Does Your Kitchen Sink Drain Too Slowly?

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If your kitchen sink starts to have issues, especially when it comes to poor drainage, it can truly put a dent in your daily household flow. Slow-draining kitchen sinks are among the most common kitchen plumbing problems expressed by homeowners and homemakers. Fortunately, there are a few quick and easy solutions for fixing a kitchen sink that doesn’t drain as quickly as it used to. These solutions could save you money on future problems and repair costs, as well as, eliminate time wasted waiting for a local plumber to arrive.

Continue reading to learn how to combat a slow-draining kitchen sink, and which plumbing company to trust for prompt and professional service.

Indianapolis Kitchen Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Kitchen Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Gather All Necessary Materials and Supplies  

First, collect all the necessary ingredients you will need to unclog or clear a kitchen sink that doesn’t want to drain fast enough. You will need a pot to boil water, baking soda, and distilled white vinegar. Start by boiling 6 cups of water. While the water reaches a boil, proceed to dump one cup baking soda down the drain. Follow this step by pouring one cup of vinegar down the drain. When the drain stops fizzing, pour in the boiling water.

To entirely eliminate any blockage, continue to run hot water down the drain through the faucet. Although the initial rinse of boiling water is enough the wash away the blockage, vinegar, and baking soda, it is best to complete the job with an additional hot water flush. Now simply check to see if the drain is flowing again. If not, you might need to try a more aggressive approach to drain cleaners.

How to Beat Tougher Clogs

For tougher clogs, a store-bought enzyme cleanser may be necessary. Although a more aggressive approach, enzyme cleaners are not made with harsh toxic chemicals. In fact, they are chemical-free cleaners made from bacteria cultures. These bacteria cultures flow through drains and pipes, feeding on all the organic material causing the blockage. This includes mold, mildew, food, grease, hair, and anything else that is organic in nature.

It takes a little more time for an enzyme drain cleanser to take effect because they do not contain any chemicals that are manufactured to help speed up the process.  After dispensing it down the kitchen drain, flush with hot water for several minutes, and then refrain from using the sink for two to three hours. Keep in mind you may need to use a snake, plunger, or other plumbing device to finish the unclogging process.

Take on the Plunge Challenge for Persistent Clogging

Sometimes, a more “hands-on” approach is the best method to unclogging a kitchen sink. This method only involves a plunger and your own manual power. You have to position the plunger on top of the drain, the fill the sink with water only enough to cover the rubber. Now you are ready to start plunging up and down in a consistent and steady fashion. Repeat as needed to unclog a slow-draining kitchen sink.

When Your Kitchen Sink Still Has Issues Contact a Local Plumber in Indianapolis

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

How to Make Greener Plumbing Choices

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There are plenty more benefits to greener plumbing other than lower monthly utility bills. In fact, you cannot even imagine the positive impact you are having on the world simply by making greener choices. If you are interested in making the switch to green plumbing, you are on your way to cleaner water, healthier family, and enhanced water conservation. Not only does this benefit you and all of your home’s occupants for the time being, it sets up a path of leaving your children’s children in a cleaner, more energy-efficient world.

Continue below to learn some of the most common ways homeowners are incorporating greener plumbing choices in their homes, and how you can too!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

How You Can Make the Switch to Green Plumbing

☙ Decreasing Your Home’s Energy Consumption

There is no better place to start than with an initiative to reduce home energy usage with green plumbing in order to support a greener world. After all, we are all guilty of leaving on a light or two in our lifetime. So, in order to decrease your level of energy usage in your home, you can insulate your plumbing pipes, relocate any plumbing that runs through exterior walls, install an Instantaneous hot water circulation pump, or even install a new, modern water heater.

☙ Supporting a Healthier Homestead

Did you know that poor quality plumbing can make you sick? If you wish to make greener plumbing choices for the sake of having a healthier home, consider examining your municipal water quality report to ensure your water supply is safe and does not pose any immediate or long-term risks. Or, you can have your water tested at home by a local and independent water purification company. Other options for making your home healthier with green plumbing include installing chlorine filters on all shower heads, a reverse osmosis system, activated carbon water filters, or even a whole-house water filtration system.

