10 Plumbing Facts Every Homeowner Should Know

Posted on June 23, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Homeowners know that plumbing is an important part of their home, but how much do they really know about it? Plumbing can be a complicated and daunting task to tackle on your own, but understanding the basics will help you troubleshoot common problems more easily.

To get you started, below are 10 important plumbing facts every homeowner should know: From what causes clogs to why plumbers use special tools, these facts will give you a better understanding of your home’s plumbing system.

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Residential Plumbing Information You Need to Know

Homeowners can benefit from knowing these 10 surprising plumbing facts. They cover topics such as the causes of clogs and the special tools used by plumbers, which can help you better understand your home’s plumbing system.

1. Kitchen Sinks Have 2 Drains

Your kitchen sink has two drains – one for waste and one for wastewater. It’s important to know where each drain is located so that you don’t accidentally put items down the wrong pipe. Grease, oil, and other food particles should never be put down the garbage disposal drain, as they can quickly cause clogs.

2. Frozen Pipes Can Be Prevented

Frozen pipes are a common plumbing issue during winter months. Homeowners can help prevent this by insulating pipes and keeping a consistent temperature in their home. If you do experience frozen pipes, make sure to call a professional plumber right away before any further damage occurs.

3. At-Home Plumbing Tool Kit

Plumbers use special tools like augers and drain snakes to repair clogged water lines and clear obstructions in pipes. These tools have a flexible design and can be maneuvered through tight spaces to reach clogs that are hidden from view. You too can purchase these tools as part of a DIY home plumbing kit.

4. DIY Plumbing Repair is Possible

Not all plumbing problems require professional help; some minor issues can be fixed with basic DIY skills and a few common tools. Knowing how to identify signs of wear or malfunctioning parts can help save you money on expensive repairs in the long run.

5. Re-Piping is Innovative Today

Plumbers often use pipe-lining technology instead of outdated re-piping methods when repairing pipes. This process involves inserting a new pipe within the existing one, creating an airtight seal that will last for years.

6. You Can Fix Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is often caused by buildup inside the pipes, which restricts water flow. If you experience low water pressure, have a plumber inspect your pipes and clear any buildup that might be causing the problem.

7. Your Septic Tank Requires Maintenance

Septic tanks need to be emptied every few years in order to prevent them from overflowing. Have a professional check your septic tank regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly and not in danger of overflowing.

8. You Can Easily Conserve More Water

Water conservation is an important part of plumbing maintenance as well; make sure all faucets are turned off completely when not in use and don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine until they’re full. This will help reduce your water bill and prolong the life of your plumbing system.

9. Copper Piping is Trending Right Now

Copper piping is still the most popular material used in residential plumbing. Copper plumbing is durable and reliable and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. Although the initial investment can be pricier to alternative plumbing materials, it is well-worth the long-term savings.

10. Annual Plumbing Inspections are Necessary

Even if you don’t have any plumbing problems yet, it’s important to call a professional for a home plumbing inspection every few years. A qualified plumber will be able to detect potential issues before they become bigger problems, saving you money in the long run.

Get Expert Plumbing Advice From a Licensed Plumber Today!

Now that you know these 10 surprising facts about plumbing, you’ll be better equipped to deal with common issues or emergencies should they arise. Remember to always turn off the water main when performing DIY repairs and call a licensed plumber if the problem persists or gets worse. Whenever in doubt, trust your local Indianapolis plumbing experts!

Are you in need of assistance from professional plumbers to resolve your plumbing issues? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers serve residential and commercial clients.

Common Types of Water Valves Used For Residential Plumbing

Posted on December 16, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to plumbing, water valves are an important part of the system. There are a variety of water valves used in residential plumbing, each with its own purpose. Knowing which type of valve is installed in your home and how to maintain it is essential for preventing water damage and costly repairs.

In this post, we will discuss the most common types of water valves used in residential plumbing and provide tips for maintaining them.

