3 Household Plumbing Repairs You Should Know How to Do

Whether a home owner or renter, it is wise for you to know how to repair common plumbing mishaps and defects. Not only will this save you valuable time and money, it will give you a sense of security knowing that you can face a plumbing disaster if one were to ever arise.

Continue reading to learn some common plumbing problems that you should know how to solve on your own.

Indianapolis Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Acquire a Tool Kit

Your first step to managing at-home plumbing repairs is obtaining the proper emergency plumbing kit. These kits can be purchased at any local home improvement store, and range in size, quality, and price. You can also make your own emergency plumbing tool kit by gathering some of the basic supplies, such as an Allen wrench, adjustable crescent wrench, plunger, rubber gloves, plumbers tape, drain auger, and a screwdriver set. See our blog, “Necessary Plumbing Tools to Have at Home” to learn exactly what you need to make an emergency at-home plumbing tool kit.

Making Basic Repairs

Now that you have the right tools and supplies on hand, you are nearly prepared to take on some of the more common, but equally frustrating, plumbing malfunctions. Here are 3 of the most common plumbing repairs you should know how to do yourself:

Running Toilet:

Most of the time, you don’t even need a tool to fix this common and obnoxious toilet problem. Simply remove the cover of the toilet tank to reveal the flapper and flush valve. A running toilet is usually caused from the flapper getting stuck, or the chain getting caught. See our blog, “3 Toilet Problems SOLVED!” to learn more about making simply, DIY toilet repairs.

Lost Item Down Drain:

Virtually all modern, plumbed sinks have a sink trap, which is a pipe beneath the basin of the sink that connects with two other pipes. Sink traps are easily discernible since they are shaped like the letters P, J, or S. Here is where blockages usually occur that lead to sink clogs. It is also the place where lost items are found when they are dropped down the drain. Read our blog, “How to Retrieve Items that Fall Down the Sink Drain” to learn how to master this repair.

Clogged Drain:

A clogged drain can either drain really slowly, or not at all, both of which are equally frustrating when taking a shower or washing the dishes. Fortunately, a clogged drain is simple to fix on your own in minor cases. Take out that drain auger in your plumbing tool kit, and snake the drain until it’s cleared. If this does not work, you can use boiling water to help release any solids. A plunger can also help to loosen a drain clog.

When All Efforts Fail, Call a Pro!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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.

What is the Difference Between a Cesspool and a Septic Tank?

Cesspools and septic systems are essentially the same, as they are both used for waste management when a connection to a centralized municipal sewer service isn’t possible. However, they have key differences that matter in terms of performance, practicality, and convenience.

Continue reading to learn more about both waste management systems, including their primary differences and which system is best for your home.

Indianapolis Septic Tank Service 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Septic Tank Service 317-784-1870

Ancient Rome and Babylonia

What we all know as the modern septic system has actually been in development for more than a century. It can be dated back to the early 1900’s when the septic tank was first invented in England. In contrast, the cesspool is a lot older, and can be dated back all the way to ancient Roman times. In fact, many theories suggest that antique cesspool waste disposal systems began in Babylonian times when pipes were first invented.

Modern Day Private Sewage Disposal

Today, nearly 25% of residences in North America rely on septic systems for private sewage disposal. Aside from these numbers, there are still a nominal fraction of North Americans that use cesspools instead of septic tanks. Although one system is more outdated than the other, they both provide the same purpose of separate waste, safely and conveniently.

What They Do

Cesspools and septic systems are a means of private waste disposal in areas that do not have access to a central municipal sewer service. These systems are designed to separate three types of organic waste, allowing for strategic sewage diversion and disposal. The three types of organic waste include scum, sludge, and effluent.

Scum has a lower density value than water, so it is found floating as a top layer; it is also biodegradable, Effluent is the actual wastewater, so it is distributed to the surrounding ground to naturally absorb into the soil. Sludge describes the solid, organic elements found at the bottom of tanks or cesspools. Since sludge is non-biodegradable, it must be pumped out on a routine basis. See our blog, “When Should I Empty My Septic Tank?

Advantages and Disadvantages

Most professionals and consumers will insist that septic systems are a much better operation than cesspools. First of all, cesspools are not integrated systems; they are rudimentary in design. They are basically perforated concrete or block rings that are buried underground. They do not spread effluent to the surrounding ground soil, and sludge piles up at the bottom. Overtime, cesspools have to be pumped to remove the sludge buildup, and sometimes, they have to be relocated altogether because the surrounding soil becomes too saturated with wastewater.

