10 Plumbing Facts Every Homeowner Should Know

Homeowners know that plumbing is an important part of their home, but how much do they really know about it? Plumbing can be a complicated and daunting task to tackle on your own, but understanding the basics will help you troubleshoot common problems more easily.

To get you started, below are 10 important plumbing facts every homeowner should know:  From what causes clogs to why plumbers use special tools, these facts will give you a better understanding of your home’s plumbing system.

Call 317-784-1870 For Residential Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis IN
Call 317-784-1870 For Residential Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis IN

Residential Plumbing Information You Need to Know

Homeowners can benefit from knowing these 10 surprising plumbing facts. They cover topics such as the causes of clogs and the special tools used by plumbers, which can help you better understand your home’s plumbing system.

1. Kitchen Sinks Have 2 Drains

Your kitchen sink has two drains – one for waste and one for wastewater. It’s important to know where each drain is located so that you don’t accidentally put items down the wrong pipe. Grease, oil, and other food particles should never be put down the garbage disposal drain, as they can quickly cause clogs.

2. Frozen Pipes Can Be Prevented

Frozen pipes are a common plumbing issue during winter months. Homeowners can help prevent this by insulating pipes and keeping a consistent temperature in their home. If you do experience frozen pipes, make sure to call a professional plumber right away before any further damage occurs.

3. At-Home Plumbing Tool Kit

Plumbers use special tools like augers and drain snakes to repair clogged water lines and clear obstructions in pipes. These tools have a flexible design and can be maneuvered through tight spaces to reach clogs that are hidden from view. You too can purchase these tools as part of a DIY home plumbing kit.

4. DIY Plumbing Repair is Possible

Not all plumbing problems require professional help; some minor issues can be fixed with basic DIY skills and a few common tools. Knowing how to identify signs of wear or malfunctioning parts can help save you money on expensive repairs in the long run.

5. Re-Piping is Innovative Today

Plumbers often use pipe-lining technology instead of outdated re-piping methods when repairing pipes. This process involves inserting a new pipe within the existing one, creating an airtight seal that will last for years.

6. You Can Fix Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is often caused by buildup inside the pipes, which restricts water flow. If you experience low water pressure, have a plumber inspect your pipes and clear any buildup that might be causing the problem.

7. Your Septic Tank Requires Maintenance

Septic tanks need to be emptied every few years in order to prevent them from overflowing. Have a professional check your septic tank regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly and not in danger of overflowing.

8. You Can Easily Conserve More Water

Water conservation is an important part of plumbing maintenance as well; make sure all faucets are turned off completely when not in use and don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine until they’re full. This will help reduce your water bill and prolong the life of your plumbing system.

9. Copper Piping is Trending Right Now

Copper piping is still the most popular material used in residential plumbing. Copper plumbing is durable and reliable and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. Although the initial investment can be pricier to alternative plumbing materials, it is well-worth the long-term savings.

10. Annual Plumbing Inspections are Necessary

Even if you don’t have any plumbing problems yet, it’s important to call a professional for a home plumbing inspection every few years. A qualified plumber will be able to detect potential issues before they become bigger problems, saving you money in the long run.

Get Expert Plumbing Advice From a Licensed Plumber Today!

Now that you know these 10 surprising facts about plumbing, you’ll be better equipped to deal with common issues or emergencies should they arise. Remember to always turn off the water main when performing DIY repairs and call a licensed plumber if the problem persists or gets worse. Whenever in doubt, trust your local Indianapolis plumbing experts!

Are you in need of assistance from professional plumbers to resolve your plumbing issues? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers serve residential and commercial clients.

Related Posts:

The Top 10 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Important Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Plumber
7 Essential Tips for Maintaining Residential Plumbing

How to Know When You Need a Professional Plumber

Do you have a plumbing problem that just won’t go away? Are you dealing with leaks, clogged drains, or other issues in your home? If so, it may be time to call in the professionals. Professional plumbers are trained and experienced in handling all kinds of plumbing repairs and inspections. They can diagnose the issue quickly and get your home back to normal faster than ever before.

