What You Need to Know About Your Water Hammer Problem

Posted on October 29, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

Turning off a faucet shouldn’t give you anxiety. But for those with a water hammer problem, there is no way of doing so without anxiously anticipating that loud bang afterwards. Like a shock wave rushing through your piping system, water hammer noise is most certainly something to make you jump.

If this is your current situation at home, continue below to learn what you need to know about what causes it and how to resolve it, fast.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Water Hammer is Called Hydraulic Shock

Properly called hydraulic shock, water hammer is a common home plumbing problem with a simple solution. Not only does water hammer cause a loud knocking or banging noise after shutting off a faucet to quickly, but it is also known to cause the faucet and fixtures to visibly vibrate. What’s really happening to cause all of these effects? Well, water is being forced through the pipes, exerting pressures at hundreds of pounds per inch.

Why it Happens

The common cause of water hammer is mechanical. Appliances (commonly washing machines and dishwashers) or faucets shut the water flow off too fast. This defect in the plumbing mechanism is the main reason why homes experience hydraulic shock. But this is not the only possible cause; water hammer can also be from having old or outdated plumbing. Fixtures and appliances can all have older technologies that are not best for preventing sudden water flow stoppage. Namely, dishwashing and washing machines are designed with solenoid valves that are notorious for stopping water flow to suddenly.

The most common solution for hydraulic shock repair is the addition of air chambers, which are a type of pipe fittings that act as a shock absorber. For a long term solution, water hammer arrestors are usually incorporated into a plumbing system, which are a more complex version of air chambers.

What to Do About It

If you have a water hammer issue, be sure to act fast. You might believe it is just an annoying aftereffect of your plumbing pipes, but really, it can cause extensive damage if neglected overtime. If you had a water hammer repair done several years ago, they could be outdated by now. Although it is possible for homeowners to repair their own water hammer problem, it is best left to a licensed plumber who retains the proper permits, training, and professional resources to get the job done up to code.

Who to Call for Water Hammer Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber (#106214), 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.

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Do Not Make these Common Plumbing Mistakes as a New Homeowner

Posted on October 9, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

When a person buys a new house, especially for the first time, they are marveled by the accomplishment, and warmed by a sense of great pride. If you currently have these feelings of pride and achievement peaking at full force after buying a new house, it is common to feel very strongly about taking the best care of your new property to the best of your own ability. In fact, you might be planning to do most of the handyman and maintenance work yourself. But be warned, when it comes to plumbing, there are some all-too-common plumbing mistakes that new homeowners tend to make, all of which are very damaging and costly, both upfront and in the long run.

Continue reading to learn the top plumbing mistakes made by new homeowners so that you can avoiding falling victim to the same errors in your house.

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New Homeowner Plumbing Errors to Avoid

▶ Performing Plumbing Work Without a Permit

Any kind of major plumbing work must be performed by a state-licensed plumber or master plumber. There are several building codes, municipal codes, and code standards that must be met for legal purposes and safety purposes. If you are not permitted to do such plumbing work by the state, you should not do it at all.

▶ Forgetting to Shut the Water Off Before a Trip

Many people have forgotten to turn their water off before a trip or vacation, only to come home to a massively flooded house or property. Do not make this same mistake. First, be sure you know where your main water shut off is located, which is primarily important for emergencies. Then, set reminders to turn your main water shut off valve to the off position prior to departing on a trip longer than a few days.

▶ Treating Clogged Drains With Chemical Drain Cleaners

Store-bought chemical drain cleaners are never the right solution for a clogged drain. This is actually one of the most common plumbing mistakes homeowners make. Chemicals that go down the drain are not only damaging to your plumbing pipes, especially galvanized ones, they are hazardous to our surrounding environment. Instead, make homemade drain dissolving cleaner, or use a handy drain auger.

▶ Combing Copper Piping With Galvanized Pipes

Galvanized piping is great, alone. Copper piping is also very great, alone. But together, corrosion will take place. Never make the mistake of connecting these two kinds of plumbing pipes together, under any circumstances. Otherwise, you can look forward to a costly and invasive plumbing overhaul in the near future. If such pipes must be connected, talk to your master plumber about a dielectric union.