Septic tanks are well-designed systems that use an elaborate method of distribution to safely and efficiently divert wastewater to a series of perforated pipes. This allows for a widespread distribution of effluent, and provides an eco-friendly alternative to the outdated cesspool setup. Furthermore, they are designed with a closed tank environment that safely contains bacteria, which helps breakdown scum waste. And although septic systems also require periodic pumping, the frequency is much lower and the process is much easier, compared to cesspools.

Indianapolis Septic System Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality septic system service and repair at an affordable price. We use a comprehensive approach to plumbing diagnostics, with the help of state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technologies in the plumbing industry. Request a free estimate, today.

Necessary Plumbing Tools to Have at Home

Whether you rent or own, there are some standard plumbing supplies you should always have on hand around the house in case of an emergency. Continue reading to learn which ones are recommended for your home, and how they can help you with everyday plumbing repair needs.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Plunger

A plunger is very basic in terms of home plumbing supplies. However, many people often forget to get a new plunger when they move into a new home, and only come to realize it when they need one. Plungers are most known for unclogging toilets, but they are also useful for alleviating clogged drains in showers and sinks. Plungers come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and quality, so they will also vary in price. Fortunately, you can get yourself a perfectly good plunger for as little as a few dollars.

Adjustable Wrench

It is wise to have an adjustable wrench on hand, or a ratcheting wrench set, for everyday plumbing repair and maintenance needs. Whether your faucet is leaking, a toilet seat needs re-tightened, or your P-trap has an obstruction that needs to be removed, a wrench on hand will allow you to take care of these jobs with ease. It is especially helpful to have a wrench for faucet leaks since it can protect your home from water damage and save you money on wasted water.

Drain Snake Cleaner Kit

Sometimes a plunger is not enough to fix a clogged drain problem. Drains like bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers are known to accumulate soap residue, hair, dead skin, and more, which can cause an unrelenting obstruction after sometime. A simple drain auger, often called a “drain snake”, and some drain cleaner are the best tools to have on hand for these clogged drains. The snake pushes deep within the drain and pulls out blockage and debris, while the drain cleaner eliminates the sticky, viscous residues within. These kits are very inexpensive, and come in a wide variety of brands.

Plumbers Tape

You wouldn’t think to stock up on something like plumbers tape when moving into a new place. However, it is highly likely that you will eventually find yourself in need of some. If you are installing a new showerhead or trying to stop a leaky pipe under the sink, some plumbers tape will serve you well in a bind. Also known as “thread seal tape” and “PTFE tape”, plumbers tape is a polytetrafluoroethylene film tape that creates a seal by warping into the shape of the pipe. Costing as little as $1, and sometimes less, plumbers tape is a useful tool to have around the house.

Professional Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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

Facts About Residential Trenchless Water Line Repair

These days, everyone is looking for a solution to do things faster and more efficient. When it comes to trenchless pipe repair, our master plumbing experts have it covered.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Re-Piping Services 317-784-1870

Residential Water Lines

Most underground pipeline in older neighborhoods was constructed in the 1940’s and 1950’s. They were built to only last around fifty years, which means many of them today are in need of maintenance, repair, or replacement. To carry out this task, it would mean obstructing numerous busy roads, highways, neighborhoods, and more with digging, demolition, and drilling.

Since this is never a desirable option, an alternative was developed in its place. Engineers have designed a system to repair these pipes without excavating the land all around us called water pipe lining, which is a trenchless solution to underground pipe repair and maintenance. Continue reading to learn more.

Trenchless Pipe Repair

This new innovative solution to underground pipe repair works in a very special way. The process prevents the deterioration of the inner lining of the pipes from natural corrosion. It does require minimal digging, but only at two points: the start and the end. Furthermore, only a small area is required to be excavated, and hardly interferes with the surrounding environment.

A small remote controlled mechanism or machine is dropped in the hole at the start and it pulls a water proof polyethylene lining behind it. This creates a brand new pipe within the existing pipe, adding years of durability and use. This entire process reduces city expenses and time spent on repairing underground pipe line in residential neighborhoods all across the country. It is an eco-friendly solution that is advantageous for both home owners and city dwellers, as well as, cost effective and fast.

