8 Tips to Control Home Energy Costs

Posted on December 14, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Saving money is always right at the top of a person’s priority list, right after the kids of course! One extraordinarily-effective and easy way to save money each year is to reduce your energy consumption at home. It’s true that reducing your energy consumption each month is easy to do. With a few simple changes, eight to be exact, you can start to reduce your monthly energy use without feeling like you have really changed a thing! Because reducing energy use is simple, you can get the entire family on board, further reducing and saving on utility and energy costs. Continue reading to review 8 stress-free and effective tips to promote increased energy efficiency and save money at all once.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service 317-784-187

Always Aim for Full Loads of Laundry to Save Water and Energy!

How to Reduce Your Energy Consumption

❶ Inspect all the air ducts for leaks. Be sure to also look for gaps, separated hoses, holes, and other damages. Repair or replace insufficient air ducts to seal in conditioned air and reduce your HVAC’s need to overwork itself, costing you more money in energy each month.

❷ As for laundry and dishware, be sure you are washing full loads every time. This can reduce the amount of times you are washing dishes and doing laundry, as well as, your monthly water and energy bills.

❸ Always use the bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans to eliminate excess moisture in the air.

❹ Weather-strip all doors and windows with the proper caulking materials and tools. This ensures a sufficient air-tight seal in your home, allowing it to retain all the conditioned air.

❺ Check the refrigerator for loose seals or air leaks. The stripping inside your refrigerator should provide an air-tight seal. If this stripping is loose or damaged, it could mean your fridge is wasting power. Use a dollar bill to test this. If you cannot pull the bill out from the fridge door once it’s closed, then your strips are sealed tight.

❻ Open windows and curtains for natural light, and always turn off lights that are not needed. Try to light candles in place of lamps more often for even more energy consumption.

❼ Use the grill more often in the spring and summer seasons. Not only does this save power that your stove and oven use to cook food, it reduces your heating and cooling system’s workload.

❽ Replace an old or defective plumbing appliances with an energy efficient models. Talk to a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for details about plumbing maintenance, installation, service, and where to find the best energy-efficient brands.

Indianapolis Plumbing Company

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free plumbing advice. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services; and as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Request a free estimate, today.

How to Get Your Plumbing Ready for Winter

Posted on December 7, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

The flurries have officially begun, which means that more snow is surely on its way sooner than later. And with snow comes various other inclement weather conditions, like freezing rain, subzero temperatures, icy hail, and much more. With winter weather right at our doorsteps, it is time to implement all the necessary steps to get our homes and buildings ready for everything that can damage or affect it over the course of the season.

One of the most vital systems to protect this winter is your plumbing, both interior and exterior. Plumbing damage can quickly occur if certain precautions are not taken; and these damages can quickly add up in terms of cost and renovation time. Continue reading to learn some helpful winter plumbing protection tips and more.

☛ Start With the Water Heater

The first place you want to start is your water heater. After all, hot water is one of the most important necessities to have during winter. You do not want to be left for days without being able to take a hot shower or bath. Draining the water heater is a good idea this time of year. Contact at licensed Indianapolis water heater repair plumber for routine seasonal maintenance. During the service, you can also have other components of your hot water heater checked to ensure they are good to go for the entire season. If you fail to drain your water heater, over time, sediment and rust will accumulate and cause internal damages, which can lead to operational issues and breakdowns.

☛ Complete All Minor Plumbing Repairs

Aside from your water heater, you’ll need to ensure that all your other plumbing components are in good condition and ready to deliver reliable performance all winter long. This includes water softeners, faucets, drains, pipes, garbage disposals, and more. A small problem can quickly turn into a larger one, especially in the case of water leaks, which means more money and time to repair. Be sure to repair all minor plumbing issues before the harsh winter weather is here.

☛ Insulate Your Outdoor Plumbing Pipes

Pipe insulation is a big advantage for outdoor plumbing pipes that are exposed or above ground. You can purchase pipe insulation kits and supplies at any local hardware or home improvement store in a wide range of varieties and prices. However, you can also just use some old towels, insulation foam, and duct tape. Wrap the foam around the pipe and secure with duct tape, then cover the foam with an old towel and secure with more tape. This will keep your outdoor pipes from freezing and cracking. You can also use this trick on indoor exposed pipes like bathroom and kitchen sinks.

