Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Plumbing

Posted on September 16, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or have owned your house for a long time, it is vital to stay up to date with your plumbing systems. Reviewing some common tips and general information from time to time can refresh your memory and help you do a better job of taking care of your home. Continue reading to review some unique, but important, frequently asked questions about home plumbing.

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Home Plumbing FAQS You Want to Know

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that is polluted with high levels of contaminates, such as iron salts, calcium, and magnesium. If you are starting to notice subtle changes in your dishes, skin, laundry, and plumbing fixtures, it may be related to a hard water issue. A water filtration system, coupled with a quality water softener, can eliminate these mineral ions plus reduce the level of hardness in your home’s water.

Why Does My Water Take So Long to Heat Up?

There are some common reasons why your water heater might be taking too long to heat your water up. Most often, the water heater is just too old or defective. Otherwise, you could have too much sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, low volume restrictors installed on your plumbing fixtures, or too much distance between the location of the water heater and your point-of-demand. To fix this problem, you will need to contact a professional Indianapolis plumber who specializes in hot water heater repair and service.

How Do I Unclog a Backed Up Toilet?

Large debris can get stuck, like toilet paper, hair ties, and more. In this case, you will need to use your plunger to plunge the toilet bowl for 30 seconds. But before you do, be sure there is not too much water in the toilet bowl. If there is, empty as much water as needed with a separate cup or bowl. Try flushing the toilet to see if the plunger loosened up the clog. If it didn’t, try again or check to see if the flapper is the issue. If you cannot clear a clogged toilet bowl with a plunger, then you will need to call a licensed plumber for help.

How Do I Remove the Crusty Substance on the Shower Head and Faucet?

Remove the shower head by unscrewing it from the spout. Place it in a bowl with hot water and one cup of household vinegar. Leave it overnight then scrub it clean the next morning. If you cannot screw the shower head off, put the vinegar solution in a plastic bag and place it over the spout, attaching and securing it with a tie. If the substance does come off completely, re-do the process using less water and more vinegar.

How Do I Get Rid of Odor in My Garbage Disposal?

The odor most likely is coming from an accumulation of food scraps and other debris. To remove the smell, you can put a mixture of ice cubes and lemon peels down the disposal and run it, then with disposal still running, flush it with cold water for a minute. If this does not do the trick completely, add a few drops of dish soap with cold water for another thirty seconds. This household remedy is a popular solution to foul smelling garbage disposals.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Pumped?

An inspection or cleaning should be done once every few years or so, depending on the size of the make and model septic system in place. In smaller systems, once every three years is sufficient; however, a large tank would require an inspection once every two years or less. The larger the system, the more often it will require service.

Am I Smelling Natural Gas in My House?

Natural gas smells like rotten eggs. If you smell this in your home or building, first, turn off all appliances that use gas. Then open a few windows or doors to let the gas air out. Once you have done this, check the range, water heater, and furnace pilot lights; if one light is out, relight it. If they are not the issue, call your local gas provider and report the smell right away.

Why Did My Plumbing Pipes Go Bad?

There are several reasons why plumbing pipes go bad. It can be due to old age, poor installation, incompatibility, material quality issues, corrosion, external structural damages, and much more.

Should I Re-Pipe or Repair the Plumbing?

In many cases, plumbing pipes do not require replaced, but rather repaired. If one or two plumbing pipes burst or incur some sort of damage, they can simply be replaced through trenchless piping or other repair techniques. However, there are other cases in which the whole house plumbing system should be re-piped. Talk to in Indianapolis plumber to determine the best course of action for your plumbing pipe renovation needs.

How Do I Know if I Have a Plumbing Leak?

As someone who regularly pays your water and energy bills, you know when something is a little off. Suddenly higher utility bills are one of the first signs of a hidden plumbing leak in the home. If you are utility bills are higher than usual, or have seen a sudden spike in cost, it could be an indication that you have a hidden plumbing leak somewhere in your system. First, contact your utility company to confirm that your bill is correct, and if it is, your next step is to contact in licensed plumber for a home plumbing inspection in Indianapolis.