Indianapolis Master Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our state licensed master plumbers specialize in residential and commercial plumbing services, including water heaters and water softeners, and can even provide same day service and emergency repairs. Request a free estimate, today.

4 Trendy Bathroom Plumbing Upgrades to Consider This Year

Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Now that the New Year has set in, many homeowners are considering some fresh interior upgrades, while saving exterior ones for when warmer weather arrives. If you happen to be a trend-enthusiast, and also in need of a little home improvement, you should consider starting with your master bathroom! Right now, there are several popular trends that countless homeowners are choosing to incorporate in their bathrooms this year. Continue reading to review a few of these trends and where to get started with your 2018 bathroom upgrade.

Concealed Toilet

If you really want a big change in your master bath, consider moving the toilet to a concealed location. The most popular version is to hire a builder to create a room within your bathroom. This is often referred to as a “toilet room”, which is closed off from the rest of the bathroom with its own door and lock. If you are not on board with an invasive renovation, you can alternatively choose to add a privacy wall that separates the toilet from the rest of the bathroom. It is necessary to hire a trusted, licensed plumber for toilet relocation and installation since it often involves complex plumbing work, such as transitioning water lines and sewer lines, and resealing the toilet.

Jacuzzi Jet Bathtub

When a hot, steaming bath is something you crave after a hard day of working, you will not regret upgrading your bathtub to a Jacuzzi tub. There are a couple options to choose from when you want to add jets to your bathtub. The most convenient and instant option is to purchase an add-on device that you attach to your tub. It runs on power and will pump air into the water, creating powerful, Jacuzzi bubbles. These range in price depending on brand and quality, but popular ones retail anywhere from $100 to $300. A more invasive option would be to replace your bathtub with an actual bathroom-designed Jacuzzi jet tub. This is more expensive, but adds loads of property value; and many say it is worth the investment!

Copper Sinks

Copper sinks are very trendy right now. You can add them to any room that has a sink, and it will deliver an instant upgrade and a fresh new look. Aside from the bathroom, kitchens, bars, outdoor patios, and more can benefit from a copper sink addition. Real copper sinks are available and work best since copper is corrosion resistant and water resistant. However, there are copper-coated sinks on the market as well. Although available for sale, copper-coated sinks are not as popular, nor recommended. Take it a step further with motion detection faucets, or luxury plumbing fixtures!

Luxury Shower Heads

For an instant and easy, DIY upgrade, you can simply invest in a luxury shower head. Visit your local home improvement store for a wide selection of luxury shower heads. You will find products that vary from $14, all the way to $300 or more. Shower heads can often be installed on your own with a little plumbers tape and elbow grease. If you find a great deal on a quality shower head, consider buying enough for every shower in your home!

Who to Call for Professional Indianapolis Plumbing?

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for trusted Indianapolis plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed master plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. See for yourself and call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today.

How to Get Your Plumbing Ready for Winter

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

The flurries have officially begun, which means that more snow is surely on its way sooner than later. And with snow comes various other inclement weather conditions, like freezing rain, subzero temperatures, icy hail, and much more. With winter weather right at our doorsteps, it is time to implement all the necessary steps to get our homes and buildings ready for everything that can damage or affect it over the course of the season.

One of the most vital systems to protect this winter is your plumbing, both interior and exterior. Plumbing damage can quickly occur if certain precautions are not taken; and these damages can quickly add up in terms of cost and renovation time. Continue reading to learn some helpful winter plumbing protection tips and more.

☛ Start With the Water Heater

The first place you want to start is your water heater. After all, hot water is one of the most important necessities to have during winter. You do not want to be left for days without being able to take a hot shower or bath. Draining the water heater is a good idea this time of year. Contact at licensed Indianapolis water heater repair plumber for routine seasonal maintenance. During the service, you can also have other components of your hot water heater checked to ensure they are good to go for the entire season. If you fail to drain your water heater, over time, sediment and rust will accumulate and cause internal damages, which can lead to operational issues and breakdowns.

