Information About Replacing Wax Toilet Seals

Indianapolis Toilet Plumber 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Toilet Plumber 317-784-1870

We really don’t put much thought into our toilets until they give us some fuss. Then we realize how vital these fixtures are to our lives! Fortunately, many toilet issues are manageable with a quality plunger and some store-bought supplies; and for all others, there’s always a local plumber available to fix all of your toilet problems and answer all of your plumbing questions. Some of the most common questions plumbers get about toilets has to do with problem leaks and lingering odors.

And one of the most common causes for this kind of toilet trouble has to do with a little, unsuspecting part called a wax O-ring, or wax seal. This seal is usually a “set it and forget it” kind of part because they generally last anywhere from 20 to 30 years with good care. But sometimes, a wax toilet seal needs to be replaced.

Continue reading to learn the most common scenarios in which a toilet wax ring replacement would be necessary.

Toilet Connections

Your toilet is fixed to a closet flange, which is essentially the part that connects the bottom of the toilet to the drainpipe under your bathroom floor. In between the closet flange and the toilet is where you will find the wax O-ring. The purpose of this seal is very important: it prevents water from leaking as it travels down to the drainpipe. Not only does it prevent water leaks, it prevents putrid sewer gases from leaking out as well. And as mentioned, wax toilet seals can last 2 or 3 decades with proper maintenance and care, but sometimes they need replaced beforehand.

When to Replace Wax Toilet Rings:

🚽 Leakage Issues – If your toilet is experiencing water leaks at its base, especially after flushing, or you notice a lingering foul odor in your bathroom, it could be due to a defective or deteriorated wax seal. In this case, you would need a licensed plumber to inspect your toilet and plumbing to determine the root cause, and to then replace the toilet seal if it is the actual problem. This requires removing the toilet, is it is not a task that is recommended to do on your own.

🚽 Toilet Replacement – If you are replacing an old toilet with a new one, you will also need to have the toilet seal replaced. In fact, anytime a toilet must be lifted, the seal should be replaced too. This could happen for clogged drain repair, water leak inspection, toilet installation, and more. Old wax rings cannot be used when replacing or installing a toilet.

Toilet Plumbing Care

Be sure to have your toilet plumbing inspected and addressed as soon as you notice a difference in performance. By staying current with all your plumbing maintenance, you can avoid costly repair bills and unexpected disasters.

Indianapolis Plumbers

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional and prompt plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team are eager to provide affordable and swift solutions for your plumbing problems. We offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services, including water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more! Call 317-784-1870 to speak with one of our Indianapolis plumbers, today.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Writes its 100th Blog!

Read Our Plumbing Blogs!

Read Our Plumbing Blogs!


Find the all the answers to your plumbing questions right here on the Weilhammer Plumbing Blog Page! You’ll also find useful tips, advice, and instructional information on countless plumbing repair and maintenance topics!

Important Topics, Helpful Tips, DIY Guides, and More!

Read Our Plumbing Blogs!

Read Our Plumbing Blogs!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company is proud to announce they now have more than 100 plumbing-related blogs on their blog page, and they are all free for anyone to access online! Not only can you find information and tips about plumbing repair and maintenance, you can also read about water heaters, water softeners, energy efficiency, water quality, water purification, tips, DIY guides, and much more! Our blogs are reader-friendly, using a simple language to cover a wide range of topics related to the plumbing industry. They offer plumbing information based on modern technology, practical applications, fundamental concepts, current trends, innovations, and various other areas. If you have questions about your plumbing system, our blog page is a great place to start looking for instant answers you can count on!

We are licensed, bonded, and insured master plumbing contractors with more than 100 years of experience in the plumbing service and repair industry. Our company has served the Hoosier communities since 1901! And to this very day, we are just as passionate about integrity, professionalism, and sincere customer support. That is why we offer a wide range of competitively-priced plumbing services for both commercial and residential properties. On top of plumbing, we also service water heaters, water softeners, water systems, and sump pumps!

