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The Essential Plumbing Parts Every Homeowner Should Know About

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When it comes to homeownership, understanding the basics of your home’s plumbing system is a necessity. We often take for granted the intricate network of pipes, valves, and fixtures that work seamlessly to provide us with fresh water and safe waste disposal. However, when something goes wrong, it’s beneficial to have a rudimentary understanding of the essential plumbing parts involved.

This knowledge can help you troubleshoot minor issues, communicate effectively with plumbers, and even save you from potentially costly repairs. In this blog post, we will delve into the must-know plumbing parts and tools that every homeowner should be familiar with.

Call 317-784-1870 To Get in Touch With Trusted Indianapolis Plumbers
Call 317-784-1870 To Get in Touch With Trusted Indianapolis Plumbers

The 101 on Plumbing Parts and Tools

Plumbing Pipes and Valves

The first plumbing parts to consider are the pipes and valves that make up your home’s system. The main function of these parts is to supply you with fresh water, route away wastewater, and maintain a consistent flow throughout the entire system. Different types of pipes used in residential plumping include copper pipes, galvanized steel pipes, and PVC pipes. Copper pipes are the most common type of residential plumbing piping, but other materials may be used depending on the application.

Valves come in many shapes and sizes and serve a variety of purposes. For example, a gate valve is used to turn water flow on or off while a shutoff valve helps control flows from individual fixtures such as toilets and sinks. There are also check valves and pressure reducing valves, which help regulate water pressure throughout the system.

Plumbing Fixtures and Connectors

Fixtures are the visible pieces in a plumbing system that deliver fresh water for use or route it away. Toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and dishwashers all have their own specific type of plumbing components. Faucets, for example, have a spout, supply lines, shutoff valves, and a drain assembly. Toilets typically consist of the tank, the bowl, flush valve assembly, and fill valve. Connectors are used to easily attach different parts of a plumbing system together. Common types of connectors include compression fittings, solder joints, push-fit fittings, and threaded pipe joints.

Plumbing Tools

Plumbers rely on a variety of tools to service plumbing systems. While some are specialized for the trade, there are several essential hand tools that every homeowner should have in their arsenal. A few basic plumbing tools include an adjustable wrench, pliers, slip joint pliers, PVC cutter, hacksaw, pipe wrench, plunger, and auger.

By having a basic understanding of plumbing parts and tools you can become more knowledgeable about the inner workings of your home’s plumbing system. That knowledge will come in handy when it comes to addressing minor problems or communicating effectively with plumbers should anything major arise. Now that you know the essential plumbing parts every homeowner should be aware of, you can stay informed and prepared for any plumbing situation.

Taking Action

The key to maintaining a functional plumbing system is regular upkeep. This includes checking the pipes and valves as well as inspecting fixtures and connectors for any signs of wear or damage. Doing so will help ensure that your plumbing remains in top condition. If you find yourself in a situation where your plumbing skills are not sufficient, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed professional plumber in Indianapolis. They have the expertise and know-how to safely handle any plumbing issue that may arise.

In Summary

With just a bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can rest easy knowing that any plumbing issues that come up can be addressed with confidence. We hope you’ve found this blog post helpful and that it has given you a better understanding of the essential plumbing parts every homeowner should know about.

Are you in need of professional plumbing maintenance and parts replacement? 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.

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10 Plumbing Facts Every Homeowner Should Know

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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.

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Important Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Plumber
7 Essential Tips for Maintaining Residential Plumbing

Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Plumbing

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Whether you are a first-time homeowner or have owned your house for a long time, it is vital to stay up to date with your plumbing systems. Reviewing some common tips and general information from time to time can refresh your memory and help you do a better job of taking care of your home. Continue reading to review some unique, but important, frequently asked questions about home plumbing.

Residential Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Residential Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Home Plumbing FAQS You Want to Know

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that is polluted with high levels of contaminates, such as iron salts, calcium, and magnesium.  If you are starting to notice subtle changes in your dishes, skin, laundry, and plumbing fixtures, it may be related to a hard water issue. A water filtration system, coupled with a quality water softener, can eliminate these mineral ions plus reduce the level of hardness in your home’s water.

Why Does My Water Take So Long to Heat Up?

There are some common reasons why your water heater might be taking too long to heat your water up. Most often, the water heater is just too old or defective. Otherwise, you could have too much sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, low volume restrictors installed on your plumbing fixtures, or too much distance between the location of the water heater and your point-of-demand. To fix this problem, you will need to contact a professional Indianapolis plumber who specializes in hot water heater repair and service.

