiveness, is that it doesn’t require the use of any harsh chemicals or cleaning solutions. Not only is this better for the environment, it is healthier for humans as well.

Before hydro jetting work can start, a professional plumbing company often uses video inspection to assess the amount of buildup or the extent of a clog. Once they have an understanding of the internal workings of a pipe line, they can move forward with hydro jetting service. This should only be carried out by a licensed plumber who retains the proper tools and knowledge to complete the job safely and proficiently.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for clogged drain repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides all plumbing services, major to minor, for both residential and commercial properties. We have been serving the Hoosier communities for more than 100 years! You can trust that our plumbing repair services are reliable and competitively-priced. Call 317-784-1870 for plumbing repair and drain clearing services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Plumbing Repairs You Do Not Want to Ignore

Posted on July 14, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

A plumbing system doesn’t require constant care an attention; however, there are certain signs that your home will give off to warn you that repairs may be needed soon. Educate yourself on these signs so that you can spot warnings and resolve the situation before it turns into a residential plumbing emergency. These types of repairs can be costly and time consuming.

Continue reading to learn some common warning signs that point toward plumbing repair.

Plumbing Clogs and Back Ups

Plumbing clogs come in many forms; clogged bathroom drain, kitchen sink, backed up toilet, and more. The list can go on and on depending on the home. If your home is experiencing frequent clogging in these areas, or others, this could be a sign of a much needed repair. Clogged drains and backed up systems can cause other plumbing problems. This is why it is important to take action right away, and repair any plumbing issues your home is having. Call a professional to diagnose the issue causing the clogs.

Cracks in Pipes

If you happen to notice cracks in your plumbing pipes, this is a problem that needs immediate attention. Call a professional plumbing company and have the system inspected thoroughly. They can handle the rest of the repair process from there. This sounds easy; but unfortunately, it isn’t very common for homeowners to spot any cracks in their pipes. There are other signs that suggest you have cracked pipes. If you are experiencing leaky pipes and faucets, it could mean you have cracks somewhere in your indoor or outdoor piping system.

Plant Roots

It you find that your pipes have root growth in them; it is a sign that you need professional plumbing repair. It is very common for homes near wooded areas, trees, or shrubbery to experience root growth in plumbing systems. There are many products and solutions on the market that prevent root growth in pipes, but this will not solve the problem. A professional retains the proper equipment, training, and knowledge on pipe repair, plumbing services, and much more. They are the ones to trust with plumbing complications such as these.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumbing services in Indianapolis or any of the surrounding counties and neighborhoods. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has decades of experience in the plumbing industry. He and our team of honest and proficient plumbers, are happy to answer questions about residential or commercial plumbing problems and much more. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about all the plumbing repair and replacement services we offer in Indianapolis, and get your home or building’s plumbing back on track today!

The Trouble With OTC Liquid Drain Cleaners

Posted on July 10, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Clogged Drain Repair 317-784-1870

A clogged drain is never a good sign for your plumbing. It is a frustrating situation that seems to pop up at the most inconvenient times. Whether it’s the bathtub or kitchen sink, no one can live harmoniously with a drain that doesn’t drain. When a clog occurs, people generally turn to an over-the-counter chemical drain cleaner for a fast and effective remedy. These can be purchased at any local general store or home improvement store at relatively low prices. This, along with their unwavering effectiveness, makes them a popular product for drain cleaning and clearing. But have you ever heard the phrase, “Too Good to be True”? Well, it applies to chemical drain cleaners.

Continue reading to learn the trouble with liquid drain cleansers and why they are hazardous to our plumbing.

Pipe Damage

Chemical drain cleansers, like Drano, are damaging to pipes. Whether plastic or metal, the chemical content in OTC drain cleaners will eat away at PVC or sit inside metal pipes and corrode them overtime. This could lead to whole-house plumbing and pipe replacement; a costly and tedious undertaking. Plumbers only recommend to use chemical liquid drain cleaners at certain times, and even at those times, with great caution.

For example, small drains that are clogged or need cleaned can be managed well with a liquid drain cleaner; however, it can still pose a risk to the plumbing pipes. And the more frequent these harsh products are introduced into a plumbing system, the more structural damage will occur overtime. This is why a plumber is the best solution for re-occurring clogged drains. A plumber retains all the tools and resources needed to provide natural and safe drain cleaning and clearing services within a convenient time-frame. This solves the problem the first time, without jeopardizing the integrity of a property’s plumbing system.

Note: Never use liquid drain cleaners in toilets. Synthetic chemicals will sit in a toilet’s tank and seep into the porcelain. Then it can heat up and cause the toilet bowl to crack, or even explode! When it comes to toilet clogs, remember this motto: If a plunger can’t fix it, call a plumber.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional drain cleaning and clogged drain services in Indianapolis. You can speak with a friendly company representative, or with master plumber and owner, Mark Weilhammer himself! We offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. We even offer plumbing repair coupons! Call 317-784-1870 for drain repair and plumbing service in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

What is a Plumbing Emergency?