☛ Complete All Minor Plumbing Repairs

Aside from your water heater, you’ll need to ensure that all your other plumbing components are in good condition and ready to deliver reliable performance all winter long. This includes water softeners, faucets, drains, pipes, garbage disposals, and more. A small problem can quickly turn into a larger one, especially in the case of water leaks, which means more money and time to repair. Be sure to repair all minor plumbing issues before the harsh winter weather is here.

☛ Insulate Your Outdoor Plumbing Pipes

Pipe insulation is a big advantage for outdoor plumbing pipes that are exposed or above ground. You can purchase pipe insulation kits and supplies at any local hardware or home improvement store in a wide range of varieties and prices. However, you can also just use some old towels, insulation foam, and duct tape. Wrap the foam around the pipe and secure with duct tape, then cover the foam with an old towel and secure with more tape. This will keep your outdoor pipes from freezing and cracking. You can also use this trick on indoor exposed pipes like bathroom and kitchen sinks.

☛ Tend To Your Hose and Sprinkler System

Before temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to make sure your outdoor plumbing is prepared. You do not want to leave your garden hoses attached to your outdoor faucet all winter long, so be sure to remove it and store it away indoors. Furthermore, if you have an outdoor sprinkler system, you’ll need to be sure it is prepped for winter weather.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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

Easy Ways to Prevent Bathroom Plumbing Repair

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When comparing the cost of preventative maintenance and hiring a master plumber for bathroom plumbing repairs, the numbers do not lie. Preventative plumbing maintenance is a whole lot cheaper than plumbing repair work; it’s also much easier and a lot faster. So when faced with the task of up keeping your bathroom’s plumbing, it is wise to take the initiative and get it done! Continue reading to learn some easy bathroom plumbing tips that double as wise preventative maintenance as well.

Toilets

When it comes to the commode, regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to stop plumbing issues before they begin. Toilets are known most to clog or leak. Both are issues that are not fun to deal with, so be sure to do what’s necessary to prevent them from happening. For example, one easy way to see if the tank has a leak is to use good old-fashioned food coloring. Choose an easy-to-spot color like red or green. Steer clear of blue if you already use a blue toilet bowl dye. Squeeze two to three drops into the toilet tank (not the bowl!) and then wait thirty minutes.

After a half an hour, go ahead and check the toilet bowl for any signs of color. If you see the food coloring in the toilet bowl, you know your toilet tank is leaking. You can gauge the level of leakage by the hue of color. The darker the color, the more leakage is taking place. If you do see color you can still relax because it probably just needs a simple flapper or ball replacement. Any local plumber can do this for cheap, or you can do this on your own.

Another very important and primary rule of thumb for toilets is to be cautious of what you are flushing and how much. This means never using your toilet as a trashcan. Flush only small disintegrable items down the toilet, and use as little toilet paper possible. Avoid flushing cotton ball, ear swabs, face wipes, rubber bands, and anything else that can potentially clog the pipes. If you do get a clog, try the plunger a few times; but if that fails, it may be time to call a plumber for help.

Sinks, Showers, and Drains

As for bathroom sinks, leaks can be a common problem. Once a week, it is wise to inspect the faucet, as well as the drain pipe underneath the sink for excess moisture, leaks, or sitting water. Catching a leak in its early stages can avoid large repair bills. Another bathroom plumbing is for the drains. Whether the sink or shower, it is very wise to install a drain strainer to catch pipe-clogging materials like hair, floss, soap chips, and more. It may require a plumber for installation, but it is a worthwhile investment to prevent future costly repairs.

For bathtubs, you want to make sure your drain stoppers are sealed properly. To check this, simply fill your bathtub with 6 to 8 inches of water and mark its level. Come back in thirty minutes to see if the water level as dropped at all. If it has, you may need to have your drains resealed. And for shower heads, get rid of mineral lime-calcium build up by soaking it overnight in vinegar and rinsing clean with fresh water in the morning. This will improve water pressure and prevent plumbing issues.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis

Indianapolis Faucet Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for bathroom plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, offers all plumbing services and repairs at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis. Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. today and see for yourself!

Boiler Repair Advice You Need to Take

Indianapolis Boiler Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Boiler Repair 317-784-1870

When it comes to your water heating, a guarantee can go a long way. This is why it is recommended to always call on a professional for boiler repair and service. Repairing, replacing, and maintaining a residential boiler is a complicated task that requires industry specific knowledge and experience. There are many topics, such as combustion, turndown ratios, and flame safeguard systems that are foreign to most homeowners. A professional plumber can assess damages and determine weaknesses with the help of their state-of-the-art equipment and industry technology.