How Do I Unclog a Backed Up Toilet?

Large debris can get stuck, like toilet paper, hair ties, and more. In this case, you will need to use your plunger to plunge the toilet bowl for 30 seconds. But before you do, be sure there is not too much water in the toilet bowl. If there is, empty as much water as needed with a separate cup or bowl. Try flushing the toilet to see if the plunger loosened up the clog. If it didn’t, try again or check to see if the flapper is the issue. If you cannot clear a clogged toilet bowl with a plunger, then you will need to call a licensed plumber for help.

How Do I Remove the Crusty Substance on the Shower Head and Faucet?

Remove the shower head by unscrewing it from the spout.  Place it in a bowl with hot water and one cup of household vinegar.  Leave it overnight then scrub it clean the next morning.  If you cannot screw the shower head off, put the vinegar solution in a plastic bag and place it over the spout, attaching and securing it with a tie.  If the substance does come off completely, re-do the process using less water and more vinegar.

How Do I Get Rid of Odor in My Garbage Disposal?

The odor most likely is coming from an accumulation of food scraps and other debris.  To remove the smell, you can put a mixture of ice cubes and lemon peels down the disposal and run it, then with disposal still running, flush it with cold water for a minute.  If this does not do the trick completely, add a few drops of dish soap with cold water for another thirty seconds. This household remedy is a popular solution to foul smelling garbage disposals.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Pumped?

An inspection or cleaning should be done once every few years or so, depending on the size of the make and model septic system in place.  In smaller systems, once every three years is sufficient; however, a large tank would require an inspection once every two years or less.  The larger the system, the more often it will require service.

Am I Smelling Natural Gas in My House?

Natural gas smells like rotten eggs.  If you smell this in your home or building, first, turn off all appliances that use gas. Then open a few windows or doors to let the gas air out. Once you have done this, check the range, water heater, and furnace pilot lights; if one light is out, relight it. If they are not the issue, call your local gas provider and report the smell right away.

Why Did My Plumbing Pipes Go Bad?

There are several reasons why plumbing pipes go bad. It can be due to old age, poor installation, incompatibility, material quality issues, corrosion, external structural damages, and much more.

Should I Re-Pipe or Repair the Plumbing?

In many cases, plumbing pipes do not require replaced, but rather repaired. If one or two plumbing pipes burst or incur some sort of damage, they can simply be replaced through trenchless piping or other repair techniques. However, there are other cases in which the whole house plumbing system should be re-piped. Talk to in Indianapolis plumber to determine the best course of action for your plumbing pipe renovation needs.

How Do I Know if I Have a Plumbing Leak?

As someone who regularly pays your water and energy bills, you know when something is a little off. Suddenly higher utility bills are one of the first signs of a hidden plumbing leak in the home. If you are utility bills are higher than usual, or have seen a sudden spike in cost, it could be an indication that you have a hidden plumbing leak somewhere in your system. First, contact your utility company to confirm that your bill is correct, and if it is, your next step is to contact in licensed plumber for a home plumbing inspection in Indianapolis.

Do you think your plumbing system could use some TLC? 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:

Tips for DIY Home Plumbing Inspections
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Celebrate World Plumbing Day By Sharing These Fun Plumbing Facts!

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Today is World Plumbing Day! To celebrate, scroll down and learn some fun and entertaining plumbing facts, then share them with your friends and loved ones!

Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870
Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

The World Plumbing Council (WPC)

World Plumbing Day is March 11th and we have the World Plumbing Council (WPC) to thank for that! They spoke for the entire international plumbing community when they urged for the inception of World Plumbing Day back in 2010. They are an inspirational and hard-working organization with the motive to support and promote the relationships between quality plumbing and sanitation, health, environmental sustainability, and exponential economic success.

Since 2010, World Plumbing Day has been a highly anticipated and respected event on calendars all across the globe, among both political and social organizations! So, what does World Plumbing Day represent? Well, a lot!

Plumbing is arguably one of the most vital technological advancements in human history. After all, we would all still be living like the stone ages without our hot water on demand, clean tap water, dishwashers, washing machines, and of course, toilets!

Basically, without adequate plumbing and sewage management systems in our communities, and directly inside our homes and businesses, we would be living like our ancient cavemen and women ancestors! So, needless to say, plumbing is an integral part of human history and continues to be one of the most impactful assets to our overall quality of life.

Funny Plumbing Facts to Share With Everyone You Know

Let us commemorate and celebrate World Plumbing Day by reviewing some fun and interesting plumbing facts you have never heard before!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Got Plumbing Issues?