Posted on June 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

A home encompasses a long list of appliances and systems that can defect at any moment. One of the most serious of household emergencies involves the plumbing. Plumbing emergencies can be the messiest and the most costly. Costs can arise from not only plumbing repair and replacement, but also from structural damage renovations and emergency service fees. One way to reduce these costs is to implement proper plumbing maintenance and routine inspections in order to catch an issue early on before it gets out of control. Another way to reduce these costs is to know which plumbing issues are emergencies and which are not.

Emergency services do cost more, but can save thousands in the end. Even if the emergency happens in the middle of the night or on a weekend, like most so-inconveniently do, it is vital to get an emergency plumber to your home immediately. If something is not a crisis, you can save on these particular costs by waiting to call a plumber during regular hours or business days.

Emergency Plumbing

It is important to know the difference between a plumbing issue that can wait until morning or the next business day, and a plumbing emergency that requires immediate service. Service costs are not cheap, and emergency ones are even more, so knowing this difference can save homeowners’ hundreds of dollars. For example, things like minor water leaks can be managed on your own by simply turning off the main water valve at night and placing a bucket underneath it during the day until you can get service. Continue for more examples of plumbing emergencies and non-emergencies.

EMERGENCIES:

• Gas Leaks or Lingering Gas Smells
• Flooding (i.e. carpets, floors, basement, lawn, etc.)
• Wet or “Sweaty” Walls
• Large Amounts of Standing Water in Lawn
• Burst Pipes
• Frozen Pipes
• Sump Pump Problems and Defects
• Major Water Leaks that Can’t Be Controlled with Main Water Shutoff Valve
• Etc.

NON-EMERGENCIES:

• Clogged Toilet or Drain
• Running Toilet
• No Hot Water
• Small Water Leaks (i.e. faucet, showerhead, sink, etc.)
• Moderate Leaks that Can Be Stopped with Main Water Shutoff Valve (i.e. water heater, water softener, cabinet pipes, etc.)
• Broken Plumbing Fixture
• Etc.

When determining whether or not a plumbing issue is an emergency, ask yourself these questions:

Can it Wait?

Think about the seriousness of the issue and if leaving it alone until morning or the next business day will cause more damage. If you can mitigate the issue, like catching dripping water in a bucket, you probably don’t need emergency service. On the other hand, if it is something that needs to be functioning at all times, like if you only have one toilet, it could be an emergency.

Will Turning Off the Main Water Valve Help?

As mentioned, some plumbing leaks can be managed on your own through the night without calling for emergency service. A leak can be managed through the night by turning off the specific and main water valves; and then calling for plumbing service the next day. On the other hand, larger water leaks, like burst pipes, need emergency repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides a wide range of plumbing repair services for residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need minor or major plumbing work, our highly trained and qualified plumbing contractors retain the proper resources and expertise to implement accurate plumbing repairs in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our Indianapolis master plumber services, prices, and availability today.

Do You Need Bathtub Repair or Bathtub Replacement?

Posted on May 19, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

A shower curtain can only do so much to hide an old, outdated, stained, or rusted bathtub. Eventually at some point in time, it will be necessary, and lucrative, to address your bathtub woes. Determining whether or not a bathtub needs repaired or replaced can be tricky, which is why it is helpful to review some basic factors regarding bathtub plumbing to better understand your home’s needs.

Although bathtub replacement seems like a scary possibility in terms of cost and installation, it is much more affordable and efficient than many think. So if it turns out that your home needs an entire bathtub replacement, do not fear the costs and labor associated with the process. Continue reading to learn how to tell which service your bathroom requires, what to expect, and who to call for professional plumbing you can trust.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathtub Repair

Not all tubs will need a replacement. Sometimes some simple repairs is all it takes to instantly solve, update, or upgrade your bathroom focal point. If a bathtub doesn’t pose any internal or external plumbing issues, then homeowners can opt to have their tubs refinished. Tub refinishing is perfect for bathtubs that are in good condition physically, but may contain stains, discoloration, texture defects, and unsightly marks. This process costs substantially less than tub replacement, and makes bathtubs look brand new. For further protection and longevity, homeowners can opt for bathtub liner in addition to refinishing. Although a bit pricier than refinishing alone, it is a fantastic way to further protect your investment.

Bathtub Replacement

Sometimes, a bathtub cannot be repaired, or the repair costs would exceed the cost of replacement. In these cases, replacement is necessary. Even for tubs that are not defective, replacement might be necessary for bathroom remodels, updates, and upgrades. Keep in mind that the after effects of a water leak are much more costly and tedious to repair than the cost to replace a defective, cracked, or deteriorating tub.

Be sure to hire a licensed master plumber for bathtub repairs and bathroom plumbing services. They retain the proper tools, training, and resources to provide a professional and accurate job within a time-frame that’s convenient for you.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for bathroom plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for more information about our affordable Indianapolis plumbing repair and bathroom plumbing services.

How Do Tree Roots Affect Sewer Lines?

Posted on May 12, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Master Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Now that summer is mostly here, plants and trees are growing at full speed. Roots grow long, absorbing water and nutrients and passing them along to their host. Tree roots are generally longer, stronger, and bigger than any other plant root; and they only continue to grow in girth and length as time goes on. In fact, trees can grow and thrive for hundreds of years in the right condition!

