10 Basic Plumbing Facts You Should Know

Posted on November 7, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Most people are familiar with the basic definition of plumbing:

“A series of pipes, fixtures, and appliances that manage the distribution of water and sewage in and out of a property.”

But there is much more to plumbing than this! There are several interesting facts about the history, usage, and operation of plumbing that you would like to know. In fact, they might just give you a deeper appreciation and understanding of how interior plumbing is so advantageous to our world! Since there are too many to list, we’ll start with the top 10 basic plumbing facts that every homeowner should know.

Plumbing History

Fact #1

Indoor plumbing dates back to 2500 B.C. (And perhaps even before!) This includes the Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Greeks, Chinese, Indiana, and more.

Fact #2

Copper was used by Egyptians over 3000 years ago to lay plumbing pipes; and copper is STILL the most popular material used for plumbing pipes today.

Fact #3

Pipes used for water distribution were once made from lead. Accordingly, the word “plumbing” originated from the Latin word “plumbum”, which means lead.

Fact #4

Sir John Harington invented the flushable toilet in 1596 for his godmother, Queen Elizabeth I. This is why Americans casually call it “the John.”

Fact #5

Although Sir John Harington made a flushing toilet closet for the Queen, the first patent granted for a flushable toilet was to Alexander Cummings in 1775.

Around the House

Fact #6

Hot water can be one of the most dangerous hazards in your home. The average temperature setting for water heaters is between 115 and 140 degrees. Skin can burn in just 6 seconds at 140 degrees and 2 minutes at 125!

Fact #7

In the typical American household, toilet flushing constitutes up to 38% of all water-use in the home. But a low flush toilet can save you up to 18,000 gallons of water per year!

Fact #8

In the typical American household, over 9,000 gallons of water is wasted each year by running the faucet while waiting for water to heat up. This can contribute to as much as 15% of your annual water heating costs.

Fact #9

It only takes 15 minutes for a drippy faucet to fill an 8 ounce glass. That means that a single dripping faucet can waste an average of 180 gallons of water each month and over 2,160 gallons a year!

Fact #10

It is alleged that the average person will spend a total of 3 years on the toilet over the course of their lifetime. So no more dilly-dallying in the bathroom!

Plumbing Service and Repair

If you are experiencing plumbing leaks or problems, contact a trusted plumber for professional help. Do not let a high-flushing toilet or dripping faucet rack up your monthly bills. Take action now to prevent major or costly plumbing problems later on.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing 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. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis plumbing repair, today.

How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Cold Weather

Posted on October 10, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Seasonal plumbing preparation is important for both commercial and residential properties. As the climate and temperatures change, so should the routine maintenance for your plumbing. Depending on the condition of your plumbing system, this can include annual inspections, professional service, part replacements, cleaning, and much more. Although most plumbing maintenance requires professional service, there are many household tasks you can do on your own to prepare your plumbing for the
upcoming winter season.

Continue reading to find out what they are and how to get started!

Outdoor Plumbing Preparations

Before temperatures can drop low enough to freeze water, it is important to manage all of your outdoor plumbing systems, including outdoor faucets, spigots, valves, drains, and hoses. This will prevent a large number of frustrating frozen water plumbing problems. Here’s what to do:

Disconnect all of your outdoor hoses. Store them away for the season. Failing to do so can cause hoses to freeze and expand, which can then cause connecting faucets and plumbing lines to break.

Check all outdoor faucets for water leaks. If you find a leak, contact a plumber for professional water leak repair services. Failing to prepare water leaks can cause cracks and pipes, which can lead to severe water damage and flooding disasters.

Note: For homes with interior water shut-off valves that lead to outside faucets, be sure to drain all water from the outside lines in turn themselves off.

Purchase Styrofoam faucet insulation covers and install them on all outdoor faucets. You can purchase these covers for a fee dollars apiece at any local home improvement store.

Clear gutters and down spouts mud, leaves, twigs, and other organic matter.

Indoor Plumbing Preparations

Test the temperature and water pressure relief valve (T&PR valve) on your water heater. Refer to your owner’s manual to learn how to properly perform a T&PR valve test. When operating properly, the valve should produce a burst of hot water in the drainpipe. If the valve does not respond properly, call a licensed plumber for water heater repair service.

On the subject of water heaters, be sure to have your flushed. You can do this on your own if you know how, otherwise it is best to have it serviced professionally.

Inspect and clean your sump pump pit and septic system. Refer to the owner’s manual for proper cleaning instructions, or contact a local plumber for professional septic system services.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbers, but answer your questions about plumbing repair and more. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, all at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis plumbing service, today.

