Quick Guide to Unclogging Your Bathtub

Posted on October 9, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When your ankles are underwater, you can’t feel really good about your shower experience. Accordingly, wiping away a residual dark ring around the perimeter of the tub is not something anyone wants to add to their daily bathing routine. Fortunately, with a quick unclogging, your bathtub will be a place of tranquility once again. Worried about the process? Don’t be; unclogging a bathtub drain is really simple so long as you have the right supplies and knowledge. You can even appoint your preteens and teens to do the job for you!

Continue below to learn what you need and how to get started, as well as, what to do if your bathtub drain is too clogged to fix yourself.

Indianapolis Bathroom Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

What You Will Need:

✑ 4-in-1 Screw Driver
✑ Drain Auger (or wire coat hanger)
✑ Rubber Gloves
✑ Trash Bag
✑ Baking Soda
✑ Distilled White Vinegar
✑ Boiling Water

Instructions:

❶ Start by removing your bathtub stopper. If it is a plug, then you can move onto the next step. To remove a drop stopper (the kind you twist and push-in), use a Philips head screwdriver. You’ll find the screw underneath the stopper head, on the shaft. For push and lock stoppers (push in to close and push in to open), you will just need to unscrew the stopper using your fingers. Then remove the shaft using your screw driver. Be sure to set your stoppers off to the side somewhere safe.

❷ Put on your rubber gloves and peek into the drain. You will most likely see a clump of hair or some slimy residue. This is normal. Grab your drain auger and trash bag. And get ready to dive in.

❸ Insert the drain auger into the bathtub drain as far down as it will go. Then pull it up and out all the way. This may take a few tries. But don’t give up. It will fit down there. You can help release some of the clog by pouring a small amount of liquid dish soap into the drain. It can help to loosen the debris and allow the auger to reach farther.

❹ Place the removed debris into your trash bag, and continue to repeat step 3 until you can no longer bring anything back up.

❺ Pour a homemade drain cleaner down the drain and follow its instructions. To use your own, pour 1 cup baking soda into the drain, followed by 2 cups of boiling water. Then pour another cup of baking soda into the drain followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain, allow it to sit for several minutes, and then rinse with 2 more cups of boiling water.

❻ Replace your bathtub stopper. And now you are done!

✨ If the clog persists or turns out to be too severe, contact a licensed plumber right away. They have the tools and training to deliver safe and effective solutions at a fair price.

The Indianapolis Plumbing Service to Trust

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

Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?

Posted on September 11, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

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

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

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

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

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Average Life of Plumbing Piping

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

? Which Type of Plumbing Pipes Do You Have?

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

Contact a Trusted and Licensed Indianapolis Master Plumber

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for home plumbing inspections in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Our state-licensed Indianapolis master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Tried and True Indianapolis Plumbing for Commercial and Residential Clients

Posted on September 5, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

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

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?

Posted on August 9, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

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

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

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

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.

How to Install a Sink Faucet

Posted on June 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

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

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

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What You Need

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

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

Basic Sink Anatomy

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

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

A Guide to Faucet Installation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for help with your plumbing repairs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Do You Need Emergency Plumbing Service?

Posted on June 21, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

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.

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 Your Water Meter Can Confirm Plumbing Leaks

Posted on April 23, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Did you know that your water meter can detect leaks in your home’s plumbing? It’s true! Continue reading to learn how to read a water meter for water leaks, and who to call for trusted Indianapolis water leak repair at an affordable price.

Water Leak Inspection Service 317-784-1870

Water Meter Basics

Your water meter is a device set up and regulated by the city that measures and records the amount of water your home uses in a given time period, all for the purpose of billing. It is generally located on the outside of your home, typically near your gas and electricity meter, which are used in the same way by the city. Although your utility company is in charge of supervising and tending to your water meter, it is helpful to learn how to read it yourself, and even more helpful to check it every so often to ensure your residence is leak-free.

Here is how to check a water meter for plumbing leaks:

Step 1: Turn Off Your Water
Find your main water shut-off valve and close it so that your home does not have any running water activity while you check your readings.

Step 2: Check the Flow Indicator
The flow indicator is a small rotating wheel that detects water movement and flow. Open the cover of the water meter to find it.

Step 3: Detect Movement or No Movement
Is the flow indicator wheel moving? If so, you might have a water leak somewhere in your property. If it’s not moving, your home is likely leak-free.

No Flow Indicator?

