How to Descale a Tankless Water Heater

Posted on May 2, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Tankless water heaters have become a popular energy-efficient alternative to the standard tank-style water heaters we know so well. Aside from their increased energy-efficiency and eco-friendly operation, tankless water heaters have much to offer home and business owners alike. One of the most important responsibilities of owning a tankless water heater is regular maintenance. This includes annual inspections and service from a licensed plumbing contractor, as well as, routine descaling. Although it is recommended to call a licensed plumber for water heater descaling services, it is a job any handy homeowner can accomplish themselves.

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Descaling a Tankless Hot Water Heater

In areas with hard water, lime and scale can build up on the inside walls of the heat exchanger, causing problems for the entire unit. It is recommended to have your tankless water heater descaled once per year. You can choose to appoint the duty to a local and licensed plumber, or, you can choose to undertake the task yourself. If you wish to move forward on your own, be sure to review the basic steps of descaling a tankless hot water heater first. Look below to get started doing just that!

Tip: If your tankless water heater does not come equipped with isolation valves, you need to call a contractor for professional service!

What You’ll Need:

✔ 5-Gallon Bucket
✔ 3 Gallons Virgin White Vinegar
✔ Submersible Circulation Pump (available at any home improvement store)
✔ Two Small Garden Hoses

Instructions:

1. Turn off all power (gas or electricity) the water heater. Switch the breaker in the electrical box or shut off the main gas.

2. Shut off all water supply to the entire property, including the hot and cold water heater valves. No water should be coming into the house or into the water heater. These handles usually turn north to south and are located on the side of the hot and cold valves.

3. Be sure the hot and cold water valves are also closed. These are generally labeled red and blue and turn side to side.

4. Carefully remove the purge port valve caps. Place them somewhere gently so the rubber washer discs do not dislodge and they are not lost. You may feel some pressure when doing this, but just make sure the hot water valve is closed and you should be safe.

5. Fill the bucket with 3 gallons of white vinegar. Be sure the bucket is in a stable position and it won’t tip over once full.

6. Connect the hot and cold water hoses to the correct valves.

7. Connect the other end of the cold water hose to the output of the circulation pump.

8. Place the pump inside the bucket of vinegar.

9. Place the other end of the hot water hose inside the bucket.

10. Open the cold and hot water valves back up by turning them half-way, so the levers are parallel to the hoses. This will allow vinegar to flow up from the bucket, through the pump, up to the water heater, then back out of the hot water valve, and then back into the bucket. This flushes all the solid deposits from inside the tank.

11. To get that started, plug in your circulation pump and turn it on.

12. To be sure water is flushing properly, slowly lift the outlet hose out of the vinegar and check that water is coming out.

13. Allow the system to circulate for one hour, no longer.

14. When finished, turn off the pump and drain the vinegar from the tank.

15. Close the cold water valve.

16. Open the main cold water supply valve and flush cold clean water through the tank for 5 minutes to clear out any residual vinegar. Then close the main water valve.

17. Remove the filter screen from the inlet of the cold water valve and clear any buildup. Replace it when finished.

18. Disconnect the hoses, and replace purge caps.

19. Close the hot and cold water valves.

20. Open the main cold and hot water supply valves.

21. Turn the power back on.

22. Run hot water from a few faucets around the house and check for any performance issues.

Indianapolis Water Heater Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for tankless water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbers, service all make and model water heaters for both residential and commercial properties. We provide water heater repair, service, installation, and replacement at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis water heater service, today.

Weilhammer Plumbing Provides Affordable Water Heater Solutions for Homes and Businesses

Posted on April 21, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Never fret over the price and quality of water heater service ever again! Trust Weilhammer Plumbing for top-level service at a fraction of the cost.

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company is a family owned and operated business based out of Indianapolis, Indiana. We have served the Hoosier communities with professional-grade plumbing service for over 100 years! Since 1901, our family has built our plumbing company on a foundation of integrity, value, and respect; and to this day, we continue this devotion to unparalleled service and support by raising the bar among our competitors within the industry.

