Plumbing Tips for the Basement

Posted on January 22, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

The most common consequence of basement plumbing problems are basement floods. Flooded basements happen as a result of a number of reasons, most of which can be prevented. This is why regular plumbing maintenance for basements is so important. It will not only protect and preserve your basement plumbing systems, it will also reduce the chances of costly plumbing repairs down the line.

Common plumbing systems in basements include water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic tanks, sprinkler line valves, washing machines, bathrooms or kitchens, and more. All home plumbing systems are different, but they will all have one thing in common in terms of basement plumbing: the need for regular maintenance. Continue reading to learn some tips for proper basement plumbing care, and who to call when you need a master plumber in your neighborhood.

Where to Start…

It is important to first consider safety when you are inspecting and servicing your basement plumbing appliances and systems. Never store flammable liquids or chemicals near water heaters, gas furnaces, or any other type of fuel-powered appliance. This includes gasoline, propane tanks, liquid adhesives, solvents, and anything else that has a flammable warning. On the topic of natural gas, it is important to make sure sewer gases are not building up too much within household drains, mostly drains that are not used as often like basement floor drains. To prevent sewer gases from backing up, simply pour a bucket of clean water down the drain every other month to keep the trap seal full.

Moving on, you should always inspect and pump your home’s sump pump periodically to prevent costly repairs like filter field replacement. Do this every three to five years, depending on the size of the home and the age of the sump pump. Another area of concern for basement flooding is your washing machine. Be sure to regularly inspect the machine and the connective hoses to check for bulges, leaks, and kinks. Catching a washing machine problem early on will not only save money on potential flooding repairs and renovations, it will also avoid having to buy a new washing machine.

If you like to save energy, be sure to also maintain a moderate water heater temperature setting. Not only does this reduce energy consumption, it also prevents dangerous scalding accidents. A good temperature setting for water heaters is anywhere between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater temperature is set above 120, consider lowering it a bit for safety and energy efficiency.

If you have water hammering problems, or loud noises from water usage, consider installing shock absorbers. These absorb vibrations in the water lines, muffling the obnoxious sounds made from water hammering. And for water leaks, there is an easy way to test for them that should be done every month or so. During a time that water is not being used in the house, simply read your water meter, taking notes on what you see, then check the meter again 12 hours later to see if anything has changed. If there has been a radical change in the past 12 hours that water was not used, it could be an indication of a leak. In this case, you would need to call a master plumber for professional water leak diagnostics and repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer is happy to answer your questions about basement flooding, sump pump repair, water heater repair, water softener repair, and all other plumbing problems! We offer a wide range of plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties. Just call 317-784-1870 to speak with a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN today.

Manage Snow Buildup to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Posted on January 12, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

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

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

Sump Pump and Foundation

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

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

Gutters and Drains

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

Plumbing Pipes

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

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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

How to Avoid Pet Hair in Your Plumbing Pipes

Posted on January 6, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

We love our pets! Dogs and cats can be just like real members of the family for many people in many different cultures. But as we pet owners know so well, one of the most common drawbacks to owning a pet is managing the spread of pet hair; all around our homes, in our cars, and even on our clothes! Although this issue is wildly minuscule compared to the infinite benefits of owning a dog or cat, it will still have us purchasing extra lint brushes, washing one or two more loads of laundry, or running the vacuum on a twice-a-day basis.

Clothing and chores aside, one real problem that people may not even know they have is pet hair in their plumbing! This is simply a place we don’t think about pet hair getting into, but it is well-known for causing plumbing clogs and set-backs in homes with pets. For this reason, it is important to do what’s necessary to keep pet hair out of your plumbing pipes and drains.

There are a few easy methods that have been proven to do the trick when it comes to keeping pet hair out of the drains, and out of your home’s plumbing system. Fortunately for all of us, these methods are not just easy, they are inexpensive too! And the best part is, you can get started today! Continue reading to learn how to avoid dog and cat hair in your plumbing, and what to do if you suspect your pipes are clogged.

