Troubleshooting Common Plumbing Problems at Home

Posted on July 21, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing problems can be a nightmare for homeowners, leading to costly repairs and wasted time. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to troubleshoot common plumbing issues before calling in a professional. From clogged drains and leaky pipes to running toilets and frozen waterlines, this guide will provide the necessary tips and tricks for tackling each issue quickly and efficiently. Keep reading to learn more about how you can easily fix your own plumbing problems at home!

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Common Residential Plumbing Problems and Solutions

Clogged Drains: Clogged drains can be one of the most difficult plumbing issues to tackle, but there are a few simple steps you can take to unclog them. The first step is to try using a plunger to dislodge any debris that may be stuck in the drain. You can also try using a combination of hot water and baking soda, as this will help break up any buildup. If these methods do not work, it might be necessary to remove the trap under the sink for further inspection.

Leaky Pipes: Leaky pipes can cause a lot of damage if left unchecked. To determine where the leak is coming from, start by checking all visible pipes for cracks or breaks in them. Once you’ve located the source of the leak, the next step is to seal it with a patch or an epoxy. If this doesn’t work, then it might be time to call in a master plumber.

Running Toilets: A running toilet can be very annoying and costly if left unattended for too long. The most common reason that toilets run is because the flapper valve isn’t closing properly. To fix this issue, start by checking the water level in the tank and ensuring that it is set correctly. If it is not set correctly, then adjust it accordingly. You can also try replacing the flapper valve as well.

Frozen Waterlines: Frozen waterlines occur during cold winter months and can cause major plumbing issues. To prevent your waterlines from freezing, make sure to keep the temperature in your home at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also ensure that any exposed pipes are properly insulated, as this will help keep them from freezing. If a pipe does freeze, you can try thawing it with hot water or a hair dryer on low heat.

Low Water Pressure: Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of different issues. The most common cause is blocked pipes or valves, so it’s important to check all visible plumbing for any blockages. If there are no blockages, then you may need to call in a professional plumber to identify the source of the issue and fix it accordingly.

Scale Buildup: Scale buildup can occur over time in your pipes, reducing water pressure and leading to clogged drains. To prevent scale buildup, make sure to regularly clean your pipes with a descaling solution. You can also install a water softener and filter system, which will help reduce the amount of minerals and scale buildup in your pipes.

Your Solutions to Plumbing Problems

With these tips, you should now have the necessary know-how to troubleshoot common plumbing problems at home. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to plumbing maintenance, so make sure to regularly inspect your pipes and fixtures for any signs of wear and tear. Doing this will help save you from costly repairs down the road! ⁠

If you find yourself unable to solve a plumbing problem, then it’s best to contact a professional plumber for assistance. They will be able to provide the necessary expertise and tools to tackle any issue quickly and efficiently.

Looking for some professional plumbing help? 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 Common Causes of Low Water Pressure in Your Home and How to Fix It

Posted on June 16, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Do you have low water pressure in your home? If so, it can be an annoying and frustrating experience. Low water pressure can make showering, washing dishes, and other day-to-day activities more difficult. It can also cause damage to your plumbing over time. Fortunately, there are some common causes of low water pressure that you may be able to fix on your own without calling a plumber.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss 10 of the most common causes of low water pressure in homes and how to fix them with ease!

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10 Possible Reasons Why Your Water Pressure is Low

1. Clogged Pipes: If your home has old or deteriorating pipes, clogs can form and cause low water pressure. To fix this issue, you’ll need to shut off the water source and use a pipe cleaning tool to clear out any blockages in the line.

2. Corrosion: Aged pipes may corrode over time, leading to a decrease in water pressure. The only solution is to replace these pipes with new ones which will improve your overall water pressure significantly.

3. Leaks: Water leaks around your plumbing fixtures or in the walls can result in low water pressure as well. To fix a leak, you’ll need to locate the source of it and then use a patching kit or epoxy to seal the crack.

4. Unstable Water Pressure: If you’re experiencing low water pressure that changes from one area to another, it could be due to an unstable water pressure in your municipal water supply. In this case, you may want to consider installing a water pressure booster pump in order to bring up the overall water pressure.

5. Too Many Fixtures on One Line: If there are too many fixtures connected to the same line, it can cause low water pressure for all of them. To fix this problem, you’ll need to install additional lines and distribute your plumbing fixtures evenly across them for better performance and efficiency.