Just like so many other Hoosiers in the past 11 decades, you too can trust our company for high-quality service at a fair price. One of the most expensive services to outsource is water heater service. But here at Weilhammer Plumbing, we not only specialize in water heater services, we maintain economy-prices and fair rates so that everyone can
afford hot water on demand all year long!

Comprehensive Water Heater Service

Owner and state-licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and our team of licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing contractors, specialize in water heater repair, maintenance, installation, and replacement for both residential and commercial properties. Not only do we service all make and model water heaters, we also sell them! We offer a top-quality selection of Rheem® water heaters that we believe are the best appliance on the market for water heating. Here are some more water heater services we offer:

• Diagnostics
• Filters
• Cleaning
• Energy Usage Inspections
• Leak Detection
• Water Heater Flushes
• Water Leak Repair
• Free Haul-Away Services
• Free Estimates
• Free Advice
• Referrals
• And More!

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis water heater service you can trust. We offer water heater repair, replacement, service, and sales for commercial and residential properties. As a state-licensed master plumber, you can trust our teams for large-scale commercial and industrial projects, regardless of size or scope. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or water heater advice, any time.

The Advantages of Electric Water Heaters

Posted on March 8, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Electric Water Heater Repair 317-784-1870

Whether you’re moving into a new home or replacing an old unit, you will be faced with the decision of choosing among all the different types of water heaters on the market. Hot water heaters can be powered by many energy sources, so you have the option of buying a unit that runs off natural gas, fuel oil, propane, geothermal power, solar power, electricity, or even a heat pump. Out of these options, one has made quite the impression on home and business owners over the last few years: electric water heaters. Electric units have gained popularity since newer, more dependable models have been introduced to the market. If you are trying to decide among all the hot water heater options out there, continue reading to learn why electric water heaters are so beneficial.

Traditional Water Heaters

To better understand the various benefits of electric water heaters, it is helpful to review how a traditional model works. Traditional hot water heaters come with an 80 gallon tank, or larger depending on the property’s hot water needs. This tank holds heated water that is ready to use, instantly. Cold water enters through the bottom of the tank from the city’s main water supply, and it is heated to a preset temperature. It remains at this temperature at all times inside the tank.

Tankless On Demand Water Heaters

Just like traditional “tank-style” units, it is helpful to review how tankless water heaters work as well. These units do not come with a large-gallon tank, and instead, only heats water when it is requested for immediate use. This reduces standby-energy loss, making it a more efficient method of heating water. Now let’s take a look at the many advantages offered by tankless and tank-style electric water heaters!

Electric Water Heaters

Traditional Tank-Style:

Tank-style electric water heaters come with storage tanks between 20 and 80 gallons. They operate by using two separate heating elements, each with their own thermostat. The first heating element is positioned at the top of the storage tank. It is designed to recover more hot water in the case that more hot water is demanded. The second heating element is found at the bottom of the tank, and its job is to maintain the preset temperature setting. In contract to traditional, gas water heaters, electric units are incredibly efficient because the water is not being heated at all times.

Tankless On Demand:

If you are looking for even more energy efficiency, a tankless electric water heater is the right choice for your home. Water is only heated upon request, making these units extremely energy efficient. Here’s how they work: Cold water enters through the bottom of the unit where it is heated to a preset temperature, and then it is then sent through the hot water lines, directly up to the faucets. This process takes between 5 to 10 seconds from the time you turn on the water.

Indianapolis Water Heater Installation

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional electric water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber who employs a team of licensed and insured plumbing contractors with decades of experience. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, and specialize in water heater installation and repair. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis water heater installation, today.

4 Critical Steps to Prevent a Water Heater Explosion

Posted on January 16, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

When you go long periods of time without checking up on the condition of your water heater, you are putting your safety and your savings at risk. When water heaters are not serviced properly, they begin to corrode, defect, and breakdown overtime. This is the easy version. Sometimes, in addition to (and as a result of) the aforementioned damages, water heaters can also rupture and explode. This is not only dangerous and destructive, it is very costly to undo.