Are you experiencing plumbing problems that aren’t so funny or fun? 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:

What’s the Deal With Toilet Paper?
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Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Today is World Plumbing Day

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March 11th, 2021 is World Plumbing Day!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services
Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

In honor of World Plumbing Day, here are some fun and fundamental plumbing facts, including the meaning behind today’s occasion!

Let us all thank the World Plumbing Council (WPC) for establishing World Plumbing Day in 2010! For 11 years now, World Plumbing Day has been a staple event on calendars all across the globe among both political and social organizations! What does it all mean? What is the purpose of this special day?

Well, if you think about it, you will recognize that our plumbing innovations and technologies separate us from the stone age. Without sufficient plumbing and sewage management systems, we would be living like our ancient ancestors! Plumbing is an integral part of human history and continues to be one of the most vital elements of our overall quality of life.

Respect and Appreciate All That Plumbing Does For Us!

The World Plumbing Council (WPC) speaks for the entire international plumbing community, and did so when they urged for the inception of World Plumbing Day each year! They are an inspirational and hard-working organization with the motive to support and promote the relationships between quality plumbing and sanitation, health, environmental sustainability, and exponential economic success.

How Does Everyone Celebrate World Plumbing Day?

Right now, and all day long, there are planned celebrations, events, activities, seminars, and even friendly competitions that all honor and acknowledge the importance of safe, efficient, and quality plumbing. These occasions are used to share knowledge, build relationships, and make important connections in an effort to increase access to fresh water and safe sanitation. Whether you are a part of a plumbing fraternity or a regular citizen in your community, you too can appreciate the plumbing innovations and sanitation available to you and your loved ones by celebrating with everyone else, world-wide!

Fundamental Plumbing Facts in Honor of World Plumbing Day

The definition of plumbing is expressed as, “A series of pipes, fixtures, and appliances that manage the distribution of water and sewage in and out of a property.”

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

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

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

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

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

Are you in need of plumbing repair or water heater services? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers serve commercial clients, too.

You Might Also Like:

Is it Time to Replace Your Plumbing Pipes?
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Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Do I Need My Plumbing Inspected?

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When it comes to plumbing maintenance, an inspection is not typically on the routine To-D- list. However, they are one of the most vital plumbing services you can outsource because they are the key to unveiling small or medium problems, including malfunctions and insufficiency, before they can turn into large, costly, and invasive repairs. But how do you know you need a plumbing inspection. Well, you must keep your eyes open for the common, tell-tale signs.

Continue below to learn the most common indications that suggest you should schedule an inspection for your plumbing ASAP, and where to get a free quote for your plumbing repair needs near you.

Indianapolis Plumbing Inspections
Indianapolis Plumbing Inspections and Service 317-784-1870

Signs of Plumbing Problems

If your home or office show any signs of plumbing problems below, you can likely assume there is an internal defect or variable causing it to happen. Regardless of the root of your plumbing problem, if you do not act fast, a small issue can turn disastrous in as little as 24 hours. Don’t make the mistake of ignoring a minor plumbing problem, like a clogged or slow-draining sink. Mitigate the risk of be liable for massive repairs, replacements, and renovations by putting a plumbing inspection in the books, now.

Thudding, Banging, and Hissing Noises

If your plumbing pipes are in good shape, they should not make a sound. But if your pipes make loud whistling or thudding noises every time you turn on a faucet or stop the shower, you can safely assume that there is a problem. This type of continuous and predictable noise can be an indication of loose piping, a soon-to-be water leak, or worse, an impending pipe rupture.  

Old Age and Old Plumbing

The older the house, the older the plumbing, that is, unless the house has been renovated. If your home is older than 20 years, and you have not replaced or updated your plumbing system in that time, you would be wise to schedule a plumbing inspection to learn what you can do to improve your energy efficiency, water quality, and home comfort. Things like pipe corrosion, metal aging, and minute slab leaks are common in old homes.

Reduced Water Quality

If you are starting to notice, or have been living with, a wide scope of water quality issues, a plumbing inspection will help identify the causes, and present the workable solutions that fit your budget. Such water quality issues include poor tasting water, or beverages and soup made with your water, as well as, cloudy dishes, greasy hair, dry skin, low water pressure, hot water that takes too long to heat up, not enough hot water, poor soap lather in the bath, limescale residue all over your fixtures, and dingy or faded laundry.

Professional Plumbing Inspection and Service in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality plumbing inspection and service 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.

