Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?

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.

Indianapolis Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

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.

Tried and True Indianapolis Plumbing for Commercial and Residential Clients

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is not your everyday plumbing service. We have been in business, serving the Hoosier communities, for more than 100 years! That means we have been leading choice for state licensed master plumber services in Indianapolis, Indiana!

Continue reading to learn how Weilhammer Plumbing Company can meet all of your residential and commercial plumbing repair and service needs!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Want to Know Why You Should Choose Us?

Weilhammer Plumbing Company has been family owned and operated for more than 112 years. Not only do we continue to be long-standing members of the Better Business Bureau, we are also an Angie’s List Approved plumbing company in Indiana. Furthermore, we maintain economy-based prices and remain available for 24 hour emergency plumbing repairs. And even if you have called other plumbers who have not been able to accurately identify the cause behind your plumbing issue, we guarantee that we CAN figure it out, and in no time at all!

In fact, one of our most admired attribute that sets us apart from competitors is that all work is performed by company owners, such as Mark Weilhammer, in order to guarantee superior results and exceptional customer service! This is something our clients really appreciate and thank us for on a regular basis.

Meet the Owner!

Owner and state licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience. He and our team of licensed plumbers provide a wide selection of plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties in Central Indiana. As a family owned and operated company, we understand the value of the American dollar, which means you can rest assured knowing you are receiving the most honest and fair plumbing repair prices in town!

Comprehensive Plumbing Services

When it comes to plumbing, Mark Weilhammer and his team of licensed master plumbers can undertake any project, large or small. We are fully trained and equipped to handle the most complex plumbing repair or service, to the everyday leaky faucet or frozen pipe. We offer copper re-piing services, water heater installation and repair, water softener installation and repair, sump pump installation and repair, bathroom renovations, all plumbing repairs, water alarms, water leaks, 24 hour emergency services, and much more. Whatever plumbing service or repair you require, Weilhammer is the team to do it skillfully and in a time-frame that’s convenient for you and your agenda.

Contact Us Today for a Free Quote!

So when you need plumbing service and repair you can trust, count on Weilhammer Plumbing Company to put your mind at ease by providing affordable residential and commercial plumbing diagnostics and solutions that work for you. Contact us directly at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or discuss your plumbing concerns, anytime.

What is the Color of Your Mold Telling You?

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

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

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

Indianapolis Plumbing Service
Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Common Mold Colors and Potential Dangers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Clean Mold

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

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

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

Black Mold Clean Up

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

How to Manage Mold Growth

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

The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust

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

Top Two Causes for a Leaking Garbage Disposal

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

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

Garbage Disposal Repair
Garbage Disposal Repair 317-784-1870

Garbage Disposal Maintenance

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

Garbage Disposal Leaks

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

Leaky Gasket

When a rubber gasket gets old, or goes unused for a long period of time, it can dry up and develop a crack, which in turn leads to a leak in the gasket. It can also be caused by improper installation. But how do you know this is your problem? If the leak is coming from the top rim where the seal mounts to the flange, it could be caused by a leaky gasket.

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

Leaky Flange

Another common cause for a leaking garbage disposal is a defective flange. A disposal flange can develop a leak if the plumbers’ putty dries up, or if the bolts that connect the flange to the sink comes loose. How do you know if this is your problem? If the leak is coming from the very upper portion of the unit, it could be a flange leak.

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

Indianapolis Garbage Disposal Repair

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

What to Do Before, During and After a Plumbing Repair Appointment

Whether you are a new homeowner and have never hired a plumber before, or you simply want a reminder on best practices, it helps to learn what you should do before, during, and after your plumbing repair appointment. Continue reading for all the plumbing repair appointment tips you need to know prior to your plumber’s arrival!

Indianapolis Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Before

To prepare for your plumbing repair, start by doing your research. Choose a reputable and licensed plumbing company that has several positive client testimonials and customer reviews. Once you have chosen and hired a plumber, you are ready to get prepared for your upcoming appointment. The methods in which you use to prepare mostly depend on the extent of the work being done, but can also depend on other factors, such as your home type, children, pets, location of plumbing repair, and more.