☛ Tend To Your Hose and Sprinkler System

Before temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to make sure your outdoor plumbing is prepared. You do not want to leave your garden hoses attached to your outdoor faucet all winter long, so be sure to remove it and store it away indoors. Furthermore, if you have an outdoor sprinkler system, you’ll need to be sure it is prepped for winter weather.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is eager to solve your plumbing problems! We offer the most competitive prices for residential and commercial plumbing repair in town!

The Benefits of Dual Flush Toilets

Posted on September 18, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Many homeowners are opting for a new money-saving plumbing technology called duel-flush toilets. Although they have been around for several years, the innovative advancements are now more energy efficient than ever before. Continue reading to learn more about duel flush toilets and why they have become so popular today.

Toilet Repair Plumber 317-784-1870

Dual Flush Abilities

A dual flush toilet is simply a toilet that is a variation of the standard toilet that uses two buttons or handles to flush different levels of water. Some studies have shown that these toilet systems can save up to 65% water compared to a traditional toilet system. This is one of the major reasons why dual flush toilets are a top choice for both residential and commercial properties. In fact, some cities have ordinances in place that mandate all new construction buildings be built with dual flush toilet systems.

Saving Water

To understand just how much water a dual flush toilet can save, you must consider the average amount of water per flush. A standard toilet uses an average of 7 gallons of water per flush. Depending on the make and model chosen, a dual flush system can use as little as 1.7 gallons of water per flush. With these numbers in mind, think about how many times a day each member of your household flushes the toilet. This can give you an idea of how much water you can save on an annual basis. In terms of cost-savings, there is not a huge benefit. However, the environmental impact is incredible.

Buying a Dual Flush Toilet

Because the market of dual flush toilets is continuously growing, there are several make and models to choose from. More and more manufacturers are designing toilets with better features, such as comfort and efficiency. When choosing a dual flush system, it is recommended to buy a two button model. This helps conserve more water since the risk of using the wrong flush is lower. Also, be sure to hire a licensed Indianapolis plumber for dual flush toilet installation. The plumbing for these system are a bit more complex than standard toilets, so the installation process requires more knowledge, skill, and training. You do not want to risk installing a dual flush toilet yourself. This can also void the warranty in some cases.

Indianapolis Toilet Installation

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for all your Indianapolis toilet installation needs. Owner Mark Weilhammer provides residential and commercial plumbing service, as well as, master plumber services. He is a state-licensed master plumber who can deliver safe and effective plumbing repair at an affordable price. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today.

Plumbing Tips for Commercial Property Owners

Posted on August 1, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Learn How to Prevent Plumbing Problems and Repairs

Commercial Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

As a new commercial property owner, your schedule is likely filled from top to bottom with a hundred things to do. Although you are on a tight agenda, you must be sure to include plumbing maintenance on your list. Proper plumbing and preventative maintenance are imperative in order to prevent inconvenient plumbing issues, and worse, costly plumbing disasters. Continue reading to learn what you need to do as a commercial property owner to protect your building’s plumbing system and overall structural integrity.

☛ Start With Durability

The first part of wise commercial plumbing maintenance is to make sure your system is durable and can withstand the test of time. Do this by opting for high quality fixtures, materials, and enhancements that are best suited for your regions climate. Older buildings tend to have older plumbing, so it is very wise to have these fixtures and systems updated with newer, innovative plumbing systems. This is especially important if your building has lead pipes. Talk with your engineer about the condition of your building’s plumbing to determine whether or not the system is outdated.

☛ Consider Maintenance a Fixed Cost

Investment protection is one of the most important aspects of owning a commercial property. For this reason, preventative and routine maintenance should be a fixed need that is automatically added into the monthly budget for expenses. This protects you by reducing the chances a whole-system breakdown, wide-scale replacement project, invasive repair, or spending endless dollars on minor reoccurring plumbing problems. Have your commercial plumbing system inspected by a licensed plumber at least once per year to ensure your plumbing is up to code and operating efficiently. They will check water heaters, water softeners, pipes, drains, septic systems, sump pumps, fixtures, sinks, showers, tubs, and more.

