How to Know When You Need a Professional Plumber

Posted on May 5, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

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!

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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.

Common Causes of Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

Posted on April 27, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Plumbing problems can be a huge headache for homeowners, and it’s important to know what causes them and how to fix them. From clogged drains to leaking pipes, plumbing issues can range from minor annoyances to major disasters. Fortunately, most plumbing problems are preventable with the right maintenance plan or can be fixed quickly when they do occur.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the common causes of plumbing problems and how you can repair them yourself or contact a professional plumber if needed. Let’s get started!

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Typical Plumbing Problems and Solutions

Clogs

Clogs are some of the most common plumbing problems and can be caused by anything from hair and debris to bobby pins, paper towels, tissue paper, and even tree roots. When it comes to clogged drains, prevention is key – make sure you’re regularly cleaning out your drains and using a drain catcher to prevent any large items from entering your pipes. If you do get a clog, there are various methods you can use to try and fix it yourself, such as using a plunger or an auger. However, if the clog persists, it may be time to call in a professional plumber who can inspect the blockage with specialized equipment.

Leaky Pipes

Another common cause of plumbing problems is leaking pipes, which can lead to further damage if left unaddressed. Water leaks usually occur due to corrosion or cracks in the pipe and can cause significant damage if they’re not fixed quickly. To fix leaky plumbing pipes, you’ll need to use the right materials for patching up the affected area. But, depending on the severity of the issue, it’s often best to call in an experienced master plumber who can provide you with the necessary repairs.

Hard Water

Hard water can be a potential cause for plumbing problems. Its presence adds calcium and magnesium to the household water supply, resulting in various issues like clogged drains, limescale, and faulty appliances. Without first addressing any hard water buildup throughout the pipes, it is almost impossible to solve subsequent plumbing problems efficiently. Installing a quality water softener can help eliminate hard water problems in both homes and businesses.

Broken Parts

Malfunctioning parts in plumbing appliances like water heaters and water softeners are another possible source for plumbing difficulties. Routine plumbing maintenance is helpful for reducing premature wear and tear in parts like T&P valves, water lines, drains, P-joints, and more. Catching signs of worn pieces on appliances ahead of time can help make sure that larger, costlier troubles are prevented. This can also help you address critical plumbing issues right away, like slow leaks, pipe clogs, as well as other common household events that result from bad or worn machine components.

Low Water Pressure

Finally, problems such as low water pressure can also be caused by plumbing issues. Reduced water pressure is often due to a clog or air bubble in your pipes, which can be easily sorted out with a plunger or auger. However, if this doesn’t solve the problem then it may be time to contact a professional Indianapolis plumber again.

Use This Knowledge to Prevent Problems With Plumbing in the Future!

Plumbing problems can be a huge nuisance, but the good news is that most of them can be easily fixed with the right tools and knowledge. If you’re ever unsure how to repair an issue or are faced with a more complex problem than you expected, it’s always best to contact a professional plumber who has the necessary experience and expertise. With their help, you’ll soon have your plumbing back in working order!

Would you like to schedule an appointment for a certified professional to inspect and service your plumbing system? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer full-service master plumber solutions, including routine service, repair, installation, procurement, and more.

Money-Saving Plumbing Tips You Don’t Want to Ignore

Posted on June 30, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Who doesn’t want to save a little money? More importantly, who doesn’t want to save A LOT of money? Well, with the right plumbing practices and choices, you can save loads of your hard-earned income on monthly energy and water bills, plus all sorts of other expenses, like soap, laundry, detergent, clothing, shampoo, super expensive plumbing repairs and replacements.

Continue reading to learn some money-saving plumbing tips you don’t want to miss out on, then share them with your friends and loved ones so they too can enjoy the savings!