☙ Promoting a Healthier Environment

If your goal is to protect our surrounding environment through greener plumbing practices, you can start with a plan to reduce your water consumption. Do this by installing low-volume water restrictors on plumbing fixtures like faucets and shower heads, faucet flow reducers, or a water leak monitoring device. You can also switch to low-flush toilets and other energy efficiency appliances.

Where to Get Expert Green Plumbing Service and Free Advice in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a knowledgeable and licensed Indianapolis master plumber about water quality improvements in your home, today. Our state-licensed plumbing professionals are happy to answer any questions you have about water heating, water softening, plumbing repair, routine plumbing service, water testing, and more. Our licensed plumbers also offer a wide range of other plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties, as well as, free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

How to Make Homemade Drain Dissolving Cleaner

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Clogged drains are the worst; right? Whether at the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or tub, a clogged drain is going to get in the way of your day to day activities. It might even gross you out a bit. Although most people reach for that store-bought drain cleaning solution that costs less than a candy bar, this stuff is sometimes too strong for simple or everyday drain cleaning needs. Fortunately, a milder and safer daily drain dissolving solution is not hard to come by.

In fact, you can make your own odorless, non-corrosive formula at home using some simple household ingredients. Continue below for the materials list and directions.

Indianapolis Drain Plumbing Service
Indianapolis Drain Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Managing a Clogged Drain

Often times, one needs to combine multiple methods to fully dissolve the solids clogging up a drainpipe. For more challenging or relentless clogs, you might also need to hire a professional plumber for drain clearing service. For moderate clogs, you might need to use a drain snake or auger. See our blog, “Choose the Right Auger for Serious Plumbing Clogs” to learn more about such plumbing repair materials and their various applications.

To tackle every day or minor drain clogs, combine a drain snake or auger with this simple, but effective, drain dissolving cleaner:

What You Need to Make Your Own Drain Cleaner:

☑ Distilled White Vinegar
☑ Sodium Bicarbonate
☑ Essential Oil of Choice
☑ Clean Plastic Squirt Bottle
☑ Water

Instructions:

Combine equal parts water, distilled white vinegar, and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) into your plastic squirt bottle. You may also add 5 to 10 drops of your favorite essential oil. We recommend citrus, like lemongrass, sweet orange, or grapefruit.

To Use: Spray any stubborn drain generously with your solution. Allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse clean with hot water.

To Unclog a Tough Drain: Boil a few cups of water. Pour the boiling water down the drain. Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a ½ cup of distilled white vinegar. Wait 10 minutes, and then rinse clean with hot water.

What to Do About Serious Clogged Drainpipes

To resolve a serious drain clog, or worse, a clog in your drainpipes, you will need to hire a licensed plumber. They will begin with an assessment, and provide a written estimate for the work and materials needed to repair the clog. Generally, drain clearing and pipe replacement are part of the repair process for a serious clogged drain or drainpipe.

Where to Get Trusted Drain Clearing Service in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need drain clearing plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed master plumbers provide several kitchen and bathroom drain repair services, as well as, garbage disposal repair and replacement. In fact, we carry a line of top-quality In Sink Erator®(ISE) Garbage Disposals at market low prices. Our licensed plumbers also offer a wide range of other plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties, as well as, free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

How Does Hard Water Compare to Soft Water?

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When it comes to your home, you want the finest amenities and conveniences available within your budget. Something widely overlooked but highly beneficial and affordable regardless of income? Soft water. All homes and businesses should be equipped with some form of hard water abatement system, as the options are wide-ranging, such as water conditioners, reverse osmosis systems, whole-house water filtration systems, well water iron filtration systems, and more. If you are noticing problems with your water bill, energy bill, hair, skin, laundry, dishes, or water-based meals and drinks, you might have a hard water issue on your hands.