☛ Do Your Part

There are many important things you should do as a commercial building owner to help keep your plumbing in good condition. For instance, when temperatures drop below freezing, it is wise to let your faucets drip water to prevent your pipes from freezing up. Also, be sure to contact a professional plumber as soon as you suspect a problem with your plumbing. The sooner a problem is addressed, the less damage will result. You can also do your part by keeping drains clean and clear, replacing the salt in your water softeners, having your water-related appliances professionally serviced once a year (i.e. water heater, water softener, etc.), and keeping up with all the other necessary plumbing care you have always known and practiced.

Indianapolis Plumbing Contractors

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for commercial plumbing repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbers, but answer your questions about commercial plumbing service, water softening, hot water heaters, hard water, and more. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today.

10 Basic Plumbing Facts You Should Know

Posted on November 7, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Most people are familiar with the basic definition of plumbing:

“A series of pipes, fixtures, and appliances that manage the distribution of water and sewage in and out of a property.”

But there is much more to plumbing than this! There are several interesting facts about the history, usage, and operation of plumbing that you would like to know. In fact, they might just give you a deeper appreciation and understanding of how interior plumbing is so advantageous to our world! Since there are too many to list, we’ll start with the top 10 basic plumbing facts that every homeowner should know.

Plumbing History

Fact #1

Indoor plumbing dates back to 2500 B.C. (And perhaps even before!) This includes the Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Greeks, Chinese, Indiana, and more.

Fact #2

Copper was used by Egyptians over 3000 years ago to lay plumbing pipes; and copper is STILL the most popular material used for plumbing pipes today.

Fact #3

Pipes used for water distribution were once made from lead. Accordingly, the word “plumbing” originated from the Latin word “plumbum”, which means lead.

Fact #4

Sir John Harington invented the flushable toilet in 1596 for his godmother, Queen Elizabeth I. This is why Americans casually call it “the John.”

Fact #5

Although Sir John Harington made a flushing toilet closet for the Queen, the first patent granted for a flushable toilet was to Alexander Cummings in 1775.

Around the House

Fact #6

Hot water can be one of the most dangerous hazards in your home. The average temperature setting for water heaters is between 115 and 140 degrees. Skin can burn in just 6 seconds at 140 degrees and 2 minutes at 125!

Fact #7

In the typical American household, toilet flushing constitutes up to 38% of all water-use in the home. But a low flush toilet can save you up to 18,000 gallons of water per year!

Fact #8

In the typical American household, over 9,000 gallons of water is wasted each year by running the faucet while waiting for water to heat up. This can contribute to as much as 15% of your annual water heating costs.

Fact #9

It only takes 15 minutes for a drippy faucet to fill an 8 ounce glass. That means that a single dripping faucet can waste an average of 180 gallons of water each month and over 2,160 gallons a year!

Fact #10

It is alleged that the average person will spend a total of 3 years on the toilet over the course of their lifetime. So no more dilly-dallying in the bathroom!

Plumbing Service and Repair

If you are experiencing plumbing leaks or problems, contact a trusted plumber for professional help. Do not let a high-flushing toilet or dripping faucet rack up your monthly bills. Take action now to prevent major or costly plumbing problems later on.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free plumbing advice. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services; and as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis plumbing repair, today.

How to Make Eco-Friendly Toilet Bowl Cleaner at Home

Posted on October 4, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Toilet Repair Plumber 317-784-1870

For all you homeowners looking for new ways to “go green”, learning to make your own eco-friendly toilet bowl cleaner is a great addition to your efforts. With a few natural ingredients, you can concoct your very own chemical-free toilet bowl cleaner that’s safe for you and the environment! Most store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be damaging to your health as well as your home’s plumbing and vital appliances (i.e. water heater, water softener, etc.). Homemade toilet bowl cleaner is a fantastic alternative to harmful, over-the-counter products; not only because it is much safer, but also because it’s equally-effective at cleaning.

