Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. for Affordable Water Heater Service and Repair in Indianapolis!

Posted on February 8, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

You can get high-quality plumbing repair and water heater services at an affordable price! And in a time-frame that’s convenient for you!

Indianapolis Water Heater Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is owned and operated by Mark Weilhammer, a state-licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN. Here at the Weilhammer Plumbing Company, we are passionate about integrity and quality workmanship. That is why our master plumbers stay trained and up-to-date on all advancements in plumbing technology and repair.

On top of standard commercial and residential plumbing service, we also provide professional water heater service and repair. We service and repair all make and model water heaters for commercial and residential properties, but if you need water heater replacement, we also carry top-of-the-line Rheem water heaters at an affordable cost!

Call 317-784-1870 for information about our water heater repair services, prices, and availability today!

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. Today!

Water heater service, installation, and repair shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg! That is why Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. offers the most competitive rates in town. As a company that has been locally and family owned since 1901, we understand that value of a dollar, and never take advantage of our clients with inflated plumbing repair costs and labor. You can rest assure that you are getting the most honest quote, highest quality work, and most competitive price for water heater service in Indianapolis!

Even if you do not require water heater repair, your existing unit still requires routine maintenance, inspection, and servicing. And our master plumbers can provide all of these services in just one visit! Call our office today at 317-784-1870 and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable company representative about our quality water heater repair services in Indianapolis, IN.

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

Posted on November 19, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

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

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

Gas Water Heaters

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

Electric Water Heaters

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

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

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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

Learning About Sediment Buildup in Water Heaters

Posted on August 27, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Sediment refers to the small and often times, microscopic, particles that precipitate out of water at high temperatures. Sand, dirt, calcium carbonate, mineral ions, and any other solid debris commonly makes up the sediment found at the bottom of hot water heater tanks. Sediment buildup in hot water heaters generally depends on what kind of water you have. In some areas, there is virtually no sediment; while other areas contain water with high levels of sediment.

Regular flushing of your hot water heater helps prevent sediment build up. The heating of water in your water heater causes calcium carbonate to precipitate out and settle to the bottom of the tank. Steam bubbles form under the sediment when the burners come on, causing popping and other similar noises as the bubbles escape from under the sediment.

Why Is Your Water Heater Not Producing Enough Hot Water? It Might Be…

• A Broken Dip Tube
• Incorrect Temperature Setting
• Faulty Thermostat
• Sediment Buildup
• Faulty Electric Components
• Burned Out Heating Elements

What is a Dip Tube?

The dip tube is a long slender tube that fits down into the water heater inlet, and usually has a small hole about 6 inches from the top. The dip tube directs the incoming cold liquid down to the bottom of the tank. If the dip tube is broken, the incoming cold liquid can mix with the outgoing hot liquid and cause it to seem as though you are running out of hot water.

Do You Have a Noisy Tank?

Noise coming from gas water heater models are often times caused by the sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Steam bubbles form under the sediment; and when the bubbles begin to escape from under the sediment, it causes thumping and popping noises. On the other hand, sizzling noises can be caused by condensation dripping onto the hot burner; like falling water drops on a hot griddle.

Thermal Expansion

When water is heated, it expands. If an inlet is not blocked by a check valve, pressure reducing valve, or other device, the increase in water volume simply travels back into the source. If the inlet is blocked, this increase in volume will cause an increase in pressure; and sometimes to dangerous levels. The T&PR (Temperature & Pressure Release) valve relieves this pressure by discharging a small amount of liquid.

A thermal expansion tank can be installed in the line that will absorb the increase in volume, thus preventing the T&PR valve from discharging unnecessarily. T&P valves are strictly an emergency measure and should be replaced every 2 years. At 180 degrees, the temperature at which the T&P valve opens, damage can occur to your system and you may have voided the warranty on your water heater. The improper installation of backflow preventers can block the thermal expansion leading to operation of the T&P Valve.

What is Water Hammer?

When water travels through the pipes, it creates kinetic energy or energy of motion. When a valve abruptly shuts off, a shock wave results. Water hammer most often occurs when a valve shuts off suddenly. Commercial arrestors are available to combat this problem. They have a small air bladder within a cylinder plumbed to the piping system that is located near the problematic valve. Select hardware stores carry them. Also, when pipes appear to droop, adding a support system can solve the problem.

Is the Water a Milky Color?

Water contains dissolved oxygen, as well as, several other gases. When water is heated, it loses most of its ability to maintain these gases. So when the water pressure is lowered as the liquid comes out of the tap, these gasses can form tiny bubbles; which gives the liquid a milky appearance. Allowing the water to stand for a few minutes will permit these bubbles to rise out of the liquid; successively eliminating the milky-ness and restoring a clearer appearance. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, be sure to strap the tank to the wall in order to prevent damage and possible injury.

Water Heater Services – Indianapolis, Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber, has more than 60 years of experience repairing hot water heaters, water softeners, and plumbing systems for residential and commercial properties. He and his team are state licensed master plumbers (#106214), and highly trained to provide a wide-range of water heater repairs and services. We offer free estimates, emergency services, and water heater unit and product sales! Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable Indianapolis plumber today!

FVIR Gas Water Heaters and What You Need to Know About Them

Posted on August 26, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

There’s a new type of water heater on the market, and you need to know what people are saying about them before deciding to buy one for yourself. They are the new FVIR gas water heaters; where “FVIR” stands for Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant. There’s several reviews from customers that have purchased these very units; countless reviews exposing the good, the bad, and the horrifying consequences of their purchase decision.

Continue reading to learn more about FVIR gas water heaters, the warnings that come with them, and real-life customer reviews.