Licensed Plumber Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Cost-Effective Plumbing Tips

Most people are not aware that plumbing plays a significant role in so many different elements of your quality of life. After all, without indoor plumbing, we might as well be living back in the stone ages! From drains and faucets to dishwashers, sinks, washing machines, showers, bathtubs, water heaters, water softeners, boilers, and more, plumbing is a part of our lives in almost everything that we do at home. For this reason, it is worth your while to pay close attention to your plumbing practices and choices. Not only can you modify your habits, but you can also replace current systems with more energy-efficient models too.

Here the top plumbing tips that are guaranteed to save you money:

Get To Know Your Plumber

Routine plumbing maintenance is an important part of saving money and preventing future plumbing disasters. The sooner you get a plumbing problem, the cheaper it’ll be to resolve. Not only should you retain the services of a licensed and insured plumber with extensive experience in the industry to perform such maintenance, but you should really get to know them too. The more you get to know your plumber, the better you are able to communicate your plumbing concerns and troubles with them, and in turn, this allows them to have a comprehensive understanding of your home’s plumbing needs.

When you take good care of all of your plumbing systems and appliances, you can expect them to perform well and last a long time. It is important to have your home’s plumbing systems checked every 3 to 5 years, while water heaters and water softener should be inspected and serviced annually. Talk to your local Indianapolis plumber the best routine maintenance schedule for your home or office.

Consider Lowering Your Water Heater Temperature Setting

Generally, a safe temperature setting for a water heater is between 115 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Homes with young to middle-aged adult occupants can safely increase the temperature up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you’re interested in saving some money, it is recommended to turn your water heater temperature setting down. Although this might not seem like much, the slight change in temperature drop can decrease your monthly energy bill.

Insulate Your Plumbing Pipes

When plumbing pipes are not adequately insulated, a home can experience a significant amount of heat loss, which ultimately costs money. By insulated your plumbing pipes, you can instantly stop heat loss, and therefore, retain your conditioned air longer. This reduces the need to continue running your furnace or central heater, which costs a lot of money. Furthermore, properly insulated pipes protect against standby energy loss from your water heater tank.

Incorporate Energy Efficient Plumbing Appliances and Fixtures

There are many types of plumbing appliances and fixtures that incorporate efficiency into your plumbing practices. For instance, you can replace your toilets with high-efficiency models, such as a dual-flush toilet, which gives users two options for flushing: low flush mode for liquid waste and a higher flush mode for solid waste. These toilets use a mere 1.6 gallons of water per flush!

You can also install low-volume restrictors in your shower heads and faucets, which can also decrease the amount of water you waste while brushing teeth or washing hands and dishes. Additional energy efficient plumbing systems to consider for money-saving purposes include solar water heaters and tankless water softeners.

Are you experiencing plumbing problems that are costing you more money? 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.

Non-Toxic Cleaning Solutions You Can Make Yourself

Posted on April 26, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Many store-bought cleaning agents contain high amounts of harmful chemicals and toxic solutions. Not only can these be dangerous to humans, pets, and wildlife, but they can also damage your home’s plumbing systems, appliances, and more. So, let’s keep the Earth Day momentum going by introducing some non-toxic, homemade cleaning solutions you can use all around the house and beyond! Continue below to get started with some easy recipes you can make right at home.

Why Make Your Own Cleaners

Various products on the market today fail to specify their dangerous chemicals on the ingredients label. So, the best way to avoid contact with these types of dangerous products is to simply replace them with safer alternatives. Making your own chemical-free, non-toxic household cleaning products is extremely rewarding. Best of all, it is a lot less expensive and easy to do!

Simple and Safe Homemade Cleaning Solutions

Purchase quality spray bottles. Be sure to choose bottles with ounces measured on the outside of them. This will help you measure and mix solutions quicker and easier. Also, always label each bottle with the type of cleaning agents inside. For example, if the solution is for your kitchen, label it, “kitchen cleaner”, or something similar. Safe ingredients that can be used to create your own homemade cleaning solution range from vinegar and baking soda to borax, Castile soap, and essential oils. Make your own combinations and experiment with what works best for your cleaning goals and even allergies.