Open Drains and Exposed Pipes

If you have exposed drains or pipes in your home, be sure to block access to them to prevent pet hair in your plumbing, as well as, damage to your pipes. Some dogs and cats see exposed plumbing pipes or drains as toys, and they can potentially cause them structural damage. But most often, the open or exposed drain pipe can be vulnerable to pet hair exposure. Use furniture and other set-ups to block pets from accessing these exposed areas in your home.

Drain Strainers

If you do not already use drain strainers, you should strongly consider buying some for your sinks, tubs, and showers. And this is especially true for homes with dogs. If you are a DIY pet groomer, and bathe your precious pup in the sink or tub at home, you will greatly benefit from drain strainers. These little strainers keep human and pet hair out of plumbing pipes, which in turn reduces the chances of clogs and costly repairs. They also block other foreign objects that shouldn’t go down the drain, like dental floss, razors,
jewelry, and more.

Toilets

Many people who groom their pets may be tempted to flush the excess hair down the toilet as a quick and easy means of disposal. But this is not good for the home’s plumbing. In fact, flushing hair down the toilet can cause plumbing issues overnight. Yes, the toilet is so close when you are cleaning out the pet brush or emptying the handheld vacuum cleaner; but it is an easy fix that can come with some costly consequences in terms of plumbing repair. Just stick to throwing pet hair away in the trash can; after all, it is biodegradable and eco-friendly!

If you suspect your plumbing system is experiencing issues, call a licensed plumber for professional service you can trust. It is highly beneficial to catch a small problem early on before it can turn into a large costly one. A professional plumber can provide this service, as well as, preventative maintenance tips to avoid future plumbing problems.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a professional master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about your plumbing problems and concerns. We offer residential and commercial plumbing repair services, including water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic systems, and more, all at the fairest price in town! Call 317-784-1870 for affordable plumbing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

How to Perform a Water Leak Inspection for Residential Plumbing Pipes

Posted on December 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Leak Repair 317-784-1870

It is important to implement regular inspections of your home plumbing pipes and system because they are one of the most significant and vital components of a modern-day household. When or if something goes awry within these pipes, major costly renovations and replacements can ensue. It is a huge liability to have leaky water pipes and water leaks anywhere on, around, or inside your property. Get in the habit of performing regular annual inspections of all areas of your home where water flows
or passes through.

Continue reading to learn which areas to examine, what to look for, and who to call for professional assistance you can trust.

Annual Plumbing Inspections

Early spring is the perfect time to plan these annual inspections for water leaks and water damages. This is when the ice and snow have melted away and plumbing pipes should be free-flowing. Although it is best to plan water leak inspections in the spring, do not wait until that time to initiate your first inspection. Finding a pipe leak early on is the best way to avoid costly plumbing renovations, re-piping, or repairs. You know a pipe has a leak if there is a thin white circle around it. This is a sign that something is not secured properly.

To begin an inspection, start with the kitchen and bathroom. Clear out any and all clutter beneath the sinks and thoroughly inspect the integrity of the pipes. Take note of any condensation or moisture, mold, mildew, cracks, and anything else that looks like it could be a problem.

Mold and pest infestations are common beneath bathroom and kitchen sinks because of the cold, dark environments. Both of these problems should be treated right away, along with any pipe leaks. Also, try to limit the amount of items you store underneath these areas because glass bottles and other items can cause damage to piping and more.

Once you have inspected the bathroom and kitchen plumbing, take your inspection a bit further and examine the condition of the plumbing pipes that connect to your water heater and water softener. Again, check for signs of a leak; such as white calcium buildup around the pipe, moisture, condensation, mold, mildew odor, and more. From there, inspect all the valves in your home. If the water shut off valve is too difficult to move, do not force it because it could break. Instead, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. Lastly, shut off all faucets and then take a look at your water meter. It should not be moving, so if it is, you can assume you have a leak somewhere. This means you need professional plumbing diagnostics from a licensed master plumber.

Indianapolis Water Leak Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbers’ industry. He provides residential and commercial plumbing service at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need water leak inspections or repairs, our licensed plumbers can do it all in a time frame that’s convenient for you! Call 317-784-1870 for professional water leak repair and inspection services in Indianapolis, IN.