For instance, you would be wise to take the initiative to check the rest of your home’s plumbing, just in case you find something else that concerns you. While your plumber is there, you can mention the concern and add it to their list of places to inspect or diagnose. Also, make room for a work space around the area that will be receiving the repair. Clear away furniture, rugs, toys, and other clutter to reduce any obstructions. Last, be sure you know where you your main water line is located to make it faster and easier for the plumber.

During

While your plumber is working, do not be afraid to ask questions. Be forthcoming as possible by sharing relevant and detailed information regarding your home’s plumbing. The more information you give your plumber, the more they can understand the scope of your plumbing needs.

Also during your appointment, be sure to keep children and pets out of the way. Not only can they disrupt the work of your plumber, it can be dangerous for them. Plumbers use all types of hazardous chemicals, materials, and tools that can injure or cause serious illness to people and pets.

After

When your appointment comes to an end, grab a pen and paper and take notes on what your plumber is about to tell you. It is very common to forget what they say as soon as they leave, and you do not want to forget anything important.

Also, be sure to keep an eye on your plumber once the work is done. Not just the day of your appointment, but weeks later. Your plumber will likely make a follow-up call or visit, depending on the type of work that was done; and when they do, do not hold back on any questions or concerns.

Expert Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis

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.

How to Use Plumber’s Putty for Everyday Plumbing Fixes

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.

Indianapolis Plumbing Installation and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Installation and Repair 317-784-1870

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 1Scoop 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 3Place 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 4Very 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 5Install 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

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.

Emergency Plumber Indianapolis Indiana
Emergency Plumber 317-784-1870

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

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.

Do You Need Emergency Plumbing Service?

Plumbing emergencies are no joke. Water leaks, appliance breakdowns, power losses, and similar mischances, can be quite the devastating event, especially if something like a water leak goes neglected for some time. When it comes to plumbing disasters and emergencies, the most important priority is to choose a skilled plumber that will be there for you in a moment’s notice. Here at Weilhammer Plumbing Company, we are the professional plumbing response team on duty, around the clock, to manage your plumbing emergencies, efficiently and at a price you can afford.

Continue below to learn what constitutes a plumbing emergency, what to do in the event of one, and how to contact our master plumbers in an instant.

Emergency Plumbers
Emergency Plumbers 317-784-1870

The Importance of Managing Plumbing Emergencies ASAP

Here’s the thing you need to understand about plumbing emergencies: they cost more than standard plumbing services, but only upfront; managing a plumbing emergency saves you thousands of dollars in repairs, renovations, and maintenance, down the line. Here is a list of what most professional plumbers will tell you is an emergency situation:

Examples of Plumbing 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 Stopped with Main Water Shutoff Valve

Here are some examples of Non-emergency plumbing situations:

✅ 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
✅ Broken Plumbing Fixture

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.

Call Us for All Your Plumbing Emergencies in Indianapolis!

Since 1901, we have been a family owned and operated business. Our current generation of owners have more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing repair and service industry. Weilhammer Plumbing Company is extensively equipped with the latest technologies, state-of-the-art equipment, and premium resources to professionally implement any plumbing repair need, regardless of size or scope.

So when you need plumbing service and repair you can trust, count on Weilhammer Plumbing Company to put your mind at ease by providing affordable plumbing diagnostics and solutions that work for you. Contact us directly at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or discuss your plumbing concerns, anytime.

How to Fix a Leaky Pressure Relief Valve on a Water Heater

Although it is strongly encouraged to have a licensed plumber assist you with all your water heater repair and maintenance needs, the process of replacing a pressure relief valve is not as complicated as some other plumbing tasks. Continue reading for a step-by-step instruction guide on how to swap out a defective pressure relief valve for a new one, as well as, what to do if you are not 100% confident about DIY plumbing repair.

