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.

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.

Basic Plumbing Tools for Basic Plumbing Problems

Posted on October 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When it comes to home plumbing, problems can arise at any time, and always unexpectedly. For this reason, it is important to stay equipped for whatever comes your way. Having the right plumbing tools and supplies on hand can be a huge advantage in the case of a plumbing issue or emergency.

Every home should have the basic plumbing tools needed to manage common plumbing problems. Problems like clogged or running toilets, leaky faucets, and jammed garbage disposals can be fixed on your own in minor cases, so long as you are properly equipped with the right tools. Continue reading to learn the basic plumbing tools you should have in your home in the case of a plumbing emergency or issue.

Clogged Toilets

When toilets cause problems, it is no fun for anyone. A functional toilet is the fundamental concept behind refined living. Without indoor toilet plumbing, we are subjected to more primitive means of organic elimination! So when toilets clog or constantly run, go for these plumbing tools:

Plungers – Plungers are great for clogged toilets, as well as, clogged sink and shower drains. Choose from a selection of styles at your local hardware or general store. Prices vary from $8 to $25, depending on the retailer and brand.

Augers – There are two effective augers recommended for different plumbing purposes: hand and closet augers. Hand augers are great for clogged toilets, but also for clogged shower drains, sinks drains, and more. They generally come with over 25 feet of flexible steel cable designed to dislodge solids and release clogs. Closet augers are generally cheaper and shorter in length (3 to 6 ft.), making them perfect for unclogging toilets specifically. Prices vary anywhere from $5 to 50 dollars, depending on brand and retailer.

Running Toilet

If a toilet is running constantly, it may require a fill or flush valve replacement. This can be done on your own using three different types of wrenches: adjustable crescent wrench, metric combination wrench, and a strap wrench. All three tools can be purchase at any local hardware store at affordable prices.

An adjustable crescent wrench will be priced anywhere between 20 and 40 dollars, whereas a combination wrench set will set you back anywhere between $20 and $200, depending on the number or pieces and retailer. And strap wrenches
will cost anywhere between 5 and 40 dollars.

Leaky Faucets

Leaking and dripping faucets are usually the result of a deteriorated washers. You can easily replace these on your own with a few simple beginner tools. These include a screwdriver set, ranging between $10 and $40, a pliers set, also ranging between $10 and $40, and a basin wrench ($5 – $40).

Jammed Garbage Disposals

When the garbage disposal seems to stop working, or jams, you can fix this problem by adjusting the motor beneath the appliance. Use the proper-sized Allen wrench for the opening beneath the garbage disposal. Then insert into the opening and turn both ways. Allen wrench sets generally cost anywhere from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the number of pieces and the brand.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for all your household plumbing problems and plumbing repair needs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 40 years of experience as a state-licensed master plumber. And our family owned and operated company has served Hoosier communities for more than 100 years! We offer residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis, IN. Call us today at 317-784-1870 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our company.

Standard Plumbing Valves and How They Work

Posted on July 1, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

There are three basic styles of plumbing valves: gate valves, stop valves, and ball valves. Each valve-type has its own individual characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and purposes. However, they can only be used for oil, water, and airflow control if the castings are labeled with the acronym, “WOG”, which stands for water, oil, and gas. Continue reading the learn more about stop, gate, and ball valves, how they work, and how they differ from one another.

Stop Valves

Stop valves operate with the aid of a rubber gasket that shuts off water flow in a pipe. To close off water flow, the rubber gasket is screwed onto a seat located in the middle of the valve. Appliances like sinks, toilets, and outdoor faucets commonly use smaller versions of stop valves. In order for stop valves to work properly, they must be installed in the right direction, in the way of the arrow, so that water flows against the bottom of the rubber gasket. If installed in the wrong direction, the water flow will force the gasket away from the valve.

Gate Valves

Also referred to as, “full-flow” valves, gate valves are commonly used in commercial and industrial pipe and plumbing applications. They are multipurpose bi-directional shutoff valves that are manufactured in a variety of metals, including cast iron, brass, and bronze. They retain a gate-like component inside that either raises or lowers, allowing or discontinuing water flow in a pipe. This gate is controlled by a knob at the top of the valve that twists right and left to open and close the metal gate component. Gate valves are not intended to customize water flow and pressure by adjusting the gate height. They are only intended to be opened all the way, or closed all the way. One downside to gate valves is their vulnerability to corrosion, which overtime, can cause the gate component to stick in the up or down position.