The average cost of renovating after a water heater explosion can be devastating; ranging anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000 and more, depending on the amount of structural damages and needed flood repairs. This doesn’t include any associated medical expenses for related injuries or trauma. There are four ways to prevent water heaters from bursting, and they should all be performed by a licensed contractor well-versed in water heater service. Continue reading to learn the four critical steps to stopping your water heater from ever exploding.

❶ Flush and Drain the Tank Once a Year

Hard minerals like magnesium and calcium buildup inside water heater tanks over time, which impedes water heater performance capacity. To avoid sediment accumulation, you must have the tank flushed annually. If you hear knocking or other strange noises, your water heater tank may need to be flushed. This service should be carried out by a licensed professional well-versed and trained in water heater repair. Check client reviews and credentials before making a hiring decision.

❷ Replace the Anode Rod As Needed

The anode rod on a hot water heater is a valuable component. It prevents water heater tank corrosion by corroding itself. This is why it is commonly referred to as a “sacrificial” anode rod. If this part is not replaced as needed, which is usually once every 5 or 6 years, it will cause the glass lining within the tank to corrode in its place. This leads to faster deterioration and costly water heater repairs or replacements. Again, have a professional provide this service, which leads to the third method of preventing water heater explosions…

❸ Get Annual Service and Maintenance for Your Water Heater

Hire a professional service to maintenance your hot water heater at least once per year, twice if living in a larger home or home with multiple occupants. Regular maintenance is imperative to sustaining a safe and functional water heater. It prevents dangerous explosions and costly breakdowns, keeping you comfortable all year long.

❹ Replace a Bad Water Heater ASAP

If a water heater is simply beyond repair, and should be replaced, don’t hold onto it for another second! This could be dangerous and is one of the most common reasons for water heater explosions. Don’t try to continue using a bad water heater; replace it as soon as you know it’s no good anymore.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis water heater repair you can count on all hours of the day and night. Owner and master plumber Mark Weilhammer, as well as his team of licensed plumbers, provide 24 hour emergency water heater repair and replacement services. We also offer residential and commercial plumbing repair at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis! Call 317-784-1870 to get started today!

Water Heater Warranty Reminders for Homeowners

Posted on January 9, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

As a homeowner, you most likely have a water heater somewhere in the house. If not, you own another type of appliance that heats the homes’ water. When it comes to owning a water heater, certain precautions must be taken; and buying a warranty is one of them. In these warranties; however, there can be some fine writing that is, often times, overlooked by the average home owner. Be sure to dig deep into the warranties offered by water heater brands, and learn where you’re protected and where you’re not.

Know the Length of Your Warranty

Do you know if your water heater is currently under warranty? Do you know how long your warranty is for? In most cases, water heater warranties range anywhere from one to five years. If your appliance is older than five years, you may not be covered under your manufacturer’s warranty anymore. If you are still under warranty, be sure to check out the limitations and constrictions in your purchasing agreement. See how long your warranty is in place. Once you have this information, you can determine whether or not you can use your warranty for repair, need a new warranty, or a new water heater altogether.

New Warranty vs. New Water Heater

If your water heater is already four or five years old on a six year warranty, is it a better choice to buy a new water heater with a brand new warranty protection; or to keep your aging appliance and purchase a new warranty? This is a decision many homeowners face when it comes to water heater warranties. The best way to determine which decision suits your needs best, is to ask yourself a few questions. Do you plan to live in the home for another five to six years? If so, perhaps purchasing a new unit would be more beneficial. You can have a brand new high performance appliance, with a brand new warranty attached. On the other hand; are you moving or selling the home soon? If so, then re-purchasing another warranty is probably a better financial position, long-term.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair You Can Trust!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis water heater repair or to request free information about water heater warranties, anytime. Master plumber and owner, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing service industry. In fact, our family owned and operated company has been in business for over 100 years! That’s experience you can trust! Call today for reliable water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. Repairs Water Heaters and Water Softeners!

Posted on November 4, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company is your solution to prompt and professional home plumbing appliance repair and service you can trust, all at an affordable price! That is because our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide inspections, maintenance, repairs, replacements, and installations for all make and model water heaters and water softeners for commercial and residential properties.