Do you think your plumbing system could use some TLC? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients and are state-licensed master plumbers.

Facts About Backflow Preventer Inspections for Businesses

Posted on February 25, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to protecting your staff, guests, and overall asset, preventing backflow problems should be at the top of your priority list as a business owner. Backflow siphonage and backpressure backflow are disasters waiting to happen if you do not stay on top of your commercial plumbing maintenance plan. Part of routine plumbing for businesses is a backflow preventer inspection, which can help ensure your business is protected against non-potable water contamination in your building’s water supply.

Continue reading to learn important facts about backflow prevention inspections, and where to get trusted commercial plumbing service near you.

Backflow Prevention Plumbing Inspection Services — A Standard Backflow Prevention Device

What is Backflow?

Non-potable water is the wastewater produced by a commercial building. This water is contaminated with everything from kitchen grease, cleaning products, and lawn chemicals, to organic matter, dirt, and the worst of them all, sewage. So, as a business owner or commercial proprietor, you do not want your building’s non-potable water supply to mix into your potable (drinkable and filtered) water supply. If this were to happen, you would be faced with a backflow siphonage situation. Not only is the reversal of a septic system flow a serious health hazard, but it can also be a messy and invasive repair. For these reasons and more, it is essential to have your property’s plumbing system routinely serviced, including an annual backflow preventer inspection.

Top Causes of Sewer Water Flow Reversal

► Water Main Break
► Freezing/Thawing Pipes
► Hose Pressure Changes
► Opening Multiple Fire Hydrants Simultaneously

Backflow Prevention Devices

The best method for preventing septic system flow reversal disasters is to install a backflow preventer device. These innovative devices work well to stop flow reversal triggered by changing pressure in hose lines, frozen pipes, water main bursts, and more. There are many kinds of backflow preventer assemblies to choose from, with the two most common mechanical options being a double check valve backflow preventer and a reduced pressure principle back-flow prevention device (RP). The best-suited assembly for your commercial building will largely depend on your property’s set up and related factors.

These devices are important, and should only be installed by a licensed master plumber. In addition to installing a backflow prevention assembly, you will also need to assert routine preventative maintenance through annual inspections. It is recommended to have your backflow preventer inspected and tested once every year to ensure your building’s plumbing is under the proper amounts of pressure, running optimally, and fully protected against sewer flow reversals.

Looking for backflow prevention and septic system service in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to schedule an appointment, today!

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Why Septic Tank Preventative Maintenance is So Important

Why Septic Tank Preventative Maintenance is So Important

Posted on December 23, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

If you are a homeowner who lives in the outer rural areas of Indianapolis, you might not have access to municipal water systems. In this case, you likely own a septic tank. As a home that runs on a septic system, it is essential that you provide the proper preventative maintenance so that you are not faced with unanticipated, invasive, and costly repairs or breakdowns.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about routine septic tank preventative maintenance, and who to call when your septic system needs professional service or repair.

Indianapolis Septic Tank Services 317-784-1870

How to Care for Your Septic Tank System

Your septic tank is arguably one of the most important plumbing systems in your home or commercial building. Any type of breakdown or malfunction can quickly turn into a massive bio-hazard that takes several weeks and several thousand dollars to resolve. Not only can lack of maintenance cause a septic tank disaster, but it can also contribute to local pollution. Fortunately, most modern-day septic systems are inventively designed. So, with the proper preventative maintenance, you won’t have to worry about a scenario like this. Not sure where to start?

Begin by reading through your septic system’s user manual. There, you will find the manufacturer’s instructions that will give you a foundation for the type of preventative maintenance and service it will require. You may also contact a local Indianapolis plumber for answers to some common questions about septic tanks, or to schedule an in-person inspection, and learn more about your subject system.

By understanding the operation of your septic system, you can better develop the right kind of habits preventative maintenance and care. Again, your plumber can help you confirm all of your septic system specifications and recommended maintenance. Here’s the two important facts you need to know about preventative maintenance for most make and model septic tanks: 1) Routine pumping and service are required for most modern-day septic tanks. This should be done once every year. 2) Sewer and drain service are also recommended for septic systems, and should be scheduled every year or so.