Continue reading to learn a useful recipe for homemade, eco-friendly toilet bowl cleaner, and feel good about protecting yourself, your loved ones, and the environment!

What You Need

🚽 Large Glass Bowl
🚽 Glass Storage Jar
🚽 Wooden Spoon
🚽 Toilet Brush
🚽 Baking Soda
🚽 20% White Vinegar

AND…

Disinfecting Essential Oil of Your Choice:

❧ Tea Tree
❧ Peppermint
❧ Lavender
❧ Orange
❧ Pine
❧ Lemongrass

Mixing Instructions

1 Using your wooden spoon, combine 2 cups of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of essential oil into a large glass bowl. You must use a glass bowl and wooden spoon because essential oils can corrode metal and plastic.

2 Continue to mix the baking soda and oil together until the majority of clumps are gone. Then transfer the powder into a glass storage jar with a tightly-sealed lid. This will give you nearly 30 uses!

Cleaning Instructions

① Scoop 1 tablespoon of powder from your jar and pour it into the toilet bowl. Use an additional scoop for the walls.

② Use your toilet brush to spread (not scrub!) the powder/oil mix around on the walls and basin.

③ Pour a ½ cup of 20% white vinegar into the bowl. It should start to fizz on contact. If you cannot find 30% vinegar, you can use 5% distilled white vinegar instead, but increase the amount to 2 cups.

④ If no fizzing occurred, you’ll need to use some more scoops of cleaner. Once the fizzing goes down, use your toilet brush to scrub the toilet clean.

⑤ Allow the mixture to settle for 10 to 15 minutes before flushing it down.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional toilet repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbers, are eager to help you get your plumbing back on track and at a price that’s fair. We offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and free haul-away services for old or broken plumbing appliances. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis plumbing service and repair, today.

How to Retrieve Items that Fall Down the Shower Drain

Posted on August 5, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Bathroom Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Last week, we talked about how to get lost items out of a sink drain. But if you lose something down the shower drain, the process of retrieving it is a bit different. Unfortunately, it is a bit more difficult to retrieve lost items down the shower drain, but this doesn’t mean it is not possible. So if you are currently scratching your head and wondering how you’re going to get your earring out of the shower drain, you came to the right place! Continue reading for a brief guide to retrieving lost items that fall down a shower drain.

What You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Long Apparatus
• Wet-Dry Vacuum
• Rubber Gloves
• Flashlight

Magnet on a String

If the object you lost down the drain is made of metal, you may have some luck using a strong magnet tied to the end of a string. Although this sounds rudimentary, it is often very effective and efficient. You can purchase a magnet that will work at any fabric or craft store, craft aisle, or hardware store. They are cheap and can be easily tied to a string. But be sure to use a sturdy string, like yarn or wool. Thread is sometimes not strong enough, and breaks off too easily. If you do not have luck with this age-old magnet trick, it is recommended to call a plumber for professional assistance, or simply use the DIY guide below!

Getting Started…

Shut off the water. For obvious reasons, if you keep the water running, you risk pushing your lost object further down the drain. The quicker you turn the water off, the better your chances will be of retrieving your item of value.

Remove the drain cover. The drain cover, also called a stopper, will most likely be screwed in, so you will need your screwdriver for this step. Be sure to save the small screws in a safe place so you can replace the drain cover later.

Once the drain is expose, use your flashlight to peer inside. If you can see your lost object close up, you can try to pull it out with your hands. Drains can be dirty so wear rubber gloves for safety.

If you do not see it, use a long apparatus to feel around for your lost object. You can use an unraveled wire coat hanger, long grabbing stick, chopstick, or any other apparatus that feels comfortable and small enough to fit inside the shower drain.

If none of the above works, it is time to use your wet-dry vacuum. On the wet setting, vacuum up the contents inside your shower drain. Listen for any clinking noises, and after a few minutes check the vacuum receptacle for your lost object. You may be surprised what else you find!