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Typical Residential Water Valves

Gate Valves: Gate valves are typically used for water shut-off in plumbing fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and water heaters. These valves can be opened to allow water flow or closed to stop water flow. Maintenance on gate valves should include regularly checking them for leaks or corrosion; if the valve is leaking it may need to be replaced.

Ball Valves: Ball valves are another type of water valve used in residential plumbing. These valves are typically found at water meters and shut-off locations, and they can be opened to allow water flow or closed to stop water flow. To maintain a ball valve, regularly check for leaks or corrosion; if the valve is leaking, it may need to be replaced.

Check Valves: Check valves are water shut-off devices typically found in water lines and water heaters. These one-way valves allow water to flow in one direction only; this prevents water from flowing backwards and causing water damage. To maintain a check valve, regularly inspect the valve for any signs of corrosion or wear.

Pressure Relief Valves: Pressure relief valves are safety devices that help to maintain water pressure in plumbing systems. These valves release water when water pressure exceeds a predetermined level and can prevent water damage caused by excessive water pressure. To maintain a pressure relief valve, regular inspection is important; if the valve is not operating properly it may need to be replaced.

Remember, water valves play an important role in residential plumbing systems and regular maintenance is essential for preventing water damage and costly repairs. Take the time to inspect your water valves and contact a licensed plumbing company in Indianapolis if you notice any issues. By following the advice of your trusted Indianapolis plumber, you can ensure that your water valves are in good working order and ready to provide water flow when needed.

Why You Need Annual Home Plumbing Inspections

Most people know the importance of getting their car inspected regularly, but what about their home plumbing system? Just like your car needs a tune-up every so often to keep it running smoothly, your home plumbing system also needs annual inspection and maintenance. Here are four reasons why you should have your home plumbing system inspected every year:

1. Prevention of Damage – Inspecting your home plumbing system annually can help prevent costly repairs down the road by catching any problems early on, before they become more serious issues. An experienced Indianapolis plumber who comes to inspect your home will be able to identify and repair any existing issues with your plumbing, helping you avoid disruptive and expensive damage later on.

2. Reduction of Utility Costs – When your plumbing system is running efficiently, it uses less energy and water to complete its functions; this reduces your utility bills and saves you money in the long run. Have a professional plumber in Indianapolis inspect your home’s plumbing regularly to ensure that everything is functioning properly and using the least amount of energy possible.

3. Increase in Home Value – An inspected and well-maintained home plumbing system will increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell. Potential buyers will be more likely to purchase a home with an efficient and well-kept plumbing system, so investing in regular inspections can pay off down the line.

4. Overall Peace of Mind – Above all, having your home plumbing system inspected annually will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is functioning properly and efficiently. An inspection can also ensure that your plumbing meets relevant safety regulations and codes which are in place to protect both you and your family.

For fully certified and insured plumbing services—from inspection to repair—look no further than Weilhammer Plumbing Company. Our state licensed master plumbers offer residential and commercial plumbing services in Indianapolis, Central Indiana and beyond! Contact us at 317-784-1870 for service or information, today.

Common Fall Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Posted on November 11, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

There’s nothing quite like the crisp autumn air and the changing leaves. But as the weather cools down, there’s one thing that can ruin the perfect fall day: plumbing problems. From leaky faucets to clogged toilets, plumbing issues can pop up when you least expect them. While some plumbing problems are inevitable, there are a few things you can do to prevent them.

Continue below to learn the top 4 plumbing problems experienced by property owners in the fall, plus how you can prevent them all.

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Fall Season Plumbing Damages to Watch Out For

Here are some of the most common fall plumbing problems and how to avoid them:

1. Leaky Faucets: A leaky faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. To prevent leaks, make sure to tighten all the screws on your faucets and replace any washers that are worn out.

2. Clogged Toilets: As the weather gets colder, the water in your toilet tank can freeze and expand, causing the toilet to clog. To prevent this, add a little bit of antifreeze to the tank.