If there is not a flow indicator on your water meter, simply grab a pen and paper, write down the numbers that you see on the meter and the number on the hand of the larger rotary dial. Wait one hour and then check the numbers again for any changes. If you see changes, you could have a leak. Either way, regardless of your findings, you need to call a licensed plumber for help.

But Take a Plumber’s Word For It

Although a water meter can indicate a plumbing leak, sometimes, it is actually due to a faulty water meter. For this reason, it is vital that you contact an Indianapolis plumber for help diagnosing a water leak. Water leaks can lead to a vast amount of costly damage and destruction, so never wait around to take action. Read our blog, “Important Warnings Regarding Residential Slab Leaks” to understand the importance of routine water leak inspections and maintenance.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair

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.

Top Plumber Scams and How to Avoid Them

Posted on December 26, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

When you need to have a large amount of plumbing work or renovations done to your home, you are on pace for a long, tedious process of protecting yourself. That is because, if you are not diligent in finding a quality contractor to work with, you may fall victim to an appalling plumber scam.

Continue reading to learn about some of the most common plumber scams, and what you can do to avoid being preyed upon by unethical contractors.

Indianapolis Plumbing Re-Piping Services 317-784-1870

The Bait and Switch

A common and frustrating plumber scam is the old “bait and switch” of plumbing materials. In this scenario, a terribly-unethical plumbing contractor will suggest a high-end list of plumbing pipes and fixtures, charge you for them, but then use cheaper materials to make a secrete profit. For instance, they may sell you on cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping or copper tubing, which are high-quality and high-priced materials, but then when it comes time to install everything, they end up using cheap materials and the homeowner is none the wiser.

To avoid this scam, be sure to always request a specific list of the materials you are paying for, and them cross-reference their price at the local home improvement store. If you see that the plumbing contractor is charging you an outrageous amount of money for something that costs less than your monthly pedicure, it is wise to find another contractor. Likewise, if they are using high-end products, but overcharging you for them, it is important to call them out.

The Price Gouger

Also known as the “Golden Spoon” scam, the price-gouger is a common con that unethical plumbers will use to make more money from a standard job. In this scenario, a plumbing contractor who arrives at a large home in a high-end neighborhood and notices luxury vehicles in the garage may over-charge the homeowners just because they assume they have a lot of money. For instance, your plumber could charge you double or triple if they think you have deep pockets

To protect yourself from being overcharged simply because you have a nice home and live in an affluent area, simply seek out multiple plumbing estimates for the same job. Compare the written estimates to see if there is an average marker. If the alternative estimates are much lower than the initial estimate provided by the contractor, you know you have a price-gouger on your hands. Get rid of them, quickly!

The Evasive Estimate

Another common plumbing scam is not always intentional by a contractor, but it is still irresponsible and bad business practice. Other times, it is completely intentional. This scam is known as the “evasive estimate” because in this scenario, the plumbing contractor can never quite give you a precise estimate on paper until after the work is done. They may go around and tell you everything is “no problem” as they keep a mental tally of all the work needed. Then when it comes time to receive the bill, the mental tally that was talked about before is suddenly tripled.

To avoid this scam, simply be sure to demand a written estimate, upfront, and then sign a contract stating how much will be paid BEFORE any work begins on your home. If the contractor is unwilling, then it is not a good sign and you should move onto another contractor.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service You Can Trust!

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing service you can trust. We have been in business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Call owner, Mark Weilhammer, at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or plumbing advice, today.

A Quick Guide to Using Plumbers Thread Seal Tape

Posted on December 12, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

The difficulty with plumber’s thread seal tape is not figuring out how to use it, but rather, where to find it! Doesn’t it always seems like that roll of plumber’s tape is always missing? Well, once you do finally remember where you left it, using it like a pro is easy with this quick guide we’ve prepared for you! Continue reading to get started.

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

PTFE Tape

Plumber’s thread seal tape is a polytetrafluoroethylene film used to provide needed seals and lubrication for pipes threads. It also goes by other names too, such as PTFE tape and tape dope. Understanding these common monikers will help clear up any confusion you have at the store when purchasing more product. Now that you know what plumber’s tape is, it is time to learn the best ways to use it for your plumbing needs.

White, Blue or Yellow?

PTFE tape comes in a wide variety of colors, all of which are designed for variant plumbing applications. For basic residential plumbing seal and lubrication needs, the most common PTFE tape is the white roll. You will also find yellow and blue plumber’s tape, which are used for commercial or industrial applications. Yellow PTFE tape is often used for gas piping due to its double density properties, while blue PTFE tape is commonly used for oxygen piping due to its triple density properties.