Safe and Non-Toxic Ingredients Include, But are Not Limited To:

❧ Distilled White Vinegar
❧ Baking Soda
❧ Borax or Washing Soda
❧ Olive Oil-Based Soap
❧ Coconut Oil-Based Soap
❧ Vegetable Soap
❧ Castile Soap
❧ Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
❧ Essential Oil
❧ Clean Water

⚠ Safety Warning ⚠
Although you are making Eco-friendly and safe cleaning products, it is still strongly encouraged to keep them locked up and out-of-reach from children, pets, and wildlife. No one wants to be responsible for a sick animal or child. If these solutions are ever ingested in large quantities, immediately contact emergency services for medical attention.

How to Use Your New Cleaners

When it comes to cleaning your kitchen with Eco-friendly solutions, use a mixture of baking soda, Borax, or washing soda with a little bit of vegetable soap and warm water. This solution can be applied on counters, floors, appliances, and other surfaces.

For ovens and appliances, mix baking soda and washing soda with a little bit of water to make a paste. Generously apply the paste and allow it to sit overnight. Then wash away in the morning for best results.

For countertop cleaning, gently scrub an even mixture of these same ingredients, and then rinse with clean water.

For cutting boards, use a mixture of vinegar and 3% hydrogen peroxide. Bottle each solution separately, spraying first with the vinegar and second with the hydrogen peroxide. Repeat these steps until you achieve a clean surface.

Drains, Sinks, Tubs, and More

Use the same solutions and recipes for bathroom tile, bathtubs, bathroom countertops, toilets, and sinks. For drains, use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. First poor half cup of baking soda down the drain, and then pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain. Allow the drain to rest for a few minutes and then run hot water through the drain until it is unclogged.

Are you experiencing cloudy or spotty dishes? How about clogged drains or smelly water? Solve your plumbing issues soon, before they can get worse, and costlier! 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.

Can Your Plumbing Repair Wait or is it an Emergency?

Posted on December 11, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Is your plumbing repair an emergency situation? Or can it wait? Continue reading to find out what constitutes a plumbing emergency and what doesn’t, including certain plumbing repairs that can be done on your own.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair 317-784-1870

Dealing With Plumbing Problems

When something in your plumbing system breaks down, you often wonder whether or not it’s considered an emergency. Sometimes you don’t have enough money to put towards a repair until your next paycheck, or you simply don’t have the time to add in a plumbing appointment to your busy schedule. The best way to determine if a plumbing repair is an emergency is to contact a professional Indianapolis master plumber for free, over-the-phone advice you can trust.

Plumbing Repair Emergencies

A plumbing repair emergency is a break down in your plumbing system that will pose serious injury or health complications, such as gas leaks, or one that will pose serious destruction to your property, such as flooding or fires. Below is a list of standard plumbing emergencies. If your home or building experiences any of the emergencies listed below, or ones similar, you must contact a licensed plumber immediately, even if in the middle of the night.

Plumbing Emergencies:

⚠ Major Water Leaks that Can’t Be Stopped By Main Water Shutoff
⚠ Gas Leaks
⚠ Lingering Gas Smell
⚠ Flooding (i.e. carpets, floors, basement, lawn, etc.)
⚠ Condensation on Walls (“sweaty” or wet walls)
⚠ Large Amounts of Standing Water in Lawn
⚠ Burst Pipes
⚠ Frozen Pipes
⚠ Sump Pump Problems and Defects

Minor Plumbing Repairs

A minor plumbing repair is not an emergency situation. Instead, it is a break down in your plumbing system that needs to be fixed, but in the meantime, should not pose serious injury or health complications, nor destruction to your property. However, a minor plumbing repair can evolve into a plumbing emergency if it is neglected over a period of time. Below is a list of non-plumbing emergency examples. If your home or building experiences any of the breakdowns listed below, or ones similar, you must contact a licensed plumber if you cannot repair it yourself. See our blog, “3 Household Plumbing Repairs You Should Know How to Do” for some help.