3. Slow Drains: As the temperatures cool, grease and oil can solidify in your drains, causing them to clog. To prevent this, pour a pot of boiling water down your drain once a week.

4. Burst Pipes: As the water in your pipes freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes, which can cause them to burst. To prevent this, insulate your pipes and let the water drip from the faucets during cold weather.

Schedule a Home Plumbing Inspection for Fall and Winter

Many people only think about their home plumbing when there is a problem. However, it is important to have regular inspections to ensure that everything is working properly and nothing needs repair. Plumbing problems can cause a lot of damage and be very expensive to fix, so it is best to catch them early. They will check for water leaks, corrosion, drainage issues, poor water pressure, and more.

By taking a few preventive measures, you can avoid these common fall plumbing problems and enjoy the season worry-free. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing inspection service and plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial service throughout Central Indiana.

Should I Schedule a Full Plumbing Inspection Before Buying a New Home?

Posted on September 23, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

If you are preparing to buy a new home or office space in Indianapolis, be sure to have the plumbing system thoroughly inspected by a licensed master plumber who retains the proper and legal certifications in both past and current state plumbing codes. That would mean that Weilhammer Plumbing Company is the right call to make for home plumbing inspections in Indianapolis!

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Home Buyer Plumbing Inspection Services

Although you can hire a home inspection company prior to buying a home, these professionals are not qualified nor proficient in current and historic state plumbing codes in Indiana. From unsafe conditions like gas piping and gas vents that are damaged, to illegal installations and modifications that are not up to code, only a licensed Indianapolis master plumber is capable of unearthing visible and foreseeable problems within any plumbing system.

Without the knowledge and skill of a state-certified master plumbing contractor, you risk buying a home or building that requires thousands upon thousands of dollars in plumbing repairs or structural repairs caused by plumbing problems. If you identify these issues before you finalize, you can negotiate the cost of repairs into the sale of the home!

Why Choose Weilhammer Plumbing

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is your neighborhood master plumbing company that provides economically priced plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding Central Indiana areas. You can rest assure that your plumbing needs are met with the highest level of professionalism and integrity, including your budget, your safety, and your comfort.

If you are closing on a home, hire the state-licensed master plumbers and licensed plumbing contractors (#106214) at Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. today! We are experts in state plumbing codes and can locate issues within any plumbing system. Not only do we have more than 60 years of hands-on experience, but we also retain the knowledge, skills, and resources to accurately reveal the truth behind a home’s plumbing.

And right now, we are offering a “New Home Buyers Plumbing Consultation and Inspection Service” for $275! Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing inspection service for drains, pipes, and more. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services in Indianapolis all throughout Central Indiana!

Facts About Slab Leaks That Will Help Prevent Plumbing Emergencies

Posted on September 29, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

If your home or building is constructed with concrete slabs, and it probably is, then you need to know more about the signs and possible consequences of slab leaks. Continue reading to learn some vital slab leak facts that can help you make the best home maintenance decisions and prevent costly and invasive plumbing emergencies.

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Concrete Slab Leaks

Water leakages that occur below or within concrete slabs are appositely called slab leaks. As a property owner or real estate developer, it is important that you know how to detect the signs of a slab leak in order to prevent costly flooding, water damages, and subsequent plumbing disasters. By knowing where to look and what to look for, you can better mitigate water damage catastrophes like slab leaks and more.

Common Causes of Slab Leaks

Slab leaks are generally caused by the movement of clay and soft soils below the foundation of a house or building. Such movement, like swelling and shifting, can place a lot of pressure on the concrete slab. As a result, the concrete slab can heavy, move, and ultimately crack in different places. Because plumbing systems are connected to concrete slabs in certain areas, damage can occur to water lines, and thus lead to a leakage.