Expert Indianapolis Plumbers You Can Trust

As skilled plumbing professionals with decades of experience, you can trust that our plumbing blog page is current, informative, and helpful. And if you can’t find the answer you are looking for, simply call our office directly at 317-784-1870 for personal assistance! We are happy to take your call, answer your questions for free, and discuss your plumbing concerns without any pressure to use our services. But if you do need plumbing service, repair, installation, or sales, we are the Indianapolis plumbing company to choose!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional 24 hour pluming service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, and our team of licensed plumbing contractors, are standing by to help you solve your plumbing problems at an affordable price. Not only do we have the most competitive prices in town, we also offer free estimates, free advice, and free haul-away services for old or broken appliances! Call out office directly at 317-784-1870 to learn more about our Indianapolis plumbing company, and see for yourself just how committed we are to our customers!

Fundamental Tool Kit for the DIY Plumber

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Not every plumbing repair requires the expertise of a master plumber, or residential plumber at that. No, there are plumbing mishaps that can be corrected by a handy homeowner with the right set of tools. If you are the DIY type, then you should equip yourself with the proper kit.

Every do-it-yourself plumber should have a specific set of tools and gadgets to help them with the around-the-house plumbing needs. If you have a clogged drain or leaky faucet, are you equipped to resolve the problem at hand? With these tools, you will be every time!

Tools for Do-It-Yourself Plumbing Jobs

There are many in-home plumbing repairs that can be accomplished by a handy DIY homeowner. For example, snaking a drain, leaky faucets, clogged toilets, calcified shower heads, and more are some common everyday plumbing issues. The first tool any person needs for in-home plumbing repair is a plunger. It goes without saying; a plunger is a very necessary tool for every home. Plungers are used to dislodge buildup and fix a clogged toilet.

Another basic plumbing tool is a pipe wrench. It’s an adjustable wrench that can change size to grip any pipe. It is used to open and close pipe connectors and hard to loosen bolts. This wrench comes in handy when a faucet is leaking, or even a pipe below the sink or behind the washer.

Last, every home needs a drain cleaner or snake. It is a device that can be extended and retracted to retrieve drain clogging debris like hair and soap buildup. It is an alternative to chemical drain cleaner. Shower drains and sink drains can easily become clogged over time. It is important to be ready to fix these clogs before they turn into a more serious repair. In this case, you would call a licensed plumbing company.

Indianapolis Plumbers

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

When DIY plumbing is not an option, call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for fast and professional Indianapolis plumbers you can trust. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber who has more than 50 years of experience. We offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services, including plumbing repair, water leak inspection and repair, routine plumbing maintenance, appliance installation, water heater repair, water softener repair, and much more! Call 317-784-1870 to request an estimate for plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

4 Critical Steps to Prevent a Water Heater Explosion

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

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.

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.

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…

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.

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 Indianapolis Indiana

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

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

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 Indianapolis Indiana

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.

How to Get Rid of Mineral Stains in Toilet Bowls

Toilet Repair Plumber 317-784-1870

Toilet Repair Plumber 317-784-1870

No one enjoys cleaning the bathroom. But it is a chore that must be done. So it only makes sense to do it right of you are going to do it at all. One of the most irksome bathroom chores homemakers complain about involves cleaning stained toilet bowls. Of course you don’t want to put in the extra time and energy to scrub a toilet bowl clean if there is no guarantee it will help. Instead, it is easier to learn how to rid your toilet bowl of pesky, lingering mineral stains, so that you never waste another valuable minute of your time
attempting to do so in the future!

Continue reading to learn the secret to getting rid of toilet bowl mineral stains, and who to call for trusted toilet repair and replacement.

Toilet Bowl Stains

After sometime, a toilet bowl may start to show signs of staining, such as limescale, greenish stripes, brown rings, and even rust formation. So where do these stains come from? Are you doing something wrong in your cleaning regime? The answer is, “no.” It is something in your home’s water that is causing the stains to appear and then linger. Local water supplies contain hard mineral ions, like calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals, upon temperature changes and overtime, accumulate in and on plumbing fixtures in solid form called sediment.