Continue reading to learn how soft water compares to hard water for a better understanding of just how important water purification and conditioning is for a home or commercial building.

Indianapolis Water Softening Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Water Softening Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Explanation of Hard Water

Hard water is water that contains high traces of mineral salts. These minerals mostly consist of magnesium, iron, calcium, and other bicarbonates and sulfates. Water is naturally soft when it falls to the earth in the form of rain. Once rainwater has passed through the soil, bedrock, sand, and other layers of earth, it collects an abundance of hard minerals and ions. This changes the composition of the water and makes it higher in mineral salts. Such dissolved mineral ions accumulate over time in the form of scale, which is a thin white film that has several negative effects on plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances, as well as, hair, skin, nails, laundry, and dishware.

We measure this mineral capacity in grains per gallon, and the level of hardness on a scale from 1 to 10. Although hard water is generally measured in grains per gallon, it can also be read in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (mg/L) of calcium carbonate. The more grains, the harder the water, which means the degree of “hardness” varies on a spectrum. Water can be anywhere between marginally hard to very hard. It depends on where you live, how you obtain your water, regional soil conditions, crops, farming, and more.

Explanation of Soft Water

Soft water is the opposite of hard water because it is free of hard mineral salts. Rainwater is naturally soft. It only becomes hard when as it accumulates mineral salts as it passes through rock, chalk, and limestone in the ground. Neighborhoods that have hard water are probably located on top of a large bed if limestone; or their water supply facility is located near high mineral areas. This is why certain regions have softer water than others. It all depends on what’s beneath the ground, and how the water is treated at the local water plant.

➤ Soft Water – 0 to 60 mg/L
➤ Moderately hard Water – 61 to 120 mg/L
➤ Hard Water – 121 to 180 mg/L
➤ Very Hard Water –  Over 180 mg/L

Choose a Water Softener for Instant Gratification

In order to lessen the hardness of water, you must implement a water softening system. The most popular approach is to install a water softener, also known as a water conditioner. Water softeners use ion-exchange technology to eliminate hard minerals in water. The water softener conditions the water and then stores it in a tank for on demand use, whether that be your shower or kitchen sink faucet! You can also combine a water softener system with another form of water purification to further enhance the taste and quality of your water, such as whole house water filters, water purifiers, and reverse osmosis. See our blogs, “How to Choose a Residential Water Softener Based on Occupancy” and “FAQS About Water Softeners and Hard Water” to learn what you need to know about water softening.

Indianapolis Water Softener Repair and Installation Services

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a reliable water softener installation or water softener repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our licensed master plumbers specialize in water softeners, and are happy to answer your questions and provide advice free of charge! We offer a wide range of water softening and plumbing services for both commercial and residential properties, including water softener sales, repair, installation, replacement, and more. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today!

Advised Maintenance for Vital Plumbing Systems in the Home

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All too often, homeowners only resort to calling a plumber once their plumbing issue turns into more of a plumbing emergency. But you should always contact a plumber as soon as you notice changes in any plumbing system, far before an emergency can develop. You see, regular plumbing maintenance and inspections can drastically reduce the chances of another plumbing disaster or repair. A small plumbing issue can become a larger and more costly repair if not caught in time. Basement flooding, water leaks, burst pipes, and more can cause thousands of dollars of damages that could have otherwise been avoided with some simple routine maintenance and repair. Fortunately, there are several things a person can do to prolong the life of their plumbing system and prevent plumbing emergencies.

Continue reading to learn how to care for your home’s plumbing, properly, and who you should call if you require plumbing repair services.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Emergency Plumbing Service 317-784-1870

Basic Plumbing Maintenance and Care

Always remember that a little preventative maintenance goes a long way for a residential plumbing system. Preventing emergencies like clogged drains, toilet overflows, water heater failures, and more can feel very good to a homeowner’s budget. Preventing these issues also prevents larger disasters from occurring. This saves a household thousands of dollars each year! A properly cared-for plumbing system simply won’t require as much repair and replacement. Check out some DIY methods below to prolonging and caring for your home plumbing and start preparing your system for the long-haul!