NON-Plumbing Emergencies:

✅ Moderate Leaks that Can Be Stopped with Main Water Shutoff Valve (i.e. water heater, water softener, cabinet pipes, etc.)
✅ Clogged Toilet or Drain
✅ Running Toilet
✅ No Hot Water
✅ Small Water Leaks (i.e. faucet, shower head, sink, etc.)
✅ Broken Plumbing Fixture

Contact a Trusted Indianapolis Master Plumber

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for home plumbing repairs and plumbing emergencies in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Our state-licensed Indianapolis master plumbers have been in the plumbing 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. Request a free estimate or advice, today.

Plumbing Noises That Should Be Taken Seriously

Posted on April 17, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Your plumbing system makes all sorts of noises, most of which are perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, there are some noises that should be taken seriously, as they may be an indication of something seriously wrong within your plumbing system. Continue reading to learn how to tell the difference between normal and abnormal sounds coming from your home’s plumbing.

Indianapolis Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Normal Sounds

You have various components in your plumbing system, from water heaters and water softeners, to fixtures, pipes, and more. Loud sounds like whizzing, clinking, vibrating, and even banging are typically normal because they are simply residuals noises that result from standard plumbing operations. But any other noises outside of these may call for some concern.

Abnormal Sounds

As mentioned, some plumbing sounds are signs that something within your plumbing system is defective, failing, or broken down. Although there are various strange noises that point towards plumbing problems, some of the most concerning noises to look out for include whining, dripping, and bubbling.

If you hear any of these kinds of noises coming from your washing machine, sump pump, water heater, water softener, shower, plumbing pipes, or anywhere else in your plumbing system, you must act fast to diagnose and resolve the issue before it can lead to costly repairs and invasion renovations from water and mold damage.

⚟ Whining Sounds

If you are hearing whining, whistling, squeaking, or other high-pitched noises coming from pipes or any other plumbing-related system, especially when you turn on a faucet, it could mean that you have a damaged or defective pressure-reducing valve. If you fail to have this issue repaired, it could cause burst pipes, flooding, and more.

⚟ Dripping Sounds

Any kind of dripping noise within your home is a cause for concern, as it most definitely means there is a leak at large somewhere. Whether it is a barely-audible dripping, or a loud, fast one, you must take action as soon as possible to repair the leak and prevent costly flooding and water damage. Never take your chances when you hear water dripping.

⚟ Bubbling Sounds

Bubbling, sloshing, and gurgling noises are usually an indication that there is air trapped within your pipes. It can also mean that you have an unresolved clog or even a sewer problem. Regardless of the cause, this is a serious plumbing issue that can lead to even more serious pecuniary consequences. Keep in mind, this kind of problem will only worsen overtime, so act fast!

Indianapolis Plumbing Inspections and Repairs

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

The Advantages of Hiring a Licensed Plumber

Posted on July 12, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

When a homeowner comes across a plumbing issue, even a major one, they can sometimes feel the urge to correct the problem themselves for the sake of saving a few dollars. But all professional plumbers know that this is never a good plan, because most often, they are called to fix these DIY mistakes. There are several reasons why you should not attempt to repair a plumbing problem on your own, unless it is a very minor one, like a running toilet (in which case you would just open the back, un-kink the chain inside the tank with a simple flick of the finger, and then the toilet tank should fill with water again). Minor cases of clogged drains are also acceptable and feasible DIY plumbing repairs for homeowners. But when it comes to real plumbing problems, always hire a professionally licensed plumbing contractors. And here’s why:

Education and Training

Licensed plumbers are not self-taught, especially master plumbers. It is a very serious vocation that requires extensive formal education and training, strenuous state testing, and an in-depth understanding of plumbing systems. If you do not retain these qualifications, then you should not try to repair your own plumbing problems. Your plumbing system is very complex and sophisticated, and although a plumbing problem may appear to be isolated at one fixture or area, it could be something much deeper. And only a trained plumber knows the intricacies of your plumbing system, and how to locate the underlying problem.