Hard Water Removal

Hard water has several negative effects on home life, plumbing, finances, and hygiene. Water softening is the most effective method for eliminate hard mineral ions in your home’s water supply. Start by purchasing an at-home hard water test kit to measure the level of hardness in your home’s water supply. If it is high, contact a licensed plumber that specializes in soft water services. They can provide professional hard water removal services at an affordable price. By installing a quality water softener, and possibly a reverse osmosis system, you can easily eliminate your hard water problems for good, and enjoy life with soft water! In the meantime, learn how to clean toilet bowl mineral stains.

How to Clean Toilet Stains

Green and brown stains are usually limescale. Rust stains are caused by air exposure to the iron in the limescale. To get rid of both, gather up these supplies:

➙ Lime-Away® or CRL®
➙ Nylon-Bristled Scrubbing Brush
➙ Rubber Gloves
➙ Face Mask
➙ Bucket

Organic Cleanser:

➙ Baking Soda, White Distilled Vinegar, and Coca-Cola®

NOTE: DO NOT use bleach, and NEVER mix bleach with ammonia!

Standard Cleaning Method:

Start by donning your protective cleaning gear. Products like Lime-Away® or CRL® are acid-based, and contain strong chemicals that can agitate your senses and skin. Once you are geared-up, move onto step 2.

Turn off the main water shut off valve that is located behind the toilet. Just turn it clockwise until it stops. You don’t want to accidentally flush while scrubbing!

Use your bucket to collect and remove as much water from the toilet as possible.

Apply your cleaner of choice to the inside walls of the toilet bowl. Then using your natural-given elbow grease, scrub away! Use enough pressure to break down sediment buildup and wipe the porcelain clean.

You may need to repeat Step 4 more than once to finish the job.

Last, turn your water shut off valve back on and flush the bowl clean. You may need to flush more than once, but be sure to give your toilet a few minutes in between each one.

Organic Cleaning Method:

Turn off the main water shut off valve for the toilet.

Pour 2 cups of baking soda into the toilet bowl, followed by a teaspoon of baking soda.

Next, brush the water around the basin with your toilet wand. If the stains do not seem to be releasing, try adding a few tablespoons of lemon juice. The acidity should help dissolve the sediment.

Allow the soapy water to sit for 15 minutes. Then turn the water back on.

Flush the toilet a few times to rinse it clean. You may need to repeat Steps 2 through 4 again.

Once this is done, pour a can of Coca-Cola® into the bowl. The acid will also help further release the stains.

Allow the cola to sit overnight. Then repeat Step 5 to finish.

Toilet Repair and Installation

If your toilet has seen better days, it may be time for a model upgrade. Or perhaps it just needs a little maintenance. Either way, contact a licensed plumber for help with toilet repair, service, and installation you can trust. They have the skills, knowledge, and resources to service or replace your toilet, as well as all other plumbing fixtures and appliances in your home, safely and efficiently.

Indianapolis Toilet Repair Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis toilet repair and service you can trust. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is eager to provide affordable and convenient solutions to your toilet plumbing problems. We offer a wide range of bathroom plumbing services, including repairs, replacements, maintenance, installation, and even sales. Choose a TOTO® Toilet as an upgrade and we’ll provide it for you! Call 317-787-1870 to request a free estimate for toilet repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

Unclog Any Drain With These 4 Simple Steps

Clogged Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Clogged Drain Repair 317-784-1870

When you have clogged drain on your hands, it is important to take a minute and think clearly about your situation. Often times, the most common cause for worsening drain blockages is human interference. This is simply a result of rushing through the process. Instead, review the 4 steps you need to know to unclog any and every drain. These steps will guaranteed drainage clearance!

So the next time you have an obstructed drain, give these 4 steps a try and see how well they work!

❶ Grab Your Plunger

Your plunger is there for a reason after all! It should be the first tool you turn to for clogs and blockages in drains and toilets. For sinks and tubs, simply fill the basin a quarter of the way with water, and then firmly plunge over the drain in repetitive up and down motions. Do this until the drain begins to clear and the sink begins to empty. If you have a double basin sink, you will need to block the other drain with a plug or towel. If this doesn’t seem to do this trick, move onto the alternative steps!