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumber Services You Can Afford

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing service and home plumbing inspections at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well.Whether you need routine water heater service at home, or a major pipe replacement for a commercial building, our licensed Indianapolis plumbers can do it all, and in a time frame that’s convenient for you!

Are You Looking for Affordable Water Line Repair in Indianapolis?

Posted on September 10, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

If you are having troubles with your home’s water lines, you need a trusted master plumbing team to resolve your issues promptly, and at a price you can afford. Trust the master plumbers at Weilhammer Plumbing Company for superior water line repairs and installations in Indianapolis, Indiana. Continue below to learn more about water line maintenance and repair, and what we can do for you.

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Facts About Water Line Repair and Replacement

Whether in a home, office, or multistory building, water lines are not designed to last forever. At some point in time, they will wear down, and require some degree of repair, or even full replacement. Once water lines begin to break down, they can pose problems for the rest of the property. Often times, old or defective water lines can damage the foundation, as well as the surrounding landscape.

Not only can these repairs be structurally devastating to a property, they are also quite costly and invasive to repair if neglected for too long. If your home or property was built before 1960, you likely have sewer lines that are not galvanized, which means they are more prone to corrosion. In this case, you would likely need to have your old sewer lines relined, burst with new HDPE, or entirely replaced.

Our Indianapolis Water Line Repair Services are Expert Level

Don’t let a water line problem continue for another minute! Contact the licensed and insured master plumbers at Weilhammer Plumbing Company for service you can trust. When it comes to water line repairs and installations in Indianapolis, Weilhammer Plumbing Company uses the latest technologies and proven methods to ensure accurate diagnostics. We start by obtaining the proper permissions from the local municipal authorities. We then apply our expertise in locating and repairing damaged water lines with the help of innovative, trenchless technologies, such as video cameras and electronic locating devices.

Independently Owned and Operated Business With Economical Rates to Match

As an independently and locally owned Indiana plumbing business since 1901, we understand the true value of a dollar. For this reason, we stay committed to maintaining economy-based prices for all our Indianapolis plumbing services. We serve both residential and commercial clients in Indianapolis, as well as, al throughout Central Indiana. Our licensed and insured plumbers have decades of hands-on experience, making us real experts in the field.

Contact Us Today for a Free Quote!

So when you need Indianapolis water line service and repair you can trust, count on Weilhammer Plumbing Company to put your mind at ease by providing affordable residential and commercial plumbing diagnostics and solutions that work for you. Contact us directly at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or discuss your plumbing concerns, anytime.

What You Need to Know About Replacing Plumbing Pipe

Posted on July 9, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

Dirty pipes are one of the most common reasons why so many property owners eventually require plumbing pipe replacement. Overtime, plumbing pipes will develop a large accumulation of solid matter, organics, bacteria, rust and more. As a result, pipes become clogged, dirty, and inefficient, which can cause a never-ending trickle of problems throughout the rest of the property’s plumbing system. When dirty or clogged plumbing pipes are not resolved, they will eventually require replacement. But, before you head to the home improvement store to place your order, it is important to keep certain considerations in mind.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about replacing plumbing pipes, including how to spot the signs of a dirty or obstructed system, and which piping materials are available on the market.

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Detecting Dirty of Clogged Pipes

When your plumbing system is experiencing a backup or clog somewhere, you will notice sooner or later. The signs of a clogged pipe are hard to miss. Standing water in the shower, slow draining drains, poor water pressure, and more are common indications that a clog is present. Such signs are also indicative of dirty pipes. Dirty pipes turn into clogged pipes as they continue to accrue more and more matter, such as organic and non-organic solids, soap residues, and more.

Another major tell-tale sign to look for that might suggest you have dirty or clogged plumbing pipes are increases in energy and water bills. When your plumbing is dirty or obstructed, it cannot perform efficiently, which causes your appliances to work harder, use more water, while performing below standards. If such problems continue without any intervention, other areas of the plumbing will begin to breakdown, including water heaters, water softeners, dishwashers, washing machines, and more.