Water Leak Inspections

Regularly inspect all areas of your home for potential water leaks. This means checking the faucet for excessive dripping, inspecting all water-using appliances for possible leaks, looking out for moisture accumulation on pipes or walls, and more. This should be done at least one time a year. Finding a water leak in its beginning stages can stop possible flooding situations, structural damages, and mold problems, saving a home owner a lot of money.

Septic Tanks and Sump Pumps

Septic tanks can cause severe home disasters. For anyone who has experienced a septic tank flood will tell you it’s a nightmare and costs thousands of dollars to cleanup and repair. Severe storms and system defects can cause septic tanks to malfunction or overflow, causing extreme home damages. It is strongly encouraged to install a battery-powered back-up sump pump for emergencies. Also, have your tank checked by a licensed master plumber at least once a year; or more if your city experiences higher precipitation levels and rainy seasons.

Water Heaters and Water Softeners

Water pressure can be an indication that something is not quite right with your plumbing. Check the shower heads and faucets for reduced water pressure. This can be a sign that you have sediment buildup in your plumbing system, or worse, a faulty water line. You may also have sediment buildup in your water heater, causing loss of performance and corrosion. It is important to have a licensed master plumber empty your water heater, and clean the sediment from your system a few times a year. This can reduce several costly problems and repairs.

Gas and Water Shut Off Valves

Every homeowner should know where their gas and water shut off valve is located, and how to operate it in the case of an emergency. If you ever need to turn your water off, be sure to also turn off your water heater so to not damage the heating elements within it. If you ever smell gas, act immediately. Turn your gas valve off and leave your home. Also, at the same time, do not flip off light switches or use anything that can create a spark. Just leave the premises and call for a master plumber to inspect your home. Gas leaks can be fatal, so it is vital to always take immediate action if you think you smell gas. 

Plumbing maintenance can prevent very expensive plumbing disasters, emergencies, and repairs, and even save lives. Don’t wait any longer to have your plumbing inspected by a licensed professional. You can save yourself thousands of dollars by catching a plumbing problem ahead of time, and having it fixed by a trained plumber.

The Indianapolis Emergency Plumber to Call for Fast and Affordable Service

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for trusted and affordable emergency plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber repair services for both residential and commercial properties, including home plumbing inspections, water heater repair, water softener repair, septic tank repair, and appliance sales. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances. Request a free estimate, today.

6 Reasons Why Your Cold Water is Coming Out Hot

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You go to the sink to rinse off your apple or veggies, and your cold water is warm. Or maybe it’s really hot. Either way, this is a common scenario among homeowners here in Indiana. Continue reading to learn why your cold water faucet is not as cold as it should be, and what you can do about it.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Hot Water Repair 317-784-1870

Is Your Cold Water Too Hot?

When you are getting warm or hot water from your cold faucets, it could be something minor, or it could be a real problem. For this reason, you cannot gamble with time. Always have this issue addressed right away, starting with learning the possible causes behind it. There could be a wide range of culprits causing your cold water to run warm, but the most common include too much water pressure, closeness of pipes, recirculating plumbing, improper installation of heat traps, water expansion tank valves, and even something known as the heating effect.

Here are some details to help you better understand and detect these possible cold water-hot water causes:

? High Water Pressure

High water pressure is a great thing, when it is the right amount of pressure. When water pressure is too high, it can begin to cause problems throughout the rest of the home’s plumbing. One such problem is cold water running hot.

? Water Expansion Tank Valves

If you have a water expansion tank installed, it will require a one-way valve or pressure lowering valve on the water meter, otherwise, hot water will flow into your cold water tap. Another possibility is that the thermostat in the immersion heater has gone defective, causing any stored water in the water heater to boil over into the cold water lines.

? Poor Heat Trap Install

When your plumbing pipes and systems are being installed, your contractors must ensure that heat trap is placed in the water heating inlet. Otherwise, hot water stored inside a water heater will flow out and integrate with the cold water lines.