We’ll also talk about what kind of services they offer and how much you should expect to pay for their services. Read on to learn more!

Call 317-784-1870 For Plumbing Service in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-784-1870 For Plumbing Service in Indianapolis Indiana

Signs You Need to Call a Licensed Plumber for Plumbing Repair

Basic Plumbing Problems

One of the most obvious signs that you need to call a professional plumber is when your home’s plumbing system isn’t functioning properly. If you’re dealing with leaking pipes, clogged drains, or other issues that don’t seem to be improving on their own, it may be time to call in an expert. Professional plumbers have the knowledge and experience necessary to identify and repair even the toughest plumbing problems. They can inspect your entire plumbing system and recommend the best solution for whatever issue you may be facing.

Water Damages

Another sign that you need a professional plumber is if your home has been damaged due to water damage. Water can cause severe structural damage to homes, so it’s important that any water-related issues are addressed as quickly as possible. Professional plumbers can help you determine the source of any water-related damage and recommend a plan of action to repair it.

Old Plumbing System

Finally, if your home has an older plumbing system, it is important to have it inspected by a professional plumber. Older systems may not function as effectively or efficiently as newer models, so having them checked out periodically could save you time and money in the long run. Plumbers can inspect your system for any potential problems that may exist and offer suggestions on how to keep things running smoothly.

Difference Between Plumber and Master Plumber

When you need a professional plumber, be sure to look for one who is licensed and insured. This ensures that they will be held accountable if something goes wrong while they are working on your plumbing systems. Also, be sure to ask plenty of questions so you understand exactly how much the repair or inspection is going to cost and what services will be included in that fee.

It is important to understand the difference between master plumbers and plumbers. You see, plumbers are licensed in their state and can undertake many residential and commercial repairs. While they might have industry standard knowledge, Master Plumbers take their studies even further. They have rigorous formal training and continuing education after several years in the field as well as completing higher studies. As a result, they hold greater specialization with not only Installation of fixtures, but interpreting codes set forth by local area discharge permit which can range vastly throughout the country.

Therefore, advanced plumbing jobs such as sewer line repair or bending PEX tubing pipes may best be handled by Master Plumbers – saving time and effort having to redo installations an untrained individual most likely could never finish correctly. Questions like, “What dimension tube is required for this pipe?”, or “How much voltage pulses my activation device should output?” a Master Plumber would know off the top of their head and usually be able to list off approved suppliers for certain specialty items when requested.

Conclusion

Knowing when it’s time to call a professional plumber can help keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you’re dealing with any of the issues listed above, or if your home has an older plumbing system, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed and insured professional for help. With their expertise, skills, and knowledge of all kinds of plumbing repair and inspections, they’ll get your home back to normal faster than ever before.  So don’t wait any longer, call a professional plumber today!

The next time you need a professional plumber, don’t hesitate to reach out to one right away! 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.

Related Posts:

Common Causes of Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them
Small Plumbing Problems That Might Be Big Repairs
Frequently Asked Questions About Repiping Your Home

Preparing Your Plumbing for the Spring: Essential Maintenance Tips

As spring approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the health of your plumbing system. A plumbing inspection and maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs down the road by identifying and addressing any potential issues before they become major problems. To ensure that your home’s plumbing is ready for the warm weather ahead, here are some essential tips for preparing your plumbing for spring. 

From scheduling professional service to performing simple DIY tasks, these tips will help keep your home’s pipes running smoothly all season long.

Call 317-784-1870 For a Licensed Plumber in Indianapolis IN
Call 317-784-1870 For a Licensed Plumber in Indianapolis IN

How to Get Your Plumbing System Ready for Spring

1. Schedule Professional Plumbing Service: The best way to ensure that your plumbing is ready for the spring season is to hire a professional plumber for an inspection and maintenance visit. A qualified technician will be able to identify any potential problems in your home’s pipes and fixtures, such as corroded pipes, clogged drains, blocked vents, leaking faucets and more. They can also provide advice on how you can prevent future issues from occurring.