Pipe Replacement Considerations

When you are ready to replace your plumbing pipes, there are a few things you should consider in order to make the best choice for your home or commercial plumbing needs. Here are some important matters to start with:

PVC PIPES – Many property owners are choosing PVC (polyvinyl chloride) piping over metal pipes. PVC plumbing pipes are generally reserved for cold water-based applications, such as drinking water systems. See our blog, “Do I Choose PVC Piping or CPVC Piping?” to learn more about plastic polymer piping.

CPVC PIPES – Although very similar to PVC, CPVC piping is different because it is altered by a free radical chlorination reaction, thus increasing its chlorine content. This increased chlorine content allows the material to withstand a wide range of temperatures, up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

ABS PIPES –ABS piping is often reserved for waste removal and bathroom plumbing applications. It can be connected to existing metal pipes within a plumbing system.

PEX PIPES – PEX pipes are suitable for both hot and cold water applications, and frequently used for interior residential plumbing construction.

GALVANIZED PIPES – These are no longer supported in the plumbing industry due to their high susceptibility to corrosion, which can lead to water contamination. If your water supply lines are made with galvanized steel, it is time to have them replaced!

Master Plumbing Service in Indianapolis You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair and replacement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and state-licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free advice, anytime. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including trenchless pipe repair, pipe replacement, and even services to improve water quality. 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.

Common Signs and Solutions for Cracked Plumbing Pipes

Posted on May 21, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

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

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

Indianapolis Master Plumber Service 317-784-1870

Causes and Signs of Cracked Pipes

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

Signs That Suggest You Have a Cracked Pipe:

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

Trenchless Technology is Key

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

Top 3 Methods of Cracked Pipe Repair:

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

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

The Indianapolis Master Plumber You Can Trust

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

Plumbing Tips for the Laundry Room

Posted on February 18, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

The recent generations might not appreciate the standard washer and dryer, since they are not old enough to remember what life was like without them. As a reminder, hand-washing clothes was tedious and tiresome, and very hard work. So the washing machine is a very important and integral part of the modern, everyday household, and without it, we are taken back to the difficult days before indoor plumbing.

For this reason, it is wise to ensure your washer is in good condition and plumbed properly at all times. Continue reading to learn some helpful plumbing tips for the laundry room that can prevent problems and costly repairs.

Prevent Plumbing Problems in the Laundry Room with these Useful and Effective Tips:

Many laundry rooms also house other appliances powered by fuel, like water heaters and gas furnaces. If your laundry room is similar, never store flammable products or liquids near this area. It goes without saying, but it could easily start a fire or cause an explosion.

Try to only run a load of laundry in the washing machine when you have a full load. Not only does this reduce stress on the washer, it saves on energy and water.

Replace old, worn out washing machines with newer, front-load models. Although a notable initial investment, the savings you gain across the board more than make up for the initial cost. Newer models are more energy efficient and produce better results. This saves homeowners money on energy and water bills, clothing, soap, and more.

Regularly inspect the hoses and attachments on your washing machine for damage or wear and tear. Rubber hoses that look worn should be replaced with upgraded hoses like stainless steel, braided attachments. These not only resist cracks and water leaks, it has a longer lifespan.

Keep all drains clean and clear by using a strainer to prevent hair and other debris from clogging the plumbing pipes. If your laundry room has a sink or floor drain, be sure to occasionally pour a gallon of water down them to keep the trap seal full. This
prevents sewer gases from entering your
home through infrequently-used drains.

Consider installing a flood alarm to warn you against serious water leaks in the washing machine or water heater. Catching a flooding issue or water leak early on can save a homeowner time and money.

Install a strainer on your washing machine hose. You can purchase one that fits your model at any local hardware store for a reasonable price. This will prevent debris like fabric sheets, lint, and more from clogging the line.