Ball Valves

Ball valves use a stainless steel (or sometimes brass, bronze, copper iron, and more) rotating ball with a hole drilled in its center that pivots in plastic bushings. The ball is generally controlled by a lever that is directly connected to it. It is similar to a gate valve because it also a full-flow type valve. The position of the lever indicates whether the valve is open or closed. The valve is closed if the hole in the ball is perpendicular to the flow of water. If the hole is parallel to the pipe and water flow, the valve is open. Ball valves differ from full-flow gate valves because the flow of water can somewhat be controlled by adjusting the opening of the valve. However, ball valves are not the best option for controlling water flow.

Additional Types of Valves:

• Check Valves
• Diaphragm Valves
• Globe Valves
• Butterfly Valves
• Pressure Balanced Valves
• Knife Valves
• Ball-Check Valves
• Ball-Diaphragm Valves
• Zone Valves
• Locking Valves
• Solenoid Valves
• Sluice Valves (another name for gate valves)

Contact a local master plumber for expert advice regarding plumbing repair, plumbing parts, products, advice, and more. In most cases, water flow issues are best addressed by a trained professional that retains proper tools and resources to effectively undertake a plumbing issue or repair that could possibly lead to indoor flooding.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state licensed master plumber with more than 40 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has been a family owned and operated Indianapolis plumbing company since 1901, and continues to provide proficient plumbing services to all Hoosier communities at the fairest prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about all our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

A Brief Reflection of Plumbing History

Posted on June 9, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Leak Repair 317-784-1870

It is interesting to think about how society’s first plumbing pipes were made from clay and wood. Of course once the world figured out that these didn’t work too well, we eventually switched to using a lead and galvanized iron piping system, carved with local engravings on all the pipes to thwart water theft. In fact, the Latin word for lead is “plumbum”, and the weight that was located on the end of a line for perpendicular alignment was called a “plumbus.” These words are where the term “plumber” comes from.

Today, our plumbing is made using copper, steel, and plastic (PVC).

Roman Plumbers

Plumbers back then were skilled roman artisans that were fluent in lead works, aqueducts, piping systems, water distribution, and waste management; providing soldering, repairs, maintenance, installations, and more. Bath and steam houses were also introduced at this time and Roman society got its first taste of an effective plumbing and water distribution system. It wasn’t until the 20 century that society’s piping system and technology changed, as did the role of plumbers.

English Plumbing

In the early 1800’s, England passed a national Public Health Act that later influenced historic and modern-day plumbing code. This legally mandated that all homes have a sanitary arrangement, like a privy, a flushing toilet, or an ash pit. This is also when the British established and began government-funded programs for sanitary research and engineering.

Innovative Plumbing

Plumbing and sewage systems only got better from here! Public lavatories were built and became common parts of societal practice, and eventually sanitary closets and toilets were being invented and redesigned too! Later down the line, in the mid-20th century, plumbing was dramatically reinvented and our innovators continued to perfect the industry into the modern plumbing advancements and technologies we have today.

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. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a licensed master plumber with decades of experience in the plumbing industry. Our company has provided trusted plumbing service and repair to the Hoosier communities since 1901, making us part of Indiana’s plumbing history too! We offer a wide range of services for both residential and commercial properties, all for the lowest and most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 and speak directly with a licensed master plumber about plumbing repair services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

Do You Need Bathtub Repair or Bathtub Replacement?

Posted on May 19, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

A shower curtain can only do so much to hide an old, outdated, stained, or rusted bathtub. Eventually at some point in time, it will be necessary, and lucrative, to address your bathtub woes. Determining whether or not a bathtub needs repaired or replaced can be tricky, which is why it is helpful to review some basic factors regarding bathtub plumbing to better understand your home’s needs.

Although bathtub replacement seems like a scary possibility in terms of cost and installation, it is much more affordable and efficient than many think. So if it turns out that your home needs an entire bathtub replacement, do not fear the costs and labor associated with the process. Continue reading to learn how to tell which service your bathroom requires, what to expect, and who to call for professional plumbing you can trust.