❷ Combine Baking Soda and Vinegar

Using the chemical reaction of baking soda and vinegar has been an age-old remedy for stubborn drains, as well as, cleaning grout, tile, and more. And that is because it is a powerful cleaning and clearing agent! First, empty all the water from the sink or tub basin. Then pour one cup of baking soda down the clogged drain. Use a wooden spoon to pack it all the way down inside the drain. Follow up with one cup of distilled white vinegar and allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Finish by running hot water from the faucet down into the drain for several minutes. If the clog still hasn’t cleared, repeat this step or move onto the next.

❸ Use a Cable Auger

We recently wrote a blog about choosing the right auger for plumbing clogs. In the blog, we expel how to select the proper auger for the particular type of clog you are experiencing. Keep in mind that using a cable auger is not for just anyone; you should be an experienced handyman or have experience using a cable auger. The process involves detaching certain plumbing pipes and connections. If you are not experienced with using a cable auger, then the last step is the right one for you!

❹ Call a Licensed Plumber

If the above three steps did not help your clog, contact a licensed plumber for professional assistance you can trust. They retain the proper permits, training, tools, and equipment to efficiently and effectively eliminate serious drain blockages, regardless of size or scope. Be sure to choose a company with extensive experience.

Indianapolis Plumber

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a prompt and professional Indianapolis plumber for clogged drain service and more. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with over 50 years of experience. And our company has been serving Hoosiers for over 100 years! So we have the experience and trusted reputation you are looking for in a plumbing company. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for drain clearing services in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

The 2 Basic Types of Water Shut-Off Valves

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When it comes time to buy a new water shutoff valve for your home or office, it is important to start by learning the two different types. By learning the two different types of water shutoff valves, you are more likely to choose the one best-suited for your property. When you begin to shop around for water shutoff valve stops, you will notice that you have the option of choosing between a multi-turn valve and a quarter-turn valve.

Keep in mind that there are several more options within these two categories since all water shutoff also come in two versions, either angled or straight; and they also come in several other designs for different plumbing applications, including compression fittings, barbed fittings, threaded fittings, push fittings, sweat fittings, and more. Continue reading to learn more about these two water shutoff else, so that you may make the proper selection.

Multi-Turn Water Shut Off Valve Stops

Multi-turn water shut off valves stops are the cheaper option in comparison to quarter-turn stops. They are manufactured and designed with a plastic stem and compression washers. These valves will require you to turn this damn several times in order to stop the water flow completely. As they get older, it is common for these valves to leak since they are left in the “ON” position for a long period of time. This means that they will require periodic maintenance and inspection.

Quarter-Turn Water Shut Off Valve Stops

Quarter -turn water shut off valves stops are a little more expensive than multi-turn valves, however, they are more dependable because they are manufactured really well. These stops use a positive action ball valve to control the flow of water to the property, and only require a quarter turn to open and close them. They are most admired for being hassle-free and consistent.

The price points for both valves depend on the retailer. You can find both valves, and several versions of each, at any local home improvement or hardware store. You may also find products available through online vendors.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need a reliable Indianapolis plumber that will show up on time and ready to work. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed and insured plumbers, retained decades of experience in the plumbing industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing service and repair for both commercial and residential properties.

Call 317-748-1870 to request free estimate for plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana.

How to Drain Your Plumbing System

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

You may never have to drain your home’s plumbing system, but sometimes, it is the best solution to a range of problems. The most common reasons to drain the plumbing is to fix a water hammer issue, lock up a seasonal property for winter, or to repair and replace plumbing lines.

If you are facing any of the above plumbing challenges, draining might help. If you are not comfortable taking on this task yourself, simply hire a licensed plumber for professional plumbing service.

However, if you are a regular handyman or women, you could get the job done so long as you have the right knowledge and supplied. Continue reading for a brief guide to draining your plumbing system.

Getting Started

First

You will need to locate and shut off the main water valve before the meter, on the supply side. If you are having trouble locating your main water valve, just look for your water meter. Then follow the supply lines into your home. If you are still having trouble, call your local plumber for quick, over-the-phone assistance. Once you turn off the main water supply, you can move on with the remaining steps.

Second

If your home has multiple levels, start at the highest level and open all of the sink faucets. Work your way down to the basement or bottom level.

Third

Once you are on the lowest floor in your home, open the laundry tub faucet and let all the water drain out from upstairs.