A Brief Look at a Home’s Plumbing System

Posted on December 8, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

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

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

Water Supply System

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

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

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

Water Drainage System

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

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

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

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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

Tips for Winter Plumbing Maintenance

Posted on December 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

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

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Water leaks

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

Pipe Insulation

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

Swamp Cooler

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

Pump House

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

Hose Bibs

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

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

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

How to Tell the Difference Between a Gas and Electric Water Heater

Posted on November 19, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

It is easy to ignore the water heater. After all, if they work well, you almost don’t even notice they are there. But then that day comes when your hot water is no longer hot, and you instantly turn to your water heater for answers. One of the first questions a plumber will ask you when you call for hot water heater service is which kind of unit you own: electric or gas powered. It may be surprising, but many people get this part confused! After a while, you can easily forget which type of water heater you own because we rarely pay attention to them unless it’s time to have it flushed. So get to know your water heater before the day comes to have it serviced.

Continue reading to learn the different ways to identify a gas water heater from an electric one.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters run on fuel, usually liquid propane or natural gas. A burner is located at the very bottom of the flue, where gas is ignited by a pilot light. This combustion creates heat, which then transfers to the water. But this combustion also creates harmful gas emissions like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxide. This is why gas water heaters retain draft hoods, flues, and vents, to push these gasses outdoors and prevent them from back-drafting into the flue. You can also identify gas water heaters by their “chimney” or flue, as well as, the gas line near the bottom of the tank that connects to the gas valve and thermostat control on the front of the tank. The dial gauge should have a “pilot” setting, which also positively identifies it as a gas-powered water heater.

Electric Water Heaters

Unlike gas water heaters that use a fuel source and ignition to heat water, electric water heaters use electricity, generally by means of electrical copper coils. Water inside the water heater tank is cold until the heating element within the unit heats the water up. These heating elements, or coiled wires, can be stainless steel or copper, depending on the make and model water heater. The heating elements are controlled by either thermostats or microprocessor control modules. Electric water heaters generally have two heating elements, both an upper and lower thermostat, as well as, a control circuit and reset limit switch.

If you require water heater repair or service, be sure to call an experienced professional who will provide skilled work at an honest price.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has serviced hundreds of water heaters over the past 50 years, and retains the skill and knowledge to service or repair any make or model unit. We offer a wide range of plumbing and water heater services, for both residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about water heaters and get professional water heater repair in Indianapolis, IN.

Don’t Make These 5 Drain Cleaning Mistakes

Posted on November 10, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Homeowners are known to do whatever it takes to manage their drains without having to pay for plumbing services. The problem is that there are several “do-it-yourself” drain cleaning mistakes that have the potential to do more damage than advantage, and ultimately require the services of a master plumber.

If you are the type that insists on doing it yourself, be sure you don’t make the 5 most common drain cleaning in order to avoid extremely costly and invasive plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn them all.

Mistake #1 Using a Garden Hose to Clear Drains

It is a bad idea to use an outdoor hose to clear outdoor, or indoor, drains. Some people make the mistake of assuming the added water pressure will be a surefire way to clean and unclog a drain, but this is not true. Using a garden hose to clear a drain will cause a whole heap of problems you are not equipped to manage yourself. This will not only damage pipes, it can also create flooding issues and more. Learn the best methods to drain cleaning and leave the garden hose behind!

Mistake #2 Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

Over the counter drain cleaners are not all bad. For emergencies, they can do the trick. But they are not to be used for long-term drain cleaning and clearing solutions. This is because chemical drain cleaners contain harsh ingredients that can corrode and deteriorate plumbing pipes over time. This only leads to costly pipe replacement and repair. Try using natural, organic ingredients to make eco-friendly, non-toxic drain cleaners at home. These recipes generally involve baking soda, vinegar, and other natural ingredients.