Family Owned and Operated Since 1901

As a family-owned and operated business, we understand the value of a dollar, so we make sure to always maintain a economy-based prices that everyone can afford! We even offer free plumbing advice and old equipment haul-away service! Weilhammer Plumbing Company has been in business for over 100 years as a family-owned and operated company serving Central Indiana and all of Indianapolis.

Hoosiers everywhere trust our teams for the highest standards of excellence in the plumbing repair industry. And not only do we service and repair water heaters and water softeners, we also sell them! We carry Clack On Demand Water Conditioners that come highly recommended on the market, as well as Rheem water heaters that are also fully-backed by our skilled plumbers.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair and Water Softener Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with over 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. He and his team of certified plumbing contractors provide a wide range of water heater and water softener services for commercial and residential properties. Services include repair, maintenance, installations, replacements, and more.

So whether you need a routine flush, or a brand-new water heater and replacement service, we are the professionals who can deliver outstanding result in a convenient time frame. And since we provide the services, we are your one stop shop for your water-related home appliances! Call 317-784-1874 to request a free estimate for
Indianapolis water heater repair and/or
water softener repair, today.

4 Questions to Ask Before Water Heater Installation

Posted on October 17, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Over the years, the advancements in appliance technology have drastically improved the operation of residential and commercial hot water heaters. And although designed with innovative features and performance qualities, water heaters are not designed to last forever. This means that at some point, you’ll need to replace yours. But before you install a brand new water heater, it is important to know what questions to ask yourself in order to choose a unit that meets your home’s hot water needs.

Continue reading to review the top 4 recommended questions to ask, either yourself or a licensed plumber, before installing a hot water heater.

Which Type of Water Heater Do I Own?

It is important to learn about your existing water heater before purchasing a replacement. There are three primary facts to look for: 1) type, 2) age, and 3) size. Water heaters for over eight years old need to be replaced because most are designed to only last 8 to 10 years. After sometime sediment buildup occurs inside the tank, slowing the operation efficiency of the appliance. Common types of water heaters include gas, electric, and tankless. However, some homes have specialty water heating systems, such as boilers or heat pump water heaters. In most cases, residential water heaters are either gas or electric.

You can refer to your owner’s manual to determine which type of water heater you own. Here’s a hint: it’s your water heater has a pilot light, it runs on gas. Water heaters also come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to get the right size for your home. Larger homes with multiple occupants need larger capacity water heaters, while smaller homes and fewer occupants require smaller units.

Do I Like My Water Heater?

Think about whether or not you like your old water heater. Did you have problems with its operation? Did it provide adequate hot water on demand for the entire home? If you were not entirely happy with your old or existing water heater, then you should explore some other brands of water heaters that come with the features you’re looking for. A professional plumber and/or water heater technician can help you decide which water heater meets your hot water needs, including budget.

Are Tank-Style Water Heaters Energy-Efficient?

As of 2015, the government mandates that all water heater manufacturers abide by specific energy-efficient standards. So regardless of which water heater you choose, it should provide sufficient amount of energy efficiency for your home. That is because tanks are now more insulated, which delivers higher efficiency ratings. Electric water heaters are generally between 90 and 95% efficient, gas water heaters generally retain between 60 and 70% efficiency, and tankless water heaters are generally between 84 and 94% energy efficient.

Who Should Install My New Water Heater?

Regardless of how handy you are, it is not a good idea to install your own water heater. Not only is it potentially illegal in your state, working with the fuel-powered appliances is highly-dangerous. It requires a comprehensive knowledge of complex fire and plumbing codes, extensive hands-on experience, and a legal permit to perform the work. Never attempt to install a water heater on your own unless you are trained and licensed plumber or water heater technician. Instead, always contact a professional Indianapolis plumber for water heater installation services you can trust.

Indianapolis Water Heater Installation

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides a wide range of professional water heater services for residential and commercial properties. Our water heater services include maintenance, installation, replacement, and repair. On top of the most competitive prices in town, we also offer free estimates and free plumbing advice anytime! Call 317-784-1870 to request an estimate for Indianapolis water heater installation, today.