2. Check All Fixtures and Pipes: If you don’t have a plumbing inspection scheduled yet, then it’s important to check all of your home’s pipes and fixtures yourself before spring arrives. Look out for signs of corrosion or rust on pipes, as well as any leaks or blockages. Make sure to check all faucets, toilets and showers for signs of damage and make necessary repairs to ensure they are functioning properly.

3. Clear Out Your Drains: Over the winter months, it’s likely that your drains have become clogged with dirt and debris. To ensure maximum flow when spring arrives, you should clear out your drains using a plunger or a plumbing snake before you start running hot water through them again. This will help prevent potential flooding in your home due to blocked pipes.

4. Unclog Any Block Vents: Before turning on the central heating system, it’s important to check the outdoor vents for any blockages that might have occurred over the winter months. Objects such as leaves and debris can get lodged in the vents, preventing air from flowing freely through your plumbing system. Unclog any blockages to ensure optimal ventilation for your pipes and fixtures.

Stay Current on Your Plumbing Maintenance

By following these essential tips, you can make sure that your home’s plumbing is ready for spring. If you’re still concerned about potential issues or repairs, then it’s best to schedule an inspection with a professional plumber to give your home’s pipes and fixtures an in-depth check-up. Regular maintenance and inspections are the key to keeping your plumbing running smoothly all season long!

Are you ready to have your plumbing system inspected and serviced by a certified professional? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service for water heaters in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer full-service water heating solutions, from sales and installation to routine service, repair, and more.

Related Posts:

How Do I Know if My Plumber is Reputable and Reliable?
Small Plumbing Problems That Might Be Big Repairs
How to Check For Water Leaks in Your Plumbing System

Important Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Plumber

Whether you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency or just need an inspection, it’s important to hire the right plumber for the job. To ensure that you get quality workmanship and service, there are several questions you should ask before hiring a plumber. From experience levels to payment methods and more, here are some of the most important questions to consider when looking for a master plumber.

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

How to Interview a Potential Plumber

By asking these important questions, you’ll be able to hire the right plumber for your plumbing needs—and have peace of mind knowing that you’ve chosen a professional who can get the job done right. 

How long have you been in business? It’s always a good idea to research the plumbing company before hiring them. Ask how long they’ve been in business, and if the plumber or company has any certification or accreditation from industry organizations like ASPE.

What kinds of services do you offer? Make sure the plumber you hire is able to meet your needs. Ask them what kinds of plumbing repair, inspection, and installation services they specialize in so you can be sure they’re up to the job.

Are you licensed and insured? Every plumbing company should have a valid license with their state or local municipality. It’s also important to make sure they are insured against any potential damages that may occur during the job.

How much do you charge for plumbing repair and inspections? Before hiring a plumber, ask about their rates for different types of repairs and inspections. Also find out if they offer payment plans or discounts.

What types of guarantees do you offer? Ask the plumber if they can provide a written guarantee on their work. Many companies will also offer a satisfaction guarantee, so you know that you’ll be getting quality service.

When you ask the right questions, you can make sure that you hire the right plumbing company for your needs. Be sure to take the time to research and find a qualified, experienced plumber that you can trust. This will ensure that your plumbing problems are taken care of quickly and correctly the first time.

Do you wish to skip the hassle of finding the right plumber for the job? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients and are state-licensed master plumbers.

Related Posts:

How Do I Know if My Plumber is Reputable and Reliable?
6 Common Mistakes Business Owners Make When Hiring a Plumbing Service
7 Essential Tips for Maintaining Residential Plumbing

7 Essential Tips for Maintaining Residential Plumbing

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

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

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

7 Home Plumbing Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Protect Your Home With Routine Plumbing Service

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

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

Related Posts:

Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Plumbing
The Highest Rated Residential Water Softeners of 2022
Common Types of Water Valves Used For Residential Plumbing

Common Types of Water Valves Used For Residential Plumbing

When it comes to plumbing, water valves are an important part of the system. There are a variety of water valves used in residential plumbing, each with its own purpose. Knowing which type of valve is installed in your home and how to maintain it is essential for preventing water damage and costly repairs.