Although majestic and beautiful, trees and their roots can cause problems for property owners. Aside from the occasional fallen tree or unsightly stump, trees also pose problems as a result of their roots. One of the most common areas affected by tree roots on residential and commercial properties are sewer lines. Now we all know how important our sewer lines are, without an in-depth description of what they do and why they are so beneficial to modern-day plumbing. So with that being said, continue reading to learn how problematic tree roots can cause issues with residential and commercial sewer lines, and what to do about it.

Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

Tree roots can grow strong and penetrate plumbing pipes and sewer lines. This can lead to messy, costly, and tedious repair projects. Sewer lines can backup and become clogged with tree roots and plant matter, over time. Pipes can burst, break, corrode, and deteriorate as a result. Unfortunately, the environments inside sewer lines and plumbing pipes are absolutely ideal for tree roots, which is why they tend to gravitate toward them. The dark, moist environments seem like they would not be a good place for root growth, but in fact, they are. Pipes have everything roots need and want: oxygen, nutrients, and of course, water. They are also attracted to the vapors within sewer lines that escape into the surrounding soil.

Tree roots access pipes by growing into loose joints or cracks. They grow in hair-like masses, creating a perfect obstruction-causing filter for sewer line debris like toilet paper, hair, feminine hygiene products, waste, grease, and other debris that flows through sewer lines. This prevents sufficient water flow, causing clogs that eventually backup the lines. This makes a toilet entirely useless! Routine pipe inspections can help prevent tree roots from penetrating and entangling plumbing pipes and lines.

If you are hearing strange noises coming from your toilet, or notice other issues with your plumbing, you may have a clog in your sewer line. Contact a master plumber for professional inspections, diagnostics, and repairs you can trust.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for expert plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of equally qualified and licensed plumbing contractors, offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. If you need sewer line repair, burst pipe repair, toilet repair, or any other plumbing service, we are the professionals to trust for the best service and most competitive prices in town! Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about sewer line repair and more, today.

Bathroom and Kitchen Faucet Replacement Tips

Posted on May 6, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

There are a few indicative signs that suggest your kitchen and bathroom faucets might need replacing. These signs should never be ignored, especially since replacement faucets are affordable and easy to install. For one, if a faucet continues to drip, even after re-fastening or repairing, it needs to be replaced. Second, if a faucet is moderately-outdated, tarnished, or rusted, it needs replacing. This is especially important for kitchen and bathroom remodels, and can even provide an instant upgrade for quick redecorating projects. And last, if a faucet is simply broken or defective, it’s time to replace it. Continue reading to learn what to do when it comes time to replace your bathroom and kitchen faucets.

Faucet Size

The first consideration for faucet replacement is the size of the unit. Faucets comes in all different sizes and shapes, so it is important to measure the distance between the holes in the lavatory to know which size your sink needs. To do this, the faucet has to be removed in order to expose this area. Small lavatory setups generally have three holes, ranging between 3 and 4 inches apart. This setup uses two handles (hot and cold) and a spout that are all connected by an escutcheon plate. When replacing an old faucet, it is necessary for the new setup to match the same configuration. Other setups include single-hole two handle faucets, and single-hole and handle faucets.

Faucet Handles

The second consideration involves the number and the type of faucet handles. You can make this decision by thinking about who will use the faucets. For children, a single-handle faucet is safest to avoid scalding accidents. Parents are familiar with the fact the children often reach for one bathroom or kitchen knob, and they hope it’s the cold one! Single-handle faucets can reduce the likelihood of burn accidents with children because they are not likely to be in the “hot” position. Some single-handle units come with flow-mechanism options that will control how much hot water is available through the faucet. This is helpful for homes with young children. Aside from children, some people, like the elderly, might have trouble turning knob-style faucet handles. They too can benefit from a single-handle faucet setup because they come with rotational-limit stops and short-turn options.

Faucet Valves

Faucet valves are called control valves because they literally control the water flow. They open and close in different measures, controlling the water flow, the water stop, and the amount of water that comes through the faucet. There are various types of faucet valves, each meant for different faucet setups. Compression valves are used for two-handle setups and use a rubber washer to control water flow. Rubber washers will require replacing overtime but this only costs a few cents and is easy to do. Other two-handle faucets might use sleeve-cartridge valves. Sleeve-cartridge valves are also used for some single-handle setups. Brass cartridges are better choices compared to plastic ones. For other single-handle faucets, ball valves are used. These use spring-loaded seals and metal balls to control water flow. Although inexpensive and durable, they are a bit complicated to install. One of the most recommended faucet valves are called ceramic disk valves. They operate using a two-part disk that revolves, controlling the flow of water. Disk replacement is quick, simple, and inexpensive. These are great for areas with higher levels of hard water.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer Indianapolis Indiana, is happy to answer your questions about faucet repair, plumbing fixtures, plumbing repair, and more. Our team of licensed plumbers offer a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including installation, repair, maintenance, inspections, and sales. Call 317-784-1870 for affordable and fast Indianapolis plumbing repair services you can trust.