The Essential Plumbing Parts Every Homeowner Should Know About

Posted on August 18, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to homeownership, understanding the basics of your home’s plumbing system is a necessity. We often take for granted the intricate network of pipes, valves, and fixtures that work seamlessly to provide us with fresh water and safe waste disposal. However, when something goes wrong, it’s beneficial to have a rudimentary understanding of the essential plumbing parts involved.

This knowledge can help you troubleshoot minor issues, communicate effectively with plumbers, and even save you from potentially costly repairs. In this blog post, we will delve into the must-know plumbing parts and tools that every homeowner should be familiar with.

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The 101 on Plumbing Parts and Tools

Plumbing Pipes and Valves

The first plumbing parts to consider are the pipes and valves that make up your home’s system. The main function of these parts is to supply you with fresh water, route away wastewater, and maintain a consistent flow throughout the entire system. Different types of pipes used in residential plumping include copper pipes, galvanized steel pipes, and PVC pipes. Copper pipes are the most common type of residential plumbing piping, but other materials may be used depending on the application.

Valves come in many shapes and sizes and serve a variety of purposes. For example, a gate valve is used to turn water flow on or off while a shutoff valve helps control flows from individual fixtures such as toilets and sinks. There are also check valves and pressure reducing valves, which help regulate water pressure throughout the system.

Plumbing Fixtures and Connectors

Fixtures are the visible pieces in a plumbing system that deliver fresh water for use or route it away. Toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and dishwashers all have their own specific type of plumbing components. Faucets, for example, have a spout, supply lines, shutoff valves, and a drain assembly. Toilets typically consist of the tank, the bowl, flush valve assembly, and fill valve. Connectors are used to easily attach different parts of a plumbing system together. Common types of connectors include compression fittings, solder joints, push-fit fittings, and threaded pipe joints.

Plumbing Tools

Plumbers rely on a variety of tools to service plumbing systems. While some are specialized for the trade, there are several essential hand tools that every homeowner should have in their arsenal. A few basic plumbing tools include an adjustable wrench, pliers, slip joint pliers, PVC cutter, hacksaw, pipe wrench, plunger, and auger.

By having a basic understanding of plumbing parts and tools you can become more knowledgeable about the inner workings of your home’s plumbing system. That knowledge will come in handy when it comes to addressing minor problems or communicating effectively with plumbers should anything major arise. Now that you know the essential plumbing parts every homeowner should be aware of, you can stay informed and prepared for any plumbing situation.

Taking Action

The key to maintaining a functional plumbing system is regular upkeep. This includes checking the pipes and valves as well as inspecting fixtures and connectors for any signs of wear or damage. Doing so will help ensure that your plumbing remains in top condition. If you find yourself in a situation where your plumbing skills are not sufficient, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed professional plumber in Indianapolis. They have the expertise and know-how to safely handle any plumbing issue that may arise.

In Summary

With just a bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can rest easy knowing that any plumbing issues that come up can be addressed with confidence. We hope you’ve found this blog post helpful and that it has given you a better understanding of the essential plumbing parts every homeowner should know about.

Are you in need of professional plumbing maintenance and parts replacement? 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.

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.

7 Essential Tips for Maintaining Residential Plumbing

Posted on February 3, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Maintaining the plumbing in your home is essential to keeping it running smoothly and avoiding plumbing disasters. With regular maintenance, you can stop plumbing problems before they start and preserve the efficiency of your plumbing system. Here are seven essential tips for maintaining residential plumbing that every homeowner should know about. From inspecting pipes to checking fixtures, these simple steps will help ensure that your plumbing system stays healthy for years to come.

So, read on and discover how easy it is to keep your home’s plumbing in top condition!

Call 317-784-1870 For Residential Plumbing Service in Indianapolis IN.

7 Home Plumbing Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

1. Inspect plumbing pipes regularly. Check exposed plumbing pipes for signs of corrosion, rust, and other damage. When inspecting plumbing pipes, keep an eye out for discoloration or mold growth that can indicate a crack or breach in the plumbing system.

2. Replace any worn-out plumbing fixtures. Take the time to inspect plumbing fixtures for signs of wear and tear. Worn plumbing fixtures can lead to major plumbing issues in your home, so it’s important to replace them before they cause any problems.

3. Check for leaks regularly. Look for water spots on ceilings or floors that may indicate a plumbing leak. If you find a plumbing leak, contact a plumbing professional immediately to have it repaired.

4. Clear plumbing clogs promptly. If a plumbing fixture is draining slowly or not at all, you may have a plumbing clog. Use a plumbing snake or plunger to try to clear the clog, but if that doesn’t work, call in a plumbing professional right away.