In this post, we will discuss the most common types of water valves used in residential plumbing and provide tips for maintaining them.

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

Typical Residential Water Valves

Gate Valves: Gate valves are typically used for water shut-off in plumbing fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and water heaters. These valves can be opened to allow water flow or closed to stop water flow. Maintenance on gate valves should include regularly checking them for leaks or corrosion; if the valve is leaking it may need to be replaced.

Ball Valves: Ball valves are another type of water valve used in residential plumbing. These valves are typically found at water meters and shut-off locations, and they can be opened to allow water flow or closed to stop water flow. To maintain a ball valve, regularly check for leaks or corrosion; if the valve is leaking, it may need to be replaced.

Check Valves: Check valves are water shut-off devices typically found in water lines and water heaters. These one-way valves allow water to flow in one direction only; this prevents water from flowing backwards and causing water damage. To maintain a check valve, regularly inspect the valve for any signs of corrosion or wear.

Pressure Relief Valves: Pressure relief valves are safety devices that help to maintain water pressure in plumbing systems. These valves release water when water pressure exceeds a predetermined level and can prevent water damage caused by excessive water pressure. To maintain a pressure relief valve, regular inspection is important; if the valve is not operating properly it may need to be replaced.

Remember, water valves play an important role in residential plumbing systems and regular maintenance is essential for preventing water damage and costly repairs. Take the time to inspect your water valves and contact a licensed plumbing company in Indianapolis if you notice any issues. By following the advice of your trusted Indianapolis plumber, you can ensure that your water valves are in good working order and ready to provide water flow when needed.

Why You Need Annual Home Plumbing Inspections

Most people know the importance of getting their car inspected regularly, but what about their home plumbing system? Just like your car needs a tune-up every so often to keep it running smoothly, your home plumbing system also needs annual inspection and maintenance. Here are four reasons why you should have your home plumbing system inspected every year:

1. Prevention of Damage – Inspecting your home plumbing system annually can help prevent costly repairs down the road by catching any problems early on, before they become more serious issues. An experienced Indianapolis plumber who comes to inspect your home will be able to identify and repair any existing issues with your plumbing, helping you avoid disruptive and expensive damage later on.

2. Reduction of Utility Costs – When your plumbing system is running efficiently, it uses less energy and water to complete its functions; this reduces your utility bills and saves you money in the long run. Have a professional plumber in Indianapolis inspect your home’s plumbing regularly to ensure that everything is functioning properly and using the least amount of energy possible.

3. Increase in Home Value – An inspected and well-maintained home plumbing system will increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell. Potential buyers will be more likely to purchase a home with an efficient and well-kept plumbing system, so investing in regular inspections can pay off down the line.

4. Overall Peace of Mind – Above all, having your home plumbing system inspected annually will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is functioning properly and efficiently. An inspection can also ensure that your plumbing meets relevant safety regulations and codes which are in place to protect both you and your family.

For fully certified and insured plumbing services—from inspection to repair—look no further than Weilhammer Plumbing Company. Our state licensed master plumbers offer residential and commercial plumbing services in Indianapolis, Central Indiana and beyond! Contact us at 317-784-1870 for service or  information, today.

Related Posts:

The 2 Basic Types of Water Shut-Off Valves
How to Fix a Leaky Pressure Relief Valve on a Water Heater
Small Plumbing Problems That Might Be Big Repairs

Here are the Answers to the Most Common Questions Plumbers Get

Plumbers have heard and seen it all, from haunted plumbing pipes to a dead rat in the drain, and everything in between. But there are some questions that tend to take the lead in terms of frequency. If you have questions about your plumbing situation, it is likely that one of these answers will help you. Scroll below to review the answers to the most common questions plumbers get.

Emergency Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Emergency Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Plumbing Questions and Answers

Is This a Plumbing Emergency?