Product and Service Information

FVIR technology is meant to make certain appliances (in this case, water heaters) fire resistant. In fact, 11 years ago all water heaters models were re-designed to have this FVIR capability. Water heater prices have exceeded many customer budgets since then, even though many are not reliable units. When shopping for a new water heater, it is strongly encouraged to choose a make and mode that rarely needs repairs, has parts that are easy to find, and is simple to maintenance.

Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, shares his opinion on a few of the most popular gas water heaters on the market today:

Bradford White

Grade = A+
Rating = Trouble-Free, Common-Sense Design, Reliable, Easy to Service

Rheem Hot Water Heaters

Grade = A++
Rating = Safe, Long-Lasting, Reliable System, Easy to Use, and Simple to Service

Richmond & GE

Grade = C
Rating = Warranty Issues, Defective Units, Poor Providers

A.O. Smith, Kenmore, Lochinvar, State, & Sears

Grade = D+
Rating = Lint Filter Needs Constantly Cleaned, Poor FVIR Design, Warranty Issues, Defective Units, Poor Providers

Whirlpool

Grade = F-
Rating = Warranty is Void if Lint Filter is Not Cleaned Every 3 Months, Bad Warranties, Defective Units, Difficult Parts Replacement, and CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS

**IN MY OPINION, Whirlpool water heaters are the WORST available units on the market today. Although American-made, they break down constantly and come with poor warranties. And all you Do-It-Yourselfers out there, forget about doing your own repairs. Several people have accidentally broken the internal gas lines, causing explosions, fires, and floods. Save yourself loads of time, money, and frustration by NOT purchasing a Whirlpool brand hot water heater!**

Customer Review #1
Customer Review #2

American Water Heater

Grade = F
Rating = Poor Customer Support, Non-Transferable Warranties, Void Warranty if Lint Filter is Not Cleaned Every 3 Months, Defective Parts, Bad Customer Reviews

Customer Review #1

Check Out these Outrageous Home Depot and Sears WATER HEATER REVIEWS for More Insight:

WATER HEATER REVIEW #1
WATER HEATER REVIEW #2
WATER HEATER REVIEW #3
WATER HEATER REVIEW #4

Information Provided By Mark Weilhammer, Master Plumber and Owner of Weilhammer Plumbing Company in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company – Indianapolis, IN

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. Indianapolis, IN 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 for professional water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana you can trust. We are highly trained, licensed, and insured master plumbers with decades of experience in the water heater service industry. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of master plumbing contractors provide a wide-range of water heater repair services for residential and commercial properties. We offer free estimates, unit and product sales, exceptional customer support, emergency water heater repair services, and much more! Call 317-714-0759 to learn more about gas water heater service and repair in Indianapolis, IN today.

Electric Water Heaters: Need to Know Info

Posted on August 22, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

When it comes to purchasing a new electric water heater, the best advice I can give as a master plumber of 60+ years is to ask if you are getting good lifetime elements. The only recent advances in electric water heaters have been the Rheem and the GE Hybrid models. These models came on the market about five years ago but never gained popularity because of their higher prices and associated costs. If you are looking for the BEST electric water heaters on the market right now, I would suggest Rheem or Bradford White models. They are made with heavy-duty stainless steel heating
elements that last a lifetime.

GE Electric Water Heater Hybrid Customer Reviews

Features of the Rheem Electric Hybrid Water Heater

Poor Choice for Electric Water Heaters: Whirlpool Energy Smart

These water heaters are “sub-standard” to say the least. Because of the various fire and liability issues associated with the control panel, repairs are far more complicated. If the circuit board gets wet, there is no hope for repair. Also, a replacement circuit board can cost upwards of $200 plus labor, and take more than a week to be delivered; and this might not even fix the problem. Many more repairs could possibly be needed. The biggest problem however, is that many plumbers (such as myself) refuse to attempt repairs on these units because of the safety and liability concerns. If you have this unit, and it breaks, it can be difficult fining someone to repair it for you at a cost that seems fair. In my opinion as a veteran master plumber, these are the WORST electric water heaters on the market right now.

Whirlpool Water Heater Customer Review #1

Whirlpool Water Heater Customer Review #2

A.O. Smith, Sears, and State Select Water Heaters

The 2010 make and model A.O. Smith FVIR gas water heater has similar problems to the Whirlpool models. They are poorly designed; taking in barely enough air to operate. For those who have their Smith water heaters installed in a laundry room, clogs and unit problems will most certainly occur in a very short period of time. This is COSTLY! Remember that State and Sears water heaters are made by A.O. Smith, so beware. In my previous years of experience I have installed many of these units, only to uninstall them less than a year later. This is why I do not repair or install them anymore. For example, 150psi air pressure couldn’t even remove the lint stuck in the lint screen less than a year later in a 2004 State Select Gas Water Heater. With my experience as a master plumber, I can make an educated guess that this FVIR design in the A.O. Smith gas water heaters will not only see a heap of problems in the future, but perhaps a product re-call and class action lawsuit as well.

Sears Water Heater Customer Review #1

Kenmore Water Heater Customer Review #2

Weilhammer Plumbing Company – Indianapolis, Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, owner and operator of our 112 year-old Indianapolis plumbing company, for accurate industry-information about water heater repair and installation services. We offer the most competitive prices and highest quality customer service in Indiana. This is why we have been a family owned and operated plumbing business since the early 1900’s. We offer a wide range of plumbing services; including 24 hour emergency plumbing, unit and product sales, installations, repairs, maintenance, replacements, DIY advice, and much more. Call us today at 317-714-0759 for a free estimate regarding water heater repair services in Indianapolis, IN and any nearby counties.