Install pipe shields to laundry drain lines. This will prevent lint, detergent scum, and more from building up inside the lines and causing clogs.

Call a professional plumber for residential plumbing repair and service. A licensed master plumber can accurately diagnose plumbing problems, as well as, recommend and implement cost-effective solutions.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of plumbing contractors, have several decades of experience in the plumbing industry. They offer a wide range of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. As a family owned business for more than 100 years, you can trust that we are honest and hardworking. Call 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis plumbing repair services, today.

How to “Go Green” with Indoor Plumbing

Posted on August 18, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

In today’s world, eco-friendly practices and lifestyles are popular ventures for families, homes, businesses, schools, and more. “Going green” is a positive trend that almost anyone can achieve with a few mindful changes. Simply turning the water faucet off while you brush your teeth, for instance, is a great start; as well as, recycling your water bottles and soda cans, keeping the lights off in unoccupied rooms, closing the shades on a hot day, investing in rain barrels for water flowers, and much more.

The possibilities are endless for greener living, and as for plumbing, the principle is the same. There are several options for home and business owners that desire an Eco-friendlier plumbing system. So if you are interested in going green yourself, continue reading to learn how indoor plumbing can be eco-friendly and energy efficient.

Pressure Reducing Valves (PRV)

Contact a reputable master plumber to have your plumbing valves replaced with pressure reducing ones. You see, the average home’s water pressure is usually set too high, around 70 psi or more. It can stand to go a little lower, closer to 35 or 40 psi, for the sake of saving energy and reducing water consumption. Installing pressure reducing valves can improve energy efficiency and conserve water, which of course reduces monthly utility costs as well!

High-Efficiency Toilets (HET)

A great way to conserve more water each month is to replace your existing toilet with a high efficiency version. Older model toilets still use over 3 gallons of water per flush, but fortunately, modern federal regulations mandate that all new toilets must not use more than 1.6 gallons per flush. This was certainly a leap in the right direction, but it can get better. Installing a high-efficiency toilet can get the amount of water per flush down to as low as 1.2 gallons!

High-Efficiency Water Heaters

Just like toilets, you can also replace your existing water heater for a modern high-efficiency version. Tankless and on demand water heaters are common examples of a high-efficiency water heaters. They only heat water when it’s requested, rather than running all day to store hot water in a tank. This reduces energy and lowers utility costs.

Plumbing Fixtures

There are a couple plumbing fixtures you can replace to make your home more energy efficient and environmentally conscience. For example, you can choose to swap out your shower-heads for high-performance versions. These eco-friendly versions use virtually 30% less water than the average standard shower-head fixture. And you won’t even notice the difference in water pressure because they are designed to effectively use water to produce a satisfying and fulfilling shower experience.

In addition to shower-heads, you can install water-saving faucets too. These eco-friendly faucets use less water but still maintain adequate water pressure. This saves up to one gallon of water per minute! This is a wise installation for bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor faucets, and more.

Indianapolis Master Plumber

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis and its surrounding towns. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbing contractors, provide a wide range of skilled plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties. Call 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis you can trust!

Home Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Posted on September 20, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

In our current economy, budget-awareness is no stranger to most homeowners. Many people who own real estate, residential or commercial, are operating on a stringent financial plan. When a family is struggling to pay the bills and keep food on the table, it is easy to ignore or skip certain plumbing and home maintenance needs. In this blog, we will touch on cost-effective ways for homeowners to implement necessary plumbing maintenance services in order to keep their property protected.

Although some plumbing problems call for the services of a trained and licensed Indianapolis master plumber, there are several do-it-yourself methods for plumbing maintenance and repair. Continue reading to learn some budget-management options and tips for plumbing problems and common home plumbing issues.