When a client first calls, they often ask if their plumbing issue is something that needs immediate attention or if it can wait. Plumbing emergencies are often easy to spot, as they tend to pose a long list of potential damages and hazards. Some common tell-tale plumbing emergencies include a burst pipe, flooding, major water leak that cannot be controlled by turning off the main water supply, or gas leak. But plumbing emergencies can also come in not-so-obvious forms. For instance, if your home only has one toilet and that toilet breaks down, repairing it would be an emergency need, otherwise, you will have to use the bathroom somewhere else or get a hotel.

Examples of non-emergencies include clogged drains, no hot water, clogged toilet, overflowing toilet, dripping faucet, broken fixtures, and small water leaks.

Is This Plumbing Repair Covered Under Insurance?

Another initial question plumbing customers tend to ask has to do with insurance coverage. Each homeowners’ insurance policy is different, and therefore, contains varying degrees of coverage depending on the type of plumbing repair or need. It is important to check with your insurance carrier to verify which types of repairs are covered and which must be paid out of pocket.

Do I Need to Replace My Water Heater? My Water Softener?

When people start to experience problems with their water heaters or water softeners, the first question that often arises is whether or not they will have to replace them. Water heaters are designed to last anywhere from 8 to 10 years; so, if your unit is near or approaching that range, it would be wise to start thinking about an upgrade. Water softeners last a bit longer, ranging between an 8 to 15 year lifespan. So, if your water softener has not been replaced in a decade, an upgrade to a modern model would be wise.

Aside from age, water heaters and water softeners can experience damage that requires them to be replaced prematurely. Common irreparable damages include fires, burning, or smoke production, as well as gas leaks, major water leaks, tank ruptures, and electrical damage. If your water heater has shown signs of these types of damages or issues, contact an emergency plumber in Indianapolis, right away.

Why Does My Water Take So Long to Heat Up?

Hot showers and baths are an essential part of a satisfying quality of life. So, when they start to show signs of problems, many people start calling their plumbers. One of the most common questions is, “why does it take so long for my water to heat up?” The answer is the water, either the location, size, or efficiency.

If your water heater is too far away from your point of demand, in this case your shower or bathtub, the water can take longer to heat up compared to the kitchen sink faucet. The solution here would be to install a secondary, perhaps tankless or electric, water heater closer to the location of your shower or bath.

If your water heater is too small for the size and occupancy of your home, you can certainly expect the water to take longer to heat up to the temperature you’ve demanded. If you have recently taken in new guests or tenants, you might experience this issue. If you just moved in, you need to upgrade to a higher capacity water heater.

If your water heater is experiencing malfunctions, it may not perform as well as it should. It could cause your water to heat up slower than before.

Can I Improve the Water Pressure?

Everyone asks the plumber about water pressure. Low water pressure is not desirable, so customers always want to know how they can increase or improve the water pressure in their home. One place to focus your attention on when it comes to low water pressure is the faucets themselves. You may have low flow volume restrictors that limit the pressure delivered in the showerhead or faucet. Corroded or leaky plumbing pipes are the next two common culprits behind low or lowered water pressure.

What’s Causing These White Spots All Over My Glassware and Shower Stall?

Cloudy, spotty glassware and shower stall doors are not fun to look at. That is why so many plumbing customers ask their plumbers why this is happening. The answer is hard water. Hard water contains dissolved minerals that leave behind scale and scum. To treat a hard water problem, install or upgrade your water softener. You may also consider a reverse osmosis system.

Do you have additional plumbing questions and concerns that you want immediate answers to? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Related Posts:

Why Does My Bathtub Drain Smell Bad?
How to Determine Which Sump Pump Size You Need
Should I Switch to Copper Plumbing?

7 Things You Can Do to Unclog Your Shower Drain

Nothing quite drains the pleasure out of your morning or post-work shower than standing ankle deep in soapy water. If your shower drain is clogged, it is important to troubleshoot the issue as soon as possible, not just for the sake of your bathing enjoyment, but also for preventative maintenance purposes. Fortunately, there are many things you can do on your own that can solve the problem right away.

Continue reading to learn the top 7 things you can do to unclog your shower drain.