? The “Heating” Effect

Near your faucets are copper lines, which can heat up from hot water usage. When this happens, the heat can transfer, and make the fixtures and cold water very hot. This heating effect is temporary, however, and will cool once all the cold water has flowed through the lines.

? Recirculating Plumbing

If your home is constructed with hot water recirculating plumbing, it could be the root cause of your cold water tap running hot. You will continue to get warm water from the cold water tap until the heated water makes it to the temperature valve that regulated re-circulation.

? Pipe Vicinity

Hot water plumbing pipes that are too close to the cold water plumbing pipes are known to cause the cold water-hot water issue. Over a period of time, this heats up the cold water pipes, which warms up the water that flows through them. This result is increased if a water heater is nearby.

How to Fix Your Hot Water Problems in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to speak directly with a licensed master plumber (License #106214) about your water heater or hot water problems. Our Indianapolis plumbers offer a wide range of standard and master plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties, including certified plumbing services for all make and model water heaters. 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.

4 Unconventional Ways to Detect a Plumbing Leak at Home

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Plumbing leaks are scary because they can go undetected for long periods of time, and eventually evolve into a devastating and costly renovation project. As a homeowner, it is important to learn how to detect plumbing leaks early, far before they can turn into a financial disaster. What’s worse is, some homeowners insurance policies do not cover certain water leak damages if they occurred as a result of homeowner negligence. For this reason and more, it is vital to take good care of your plumbing system, and have any small damages repaired as soon as they arise, including plumbing leaks.

There are several ways to detect plumbing leaks in your home, including looking for bubbling paint or wallpaper on the walls, stains on the ceiling, peeling wallpaper, dripping noises inside the walls or ceiling, and visible puddles on the floor or around the home’s foundation. But interestingly enough, many homeowners are unaware that there are other ways, unconventional ways, to detect leaks within plumbing system.

Continue reading to learn the top four, as well as, what to do if you find a water leak at home.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Inspections
Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Inspections 317-784-1870

Your Lawn

In the summertime especially, lawns are subjected to inconsistent precipitation, causing them to experience patches of discoloration. So, if your lawn is typically patchy or dry, but all of a sudden you see lush green patches of grass in your yard, it could be indicative of an underground plumbing leak. Similarly, areas of your lawn that are experiencing heightened growth might also be a spot that is experiencing an underground water leak within the plumbing pipes. Even more indicative of an underground water leak is seeing standing water or puddles on your lawn, especially in areas that are not near any sort of plumbing fixture or water source.

Your Water Bill

Have you taken a closer look at your water bill lately? If your water bill seems to be increasing more and more every month, yet your daily water usages remain the same, it could be indicative of a plumbing leak. Plumbing leaks cause water waste, which in turn causes your water consumption to increase whether you are aware of it or not. Always be sure to record your monthly water bill totals, so that you can keep track of your monthly water consumption. Even if your water bill is only going up a fraction of amount, it could still be indicative of a water leak. It is best to have your plumbing system inspected by an Indianapolis plumber as soon as possible. As mentioned, you want to catch plumbing problems early on, far before they can turn into a plumbing disaster.

Your Water Meter

In addition to your water bill, you can take a look at your water meter to check for signs of a plumbing leak. See our blog, “How Your Water Meter Can Confirm Plumbing Leaks” to learn exactly how you can read your water meter, and how to apply the results to a water leak evaluation. Water meters are located outdoors, along the side of the house with the gas and electricity meters. Keep in mind, water meters can also malfunction, so if you see the signs of a water leak by reading your water meter, it is important to have it inspected by a licensed plumber for accurate results.

Your Toilet Bowl

Did you know you can add dye to your toilet bowl water to test for plumbing leaks? It’s true. Toilets are a prime spot for plumbing leaks to take place, so this toilet tank dye test is a great option for anyone who suspicious of having leaks within the plumbing system. Steer clear of clothing and fabric dies, and simply opt for your pantry’s food coloring. Add a few drops to all the toilet tanks in the house (not the bowl), but do not flush the toilet. After waiting several minutes, look in the toilet bowl. If you see the food coloring appearing inside the toilet bowl water, you can safely assume you have a toilet leak. In this case, you would need emergency plumbing services.