Water Heater Installation and Repair 317-784-1870
Water Heater Installation and Repair 317-784-1870

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves

The pressure relief valve on your hot water heater is also known as a temperature and pressure relief valve, T&P valve, or TRP valve. They are designed to release excess pressure from within the tank in the case that the water temperature gets too high. Basically, they prevent excess pressure buildup inside a water heater tank, making them incredibly important safety components.

Temperature and pressure relief valves are usually inexpensive, costing between $15 and $20 depending on the type you choose. They are available at any local home improvement store, plumbing parts store, or online. Just be sure you choose the proper T&P valve for your make and model water heater. Refer to the owners’ manual to confirm.

Replacing a T&P Valve

When you have a leak in your T&P valve, open and close it a few times to see if it will go away. If the leak does not stop within a day or two, you know it needs to be replaced. To replace a T&P valve, you will need a pipe wrench, and plumbers’ tape. If you have to replace the drain pipe, you will also need pipe glue and new piping that is designed for hot water, such as CPVC.

How to Get Started:

➀ Turn off the power. Depending on if you have a gas or electric water heater, you will need to either turn off the gas or flip the breaker to cut the power.

➁ Shut off the main cold water valve that feeds into your water heater.

➂ Turn on the valve at the bottom of the water heater, as well as, the T&P valve, to release any excess water and pressure. Allow them to drain for about a minute.

➃ Now you are ready to remove the overflow pipe from the T&P valve. However, if it is soldered or glued, it will need to be cut off. This is where you might decide to contact an Indianapolis plumber for help.

➄ Unscrew the old T&P valve using your pipe wrench.

➅ Grab your new T&P valve and wrap plumbers’ tape around the threads. Then screw the new valve onto your water heater making sure that the opening to the overflow pipe is turned away from the tank.

➆ Wrap plumbers’ tape on the threads of the drain pipe and put it back on the water heater.

➇ Turn your main cold water valve back on and check for any leaks. If you still have leaks, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. They may be able to give you DIY instructions over the phone or same-day service.

Professional Indianapolis Plumbing Service

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumber for Indianapolis water heater service and repair 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 Fix a Dripping Outdoor Faucet

The overnight temperatures have steadily been above freezing, leading several homeowners to begin their annual gardening and landscaping. If you are one of these individuals, then you too have likely brought out all your needed tools and supplies, such as gloves, shovels, trowels, pots, fertilizer, mulch, and of course watering jugs. Now, since it has been several months since you have last turned on your outdoor faucet, also known as a hose bibb, you may notice some perpetual dripping. This is common, and usually caused by freeze-thaw cycles, which can loosen the packing nut beneath the bibb.

Regardless of why your outdoor spigot is dripping, fixing it should be at the top of your springtime to-do list. Otherwise, you can face a long list of consequences, including additional plumbing damage, increase water bills, and more. Tightening the packing nut generally does the trick, but the dripping could be due to a faulty or defective washer, which would have to be replaced.

Continue reading for a quick, step-by-stop guide to stopping an outdoor faucet from dripping all season long.

Indianapolis Plumbing Company 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

What You Will Need:

☑ Pliers or an Adjustable Wrench
☑ A Replacement Rubber Washer

Step ➀:

Using your pliers or adjustable wrench, tighten the packing nut located underneath the faucet tap. Wait an hour to see if the dripping resides. If the bibb continues to drip, you will need to replace the rubber washer. See how to begin in the next step.

Step ➁:

Shut off your main water valve to the outdoor faucet.

Step ➂:

Turn the packing nut counterclockwise to loosen it from the bibb.

Step ➃:

Remove the handle and stem from the faucet housing.

Step ➄:

Remove the screw from the stem, on the side that has the rubber washer.

Step ➅:

Replace the rubber washer on the stem with a new one.

Step ➆:

Reattach the screw (the one removed in Step 5) on the stem that holds the rubber washer in place.

Step ➇:

Reinsert the stem into the faucet housing.

Step ➈:

Tighten the packing nut by turning it clockwise.

Step ➉:

Turn your main water valve back on and inspect your bibb for leaks.

If This Does Not Work…
Hire a State-Licensed Plumber for Help!

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.