5 Contemporary Faucet Styles for Bathroom and Kitchen Sinks

Posted on August 11, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

If you need a bathroom or kitchen upgrade that’s within your budget, there is no better place to start than with plumbing fixtures. Sink faucets are used frequently in your home, which means they are focal points for bathrooms and kitchens. So they are a great place to add some interior style and individuality without committing to a huge or costly remodeling overhaul. Continue reading and check out the most popular contemporary faucet styles and fashions on the market today!

Ultra-Modern Faucets

If you are really looking for something up-to-date, and even a bit ahead of our time, then the ultra-modern faucet styles are the ones for you. These modern styles offer sleek, simple, and shiny geometrical designs, as well as, innovative technologies like touch and infrared sensors, waterfall flows, and more. You can choose from a variety of colors, designs, and more.

Extendable Faucets

For those who use the kitchen a lot, an extendable faucet has a lot to offer. These have become popular among homeowners who cook frequently because they make dish rinsing more efficient and convenient. This makes them good for mudroom and garage sinks too. They are also great for those who have small dogs that take baths in the sink! These pull-out designs come in a vast selection of lengths, colors, finishes, and more. And they are reasonably priced for such modern style.

Industrial Faucets

Similar to pull-out faucets, industrial faucets also offer convenience and efficiency in the kitchen. They have gained popularity thanks to the trendy cooking shows on television. Many homeowners, chefs, and cooking enthusiasts prefer the industrial faucets not only because they look so professional, but also because they extend and flex, and provide more room in the sink, making dish management much easier.

Hands-Free Faucets

Loved by busy moms and multi-taskers everywhere, hands-free faucets are taking the lead in today’s modern plumbing fixture market. Not only do these faucets save water and prevents the spread of germs, they come in an array of colors, finishes, sizes, and more. They are highly-efficient, operating by either infrared or motion sensors to turn on and off, or by a single touch anywhere on the faucet.

Antique Faucets

We don’t mean real antique faucets (unless they’ve been exceptionally refurbished)! Instead, there is a current trend of old world style faucets that resemble antique designs, colors, and finishes. These faucets usually come in rustic finishes, and designed with more intricate detail. They make the perfect upgrade for anyone who loves old-fashioned, historic charm.

Indianapolis Faucet Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional faucet repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, knows how easily faucets can spring a leak, or how suddenly drains can clog. He and his team of licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers are eager to get your plumbing system back on track, and at a price you can afford! We have decades of experience providing a wide range of plumbing services, from major commercial plumbing work, to routine plumbing repair for residential properties. Call 317-784-1870 to speak with a friendly Indianapolis plumber about your faucet problems, today.

Manage Snow Buildup to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Posted on January 12, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

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

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

Sump Pump and Foundation

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

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

Gutters and Drains

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

Plumbing Pipes

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

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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

A Brief Look at a Home’s Plumbing System

Posted on December 8, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

Whether a property owner or renter, it is wise to have a basic understanding of your home’s plumbing system and set-up. This general plumbing knowledge and comprehension can better protect you from costly and messy plumbing issues and repairs later on. It can also better help you manage easy plumbing repairs on your own, like clogged toilets and leaky faucets. But most importantly, knowing how your home’s plumbing system works will allow you to prevent major plumbing problems in the future and give you more confidence when hiring a plumber.

Although plumbing repairs and services are generally very complex and technical, understanding a home’s plumbing system is actually not as complicated as you would think. You see, your home’s plumbing is divided into two separate sub-systems: one to bring fresh water in, and another to eliminate waste water outside.

Water Supply System

The fresh water supply system brings clean water in the house to use for washing, bathing, cooking, drinking, and laundry. Your home, like all others, have a water meter located on the outside of the house or building. It measures and records all the fresh water taken into the home. This is how the water utility company bills you for water consumption. The most important operation within this particular sub-system is water pressure. Without sufficient water pressure, the fresh water system cannot adequately pump clean water to all levels and areas of a home.

Generally next to the water meter, you will find your home’s emergency water shut-off valve. It is vitally important to know where this valve is located and how to operate it in the case of a burst pipe or indoor flood. It will start and stop all water flow to the house. Many home appliances, like toilets and water heaters, have their own water shut-off valves, and can be used instead of the home’s main shut-off valve in the case of overflows, leaks, and floods.

When fresh water is taken into the home, it is cold and ready to use. But if you are requesting warm or hot water, it must pass through your plumbing pipes, and then through the water heater, to be heated to the demanded temperature. Then it is sent through your home’s hot water lines to the specific area of request, such as a shower or kitchen sink. The water temperature for your home can be preset on your water heater. It is generally recommended to have it set anywhere between 120 and 140 degrees, a bit lower for homes with children. Anything higher can result in accidental scalds and burns.