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Bathtub Repair

Not all tubs will need a replacement. Sometimes some simple repairs is all it takes to instantly solve, update, or upgrade your bathroom focal point. If a bathtub doesn’t pose any internal or external plumbing issues, then homeowners can opt to have their tubs refinished. Tub refinishing is perfect for bathtubs that are in good condition physically, but may contain stains, discoloration, texture defects, and unsightly marks. This process costs substantially less than tub replacement, and makes bathtubs look brand new. For further protection and longevity, homeowners can opt for bathtub liner in addition to refinishing. Although a bit pricier than refinishing alone, it is a fantastic way to further protect your investment.

Bathtub Replacement

Sometimes, a bathtub cannot be repaired, or the repair costs would exceed the cost of replacement. In these cases, replacement is necessary. Even for tubs that are not defective, replacement might be necessary for bathroom remodels, updates, and upgrades. Keep in mind that the after effects of a water leak are much more costly and tedious to repair than the cost to replace a defective, cracked, or deteriorating tub.

Be sure to hire a licensed master plumber for bathtub repairs and bathroom plumbing services. They retain the proper tools, training, and resources to provide a professional and accurate job within a time-frame that’s convenient for you.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for bathroom plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing repair industry. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for more information about our affordable Indianapolis plumbing repair and bathroom plumbing services.

How Can Reliable Plumbing Make a House Better?

Posted on March 2, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Softener Repair 317-784-1870

A home is our safe place. It is where we feel the most secure and at peace. It is our sanctuary from all the chaos and havoc life can sometimes throw upon us. For this reason, we want our homes to be in great condition, in terms of foundation, structure, electrical, and more. One of the most important and valuable assets to any home is the plumbing system. Without good plumbing, a house cannot be a home. We need our warm baths and showers, our cups of coffee, quality insulation, reliable piping, washing machines, and so much more. All of these aspects and appliances are reliant on good, reliable plumbing.

Here’s how good plumbing makes a house better for everyone inside and out.

Plumbing Tips

When it comes to plumbing repairs, plumbing maintenance, pipe issues, and other serious plumbing problems, it is vital to have a licensed master plumber undertake these kinds of projects for optimal and liable results. Here are some examples of emergency or serious plumbing problems that should be repaired or handled by a licensed plumber:

• Burst Pipes
• Frozen Pipes
• Water Leaks
• Slab Leaks
• Toilet Repair
• Kitchen Plumbing Repairs
• Bathroom Plumbing Repairs
• Blocked Drains
• Valve Repairs
• Leaking Water Heaters
• Water Softener Repairs
• Sump Pump Repairs
• Corroded Piping
• And More

There are plenty of plumbing projects homeowners can take on themselves as well, such as minor drain clogs, backup toilets, and leaky faucets; but a licensed master plumber retains the proper resources, training, licensing, and equipment to professionally undertake projects such as these and provide affordable and long-lasting solutions for them.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed master plumber services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber with several decades of experience in the plumbing repair industry. In fact, our company has been in business since 1901! We offer a wide selection of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties throughout all of Indianapolis and its surrounding counties!

The Plumbing Secrets That No One Talks About

Posted on February 2, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Oh boy! Here we go again! The washing machine hose burst and there’s soapy water everywhere! Time to call homeowners’ insurance and make a claim. This is a typical example of one such plumbing secret that no one seems to ever talk about. Don’t take your chances with rubber washing machine hoses! Instead, opt for some sturdy stainless steel ones and prevent making this frequent homeowners’ insurance claim.

There are several little secrets like this that relate to the plumbing industry, yet we homeowner’s know nothing of them. This is because these types of questions can’t be answered unless they are asked first! And if we don’t know what to ask about, how can we stay well-informed? Fortunately, you can read up on fun and interesting blogs like this one to help spark your curiosity and be better-prepared the next time your plumber is making a routine stop at your home. Continue reading for more plumbing secrets and a few tips to stay ahead of plumbing mishaps and mistakes.

Mondays are the Busiest Day for a Plumbing Company

This is something that many people haven’t caught onto yet. Perhaps it’s the wives calling to fix the plumbing job their husbands attempted over the weekend, or that people like to make to-do lists at the beginning of the week. No matter what the reason may really be, Mondays are not the best day to request service from a plumbing company. You can call them to schedule, of course, but it is not likely you’ll get same-day service on a Monday.