6. Low City Water Pressure: Sometimes, low water pressure may be due to the municipal water supply. To determine if this is the case, you should contact your local municipality and ask for a report on their current water pressure levels.

7. High Water Demand: If your home has recently experienced an increase in its daily water usage, it can lead to lower water pressure as well. In order to fix this issue, you should try using more efficient plumbing fixtures that can help reduce the demand on your overall system.

8. Hot Water Heaters: If your hot water heater isn’t working properly, it can also decrease the amount of available hot water in your home which can result in lower overall water pressure. To fix this problem, you’ll need to either repair or replace your hot water heater.

9. Air in the Pipes: If you’ve recently experienced construction work in your home, there may be air trapped in the pipes which can reduce the overall flow of water. To fix this issue, you should use a plumbing snake or an air compressor to force out any trapped air and restore normal water pressure levels.

10. Old Shut-Off Valves: Last but not least, old shut-off valves can cause low water pressure as well since they may not close completely due to erosion or wear over time. The best way to fix this is by replacing these valves with new ones that are designed for proper closure and performance.

You Do Not Need to Settle for Low Water Pressure in the House

Low water pressure in the house can be a nuisance but with the right knowledge and tools, you may be able to fix the issue on your own. Ask an experienced plumbing professional about water pressure regulators, water pressure boosters, and water pressure pumps. We hope this blog post has provided some helpful information about common causes of low water pressure in homes and how to fix them!

Still can’t seem to figure out your low water pressure problem? 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.

The Difference Between Water Pressure and Water Volume

Posted on March 27, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

You’ve heard of low water pressure; but are you familiar with low water volume? Not only is there a difference between water pressure and water volume, both can actually have a negative effect on your home’s plumbing, and ultimately, your finances. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about low water pressure and water volume, including what you can do about both.

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Low Pressure or Low Volume?

The most important advantage of understanding the difference between low water pressure and low water volume is that it can help you better identify other plumbing problems around the house. But first, you must be able to tell the difference between the two. You likely already know about low water pressure, as most of us have experienced weak shower heads and slow-filling bathtubs once or twice in our lives. But low water volume can be a bit trickier to see.

You see, water pressure is the amount of force that pushes water through your water lines, while water volume refers to the quantity of water pushed through.

Water volume is regulated by your plumbing pipes and the aerators at the end of your faucet taps. For this reason, you would need to take a look at your faucets to get a better idea of the water volume in your home. And in more serious cases, you will need a licensed plumber to take apart and inspect your pipes for obstructions. Fortunately, low water pressure and low water volume can both be improved with the right solutions.

Low Water Volume

If you believe you have low water volume, there are several options for improvement. One of the main reasons why water volume lowers is due to hard mineral deposits and limescale. Simply take apart your faucets, soak the aerator in distilled white vinegar for 3 to 5 hours, and rinse with clean water. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the aerator altogether, or adjust the flow restrictor in the aerator. Read our blog, “How to Locate and Adjust Low Volume Water Restrictors” to learn what to do.

Another fix for low water volume is an obstructed water valve. If your water flow does not improve, check to see if your main water valve is open all the way. If none of the above options work for you, it is necessary to enlist the help of a professional. You may have serious pipe blockages and similar defects causing your low water volume and water pressure, all of which must be inspected by a properly-equipped and licensed professional.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair and Maintenance

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality plumbing service and installation at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties. 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.

Common Causes for Low Water Pressure at Home

Posted on June 6, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Have you become exhausted of low water pressure issues in your shower, bathtub, sinks, and hoses? Does it take a long time to wash the soap out of your hair? Or fill the bathtub for your kids? How about watering the garden? You will be happy to learn that ALL of these water pressure issues can be turned around with one simple phone call to your trusted Indianapolis plumber!

Continue reading to learn how to determine the culprit behind your low water pressure problems, and how to get it back.

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Got Low Pressure Water?

Many people wonder what happened to the water pressure in their homes, or why their pressure of water is so weak altogether. There are various reasons behind the dilemma. On one hand, a person can move into a home that has great water pressure, but after some years, it begins to fade. This can be a somewhat confusing and frustrating situation. On the other hand, a person could live in a home that has always had low water pressure but can’t figure out a remedy. Under any circumstance, the issue usually concerns the home’s plumbing pipes and system.

Defective Underground Pipes

One common reason for low water pressure is disruption of the underground pipes that carry water from the main water supply into a home. If this pipe is leaking, dripping, or being interfered by tree roots, there could be implications to the amount of water pressure, as well as, other plumbing problems.