Water Drainage System

The waste water drainage system is equally important as your home’s fresh water supply system. It eliminates all the water that is flushed or drained in the home. This includes toilets, showers, bathtubs, sinks, water softeners, and water heaters. Whether your residence operates on a septic system or sewer system, they basically provide the same service.

Unlike your home’s supply system, the drainage system does not rely on water pressure. Instead, it requires properly positioned drainage pipes, angled (pitched) in a downwards angle to release the waste water by means of natural gravity. These “pitched” drainage pipes lead to either a septic tank or farther into sewer lines and eventually to a sewer treatment facility.

If you are experiencing plumbing problems, contact a licensed and experienced plumber right away. It is important to stop a plumbing issue before it can turn costly and tedious. Avoid extreme plumbing repair bills and invasive renovations by calling a qualified plumber before it’s too late.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer is eager to help solve your plumbing problems at the fairest price in town. With more than 100 years in business, and more than 50 years of experienced, you can trust we know our stuff! We offer free estimates, free advice, and free haul-away service for both residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for affordable and fast plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, IN today.

Tips for Winter Plumbing Maintenance

Posted on December 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Wintertime in Indiana can either be really mild, really harsh, or somewhere right in between. Basically, we never really know what to expect come winter season when you live in Indiana; but one thing is for sure, it’s going to be cold! Cold temperatures and precipitation can negatively affect your home’s plumbing system, so it is important to take some necessary precautions and stay informed on proper winter plumbing maintenance. Continue reading to review some winter plumbing tips, and be better prepared for whatever weather we will soon face.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Water leaks

Water leaks can create a long list of expensive and time-consuming problems. Be sure all pluming leaks are properly repaired and sealed before temperatures drop too low. When temperatures are at freezing, a plumbing leak can quickly turn into a huge, costly issue. So be sure to regularly inspect your exposed plumbing pipes (i.e. under sinks, outside, attic, crawl space, indoor appliances, etc.) throughout the winter time to avoid water leaks and frozen pipes. When you catch a leak early on, you can save yourself a substantial amount of time, money, and inconvenience.

Pipe Insulation

If you haven’t already, it is a good idea to insulate your plumbing pipes to prevent freezing, water leaks, and more. Simply wrap all exposed plumbing pipes with plumbing insulation foam. This is not only inexpensive, it is easy to install and easily removable. They also enhance energy-efficiency and prevent air leakages. Be sure your pipes insulation is well-kept during the winter time, and replace as needed to maintain proper insulation.

Swamp Cooler

If you have a swamp cooler, also called evaporative cooler, it needs to be drained before the harshest part of winter arrives. You must turn off all power and water to the unit before draining it. The water supply line should be drained as well. It is also a good idea to change the pads and filters within the cooler at this time as well.

Pump House

If your water supply comes from a well, it is important to take certain precaution to prevent freezing well water issues. Do this by making sure your pump house is well-insulated and checking that your heating is working properly. Without sufficient heat, your pump house can freeze up even if it’s insulated.

Hose Bibs

Everyone hates to forget to unscrew their garden hoses before the temperatures hit below freezing. Freezing water trapped inside a hose bib can result in hose and faucet damages. Prevent these frustrating circumstances by getting a head start before the snow, and removing all hoses from outdoor faucets before temperatures drop too low. Then be sure to drain all your hoses entirely and store them in a dry, warm place to prevent them from becoming brittle.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for winter plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to help you prepare your home’s plumbing for plummeting temperature and harsh winter weather! We offer a wide range of plumbing service and repair at the most competitive prices in town. Whether commercial or residential, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has everything it takes to provide professional plumber service to any size property. Call 317-784-1870 for information about our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Fall Season Plumbing Tips that Can Save You Lots of Money!

Posted on November 5, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Just because Indiana is still seeing pleasant Indiana summer weather doesn’t mean that the cold isn’t on its way anymore. Before you know it, these 60 degree days will turn into below 40 degree weeks and eventually right into the dead of Indiana winter. So if you have been putting off fall seasonal duties because the weather has tricked you, it is time to get to work before it’s too late!

One of the most important areas to focus on is your home’s plumbing. It is one of the most important systems in our homes, if not THE most important. Without proper plumbing operation, we are without most of the modern-day privileges we have become accustomed to. For this reason, plumbing is intricate and complex, as well as, expensive to repair or replace.