The Basic Components of a Home Plumbing System

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For new homeowners, it is recommended to learn and understand the basic components of your plumbing system. Not only can this knowledge protect you from plumbing disasters, it can help save money down the road by using DIY repairs. The plumbing system within a home is not as complicated as it seems.

Continue reading to learn the basics surrounding your home plumbing system.

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

Two Plumbing Systems in One

A typical home plumbing system is divided into two sub-systems. One system is designed to bring fresh water in, while the other is setup to take waste water out. In the fresh water system, pressure is crucial. The water pressure is what sends the water flowing into a home, up and down levels, and anywhere else it is needed. Every home has a water meter that observes and records the amount of water taken in. All fresh water that is passed into the home is run through this meter and recorded for bill payments.

Near the water meter is another important feature of a home plumbing system; the emergency shut-off valve. Also called the main water shut off or stop, this valve is used to stop water flow into the house during a plumbing emergency. Most home fixtures have their own shutoff valve, so stopping the entire home water flow may be unnecessary in some situations. If a toilet is overflowing, use the toilet shutoff valve to stop the flooding. If a person is experiencing a major plumbing emergency, this is when the main stop should be used.

If a homeowner needs cold water, the supply is ready to go; however, if hot water is required, there is an additional step. When hot water is requested, it is taken from the cold fresh supply and transferred to a hot water heater. From there, the heated water is carried through a series of hot water lines to all areas of the home that use and require hot water.

The Indianapolis Plumbing Company To Trust

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed Indianapolis plumbing service you can trust. We have been in business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Call owner, Mark Weilhammer, at 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate or plumbing advice, today.

4 Plumbing Myths You Need to Know

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There are thousands of plumbing myths out there, but 4 in particular could cause you some major problems if you fall victim to their misleading theories. Continue below to learn the top 4 plumbing myths so that you never end up with costly bills, invasive renovations, and mounds of frustration about what could have been had you known better.

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

DO NOT Fall for These Plumbing Myths:

❶ Popping Noises Indicate a Water Heater Will Explode.

Although it is possible for a water heater to explode, as many have before, it is not likely that yours is on the verge of explosion when you hear popping or crackling sounds coming from the tank. The cause behind these alarming sounds is quite simple, and even treatable. There could be other reasons for these noises, but the most common is sediment build up at the bottom of the tank. This buildup prevents heat from rising properly when the hot water is turned on.

This reaction will definitely cause some strange sounds, but more importantly, it can reduce your water heaters performance, which can subsequently increase your water and energy bills. Think about the age of your water heater. If it is around 10 years old, it is time to have it replaced. If it is fairly new, have it inspected and serviced by a licensed technician. And be sure to keep up on proper water heater maintenance to avoid costly breakdowns and poor performance!

❷ Ice Cubes Will Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades.

Using ice to sharpen garbage disposal blades would be like using ice to sharpen your butcher knife. It simply will not work. It is likely that people are confusing garbage disposal cleaning with blade sharpening. You see, many professionals recommend periodically using ice cubes to clean and deodorize a garbage disposal unit; however, ice cubes will do nothing to sharpen garbage disposal blades. With proper garbage disposal maintenance, you can avoid issues like bacteria, odors, reduced performance, and repairs.

❸ A Leaky Faucet is Not a Pressing Issue.

Many people have somehow convinced themselves that a leaking or dripping faucet is not a big deal. Unfortunately, these same people have or will eventually learn that this is far from the truth. When a faucet leaks or drips, it is an indication that something is not right, whether it is a defect with the fixture, improper installation, or something wrong with the plumbing. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 1 trillion gallons of water is wasted each year by homeowners, which adds up in terms of water bills. Additionally, a leaky faucet can lead to rust, mildew, and more, which also require time and money to fix.

❹ Close a Faucet as Tight as Possible.

It is a common belief that the tighter you close a faucet, the better. The truth is, there is no “better” part of that scenario. You never want to close a faucet as tight as you can because it can cause damage to the inner threads that keep the handles functioning in place, which in turn can cause a water leak. Furthermore, you can cause yourself or others frustration when it comes time to open the faucet back up. Simply close your faucets to the point that the water stops, and no more.

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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.

10 Basic Plumbing Facts You Should Know

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Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Most people are familiar with the basic definition of plumbing:

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

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

Plumbing History

Fact #1

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

Fact #2

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

Fact #3

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

Fact #4

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

Fact #5

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

Around the House

Fact #6

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

Fact #7

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

Fact #8

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

Fact #9

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

Fact #10

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

Plumbing Service and Repair

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

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

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