Fourth

Repeat the second step, except instead of opening all the sink faucets, open all the shower and bathtub faucets.

Fifth

Flush all the toilets in your house, starting on the top floor and working your way down.

Sixth

If you are leaving a home unattended for a long period of time, like an entire season, leave all faucets in the open position. This is common for vacation homes and seasonal properties.

Seventh

Do a final check-through on all floors to ensure that all faucets are open and not dripping water. It is okay for faucets on the first floor to have a slow residual drip. But other than that, there should be no water coming out of them.

Eighth

If you are leaving the home unattended for a long period of time, block all the toilet bowls and tub drains with wadded cloths or plastic wrap to prevent leaking sewer gasses.

Ninth

Close all faucets in the home, and turn the main water valve back on!

Tenth

If you are still experiencing a water hammer problem, or any other plumbing issues, contact a licensed plumber for professional assistance. Do not take any chances with your plumbing! Small issues can quickly turn into large, costly ones in a matter of hours!

Indianapolis Plumber

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need an experienced Indianapolis plumber you can trust. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to help! We are a family owned and operated company that has served the Hoosier communities for over 100 years! We are a top-choice for trustworthy and affordable plumbing service and repair in Indiana. Call 317-784-1870 to request free plumbing estimates and advice, anytime!

How to Handle a Flooded Bathroom

A flooded bathroom is a disaster, but that doesn’t mean you can’t handle it. Whether you botched a DIY plumbing project or it comes as a surprise, all bathroom floods can be managed with the right knowledge and resources. Continue reading to learn how.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathroom Floods

Bathroom floods can happen for a whole list of reasons, but most often, it comes down to a burst pipe or clog. Sometimes the aftermath is simply a puddle that can be soaked up, but other times, the flood is much more than that. When you are faced with a major bathroom flood, it is important to follow some highly-recommended steps in order to get yourself out of trouble as quickly and safely as possible, while also working toward leaving behind as much water damage as possible. Here’s how:

Turn Off the Water Supply (and Perhaps Electricity Too)

As soon as you discover a flooded room (in this case, a bathroom), the first thing you need to do is turn OFF your main water supply to the home. This will put a temporary stop to all incoming water flow so you can control the flooding. This is why it is important to know exactly where all your water shut-off valves are located in your home, both inside and out. If the water is high, and is in close proximity to electrical outlets, it is important to turn your power off as well. Once the water supply is stopped and the repair is complete, you can turn your water and power back on. In fact, you can turn the power back on as soon as the water is drained.

Damage Control

After you have shut off your water, it is time to assess the damage and clean up. Use mops, towels, and cloths to absorb and remove as much water as possible. You may need to use a wet-dry vacuum for excessive amounts of water. Open up all cabinets and drawers to air them out and prevent mold growth, and rescue any salvageable belongings (i.e. furniture, clothing, décor, etc.). Place fans all over the room facing the flooded area to encourage faster drying. Allow the fans to operate for several days to ensure complete dryness. If there is too much water to clean up yourself, you will need emergency plumbing repair service. Contact an Indianapolis plumber for fast help with a bathroom flood. They have the equipment and resources to get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Organize

After you have cleaned up all the water, it is a good idea to take video or pictures for insurance purposes. In fact, it may be a good idea to take pictures before as well. Pull back a corner of carpeting to see if there is water damage to the floorboards, and if so, take pictures of this too. Also check to see if water is dripping from the ceilings underneath the flooded area. Take inventory of all the damages and damaged goods to use as a reference for your claim.

Contact a Plumber

Even if you had a small flood that you were able to clean up on your own, you will still need to hire a licensed plumber to investigate the cause behind the flood. They will need to repair the issues that lead to your flooding disaster, otherwise, it is very likely it will happen again. Once the underlying problem of a bathroom flood is repaired, you can rest assure that your plumbing woes are far behind you.

Indianapolis Plumbing Company

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need an emergency plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber that offers a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including repairs, replacements, installations, maintenance, routine service, and even sales of certain plumbing appliances. Call our Indianapolis plumbing company at 317-784-1870 to learn more about our prices, availability, and service areas!