When finished, replace the drain cover using your screwdriver.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for shower drain repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is dedicated to providing economical and effective plumbing services for all home and property owners in Central Indiana. Whether you have light plumbing repair needs, or heavy-duty complex master plumber needs, we are the professionals to call for prompt services and quality results. Call 317-784-1870 to ask about our current plumbing specials this month, or to request a free estimate for Indianapolis plumbing repair, today.

Need to Unclog a Sink Drain?

Posted on June 8, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Are you starting to notice that the water isn’t draining as quickly as it used to in your bathroom or kitchen sink? Or has it just stopped-up altogether? If so, it’s time for you to learn the best practices for unclogging a stubborn sink drain, safely and efficiently. Continue reading to learn some eco-friendly and effective solutions for clogged sink drains.

When attacking a clogged sink drain, a person’s first thought is to reach for over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners as a solution. But this is not the place to start! Not only can some of these products be harmful for your plumbing system, it is first necessary to eliminate the solids that are causing the clog. And here’s how to begin:

Start With a Plunger

Although the plunger may appear to be just a tool for the toilet, it actually has a secondary purpose. It can be used to release the tension between the settled solids in your sink’s drain pipe, which when successful, will allow you to complete the unclogging process.

If your sink is already filled with water, remove a portion of it so that the sink is nearly half-way full. If you have a double-basin sink, plug the other drain with a wet rag or dishtowel. Next, with plunger in hand, start vigorously pumping the drain up and down for one minute.

“Snake” Your Drain

One you have loosened up some of the solid mass in your sink’s drain pipe, you are ready to “snake” your drain. This refers to using an auger or drain pipe cleaning tool, often called a snake, to pull out solid waste and accumulated matter that’s causing the clog. You can purchase these at any home improvement or hardware store for a few dollars.

Simply insert the thorny plastic line into the drain as far down as you can push, and then give it a little twist and pull up all the way. This movement should pull out a long, slimy mass of food, hair, soap, grease, dental floss, and any other solid debris that made its way down the drain. Be sure to never flush this waste! Always throw it away in the garbage to avoid a clogged toilet! You may need to repeat this step a few times.

Cleanse Your Drain

Now that all the solids are eliminated, it is time to cleanse your drain. If you plan on buying an over-the-counter cleaner, it is strongly recommended to look for an eco-friendly product. But it is cheaper and equally-effective to use an eco-friendly homemade solution of baking soda and white vinegar.

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil. While the water is boiling, pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 1 cup of distilled white vinegar. When the drain stops fixing, pour in the boiling water. Then run hot water down the drain for 3 to 5 minutes. This should work to effectively remove the rest of the clog.

Call a Plumber

If your kitchen or bathroom sink clogs regularly, or simply won’t budget no matter which do-it-yourself method you try, a professional plumber is your best bet. They retain the proper tools, training, and knowledge to easily diagnose your drain problems and implement effective solutions. They can also give professional plumbing advice and recommendations that will help prevent future plumbing problems.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding locations. Owner and licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, retains a sophisticated team of licensed and experienced plumbers that provide a wide range of plumbing services for commercial and residential properties. For more than 100 years, we have been a leading family-owned and operated plumbing company in Indianapolis, Indiana. Call us at 317-784-1870 for a free plumbing repair estimate or advice, today.

Water Pump Maintenance Tips

Posted on May 10, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

Often times, water pumps are a part of the home that goes unnoticed. And until a problem occurs, they continue to remain in the back of our minds. But in order to function properly and efficiently, water pumps required routine maintenance just as much as the rest of your home’s plumbing appliances and systems.

If maintenance is neglected, you could face sudden breakdowns and costly repairs when you are least expecting it. Fortunately, water pump maintenance is simple and inexpensive.

Continue reading to learn some valuable water pump maintenance tips, and better protect your home’s plumbing from another disaster.

Water Pump System and Tank Maintenance

Preventative maintenance for your water pump system is important in order to enhance the quality and health of your home’s water, improve the function of your system, and reduce the cost of repairs and replacements. Knowing the on-going needs of your water system can greatly increase the reliability of your overall operation.