Homemade Chemical-Free Drain Cleaner Recipe
1 Cup Distilled White Vinegar
1 Cup Baking Soda

Mistake #3 Using a Clothing Hanger

A nifty trick handed down from generation to generation, anyone who uses a clothing hanger to unclog drains has surely learned this technique from an elder. Although very effective at times, unclogging drains with an un-wound clothing hanger can do more bad than good in the long run. For instance, plumbers receive calls all the time about clothing hangers getting stuck inside drains and pipes. Not only is this a frustrating situation, it can require lengthy plumbing repairs and related costs.

Mistake #4 Using a Drain Auger

Yes drain augers are meant for drains, but they are serious tools that should be used by a trained professional in the industry. If used incorrectly, a drain auger can cause extensive damage to a person’s plumbing pipes and draining system. It may even cause injury in the hands of a novice. Trust a professional plumbing for large drain clearing jobs and auger work.

Mistake #5 Doing It Yourself

The whole “DIY” approach really doesn’t translate well in the plumbing industry. A home’s plumbing is the most significant and complex system. It truly requires the knowledge, training, and skill of a licensed plumber to efficiently repair or service areas of a home’s plumbing in the safest way. A running toilet is one thing, but a severely clogged drain, water heater issue, or pipe leak is something better left to a master plumber.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing repair and service you can afford in Indianapolis, IN. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provide a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. With more than 100 years in business, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is your best solution for plumbing repair in Indianapolis, IN. Call us today at 317-784-1870 for a free estimate or for prompt plumbing service at an affordable price!

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

Posted on November 5, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

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

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

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

Fall Season Plumbing Maintenance

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

Indoors:

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

Outdoors:

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

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

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

What Makes a Master Plumber?

Posted on October 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

You may think a plumber’s job is a basic one, but that really depends on what type of plumber you have in mind. For simple residential plumbing service and minor repairs, you could make-do with a general plumber. But when it comes to bigger plumbing repairs and projects, the only type of plumber permitted for this kind of work is a Master Plumber. A general plumber may have a simple job, but being a master plumber is a huge job and a serious responsibility.

Continue reading to learn what sets a master plumber apart from standard plumbing contactors and why they are so vital to have around.

Master Plumbers

A master plumber is a serious vocation. It takes a lot of dedication, patience, and commitment to make it to a state-licensed level. Their acumen for plumbing is comprehensive and all-encompassing. They are licensed and trained to provide maintenance, installations, and repairs for all residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems. This includes waste management, water treatment, plumbing pipes, appliances, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, heat pumps, and much more. On top of all this, master plumbers are constantly upgrading their knowledge and training as technology in plumbing continues to improve and change.

In order to become a licensed master plumber, you must first gain work experience for several years as an apprentice in the plumbing industry. After paying your dues and learning the trade, you then have to complete a rigorous set of plumbing-related courses and obtain proper licensing. This is a lot of work, as you must memorize endless plumbing codes and pass several complicated exams. In fact, becoming a master plumber is so time-consuming and difficult, many people choose to get their general contractors’ licensed instead because it’s faster and easier. This is one reason why you might notice master plumber services are more expensive.

Keep in mind, when looking for a plumber, that it is state law for them to display their license number in all advertisements and websites. If you cannot find a license number, then they are either uninsured, very inexperienced, or simply NOT REAL plumbers.

Let’s think about the massive responsibility and knowledge master plumbers possess in their trade by taking a look at an example:

New construction begins on a building that will house a toxic plant. This toxic plant will be working with explosive liquids, hazardous gases, and more. For this kind of project, the plumbing and pipe system have to be absolutely PERFECT. Otherwise, it could be extremely dangerous.

Planning and installing the piping system in this building will be highly complex and intricate. Engineers and architects are not appointed this responsibility; instead, this is a job master plumbers would be hired to do.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to hire a master plumber in Indianapolis you can trust. Owner and state licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to discuss your plumbing problems, needs, and concerns. As a family owned and operated business since 1901, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is committed to sincere customer support and maintaining fair and honest plumbing rates for all. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our Indianapolis plumbing repair services, or to schedule an appointment with a master plumber today.