Calcium buildup and large deposits of chemicals can also case blockage and slower water flow. This could be the answer for homeowners who feel they have lost their water pressure over the years. If the pipes are old, they could begin to atrophy and deteriorate, causing the same type of complications. This one reason why it is important to recognize general plumbing repair signs in your home.

Thin Piping

Another reason behind low water pressure in homes is thin piping. This is common in older homes especially. Smaller pipes lead to greater friction, which causes slower water flow. Replacing thin plumbing pipes is always an option, and more affordable than you would think. If this is an option you are willing to consider, be sure to consult a licensed and insured plumbing company for proper inspections, installations, and a guarantee on work.

Renting a Home or Apartment?

If you are a renter, perhaps you could discuss the upgrade with the homeowners. Better water pressure does increase the value of a home, in a buyers’ perspective. If that doesn’t work, you can try replacing the shower and faucet fixtures. Sometimes there is buildup in these types of fixtures that cause low water pressure.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair

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.

5 Water Problems That Suggest You Need Plumbing Repair

Posted on April 25, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

As a homeowner, you are mostly in tune with your home’s plumbing system. So when something is “off”, you tend to notice right away. Conversely, if you are mostly unsure about the overall condition of your home’s plumbing, it helps to have it inspected by a professional plumber. You can also look for common signs of plumbing problems yourself.
Frequently, indications of plumbing deficiencies can be seen in one of our everyday basic needs: water. There are 5 issues that can happen to your tap water than can strongly suggest something is wrong with your plumbing system.

Continue reading to learn what these top 5 warning signs are, and what you should do if your home is showing one or more of these problems.

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❶ Discolored Water

When you fill a glass up with water from your kitchen sink, the color should be clear and crisp. There should not be a surplus of floating debris, nor should the water appear cloudy or dirty. If it does show any of these signs, there could be a problem with your water quality. You may be able to solve this problem with water line replacement, water purification, water filtration, reverse osmosis, and more.

❷ Smelly Water

If your tap water smells bad, it is a strong indication that something is wrong in your plumbing system. The type of problem can often be identified by the type of smell. A rotten egg smell suggests that your water has a high concentration of hydrogen sulfide gas. These odors often develop inside hot water heaters as a result of low chlorine levels, high sulfate levels, and even stagnant water. The best method for getting rid of water heater odors caused by bacteria and other elements is to sanitize the water heater tank, which requires professional plumbing service.

If your tap water smells like garbage, it could likely be coming from bacteria growth in your drains that come from food, soap or other materials sitting in there. The most effective resolution would be to sanitize your pipes and drain.

❸ Low Water Pressure

If you notice that your water pressure is decreasing or suddenly very low, there is something going on with your plumbing system that requires professional attention. Although low water pressure could be a sign of many plumbing problems, the most common causes usually involve clogs or obstructions of some kind within the pipes.

❹ Faulty Water Temperature

If you are experiencing water fluctuations, the first place to investigate would be your water heater settings. Check on them to ensure they are set to the proper temperature. If the setting is correct and you are still experiencing highs and lows in water temperatures, the problem could be with your water heater. This requires professional Indianapolis water heater service.

❺ Increased Water Bills

Water bills usually steady out to a consistent amount after living in the same residence with the same number of occupants for a long period of time. So when the water bill is suddenly very high, there is a good reason to investigate. The most common cause for increased water bills are water leaks, which require immediate professional inspection and repair. Other reasons for increased water bills is a running toilet, dripping faucet, water softener defects, lawn watering, filling up the pool, and water cooled air conditioners.

Call Our Plumbing and Water Heater Professionals Today!

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience in the plumbing industry. He can provide plumbing repair, replacements, diagnostics, installations, equipment sales, and much more. 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.

Five Signs that Indicate You Might Need Bathroom Plumbing Repair

Posted on December 16, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

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The bathroom is one of the most used areas of a home. Whether you need the toilet, the mirror, the sink, tub or shower, the bathroom is sure to meet your restroom needs. Along with such popularity, the amount of traffic a bathroom experiences can also increase the likelihood of common plumbing problems.

In order to keep a reliable and functional bathroom plumbing system, routine maintenance and care are vital. When regular care isn’t taken with a home’s plumbing, problems can start to occur. Once you start to notice signs that your plumbing might be failing you, it is time to call a licensed master plumber for help. Continue reading to learn the five most common signs that your bathroom needs plumbing repair.