How to Use PTFE Tape

Using plumber’s tape is easy, and only requires a short series of steps, along with a few materials. Aside from your tape, you will also need some paper towels or cloth rags, as well as, some store-bought pipe cleaner. Before taking a look at the steps below, it is important to know that you should not use too much tape. You must also be careful to wrap the tape properly. For more difficult angles, you may be better off using tape dope, which is softer and more spreadable.

Step ❶ – Using your pipe cleaner and cloths, remove all dirt and grease from the pipe threads.

Step ❷ – Using your paper towels, dry the pipe threads thoroughly. Be sure to dry in between each thread groove.

Step ❸ – Starting at the second thread, begin wrapping the tape around the pipe in the same direction of the threading. Use your finger to hold the tape in place while you work in the direction of the pipe. Be very careful to wrap evenly without using too much tape. When overlapping the tape as you make your way around, be sure to only cross ½ of the width of the tape.

Step ❹ – Cut the tape at the end and use your hands to press the tape all the way against the pipe threads. You should be able to clearly see the shape of the threads.

When in Doubt, Call a Professional Plumber!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

3 Toilet Problems SOLVED!

Posted on October 11, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Our toilets are a modern commodity that we often take for granted. After all, most us of grew up in a time when indoor plumbing and contemporary bathrooms were the standard in residential construction. Although toilets have come a long way in terms of innovation and technology, they still have their problems from time to time.

Of all the toilet problems that we experience, there seems to be 3 in particular that are recurrent among homeowners and renters: 1) clogged toilets, 2) running toilets, and 3) stained toilet bowls. Continue reading to learn how to easily solve these 3 common toilet troubles, including what you can do to ensure quality plumbing performance and longevity.

Indianapolis Toilet Repair Plumber 317-784-1870

❶ Clogged Toilets

Nothing’s worse than a backed up toilet. No one wants to be appointed to plunger duty, but sometimes, that is exactly what it takes to combat a toilet clog. If your plunger has a rubber flange (lip), be sure it is fully flipped open for optimal sealing. Don some rubber gloves (and if needed, a full-faced gas mask) and begin by inserting the plunger into the toilet bowl at an angle. Plunge slowly at first, picking up the pace a bit after a few thrusts. The water should begin to drain after 15 to 20 plunges; if it does not drain, you will need to switch to a different tool: a toilet snake.

You have heard of drain snakes, which essentially pull out solid debris from clogged drains. Toilet snakes are basically the same thing, but for toilets. You may need one if the water does not drain after plunging it multiple times. Use the toilet snake in the same way you would a drain snake: insert it deep into the bowl, and then slowly pull it back. Do this a few times until something dislodges enough to drain the toilet water and eventually flush it again. If none of these methods work, you need an Indianapolis toilet plumber.

❷ Running Toilets

Not only are running toilets obnoxious, they give you anxiety since the sound seems like the toilet is nearing a breakdown of some kind. Fortunately, it is quite simple to solve a running toilet problem. First, try wiggling the handle back and forth a few times. This may unhinge any kinks in the flapper within the tank, and stop the running.

If this doesn’t work, open the back of the toilet tank and manually lift and release the cord that connects the flapper and flush valve. This should make the toilet flush, and then stop running. If none of these methods work, you may have a toilet leak, or you may need to replace the flapper or flush valve. In this case, you would need to contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for professional service.

❸ Stained Toilet Bowls

Have you ever tried to scrub a toilet bowl clean, with no prevail? If so, you are just like thousands of others searching for the most effective and aggressive toilet bowl cleaner on the market. But the truth is, you can make your own toilet bowl cleaner that is just as effective, and perhaps more, than the products you can buy on the shelf. Below is a recipe to try. You will need a glass mixing bowl (plastic or metal will negatively react with essential oils), toilet brush, a wooden spoon, baking soda, some disinfecting essential oil of your choice, and 20% white vinegar.

In your glass bowl, combine 2 cups baking soda and 1 teaspoon of disinfecting essential oil (tea tree, lavender, orange, etc.), and use your wooden spoon to mix them together until lumps are gone. Then just add a spoonful of your powder to the bottom of the bowl, and sprinkle more around the inside of the bowl. Next, pour the vinegar over all of the powder, allow it to fizz up, and then scrub it with your toilet brush. Last, let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, and then flush your toilet clean!

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