Clogged Toilets

Most clogged toilets can be fixed with a few pumps of a standard plunger. Now we have all probably used this device once in our lives, but for those who are unfamiliar, simply insert the plunger, rubber-side down, into the toilet bowl and proceed to pump or jab the opening until the contents of the bowl flush. Do not attempt to flush the toilet while plunging; instead, plunge a few times, then flush, and then repeat if necessary. For major toilet repairs, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed plumber for proper service. If you need fixtures installed or replaced, it is wise to also use a master plumber. The plumbing components of a home can be very complex and complicated, and a homeowner can risk adding to the damage if they attempt to install their own fixtures. If you need a toilet replaced, call a professional. It is worth the money in the long run.

Clogged Drains

For drains that just don’t seem to rid the water as quickly as they used to, you can purchase inexpensive drain-cleansers and products at your local store. Some of these products actually come with a “drain snake” that allows you to manually unclog a drain, then pour the solution in after to clear it completely. A snake looks like a long perforated wire that is inserted vertically into a clogged drain. If a products does not come with a snake, simply cut and bend a wire hanger. Once inserted, simply pull out slowly, removing hair, soap residue, and more. These products are fairly inexpensive, and most are pretty effective. Be sure to follow all directions carefully because some can be hazardous if ingested or comes into contact with the eyes, and others can be corrosive to surfaces and counters.

Lead By Example

Teach your kids responsible plumbing usage and lead by example. Teach them about proper toilet practices; such as using an appropriate amount of toilet paper, and not flushing large or foreign objects down the toilet. This can greatly prevent toilet overflows and burst pipes that can lead to costly repairs and potential replacements. Also, teach your children how to use the garbage disposal responsibly, as well as, drain care, water pressure management, and more. The more they know, the more you can stop plumbing complications at home.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call 317-784-1870 and speak with master plumber Mark Weilhammer, owner and operator of Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide selection of plumbing services for residential and commercial properties. We have been in business since 1901, and continue to be a trusted Indianapolis plumbing company to this day! We offer the most competent plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today!

Checking on Your Water Heater Warranty

Posted on September 5, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-187

As a home owner, it is important to know how old your hot water heater unit is, and how long it’s under warranty. Do you know how old your device is? The older the tank, the less likely it’s still covered by its manufacturing warranty. If your water heater is five years old or more, it is probably not covered at all. At this point, it is encouraged to have your water heater tested for any damages. Leaky water heaters cause an incredible amount of destruction; especially in basements where mold mixed with moisture has the perfect environment for growth.

A professional diagnosis can detect any water leaks and subsequent damages. The results will determine whether or not you need to make any changes, or replace your tank altogether.

Water Heater Inspections

There should be a panel located on the side of your water heater tank. Located the serial number on this panel. Within it lies a date of purchase. It can be difficult to see sometimes, but remember that it is in the serial number on the side panel of your water heater. If you cannot determine the date, a licensed plumber can easily make out the numbers for you. This serial number will tell the plumber whether or not the unit is still covered under warranty. From here, take a peek at the seams located on the outside of the tank.

Check for signs of leaking or liquid seepage, focusing more at the bottom of the tank. Look for mold, mildew, or water damages. If any of these signs appear, or if your tank is showing evidence of leakage, it is time to have your tank replaced or repaired. Again, a trained master plumbing contractor can facilitate these tasks for you. They retain the professional equipment, proper training, and industry resources to carry out any and all plumbing and water heater repairs.

If the warranty is not valid any longer, it is most lucrative to purchase a brand new unit with a new parts and labor warranty. Be sure to choose a reputable brand water heater, like Rheem or Bradford White. Ask your local Indianapolis master plumber for advice on the markets most reliable hot water heaters. If the warranty is still good, ask your plumber to validate it for you. Simply provide your plumber with the serial number, date, make and model, and size of the tank, and they will locate the parts, put you on schedule, and do the repairs so you are not without hot water for long.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Mark Weilhammer, master plumber, at 317-784-1870 for more information about water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. He and his team of licensed plumbers have decades of experience in the plumbing industry. We repair, replace, install, service, and maintenance all make and model hot water heaters, as well as, give honest industry advice on the best brands to buy. We offer free estimates, DIY Advice, 24 hour emergency services, purchasing advice, unit sales, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 for superior water heater services you can trust in Indianapolis, IN today.