Plumbing Stores Have Great Recommendations

If you want to find a reputable plumber, contact your local plumbing supply center or plumbing fixture store for a trustworthy recommendation. These niche stores do not deal with corrupt or inept plumbers. They can suggest one that is s true professional and exceptional at what they do for a living.

Putting Bricks in the Toilet Does Not Work

Many people think placing an obstacle, like a brick, inside their toilet bowl will help preserve water consumption. But what this actually does is inhibit your toilet’s ability to flush properly. And the same goes with drain cleaner down the toilet. This is a no-no because it can corrode your underground piping, leading to costly plumbing repairs. If your toilet is clogged, use a plunger or call a licensed plumber.

The Main Water Supply Shut-Off Valve Will Stop a Flood in Your Home

If something in your home is flooding, simply locate your main water supply, and turn the valve so it shuts off. This will stop the flow of water in your plumbing pipes. So many people have no clue where their main water shut-off valve is located. The message here is, if you own your home or care about the stuff in it, locate this valve right now so you can be prepared for any future flooding emergencies.

Flushable Doesn’t Always Mean Flushable

So many clogged pipes are caused by those store-bought items that claim to be flush-able, when it fact, they do not break down and disintegrate like toilet tissue. Be on the lookout for this term, and be very cautious when using a product that is supposedly suitable for flushing.

Plumbers are Not Supposed to Remove Shower-Head Water Flow Inhibitors

It is against a plumber’s code to remove water flow inhibitors in shower-heads to increase water pressure. But so many people ask all the time. For this reason, some plumbers will make exceptions and do this for a client if they are asked. But technically, it goes against the plumber rulebooks.

A Master Plumber is NOT a Handyman

You would be surprised to hear how many people ask master plumbers if they offer other types of services, like repairing cars or handyman work. This is exhausting because this means homeowners don’t understand or realize the complexity and training it requires to become a state licensed master plumber. You wouldn’t ask a dentist if they offered pet-sitting services; would you?

A Loose Toilet Handle is an Easy and Cheap DIY Fix

When the toilet handle is jiggling or wobbly, you can assume the flap valve needs replaced. This is a four dollar part at any local hardware or home store. And it is simply to install. A plumber might cost anywhere from 50 to 100 dollars for a call like this; especially if they are supplying the new part.

Jammed Garbage Disposals Need an Allen Wrench

It’s simple. Follow the instructions in the owner’s manual, or locate the proper manual online, and then find the Allen wrench your disposal most likely came with. With this, you can clear this problem up yourself without the help of a plumber. Just be sure you turn the power supply or fuse box off before working on a garbage disposal!

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call 317-784-1870 and speak with Mark Weilhammer, licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer all levels of plumbing services and repairs for residential and commercial properties. With more than 100 years in business and more than 50 years of experience, you can trust that we are a reputable and honest plumbing company. We offer plumbing service and repair for pipes, fixtures, sump pumps, water heaters, water softeners, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

When is DIY Plumbing Repair a Bad Idea?

Posted on January 14, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Homeowners feel good about themselves when they discover a problem and repair it without having to shell out money for a repair service. And fortunately, there are several things men and women can do on their own when it comes to making repairs in their homes. But in other cases, a do-it-yourself approach is not the right answer.

One of the most complex and vital components of any home is their plumbing system. Home plumbing is used every day, from toilet flushing to dish-washing, so naturally problems are likely to occur.

Some can be fixed with a DIY attitude, while others will require the services of a master plumber. Continue reading to learn the difference!

When DIY Works

There are several problems that can happen to a residential plumbing system that can be fixed on your own. A clogged toilet or drain can be solved with a simple snaking and some drain cleaner. A clogged kitchen sink drain just needs some cold running water and a good garbage disposal run. If a pipe bursts, you can surely shut off the main water valve on your own to stop any further flooding. So there are many plumbing repairs a novice or hands-on homeowner can do themselves; but what about more serious plumbing problems? This is when DIY is a bad idea.