It is recommended to have your water pump system inspected and serviced at least once every two to three years. If you are putting a property up for sale on the market, it is best to have the water pump system audited before the inspection process. This will prevent any sudden surprises. At the time of your scheduled water pump service appointment, you will either need to receive routine maintenance, or a complete system replacement.

A professional master plumbing contractor will cover several areas during their inspection process, including the well, pump, tank, wellheads, pump platforms, chlorinators, and the overall function of the system. They will also test and inspect your tank’s water pressure, record water levels, measure pump times and cycle starts, check for leaks, and assess the condition of the pumps. Generally, it is custom to make small repairs and replacements in order to prevent or avoid future plumbing issues and costlier repairs.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Service

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need master plumbing services in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding locations. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience. As a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company, we offer a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services, including repair, installation, maintenance, and replacement. We also offer plumbing service for water heaters, water softeners, water purification systems, sump pumps, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis plumbing repair and service you can trust.

Why is My Tap Water Brown?

Posted on April 13, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Softener Repair 317-784-1870

Municipal water plants and home plumbing is an essential technology that sets us apart from our earlier ancestors. Clean, fresh water right from the tap is a luxury we didn’t have hundreds of years ago, and a privilege that many of us take for granted. As long as our water stays the same, we don’t give it much thought. But homeowners do start to take interest in their water supply once it starts to change or take on some peculiar traits.

One common peculiarity is brown or discolored tap water. When this happens, it is important to take immediate action to resolve the issue and restore your home comfort before the root of the cause becomes worse, and more costly to repair. It is best for a small problem to be caught early on before major damage can occur to your home’s plumbing or appliances. Continue reading to learn why this happens to tap water and how to fix the problem within a reasonable budget.

Brown Faucet Water

Tap water should be virtually crystal clear, odorless, and have a neutral taste. But under poor circumstances, water can change color, lose clarity, and even have a metallic or rotten taste. These poor conditions can cause water to range in color, from light yellows and gold tones, to dark grey and brown tones. Solid particles and debris may also be visible in discolored tap water. Whatever the cause for the discoloration, it is not necessarily dangerous but certainly alarming, and a sign that something else is going wrong in your home plumbing. Fortunately, most circumstances that cause water to turn colors are easily reversible and inexpensive. But before fixing the problem, a licensed master plumber must first determine the cause.

Common causes for discolored or brown tap water:

Aging or rusted plumbing pipes. If the discoloration of tap water generally occurs first thing in the morning, or after a brief time away from home, it could very-well be rusty-old galvanized water supply lines. This is even truer if it is just one faucet delivering discolored water. The pressure caused by switching the water on and off loosens the rusted particles off of the piping, sending it straight out to the bathroom or kitchen faucet. Sometimes, this peeling exposes iron beneath the galvanic coating on the inside of the pipes, also causing the water to turn shades of brown.

High magnesium and iron levels. When tap water has excessive levels of iron and magnesium, it can cause water to change color and appear brown. This is common for homes supplied by underground wells. Sometimes, soil has high levels of iron in it, jeopardizing the ground water coloration.

Water main break. If a local water main breaks, or fire hydrants are being flushed, it can cause contaminants and debris to leak into home water supplies. These cases tend to work themselves out on their own once the water break is repaired. It usually takes about an hour or so for the water to clear up. For this reason, it is best to check with your local department before replacing any pipes or water heaters.

Water heater problems. If the brown or murky water is only coming from the hot water tap, you may need to steer your attention toward your water heater. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may need replaced. Otherwise, it needs inspected and serviced by a qualified professional to eliminate these kinds of problems.

Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved with professional water heater repair, water filtration services, and water softening systems. Talk to your local and trusted plumbing company for help with water discoloration and plumbing problems in Central Indiana.

Weilhammer Plumbing CO. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water heater repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry and knows just how to solve your meet your water heater problems. We offer free estimates, free advice, and a wide range of plumbing, water heater, and water softener services for commercial and residential properties. Call 317-784-1870 for water heater repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.