Indianapolis Plumbing Leak Repair and Water Leak Inspection Services

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair for water leaks, slab leaks, and home plumbing inspection services at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well.

It’s Time for Your Home’s Annual Drain Cleaning Service

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There are several benefits to annual drain cleaning services, all of which make for perfect reasons to make sure you have it done on time. The top reasons why you should consider having your home’s drainage system professionally cleaned includes money savings, better-quality water flow, improved plumbing system performance, prolonged plumbing system lifespan, and overall plumbing protection.

Continue reading to learn a little more about these benefits, as well as, how to schedule your annual drainage cleaning this season.

Indianapolis Drain Cleaning Plumbing Services
Indianapolis Drain Cleaning Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Top Advantages of Annual Drain Cleaning Service

Cost Savings ☑

When your plumbing system is working as it should, it is being energy efficient. This saves you money on water and energy bills, and reduces the need for costly plumbing replacements, like water heaters, water softeners, showers, and more.

Better Water Flow ☑

Water pressure can make or break a good shower. It can also affect your dish-washing, laundry, gardening, and much more. If your water flow is poor, routine maintenance like annual drain cleaning can remove blockages to help improve it instantly.

Improved Performance ☑

When your drainage system is clean and clear, all of the related plumbing systems that operate in conjunction with one another will work better. This includes sump pumps, water heaters, water softeners, water purification systems, plumbing pipes, water lines, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, faucets, and more.

Extended Lifespan and Overall Protection ☑

When you are taking good care of your home’s plumbing, you are protecting it from damage, thus prolonging its lifespan at the same time. The key to maintaining a functioning and long-lasting plumbing system is to stay on top of your routine maintenance needs.

Indianapolis Plumbing and Drain Cleaning Services You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing and drain cleaning services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have the certifications, skills, and resources to provide comprehensive plumbing services, including annual and biannual maintenance needs for drains, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

What You Need to Know About Replacing Plumbing Pipe

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Dirty pipes are one of the most common reasons why so many property owners eventually require plumbing pipe replacement. Overtime, plumbing pipes will develop a large accumulation of solid matter, organics, bacteria, rust and more. As a result, pipes become clogged, dirty, and inefficient, which can cause a never-ending trickle of problems throughout the rest of the property’s plumbing system. When dirty or clogged plumbing pipes are not resolved, they will eventually require replacement. But, before you head to the home improvement store to place your order, it is important to keep certain considerations in mind.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about replacing plumbing pipes, including how to spot the signs of a dirty or obstructed system, and which piping materials are available on the market.

Indianapolis Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Detecting Dirty of Clogged Pipes

When your plumbing system is experiencing a backup or clog somewhere, you will notice sooner or later. The signs of a clogged pipe are hard to miss. Standing water in the shower, slow draining drains, poor water pressure, and more are common indications that a clog is present. Such signs are also indicative of dirty pipes. Dirty pipes turn into clogged pipes as they continue to accrue more and more matter, such as organic and non-organic solids, soap residues, and more.

Another major tell-tale sign to look for that might suggest you have dirty or clogged plumbing pipes are increases in energy and water bills. When your plumbing is dirty or obstructed, it cannot perform efficiently, which causes your appliances to work harder, use more water, while performing below standards. If such problems continue without any intervention, other areas of the plumbing will begin to breakdown, including water heaters, water softeners, dishwashers, washing machines, and more.

Pipe Replacement Considerations

When you are ready to replace your plumbing pipes, there are a few things you should consider in order to make the best choice for your home or commercial plumbing needs. Here are some important matters to start with:

PVC PIPES – Many property owners are choosing PVC (polyvinyl chloride) piping over metal pipes. PVC plumbing pipes are generally reserved for cold water-based applications, such as drinking water systems. See our blog, “Do I Choose PVC Piping or CPVC Piping?” to learn more about plastic polymer piping.