Your Sump Pump Maintenance Duties

Although most work should be left to a professional, there are some septic system preventative maintenance tasks you can take on yourself. Whether you have a residential or commercial sump pump system, one of the most effective methods of maintenance is to routinely inspect it to ensure it is still running and discharging water correctly. Although winter is a recommended time to check this, it is also important to do this a few times a month.

Where to Get Septic System Pumping and Service in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis septic tank 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.

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Do I Need to Empty My Septic Tank?

Posted on June 12, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

Your priority as a homeowner is to maintain the value, function, and safety of your house. One of the most important systems in your home to maintain is the plumbing, namely, the septic system. The problem is that many people are quite confused on what the proper maintenance is for a septic system. Furthermore, many people confuse sump pumps and septic systems. If you are having the same questions, such as, “what is the difference between a sump pump and septic tank?”, or “when should I empty my septic tank?”, you are in the right place.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about taking good care of your property’s septic system, including when septic tanks should be emptied.

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Septic System Basics

First let us discuss the basics of a septic system so that you understand the difference between a sump pump and a septic tank. You see, a septic tank is a component of plumbing that collects sewage and wastewater, and naturally decomposes them using a bacterial action. They are usually constructed of precast concrete, concrete blocks, or reinforced fiberglass, and buried in the ground somewhere on the property.

A sump pump is a device that is outfitted to a sump pit for the purpose of removing excess water and liquids from the pit. They are usually connected to a municipal sewer line or storm drain, and equipped with a flotation device that forces them to clink at particular levels of flooding. If the power is out, there is a manual lever that allows people to release excess water. If the water level reaches or exceeds a preset level in the pit, the pump initiates and sucks up enough liquid to remedy the risk of overflow.

Cesspools

Now where does the cesspool come into play? Well, not every property has a cesspool. Some homes are equipped with cesspools instead of septic systems. Although both collect organic waste and decompose them naturally, cesspools are a much older waste disposal technique compared to the modern-day septic tanks. The general rule of thumb is to have your septic tank inspected and serviced by a professional plumbing company every 1 to 3 years.

When and How to Empty the Septic Tank

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having your septic tank inspected every three years by a licensed Indianapolis master plumber. They further recommend adhering to the professional advice given by the plumbing contractor in regard to routine de-sludging and septic service. Basically, you need to hire a licensed plumbing contractor to perform all septic and cesspool work, no matter how inclined you feel on doing it yourself. These are important systems, and one wrong move or mistake can leave you with some very messy, and extremely unsanitary conditions.

Where to Get Professional Sump Pump Service and Repair in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable master plumber about sump pump service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are happy to answer any questions you have about septic tank and sump pump installation, maintenance, replacement, repair, problems, and more. We even offer 24 hour emergency services for water leaks, floods, and more. Owner and Master Plumber, Mark Weilhammer, recommends installing the Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pump in your sump pit along with your main sump pump. The Aquanot ll® is the most reliable back up system on the market today. Call 317-714-0759 for professional sump pump services in Indianapolis you can trust!

Top 3 Plumbing Tips for Sewer Maintenance

Posted on November 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Last week, we discussed the top three ways you can prevent your outdoor faucets and spigots from freezing over this winter. This week, we want to focus our attention on sewer line maintenance. Many homeowners are unaware that their certain precautions they can take to ensure their sewer systems remain functional and efficient all year long. Proper sewer line maintenance should be a top priority for all homeowners considering no one wants to get stuck dealing with the sewer overflow or backup.

Continue reading to learn the top three recommended plumbing tips for residential and commercial sewer maintenance.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Risks of Sewer Overflows and Backups

In the case of a sewer overflow or backup, not only is the situation incredibly tedious and costly to resolve, it can pose several health and safety risks to people and pets. For this reason, it is important to make sure your sewer line system is always operating optimally and efficiently. Below are the top three tips you can use to enhance your sewer line maintenance plan. It is also recommended to talk to a professional Indianapolis plumber for answers to your sewer line repair and service questions.