Low Water Pressure

When your shower doesn’t seem to give of the water power it used to, don’t reach for the shower head to adjust it, because it may just be low water pressure. Although it could be a clogged shower head, which can be easily fixed with a long soak in CLR (calcium lime rust cleaner), low water pressure can be caused by a long list of things. More serious reasons for low or lowered water pressure is damages water heater, burst pipes, blockages, water leaks, and more. This is why it is important to have something like this checked out by a licensed plumber before it becomes an expensive and tedious repair.

Non-Stop Running Toilet

High water pressure can also be a sign that something is wrong with your bathroom plumbing. Things like a constantly-running toilet that never seems to finish its flush cycle, or a persistent dripping faucet, are indications of high water pressure. But leaky faucets and running toilets are not the main problem with high water pressure, these are simply signs that can indicate a larger plumbing repair. Not repairing high water pressure can result in floods, burst pipes, broken water heaters, busted plumbing fixtures, and much more.

Foul-Smelling Water

When water starts to smell funny or change in color, it may be an indication that your plumbing pipes are in bad shape. Water that is supplied to your home should be clear and odor-free. When it appears discolored or foul-smelling, it may be a sign that rust, sulfur, iron, or air is inside your plumbing pipes. It can also be related to broken water mains and wells, or pipe corrosion. Different colors indicate different problems, so consult a master plumber for an accurate and professional water quality assessment.

Clogged Drains

When a tub or sink drain is slow, or has stopped up completely, this is an obvious indication that something is blocking the drain’s passage-way. Store-bought drain cleaners and drain snakes are very helpful for minor or moderate clogged drains. Usually one will pull out hair, soap residue, and maybe even a few Band-Aids. But for major clogs, professional assistance is required.

No Hot Water

One of the most frustrating plumbing problems to have, especially in the winter, is no hot water. When your hot water seems to stop, or doesn’t get as hot as it used to, there may be a problem with your hot water heater. Scale, sediment, and a damaged heating element within water heater tanks can be the source of no hot water. There could also be leaks in the major water lines, or elsewhere in your plumbing, taking away the ability to heat your home’s water supply properly.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, licensed master plumber and owner of Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana. He and his team of experienced plumbers can solve your plumbing problems at a price you can afford. We offer free estimates, emergency plumbing repairs, free haul-away service, and much more. As a business that’s been family owned and operated since 1901, we understand the value of a dollar, and practice the utmost honesty and integrity when pricing our services. Call us today at 317-784-1870 for free estimates and information regarding our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Got Low Water Pressure? Find Out Why!

Posted on October 17, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Are you tired of dealing with low water pressure at home? Are your bathtubs, sinks, showers, and hoses giving you a hard time? Does it take longer to rinse shampoo out of your hair? Does it take a long time for the bathtub to fill up? If so, it is time to diagnose the issue! Continue reading to learn what the underlying plumbing issue is, and how to get that fast and healthy water pressure you’ve been longing for!

Water Pressure and Plumbing

It’s completely normal to be puzzled, stumped, and thrown for a loop when water pressure begins to fail. Two common scenarios are people who move into a home with great water pressure, only to see it fade away over the years; while the other scenario is families whose homes have always had weak water pressure, and cannot find a remedy to turn it around. These can be very frustrating circumstances, because lack of knowledge leaves homeowners in the dark. It is highly suggested to consult an Indianapolis master plumber for accurate diagnostics and service. They retain the proper training, licensed, experience, and resources to accurately diagnose the issue, and render solutions you can afford.

Reasons Why Your Water Pressure Might Be Low or Diminishing:

• Underground Piping Disruptions

• Tree roots, Poor Foundations, or Leaking Pipes

• Calcium Buildup in or on Plumbing Pipes and Fixtures (Common Reason for Slowly Fading Water Pressure)

• Large Chemical Deposits

• Thin Piping (Common in Older Homes)

• Mineral Buildup on Faucets and Shower Heads (Simply Replace)

• And More

If you are experiencing water pressure problems in your home or commercial property, call a licensed plumber for professional service and diagnostics. Great water pressure is a true asset for any home, and can even increase a property’s value.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

For more information about low water pressure in Indianapolis, call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 today. Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber, provides exceptional plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. We have been a family owned and operated company since 1901, making us one of the oldest Indianapolis plumbing companies in the state of Indiana! We offer free estimates, DIY advice, free plumbing information, emergency services, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about water pressure repair and plumbing service today!