5. Keep plumbing vents clear and unobstructed. Make sure that plumbing vents, which allow air to circulate through plumbing pipes, are not blocked by debris or other objects. Blocked plumbing vents can cause pressure imbalances in your plumbing system, leading to damage and plumbing problems.

6. Install water filters in faucets. Installing water filters in plumbing fixtures can help reduce plumbing blockages while also providing cleaner and safer drinking water.

7. Invest in plumbing maintenance services. Consider hiring an Indianapolis plumbing company to perform regular plumbing maintenance services, such as inspecting plumbing pipes and checking plumbing fixtures for signs of wear and tear. Hiring professional plumbing technicians to handle maintenance tasks can help you identify plumbing issues before they become major problems.

Protect Your Home With Routine Plumbing Service

These tips will help keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape and prevent plumbing disasters. For more plumbing advice, contact a plumbing professional today! With their expertise and guidance, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing remains safe and efficient for years to come.

Are you looking for a trusted plumber? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients and are state-licensed master plumbers.

How to Make Homemade Fizzy Toilet Bombs

Posted on February 6, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

How’s your toilet cleaning technique working for you? Is it effective? Is it easy? Do you dread it, putting it off for as long as possible? Well, perhaps it’s just missing something. By adding a simple toilet cleaner to your current routine, you can enhance the quality of your results, without really lifting a finger!

How? With these easy, fun, and super fizzy toilet bombs you can make from home using a few simple household ingredients! Continue reading to learn the recipe!

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Toilet Bombs

You have likely heard of bath bombs, which have become increasingly popular for the fun and invigorating experience they deliver. Not only can you purchase bath bombs at the local department store, you can also make them from home. So why not make a similar product for the toilet?

This is how toilet bombs were thought into existence! These toilet bombs hold immense cleaning and sanitizing power, instantly refreshing your stale or stinky toilet. Best of all, they produce an immediate, sparkling fun fizz, which actually entices little ones to help with your cleaning chores!

What You Need to Make Toilet Bombs:

☐ Small Bowl
☐ Ice Cube Tray
☐ Baking Soda – 1 Cup
☐ Citric Acid – 1/4 Cup
☐ Dish Soap – 1 Tablespoon

How to Make Toilet Bombs:

➀ In your bowl, combine all ingredients.
➁ Stir gently with a spoon until you achieve a paste-like texture.
➂ Neatly pack each ice cube hole with your paste.
➃ Allow it to dry for 2 hours.
➄ Store your toilet bombs in a mason jar or air-tight, sealed plastic storage bag.

How to Use Toilet Bombs:

Simply drop 1 toilet bomb into the bowl of your toilet and watch the fizz action begin! Repeat every few days for best results! Still have a dirty-looking toilet? See our blogs, “2 Effective Solutions for Toilet Stains” and “How to Make Eco-Friendly Toilet Bowl Cleaner at Home” for some great toilet maintenance advice!

Got Toilet Plumbing Problems?

When your toilet needs service, you need a state-licensed master plumber. Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including toilet repair and replacement. We even sell top-of-the-line TOTO toilets below market price! Request a free estimate, today.

Tips for DIY Home Plumbing Inspections

Posted on July 12, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

If you own your home, then you understand the importance of maintaining your plumbing systems through every season. Indoor and outdoor plumbing are both complex systems that require upkeep and regular maintenance in order to sustain a healthy and fully functioning system.

Continue reading to learn what types of Do-It-Yourself maintenance you can provide for your home plumbing.

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How to Inspect Your Home Plumbing

After some time, the pipes in your home can begin to corrode, rust, and deteriorate due to moisture accumulation, time, and other conditional variables. When you first purchase a home, it is vital to learn the type of pipes and plumbing system your house runs on; this way, it can be easy to determine how often the plumbing needs attention.

Brass pipes and steel piping can last up to one hundred years; while similar types of piping, such as copper, can last around seventy to eighty years. If you have just purchased a house that is over 50 years old, it would be a safe idea to have the system inspected by a professional plumbing company. If it is a newly developed unit, then be sure to keep your eye on the plumbing and the pipes periodically in order to avoid exponential decay, leaks, and other plumbing issues.

By simply checking your pipes for flaking, chipping, and rust, you can stop a plumbing disaster before it even happens. Routine inspections are important to know what condition your home plumbing system is in. If you want the most accurate and professional advice, you should consult a licensed Indianapolis plumber for questions and general information.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service You Can Trust!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing service you can trust. We have been in business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Call owner, Mark Weilhammer, at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or plumbing advice, today.