Drain Clearing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Drain Clearing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

How to Fix a Clogged Shower Drain

So, what causes a shower drain to clog up? Well, the answer is quite obvious. Mostly, hair, dirt, and soap residues are to blame, but shower drains can also fall victim to obstructions caused by thick shaving cream, lost jewelry, razor caps, toys, and all sorts of other common bath time accoutrements. Many people like to brush their teeth and floss in the shower, so floss is a common obstruction found in shower drains.

Not to worry, as there are plenty of ways to unclog that troublesome shower drain of yours! Here are the top seven things you can do to unclog your shower drain:

Manual Dislodging

The first thing you want to do to fix a clogged shower drain is to manually dislodge anything that’s obstructing the drain. Any visible obstructions like hair or soap scum should be cleared away of your shower drain before testing other methods of repair. Yes, this will be a slimy and unpleasant task, so put on some rubber gloves and possibly even a face mask.

Plunger

When your manual attempt doesn’t work, grab your plunger. Use the plunger over the shower drain in the same way you would use it in the toilet if the toilet were clogged. Place the plunger directly on top of the shower drain and pump it several times with force. Then run the shower to see if the water flows through the drain smoothly. If that doesn’t work, you may need to get deeper inside the drain. The next few methods will help you do that.

Boiling Water

If the first two methods don’t work, boil some water on top of your stove, and then pour it down your shower drain. Sometimes this can clear out shaving cream, dirt accumulation, and soap scum buildup. Once these residues are cleared, your shower drain should flow smoothly. Just be careful when you’re handling the boil water because it will burn you.

White Vinegar and Baking Soda

If boiling water isn’t strong enough, make a concoction of distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Then pour the solution down your drain. This is basically a homemade drain cleaner, but without all of the harsh chemicals and damaging ingredients. You may need to repeat this a few times to get the drain entirely cleared. Oftentimes, this vinegar and baking soda solution is well paired with an auger, also known as a drain snake.

Drain Snake

A drain snake is a long, thin, plastic, flexible, handheld auger that is used to dislodge any obstructions within a drain. Drain snakes can be purchased for as little as one dollar at any local department or grocery store. You can literally find them anywhere that sells regular home goods or household products. To use an auger, simply push it deep into the drain as far as you can, then turn it a few times before pulling it out. You will be shocked to see what comes out with it!

Wire Hook

You can also use a metal hook in the same way you would use a drain snake to dislodge any obstructions within the shower drain. Just be careful using this method because you can accidentally poke or stab yourself. Most people will take a wire hanger and unwind it to form a hook and handle. This works really well when you don’t have an auger on hand.

Licensed Plumber

Your last resort is to contact a licensed Indianapolis plumber for drain cleaning and clearing service. They have the proper tools and resources to promptly resolve drain issues. Because drain clearing is typically an easy and speedy service, you can expect it to be affordable as well.

Do you need some professional drain clearing and cleaning service for your shower, sink, bathtub, or outdoor drains? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Related Posts:

Does Your Kitchen Sink Drain Too Slowly?
How to Remove Hair From a Bathroom Drain
Two Cleaners That Will Fix a Slow Draining Sink

How to Solve a Dishwasher Drainage Problem

Is you dishwasher not draining the way it should? Have you noticed a musty puddle of water at the bottom of the well after you run a load? If so, you are most definitely experiencing dishwasher machine drainage problems. Continue below to learn some troubleshooting tips for a problematic dishwasher that won’t seem to drain water.

Dishwasher Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Dishwasher Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Flooded Dishwashers are a Sign of a Plumbing Issue

We understand the frustration you feel when you expect to open up your dishwasher to a freshly-cleansed load of dishes but get a waterfall of dirty, soapy water instead. Unfortunately, there is no amount of Rinse-Aid to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a dishwasher draining issue. Before getting into the reasons why your dishwasher is doing this, it is important to note that this type of problem calls for professional plumbing inspection and repair. Contact a licensed plumber in Indianapolis for dishwasher repair and water drainage repair services you can trust.