Signs of Needed Boiler Repair

There are various signs that indicate you need boiler repair. Keep a lookout for these signs, and call a licensed plumber right away to prevent a small problem from turning into a large, costly one. Here are the most common signs that a boiler is in need of service or repair:

It is making strange sounds. This is usually a sign that there is lime scale buildup on the heat exchanger unit. The restricted water flow can cause strange gurgling or squealing noises.

It is turning on and off. A boiler that continues to turn on and then shut off is wasting energy. This is a symptom of low water pressure, a closed valve, or a problem with the connecting thermostat.

There is water pooled around the base. If you see water dripping or pooling around the boiler, there is likely a malfunctioning component internally.

It is giving off an odd or foul odor. This should be treated as an emergency since the odors could be caused from a dangerous gas leak. Contact a licensed plumber immediately, even if it is after-hours. Find an emergency plumber who can help.

Your radiators are cold. Sludge buildup in the boiler could cause your radiators to not heat up as much as they should. If only the top is cold, you need to bleed it. If the entire radiator is cold, it is likely the boiler.

Boiler Inspection and Repair

If you notice that your boiler is not functioning properly, or is acting suspiciously, it is important that you contact a professional plumbing repair company right away. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is ignoring an appliance problem until it gets worse. Once the issue becomes worse, the expense gets higher. The second largest mistake homeowners make is turning a repair job into a DIY task. Boiler installation and repair is complex and requires training and experience to understand completely. To avoid high and frequent repair costs, be sure to have your boiler serviced and inspected at least once per year. This will keep you updated on the performance value of your appliance, and forewarn you of any approaching repair needs.

Indianapolis Boiler Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis boiler repair and water heater repair at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate today!

How to Solve a Water Hammer Problem

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

Is your plumbing system noisy? After you shut off a faucet, do you experience a loud bang, a strong vibration, and a lingering hiss? This is called water hammer, and it is the most common noisy plumbing problem among homeowners. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to solve a water hammer issue, and many of which are reasonably affordable. And some you can even do yourself! Continue reading to learn which options you have for repairing water hammer in your plumbing system.

What is Water Hammer?

Technically referred to as hydraulic shock, water hammer is one of the most common noisy plumbing issues; but noise is not the worst part about it. Water hammer is actually damaging to your plumbing system, and should be addressed in a timely manner to prevent costly plumbing repairs, appliance repairs, and pipe replacement. The sounds and reverberations experienced at the time water hammer occurs is a result of water traveling through your plumbing pipes at thousands of feet per second while exerting hundreds of pounds of pressure per inch. But what causes water hammer to begin with?

Causes

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

When water is traveling at high speeds and extreme pressure through your plumbing pipes, an abrupt halting of the water flow (shutting off the faucet or valve quickly) will cause the resulting noise and reverberations. The loud bang you hear is actually the pipes colliding with one another and against other framing components of the home. This is where the damage can happen. Homes are usually fitted with a plumbing piece called an air chamber to absorb the shock produced when water is traveling at high speeds under high pressure. Air chambers are generally fitted on the hot and cold water lines near the faucet or water intake valve. They are usually not visible, and sometimes hidden inside walls. Older homes may not have air chambers but should, and newer homes are usually equipped with them already.

Solutions

If your air chamber is filled with water, you can solve this problem by draining your plumbing pipes, thus restoring the air back into the chambers and recharging your plumbing system. For a long-term solution, you could have your trusted master plumber install an engineered or mechanical water hammer arrestor. These devices are charged with air or gas, and do not fail under pressure. The best solution for preventing water hammer problems is to have your plumbing installed properly, the first time. If you are concerned about the condition of your home’s plumbing, talk to your local Indianapolis plumber for inspection, diagnostic, and repair services.

Indianapolis Plumbers

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water hammer repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to provide free estimates, free advice, and a wide range of affordable plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis water hammer repair, today.

How to Drain Your Plumbing System

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

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

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

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

Getting Started

First

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

Second

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

Third

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

Fourth

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

Fifth

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

Sixth

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

Seventh

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

Eighth

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

Ninth

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

Tenth

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

Indianapolis Plumber

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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