Have Your Drains Cleaned Routinely

It is important to have your drains professionally cleaned on a routine basis. Not only can this help prevent issues of sewer lines, it can prevent several other plumbing breakdowns and implications. This saves you both time and money in repairs and inconvenience. In between professional cleanings, you can also clean your drains on your own. See our blog, “Unclog Any Drain With These 4 Simple Steps” to learn more. It is recommended to have your drains professionally cleaned at least once a year; but for homes with four or more occupants, it is better to have your drains cleaned twice a year.

Choose Your Landscaping Wisely

Many homeowners are unaware that several different types of tree and shrub species can be invasive enough to damage your underground utilities and plumbing, including your sewer lines. Trees such as Willows have heavy and aggressive root systems that can sometimes enter underground plumbing pipes and sewer lines. Even tree species that are not known to have invasive root systems can do damage. So before remodeling your landscaping, consider how it might affect your property’s underground plumbing systems.

Pay Attention to Sewer Line Clean-Outs

You know those plastic white tubes with caps sticking out of the ground on your property? These are your clean-outs, and they provide direct access to your sewer lines. Without proper routine maintenance and cleaning, they’ll eventually begin to produce a stinky gas smell, which is something incredibly off-putting for anyone who cares about their quality of comfort around their home. Every few months, give your clean-outs a check, and be sure they are filled with water. If one of the caps is a little loose, be sure to get it tightly secured again.

Indianapolis Sewer Line Plumbing Services

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for home plumbing services 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.

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.

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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.

Common Questions About Septic Systems

Posted on February 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Becoming familiar with all the aspects of your home’s plumbing system is a critical part of protecting your most important investments. One of the most misunderstood, yet very common, home plumbing devices are septic systems. Whether you are new to home ownership or just ready to enhance your knowledge on residential plumbing works, understanding a septic system and all it entail is a good place to start.

Continue reading to review some of the most common questions plumbers hear in regards to septic systems, sump pumps, cesspools, and more.

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What is a Septic Tank?

For homes that cannot be connected to a centralized municipal sewer line, septic tanks are the practical solution. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 25% of North America relies on a septic tank for private sewage disposal. All sewage matter and wastewater converge into one singular pipe that flows to the septic tank located underground. A septic tank is a component of plumbing that collects sewage and wastewater, and naturally decomposes them using a bacterial action. They are usually constructed of precast concrete, concrete blocks, or reinforced fiberglass, and buried in the ground somewhere on the property.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Serviced?

What is a Cesspool?

Some homes are equipped with cesspools instead of septic systems. Although both collect organic waste and decompose them naturally, cesspools are a much older waste disposal technique compared to the modern-day septic tanks. The general rule of thumb is to have your septic tank serviced by a professional every 1 to 3 years. If you wait any longer, you risk clogging or backing up your system, which can lead to very filthy and messy conditions. Most professionals and consumers will insist that septic systems are a much better operation than cesspools.

Which is Better?

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.

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

When your septic system fails, or simply needs service, you need a state-licensed master plumber. Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master 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.

When Should I Empty My Septic Tank?

Posted on September 25, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Septic tanks are vital parts of a home plumbing system because they deal with waste management, which keeps us happy and healthy at the same time. As a homeowner, you may be intimidated by your septic tank responsibilities, especially when it comes time for it to be emptied. But there is no need to worry; these plumbing devices are easy to manage so long as you keep up your end of the effort. And you can feel better knowing that a septic tank doesn’t have to be emptied all that often.

Continue reading to learn more about your septic tank, including when to have it serviced.

Indianapolis Septic Tank Service 317-784-1870

Septic Tanks

For homes that cannot be connected to a centralized municipal sewer line, septic tanks are the practical solution. A septic tank is a component of plumbing that collects sewage and wastewater, and naturally decomposes them using a bacterial action. They are usually constructed of precast concrete, concrete blocks, or reinforced fiberglass, and buried in the ground somewhere on the property. All sewage matter and wastewater converge into one singular pipe that flows to the septic tank located underground.