Why is My Hot Water Not Working?

Posted on August 17, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

It happens when you least expect it, and at the most inconvenient of times. Losing your hot water is a frustrating and uncomfortable consequence that can stem from a variety of factors. When you jump into your shower or bath after letting the hot water run for a few minutes only to find that the water is luke warm, or worse, cold, then you will need to locate the source of the problem in order to reverse it. In many cases, a simple fix is all that’s needed, which can be done on your own.

On the other hand, there may be a need for a professional plumber if the source of the lost hot water is more complex to repair. Continue reading to learn why your hot water might not be working, and what to do to get it back.

Start with the Pilot Light

Once you realize that your hot water is no longer working, you will need to start an at-home investigation. The most common reason why water stops heating up is the pilot light in the water heater. This is the first place you want to check. If you cannot see a flame, then the light is out. Simply re-igniting the pilot light can solve your hot water problem instantly! However, if it won’t re-light, it could be a separate gas-related issue, in which case you’ll need a licensed plumbing company that provides water heater service and repair. If you have an electric water heater, you will want to check for tripped breakers. For gas water heaters, locate the pilot light at the bottom of the tank, and refer to your owners’ manual for reigniting instructions. If the pilot light doesn’t seem to be the problem, move onto the next step.

Structural Integrity

If there isn’t a problem with the pilot light, you want to take a thorough look at the structural integrity of the water heater tank and piping. Look for damages like dents, bumps, cracks, holes, and kinks. Then look at the base to see if there is water leaking onto the ground. Also be sure to listen for strange sounds, like banging or clanking, as well as, noises that sound like the tank is struggling. If you notice one or more of the above-mentioned signs of damage or distress, you will need to contact a water heater technician right away.

Temperature Settings

If everything checks out good so far, you are ready to check the temperature setting for your hot water heater. Look for the temperature gauge knob on the bottom center (or side) area of the tank. Sometimes this knob can get accidentally bumped into a lower temperature settings, thus causing a loss of hot water. Generally, a safe temperature setting for a water heater is between 115 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. But for homes with only young to middle-aged adult occupants, you can safely increase the temperature up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If the knob is below your preferred temperature, then re-adjust it and wait an hour for the water to heat back up.

Call a Water Heater Technician

If nothing seems to recover your hot water, it is time to call a professional. Be sure to hire a licensed plumber that specializes in water heater repair services. By choosing an experienced and licensed plumbing company, you will have confidence knowing that your water heater is in capable and trusting hands.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, offers prompt and professional water heater repair and maintenance for residential and commercial properties. His team of professional plumbers and water heater technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured, with more than 50 years of experience! You can trust us for quality service, sincere customer support, and honest prices. Call 317-784-1870 to request free plumbing and water heater advice, or to schedule plumbing service in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?

Posted on April 19, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Tankless Water Heater Repair 317-784-1870

Traditional water heaters are designed with a large tank that stores heated water for the entire property. The water inside these tanks are kept warm continuously even when the water is not being used, which requires a constant supply of energy. The energy used to keep the water at a set temperature inside a traditional unit is referred to as “stand-by heat loss.” Tankless water heaters eliminate this wasted energy usage by not heating stored water, but rather, heating water up at the time of demand.

Tankless hot water heaters are available in gas, electric, point-of-use, and whole-house models. If a property is not already set up for gas fuel, then an electric unit would be the more cost-effective choice. The initial price of purchasing and installing a tankless water heater is typically high, but the long-term savings outweigh the upfront investment. And they can last for up to 20 years or more; a much longer life-span than traditional units. Tankless versions are a good fit for those who have very little space, environmentally-conscience, and looking to save money on future water and energy costs.

Tankless Water Heating

Tankless water heaters are also referred to as On-Demand or Instantaneous water heaters. Whether gas or electric, they use a simple process to heat water. When warm or hot water is requested, city water is sent into the property through a series of pre-existing water lines. At the same time, a powerful heating device called a heat exchanger is activated. The heat exchanger uses electric coils or a gas-fired burner to generate heat, and then transfer that heat to the water in order to warm it up. Heat exchangers are common devices used to transfer heat from one place to another. They are used in refrigerators, air conditioners, furnace systems, and even car radiators.