When DIY Does Not Work

So let’s stick with the example of burst pipes. Sure you can turn the water shut-off valve and stop the flow of water in your plumbing, but the pipes are going to need some professional attention. And not just any professional attention, master plumber-level attention. Trenchless pipe replacement and pipe repair are complex and technical projects that require extensive education, training, knowledge, and experience. It also requires the proper tools and diagnostic equipment that only a professional plumbing company would retain. Implementing a serious plumbing repair on your own can result in more damage and costlier repairs.

Aside from pipe repair, flooding and water damages are certainly not something homeowners are not interested in doing themselves, and they shouldn’t anyway. Other serious plumbing repairs that should be handled by a master plumber include septic and sump pump problems, water heater repairs, water softeners issues, slab leaks, frozen pipes, water leaks, and more. These require specialized methods of diagnostics and repair that, again, only a master plumber can provide.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumber repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry. In fact, we have been a family owned and operated Indianapolis plumbing company for more than 100 years! We offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. You can trust you are getting the fairest prices and most honest service for plumbing repair in Indianapolis, IN.

The Difference Between a Standard Plumber and a Master Plumber

Posted on December 9, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

Being a standard plumber is not such a hard job. Anyone can take the required courses, learn the trade, and start on a journey to becoming a seasoned plumbing technician. But being a master plumber is a whole other story. Basically, a regular plumber is a regular job, whereas, a master plumber is a huge job. A master plumber is a much more advanced and complex vocation than just regular plumbing. It requires a separate and comprehensive agenda to become qualified and licensed master plumber.

Continue reading to learn the actual difference between a regular plumbing contractor and a licensed master plumber.

Master Plumbers

A master plumber deals with a large load of responsibility. They are state licensed master plumbers that are certified to provide installations, re-piping, maintenance, repair, and more for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Master plumbing contractors are required to pass mandatory courses, receive proper licensing, and retain extensive plumbing knowledge for all plumbing-related work. This is an intense load of skill and knowledge that one must possess in order to be a master plumber. It is an actual trade that requires skill, expertise, and understanding. But it also requires state licensing so they can provide their services legally.

When a factory or commercial building is being constructed, it is not the general contractors or the architects that plan and execute the plumbing, it is the master plumber. This is just one example of the enormous responsibility and skill and master plumber deals with every day in their career. But even though a master plumber is certified and trained to provide large plumbing projects and work, they are also your solution for residential plumbing service and repair. They provide water leak inspections, minor plumbing and pipe repair, copper re-piping, sump pump repair, water heater and water softener repair, and everything in-between.

It requires an abundant amount of dedication and patience to become a master plumber. A person has to have a real passion for plumbing work to succeed in becoming a certified and licensed master contractor. In order to actually become a master plumber, a person must pay their dues in the industry. They have to have ample experience in plumbing work before they can even qualify for master plumber courses and certification. They must pass courses, classes, and exams that cover everything from plumbing codes to repair. Many people are not up to this level of commitment and work, so they opt for a general contractors licensed; this is why master plumbers are a bit more expensive.

Master plumbers are adept in the following areas and much more:

• Plumbing Repair
• Plumbing Service and Maintenance
• Re-Piping
• Fitting and Laying Pipes
• Indoor Plumbing
• Outdoor Plumbing
• Residential Plumbing
• Commercial Plumbing
• Industrial Plumbing
• Plumbing System Design
• Asbestos Removal
• Roof Replacement
• Irrigation Planning
• Gas Fitting
• Bathroom and Kitchen Renovations
• Space Conversion Plumbing
• Sanitary Plumbing Services
• Residential Sprinklers
• Backflow Service and Prevention
• Sewer and Drainage Problems
• “Green” Plumbing
• Energy Efficient Hot Water Heating
• Water Heaters
• Boilers
• Sump Pumps
• And Much More

Contact your local Indianapolis master plumber anytime for questions and concerns regarding your home or commercial plumbing system. Whether you need a simple leaky faucet fix, or comprehensive re-piping services, a master plumber is your best and most reliable option.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber at Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc., at 317-784-1870 for superior plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. He is a state licensed master plumbing contractor with more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry! His family owned and operated plumbing company has been serving the Hoosier communities for more than 112 years! You can rest assure you are receiving the most proficient and affordable plumbing service when you call Weilhammer Plumbing. Just dial 317-784-1870 and speak directly with an Indianapolis master plumber about your plumbing repair needs, today.