Common Causes of Poor Water Drainage in Dishwashers

There are a number of possible reasons why dishwashers fill up with water and fail to drain properly, yet in the plumbing industry, the most common seem to be garbage disposal backups, drain hose disconnections, and dirty drain filters. Additional causes include faulty pumps, design defects, and even motherboard malfunctions. Be sure to disconnect the power to your dishwasher before performing any type of inspection, and certainly before you intend to tamper around with it.

Dishwasher Not Draining?
Check These 3 Things Before Calling a Plumber:

Backed-Up Garbage Disposal

An obstruction or clogged garbage disposal can have an affect on the water drainage quality of your dishwasher. With long-term or major backups, dishwashers cannot drain properly after a cycle. Start your troubleshooting by clearing your garbage disposal. With a stream of hot water running next to the sink drain (not in the drain), flip your disposal on for 30 to 45 seconds. You can also use some liquid dishwashing soap to help loosen any obstructions.

Optional: Turn the power off to your garbage disposal. Then inspect the inside of the sink drain for any objects of obstructions.

Disconnected Drainage Hose

Often times, drain hoses that are attached to the sink or garbage disposal get knocked out of place, shifted, or even kinked. Before calling a plumber about your dishwasher drainage problems, check to see if these hoses are connected and in good condition. A worn-out or old drain hose should be replaced. This too could be the root of your plumbing issue.

Dirty Drain Filters

Drain filters, like all other filters, require routine cleaning or replacement, depending on what kind of filter product they are. If your dishwasher is not draining all the way after you run a cycle, it could be due to a dirty drain filter that is saturated with food particles, grease, soap residues, and more. Refer to your dishwasher owners’ manual for manufacturers’ instructions on how to access and clean the drain filter.

Are you still having plumbing issues at home or in the office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Related Posts:

Two Cleaners That Will Fix a Slow Draining Sink
Top Two Causes for a Leaking Garbage Disposal
How to Quickly Unclog a Bathtub Drain

General Plumbing Facts About Sump Pits

For residential and commercial properties, a sump pit brings us into the 21st century of plumbing and waste management. Fundamentally speaking, it is a man-made hole, or “pit” that is drilled into the floor and lined with concrete, or sometimes even brick, and then covered with a grate, making it look similar to a large drain. They are designed to collect water and other excess liquid runoff and debris. These are generally installed in basements or subgrade levels of a home to prevent flooding and overflow and operated by a plumbing appliance called a sump pump.

Continue reading to learn more about sump pits and sump pumps, and what to do to ensure yours stays operational.

Sump Pump Plumbing Repair Indianapolis 317-784-1870
Sump Pump Plumbing Repair Indianapolis 317-784-1870

What are Sump Pumps?

A sump pump is a device that is outfitted to a sump pit for the purpose of removing excess water and liquids from the pit. They are usually connected to a municipal sewer line or storm drain and equipped with a flotation device that forces them to clink at particular levels of flooding. If the power is out, there is a manual lever that allows people to release excess water.

If the water level reaches or exceeds a preset level in the pit, the pump initiates and sucks up enough liquid to remedy the risk of overflow. Since both the sump pit and pump are vital to the overall operation, it is important to provide periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

What are Sump Pits?

Sump pits are extremely helpful for basements. This is especially true for properties located in flood zones, regions with frequent or high precipitation, and areas where the water table is higher than the subgrade level of a home. All of these factors can increase the chances of basement flooding, water leaks, and more. Namely, when the surrounding water table is higher than that of your basement floor, several problems can arise. Health concerns, structural damages, mildew growth, mold remediation, costly remodels, and tedious repairs are just a few examples.  For these reasons, it is vital to have a working sump pump and pit.

Maintenance for Sump Pumps

It is important to provide regular maintenance and cleaning for sump pits and pumps. They can grow algae and mold inside, and even become clogged with debris overtime. A professional plumber has the resources and training to implement all your sump pump maintenance and repair needs.

Do you require emergency sump pump service or repair in Central Indiana? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for sump pumps and more. We carry the most reliable back up system on the market today, the Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pump, and at the most competitive price around.

You Should Also Read:

Why Won’t My Sump Pump Turn Off After it Rains a Lot?
How to Determine Which Sump Pump Size You Need
Top 7 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Break

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870