Once the water is heated to the demanded temperature, it is sent to the source, which can include faucets, dishwashers, washing machines, and more. Although it takes a minute for the water to reach the desired temperature, it saves a generous amount of water and energy. This efficiency is usually evident on energy, gas, and water bills.

If you are thinking about purchasing a tankless water heater, it is strongly suggested to consult a licensed plumbing technician for accurate recommendations and professional advice first. You might be better suited for a traditional style water heater instead. Get to know your hot water needs with the help of a skilled professional before making any final decisions about water heaters.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater installation, service, sales, and more! Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about hot water heaters any time. We offer a wide range of water heater services, including water heater repair, installation, replacement, and even sales! And as a family owned and operated company, we maintain the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 when you need water heater service in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas.

Why is My Tap Water Brown?

Posted on April 13, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Softener Repair 317-784-1870

Municipal water plants and home plumbing is an essential technology that sets us apart from our earlier ancestors. Clean, fresh water right from the tap is a luxury we didn’t have hundreds of years ago, and a privilege that many of us take for granted. As long as our water stays the same, we don’t give it much thought. But homeowners do start to take interest in their water supply once it starts to change or take on some peculiar traits.

One common peculiarity is brown or discolored tap water. When this happens, it is important to take immediate action to resolve the issue and restore your home comfort before the root of the cause becomes worse, and more costly to repair. It is best for a small problem to be caught early on before major damage can occur to your home’s plumbing or appliances. Continue reading to learn why this happens to tap water and how to fix the problem within a reasonable budget.

Brown Faucet Water

Tap water should be virtually crystal clear, odorless, and have a neutral taste. But under poor circumstances, water can change color, lose clarity, and even have a metallic or rotten taste. These poor conditions can cause water to range in color, from light yellows and gold tones, to dark grey and brown tones. Solid particles and debris may also be visible in discolored tap water. Whatever the cause for the discoloration, it is not necessarily dangerous but certainly alarming, and a sign that something else is going wrong in your home plumbing. Fortunately, most circumstances that cause water to turn colors are easily reversible and inexpensive. But before fixing the problem, a licensed master plumber must first determine the cause.

Common causes for discolored or brown tap water:

Aging or rusted plumbing pipes. If the discoloration of tap water generally occurs first thing in the morning, or after a brief time away from home, it could very-well be rusty-old galvanized water supply lines. This is even truer if it is just one faucet delivering discolored water. The pressure caused by switching the water on and off loosens the rusted particles off of the piping, sending it straight out to the bathroom or kitchen faucet. Sometimes, this peeling exposes iron beneath the galvanic coating on the inside of the pipes, also causing the water to turn shades of brown.

High magnesium and iron levels. When tap water has excessive levels of iron and magnesium, it can cause water to change color and appear brown. This is common for homes supplied by underground wells. Sometimes, soil has high levels of iron in it, jeopardizing the ground water coloration.

Water main break. If a local water main breaks, or fire hydrants are being flushed, it can cause contaminants and debris to leak into home water supplies. These cases tend to work themselves out on their own once the water break is repaired. It usually takes about an hour or so for the water to clear up. For this reason, it is best to check with your local department before replacing any pipes or water heaters.

Water heater problems. If the brown or murky water is only coming from the hot water tap, you may need to steer your attention toward your water heater. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may need replaced. Otherwise, it needs inspected and serviced by a qualified professional to eliminate these kinds of problems.

Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved with professional water heater repair, water filtration services, and water softening systems. Talk to your local and trusted plumbing company for help with water discoloration and plumbing problems in Central Indiana.

Weilhammer Plumbing CO. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water heater repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry and knows just how to solve your meet your water heater problems. We offer free estimates, free advice, and a wide range of plumbing, water heater, and water softener services for commercial and residential properties. Call 317-784-1870 for water heater repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.