Clay is usually to blame because it is prone to swelling and shrinking as a response to moisture conditions. Water can cause clay to swell and expand, and then shrink when it dries out. This kind of movement can cause concrete slabs to move and shift, and eventually rupture. These ruptures and cracks are where water seeps in and forms slab leaks.

Slab Leak Detection Tips

The first place you want to check for a potential slab leak is your water bill. If your water bill is unusually high, it could be caused by a hidden water leak or slab leak. In this case, contact a local Indianapolis plumber for water leak inspection service. The sooner you catch a water leak, especially in concrete slabs, the less damage will occur.

Since slab leaks occur below or within the concrete slabs, the next place you want to inspect for signs of water leakage is the basement or lower level of your property. You may also start outside where the property’s foundation meets ground.

Listen for running water. If you hear water running, but no water is turned on in the house or building, you could have a slab leak.

Take your socks off and walk around barefoot. Do you feel any hot spots? If so, it could be indicative of a hot water line rupture below the floor.

Pull back a corner of the carpeting. Do you see mold or mildew? Can you smell it? If so, it could be caused by an undiagnosed slab leak.

Do you see visible cracks or water seepage on the exposed foundation on the outside of your home or building? It could be due to a slab leak.

Do you suspect that your home or office is experiencing water leak problems? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 to schedule an Indianapolis IN home plumbing inspection for water leaks and slab leaks and more.

You Should Also Read:

The Dangers of In-Home Flooding
Common Signs of a Sewer Line Leak
How to Fix a Leaky Garbage Disposal

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4 Unconventional Ways to Detect a Plumbing Leak at Home

Posted on July 22, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

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

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

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

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Your Lawn

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

Your Water Bill

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

Your Water Meter

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

Your Toilet Bowl

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

Indianapolis Plumbing Leak Repair and Water Leak Inspection Services

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

Common Signs and Solutions for Cracked Plumbing Pipes

Posted on May 21, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

In the past, a cracked plumbing pipe was a monumental problem for a property owner. Aside from the invasive and tedious repair process it required, which included substantial digging and heavy labor, simply diagnosing a cracked pipe was a massive effort. Fortunately, today’s modern plumbing industry is gratefully bestowed with innovative technologies and methodologies that make cracked pipe diagnostics and repair simple and efficient. Concerned you might be dealing with some cracked pipes?

Continue reading to learn some common causes and signs of cracked pipes, as well as, what you can do to prevent and repair them.

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Causes and Signs of Cracked Pipes

The number one reason why most pipes experience cracking is due to old age. Plumbing pipes are not meant to last forever. So, if yours are older than 30 or 40 years, you might need to consider making some replacements, repairs, and upgrades. See our blog, “Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?” to learn more about pipe aging and replacement. Other common causes of cracked plumbing pipes include lack of routine plumbing maintenance, invasive tree roots, pipe corrosion, soil erosion, improper landscaping digging, and construction damage.

Signs That Suggest You Have a Cracked Pipe:

➥ Unexplained Increase in Water Bill
➥ Sounds of Rushing Water in Walls
➥ Standing Water in Lawn
➥ Soggy Home Flooring
➥ Concentrated Growth in One Area of the Yard

Trenchless Technology is Key

The current, go-to industry method for diagnosing cracked plumbing pipes is trenchless technology. This approach is minimally invasive and much less obtrusive to properties since it uses sewer line cameras and equipment to look deep inside underground plumbing. Sewer camera inspection technologies diagnose cracked pipes more accurately and efficiently, as they give a front-row view of what’s happening within the piping system.

Top 3 Methods of Cracked Pipe Repair:

➀ Trenchless Pipe Replacement
➁ Trenchless Pipe Lining
➂ Trenchless Pipe Bursting

? Check back next week for a more detailed explanation of each type of cracked pipe repair method!

The Indianapolis Master Plumber You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to speak directly with Mark Weilhammer, a licensed master plumber (License #106214), about trenchless plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber repair services for both residential and commercial properties, including home plumbing inspections for cracked and damaged pipes. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.