With proper routine maintenance, you can save yourself thousands of dollars in plumbing repairs and part replacements by avoiding breakdowns and malfunctions. Continue reading to learn some tasks you should complete for your plumbing now that the fall season is here, and winter is right around the corner.

Fall Season Plumbing Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance and your plumbing, you need to consider the outdoor plumbing, indoor plumbing, and plumbing appliances like water heaters and water softeners. This includes toilets, hoses, sinks, sump pumps, sewer systems, and more. Here are some tips for indoor, outdoor, and water heater plumbing maintenance for fall and winter.

Indoors:

• Insulate pipes that are susceptible to freezing.
• Learn where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to use it for emergencies.
• Have your water heater serviced by a professional.
• Set water heater temperature to 120 degrees to maximize safety and efficiency.
• Test the T&PR valve on the water heater by lifting lever and letting it snap back. You should be a burst of hot water into the drain pipe. If not, you need to replace it.
• Inspect that sump pump is functional
• Flush kitchen and bathroom drain lines with
bleach one time every year.
• Seal air leaks in doors and windows.

Outdoors:

• Cover all exposed faucets using a Styrofoam insulation kit.
• Be sure outdoor faucets are not dripping.
• Disconnect all garden hoses.
• Insulate pips in garages, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Inspect and clean the sump pump and pit.
• Have your sewer lines inspected by a professional.
• Unclog and clear all gutters and downspouts.
• If your home has an indoor shut-off for an outdoor faucet, close it and drain all water from the outside lines.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for fall plumbing service for water heaters, water softeners, septic systems, drains, and more in Indianapolis, IN. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to provide skilled service at a price you can be happy about. For more than 100 years, we have been a family owned and operated business dedicated to quality workmanship and customer service. Call 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing repair and service you can afford!

The Importance of Annual Drain Cleaning

Posted on October 9, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Every diligent homeowner will tell you how far a little preventative maintenance can go in terms of extending the life of your appliances. Routine cleaning, inspection, and care is most important for a home’s plumbing system. It is, after all, one of the most valuable operations of any property, commercial or residential. Without properly functioning plumbing, a home can experience a wide range of problems with drinking water, cooking, laundry, bathing, and more.

So when it comes to routine plumbing maintenance for residential properties, it is strongly suggested to stay up to speed. And one of the most important places to check or maintenance every year are your drains. Continue reading to learn why drain cleaning is so important and the positive effect it has on plumbing systems.

Advantages of Drain Cleaning

Drain cleaning is one of the most important services you can provide for your home’s plumbing operation. Bathroom drains, water heater drains, sink drains, shower drains, and more all need a thorough, annual cleaning to ensure proper functioning and more. There are various advantages to staying on top of annual drain cleaning services. These benefits prevent plumbing problems, as well as, future costly plumbing breakdowns and repairs. And the best part about drain cleaning is that the results are immediate! Here’s why you should have your drains cleaned annually:

Proper Water Flow

Uninterrupted water flow through a home is ideal. Over the course of time, solid debris and particles will find their way down into drains and begin to clog the plumbing pipes. Contaminants like grease, oil, food particles, soap suds, and more are common drain clogging culprits. Clogs can lead to very serious plumbing issues which is why they should be addressed immediately upon discovery. Routine drain cleaning eliminates solid debris buildup and allows water to remain free-flowing through your home’s plumbing system. And this reduces the need for costly plumbing repairs.

Prevent Pipe Damage

Clogs can also damage plumbing pipes, causing the interior walls to rust, corrode, and deteriorate over time. Drain cleaner is harmful for plumbing pipes, and can cause the same types of damage. This can lead to costly plumbing pipe replacements and repairs. A professional plumbing service will clean your drains with a non-toxic drain cleaning solution that is organic and chemical-free. This keeps your pipes protected and clear at the same time.

Proper Plumbing Operations

For a home’s plumbing system to operate efficiently, routine maintenance must be implemented. Eliminating clogs and cleaning drains is a highly effective method to sustaining a functional plumbing system. This reduces the chances of plumbing emergencies, costly repairs, and general hassle. Hiring a professional plumber is the best option for routine drain cleaning. They retain the proper tools, training, and equipment to clean your drains, as well as, inspect for any other drain or pipe issues.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional drain cleaning in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to provide professional plumbing service at a fair and competitive price, for both residential and commercial properties. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair and service, from minor plumbing repairs to major plumbing work, and everything in between! Call 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing repair and drain cleaning services in Indianapolis you can afford.