CPVC PIPES – Although very similar to PVC, CPVC piping is different because it is altered by a free radical chlorination reaction, thus increasing its chlorine content. This increased chlorine content allows the material to withstand a wide range of temperatures, up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

ABS PIPES –ABS piping is often reserved for waste removal and bathroom plumbing applications. It can be connected to existing metal pipes within a plumbing system.

PEX PIPES – PEX pipes are suitable for both hot and cold water applications, and frequently used for interior residential plumbing construction.

GALVANIZED PIPES – These are no longer supported in the plumbing industry due to their high susceptibility to corrosion, which can lead to water contamination. If your water supply lines are made with galvanized steel, it is time to have them replaced!

Master Plumbing Service in Indianapolis You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair and replacement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and state-licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free advice, anytime. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including trenchless pipe repair, pipe replacement, and even services to improve water quality. 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.

The True Facts About Electric and Gas Water Heaters

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When it comes time to buy a new water heater, whether for a new construction home or an older one you’ve been living in for a while, you will be faced with the decision to remain with the power source your property is equipped with, or swap out for something different. There are various make and model hot water heaters to choose from, including tankless, instantaneous, solar-powered, and more. But, the top two most common and popular choices are gas water heaters and electric water heaters.

Continue reading to learn the difference between gas and electric water heaters, and how to determine which one is right for your property’s needs.

Indianapolis Water Heating Service and Repair 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Water Heating Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Gas Water Heaters

A gas water heater is powered by, you guessed it, gas. It burns gas to heat the water. The most common make and model gas water heaters include Rheem and Bradford White. These are among the top-performing water heater appliances on the market, and economically-priced. When it comes to gas water heaters, they are usually a good choice. However, see our blog, “The Dangers of FVIR Gas Water Heaters” to learn why you should not consider a Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant water heater.

Electric Water Heaters

An electric water heater uses a property’s energy and electricity supply to heat water. It works by using electric resistant coils to heat the water and distribute it throughout a building or home. They come in two primary models, tankless and tank-style. When choosing an electric water heater, the most important feature to look for are heavy-duty stainless steel heating elements. These will last a long time, while others will burnout and require replacement. Non-recommended water heater brands with low review scores include A.O. Smith, Whirlpool Energy Smart, Sears, and State Select water heaters. See our blog, “Electric Water Heaters: Need to Know Info” to  learn more about these brands.

Comparison of the Two

According to personal reviews, statistics, and industry testing, gas water heaters are said to heat up water faster than electric units. They will even continue to supply hot water if the power goes out! They are perfect choices for larger families and properties with many people. An electric water heater has trouble keeping up with a steady hot water demand. This makes them perfect for homes with one or two people, such as single-family homes and apartments.

When it comes to cost-efficiency, gas water heaters are a more lucrative buying option over a long period of time. This is because they use gas rather than electricity, saving money on monthly utility and energy bills. Electric water heaters are still a popular choice because many people do not want an open flame constantly lit beneath the unit. Also, electric water heaters are perceived as more energy-efficient, and can last longer with less maintenance than gas units.

How to Determine Which One is Right For You

In most cases, if a property is already set up for gas usage, then a gas water heater would be the most convenient and cost-effective choice. On the other hand, if your property is set up for electricity usage, then an electric water heater would be a great choice. In order to choose the right gas or electric water heater for your property, you must consider these important factors:

☑ The number of occupants within the property.
☑ The square-footage of your property.
☑ Your property’s monthly water usage.
☑ Your future water heating needs.
☑ The amount of time you plan on living or occupying your property.

With the answers to all these questions, you can gauge which size, capacity, and power-source of water heater is best for your budgeting and your plans. Talk to a licensed Indianapolis plumber to get professional water heater procurement advice you can trust.

Where to Get Trusted Hot Water Heater Installation and Service in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional advice, installation, and repair for all make and model water heaters 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.