Septic Tank Matter

Septic tanks collect 3 primary type of organic matter: scum, sludge, and liquid effluent. This is why the task of emptying a septic tank is sometimes referred to as de-sludging. Scum is generally the top layer of organic matter, consisting primarily of fats, oils, and proteins. This layer is known to cause clogs in the system if not managed properly. The second later is the liquid effluent, or wastewater, which travels through a filter that removes small particles, and then drains into a drainage field or soil absorption system (SAS). The heaviest later, called sludge, is at the bottom, and consists mostly of solid accumulations that take longer to decompose.

When to Service Your Septic Tank

The process of removing solids and sediments from a septic system is important because it promotes proper functioning and prevents potential mechanical problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having your septic tank inspected every three years by a licensed Indianapolis master plumber. They go on to suggest adhering to the professional advice and recommendations given by the plumbing contractor in regards to routine de-sludging.

Cesspools

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 25% of North America relies on a septic tank for private sewage disposal. However, some homes use cesspools rather than septic systems, since both collect organic waste and decompose them naturally, but cesspools are a much older waste disposal technique compared to the modern-day septic tanks. The general rule of thumb is to have your septic tank inspected and serviced by a professional every 1 to 3 years. If you wait any longer, you risk clogging or backing up your system, which can lead to very filthy and messy conditions.

Trusted Indianapolis Septic Tank Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for septic tank service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, including installation, maintenance, and repair for all make and model septic tanks. Request a free estimate, today.

The 5 Rules to Avoiding Plumbing Disasters

Posted on September 8, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether the sink, toilet, tub, or drain, when you take on a DIY home plumbing job, it can go from “manageable” to full-on “disaster” in a matter of minutes. Many homeowners will start a plumbing project, but quickly end up over their heads in tools, parts, blueprints, sludge, and water. So it is important to protect yourself from plumbing catastrophes like this with proper knowledge, practice, and assistance. Continue reading to learn the top five rules to avoiding do-it-yourself plumbing mishaps and regrets.

Avoid Direct Copper-to-Steel Connections

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When replacing parts of your plumbing pipe, avoid connecting copper pipes and galvanized steel pipes directly. And a thin layer of thread sealant or Teflon tape won’t cut it either. Steel plumbing pipe can begin to corrode as soon as the connection to copper is made tight. Instead, use a fitting device called a dielectric union to connect copper plumbing pipes to galvanized steel plumbing pipes. It is essentially a metal collar that uses isolation brushings, one half steel and the other half copper. That way, each part is kept separate.

Know the Proper Plumbing Code for Big Projects

There are rules to home plumbing and construction, namely codes. These codes are very complex, with meticulous and detailed rules that dictate how, what, and where you can do plumbing work. For instance, you must know how far you can place certain fixtures from a drain waste vent-line according to its pipe diameter and other specifications. These details are important to know if you want to ensure the safety and integrity of your residence and all its utility systems. Purchase a copy of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and a book called Code Check before attempting any major DIY construction projects.

Know the Exact Location of Your Plumbing Pipes

Before taking a hammer or drill to your drywall, it is important to make sure you know what you are drilling or hammering into. A common mistake homeowners make is rupturing copper or plastic supply or drains inside walls. Purchase a stud sensor to check your walls before any sort of demolition. This device will detect both pipes and electrical wiring.

Always Perform a Water Leak Test Before Finishing Up

At the conclusion of your plumbing project, it is important to always check for water leaks before sealing everything back up. If installing new valve components, you’ll want to check that it opens and closes, and also run hot and cold water through it to see that it drains properly. In fact, you’ll want to check drains and faucets like this. You can purchase a leak detector detergent at a hardware or home improvement store to check for gas line leaks as well.

Never Over-Tighten Plumbing Connections and Components

Since you cannot always trust the fit or quality of all plumbing components, you may be tempted to over-tighten connections to ensure a good fit. But this is not only in-effective, it is detrimental to your plumbing components. A simple half-turn past the tension point is all you need to properly tighten and close up all your connections. Things like brass copper gas fittings are more susceptible to wrench damage than steel plumbing pipes, but in all cases, proper tension should be used.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing advice and plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is eager to help you find affordable and effective solutions to your plumbing problems. Our licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to speak with a licensed Indianapolis plumber, today.