Basic Plumbing Tools for Basic Plumbing Problems

Posted on October 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When it comes to home plumbing, problems can arise at any time, and always unexpectedly. For this reason, it is important to stay equipped for whatever comes your way. Having the right plumbing tools and supplies on hand can be a huge advantage in the case of a plumbing issue or emergency.

Every home should have the basic plumbing tools needed to manage common plumbing problems. Problems like clogged or running toilets, leaky faucets, and jammed garbage disposals can be fixed on your own in minor cases, so long as you are properly equipped with the right tools. Continue reading to learn the basic plumbing tools you should have in your home in the case of a plumbing emergency or issue.

Clogged Toilets

When toilets cause problems, it is no fun for anyone. A functional toilet is the fundamental concept behind refined living. Without indoor toilet plumbing, we are subjected to more primitive means of organic elimination! So when toilets clog or constantly run, go for these plumbing tools:

Plungers – Plungers are great for clogged toilets, as well as, clogged sink and shower drains. Choose from a selection of styles at your local hardware or general store. Prices vary from $8 to $25, depending on the retailer and brand.

Augers – There are two effective augers recommended for different plumbing purposes: hand and closet augers. Hand augers are great for clogged toilets, but also for clogged shower drains, sinks drains, and more. They generally come with over 25 feet of flexible steel cable designed to dislodge solids and release clogs. Closet augers are generally cheaper and shorter in length (3 to 6 ft.), making them perfect for unclogging toilets specifically. Prices vary anywhere from $5 to 50 dollars, depending on brand and retailer.

Running Toilet

If a toilet is running constantly, it may require a fill or flush valve replacement. This can be done on your own using three different types of wrenches: adjustable crescent wrench, metric combination wrench, and a strap wrench. All three tools can be purchase at any local hardware store at affordable prices.

An adjustable crescent wrench will be priced anywhere between 20 and 40 dollars, whereas a combination wrench set will set you back anywhere between $20 and $200, depending on the number or pieces and retailer. And strap wrenches
will cost anywhere between 5 and 40 dollars.

Leaky Faucets

Leaking and dripping faucets are usually the result of a deteriorated washers. You can easily replace these on your own with a few simple beginner tools. These include a screwdriver set, ranging between $10 and $40, a pliers set, also ranging between $10 and $40, and a basin wrench ($5 – $40).

Jammed Garbage Disposals

When the garbage disposal seems to stop working, or jams, you can fix this problem by adjusting the motor beneath the appliance. Use the proper-sized Allen wrench for the opening beneath the garbage disposal. Then insert into the opening and turn both ways. Allen wrench sets generally cost anywhere from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the number of pieces and the brand.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for all your household plumbing problems and plumbing repair needs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 40 years of experience as a state-licensed master plumber. And our family owned and operated company has served Hoosier communities for more than 100 years! We offer residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis, IN. Call us today at 317-784-1870 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our company.

New Construction Plumbing Tips

Posted on September 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When building a new home or office, it is important to plan out all the plumbing very carefully. To do this accurately, you will need the help of a master plumbing contractor. Together, you will decide which plumbing set-ups and strategies are best for your new property and its surroundings. In the process, it is wise to review some basic, recommended new construction plumbing tips to gain better knowledge of the process and its best practices.

New Home Plumbing

Most of the time, the major plumbing plans are addressed and designed in the first stage of construction. Virtually everything is by code, and will be built the way the home construction company’s model is built. However, there are several areas where home buyers can add in their own personal preferences. As for plumbing here are some things to consider and decide upon:

Have all the major utility appliance connections installed in the basement or on the main floor for homes without sub levels. This includes the furnace, water heater, and water softener. It is wise to have the water heater set in an aluminum drain pain that plumbs to the sanitary sewer.

If there is a basement in the home, be sure all of these connections are in the same corner, including the sewer connection, sump pit, sewage ejector pit, main water shut-off, and the above-mentioned utility appliances.

For homes built on a crawl space, it is recommended to have a main water shut-off valve plumbed into the indoor living area of the property to make it easily accessible. And as for the sump pump, have the discharge line plumbed to a storm sewer, or some other cesspit far from the property. And be sure to have a battery or water-powered backup system!

When it comes to water softeners, whether you intend to have one or not, be sure the home is built with water softener connections. This is important for resale value.

It is also great for resale value to plumb the home for several fuel-type appliances. This gives future homeowners a choice on gas, electric, oil, and more in terms of water heaters, water softeners, and furnaces.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for plumbing information and advice you can trust. We have been a family owned and operated plumbing company for more than 100 years in Indianapolis! Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, retains decades of experience in the plumbing industry and offers skilled plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. We even offer plumbing repair coupons and discounts! Call 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing services or emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, IN.