Tools and Equipment

To accurately diagnose and resolve plumbing issues, you don’t just need knowledge and experience, you need the right equipment too. The proper plumbing tools and equipment are necessary for accuracy, efficiency, and safety. A professional plumbing company retains the necessary tools and equipment to manage any plumbing project the first time around, regardless of size or scope. Not only do they have the right tools, they have the industry connections to get materials and parts from the best and most cost-effective suppliers on that market.

Peace of Mind

When you have a licensed and insured plumber working on your home’s plumbing issues, you have peace of mind knowing that your home is in the hands of a qualified professional. You can relieve yourself of the stress and anxiety that comes with DIY home improvement and repairs, and get back to focusing on work, family, and friends instead.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumber in Indianapolis, Indiana or its surrounding counties. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed and insured plumbers, are happy to help you resolve your plumbing problems fast, and at a price you can afford. We offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more! Choose a family owned and operated plumbing company that has served the Hoosier communities for over 100 years! Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for more information about our Indianapolis plumbing services, today.

My Basement is Flooded! What Do I Do?

Posted on June 15, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

A flooded basement is a dreaded home disaster that no one wants to face as a property owner. But the reality is that basements can and do flood, whether from defective plumbing or inclement weather. For this reason, it is wise as a home owner to learn what to do in case of a basement flood emergency. Continue reading to gain this knowledge, and be better prepared to manage a flooded basement if it were to ever happen to your home.

Act Fast

The most important thing you can do when you discover that your basement is flooding is to act fast. Take immediate action to reduce the ultimate amount of water damage as much as possible. By neglecting to reverse a water leak, you risk causing further damage to your home, and paying thousands of dollars in repairs and renovations. The sooner you effectuate a remedy, the better your chances are at recovering more efficiently in terms of money and time.

In the case that your basement floods, here’s what to do:

1. Shut Off the Water Supply. Find your main water shut off valve and immediately turn the water supply off to the home. If you know the exact source of the water flow, you can just turn off that water source, such as a water heater or water softener. It is best to first turn off the main water supply to be sure the overflow is stopped immediately. In the case of a sewage backup, refrain from using any appliances that use water, such as dishwashers and washing machines.

2. Do Not Walk Through the Water. Assess the damage from a distance first. This will protect you from electric shock and other potential, unforeseen hazards that can occur as a result from indoor floods. If you believe it is 100% safe, and choose to walk through the water, turn off the power supply to the entire home first. And be sure to wear protective gear, especially if the flood waters come from a sewer pipe.

3. Check for Gas Leaks and Structural Damage. While still at a distance, also look for possible gas leaks and damage. If you cannot tell, do not enter the water and move on to the next step.

4. Call a Licensed Plumber. They retain the proper tools, training, and knowledge to manage your basement flood and repair the source of the plumbing problem. Most plumbing companies that have been established for some time even offer 24 hour emergency service for indoor floods.

5. Contact Your Insurance Provider. Once you have a plumber on the way, immediately contact your home owners’ insurance company. Do not hesitate to make this call! Because the longer you wait, your chances of getting approved for coverage lessen. And be sure to take extensive photos of all the damage, and save all documents and receipts for repairs and related purchases.

6. Take Preventative Measures. Preventative maintenance is the best method for avoiding another basement flood or plumbing emergency. Ask your plumber what you can do to prevent future plumbing problems, and your options for in-home plumbing security.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 if you have a flooded basement in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to provide emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day and 7 days a week for indoor residential and commercial floods, pipe bursts, water leaks, and more. We have been in business for over 100 years, so you know you can trust our licensed and insured plumbers. We also offer free plumbing advice and information any time. Call 317-784-1870 for 24 hour emergency plumbing service in Indianapolis, IN today.

Outdoor Plumbing Advice for Homeowners

Posted on March 17, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

With spring nearly upon us, many homeowners are eager to fix up their patios and lawns after a long winter season. Mulching, gardening, and purchasing new patio décor is generally at the top of the priority list this time of year, however, there is more to consider in terms of outdoor maintenance. A major component to outdoor maintenance is plumbing. In fact, there are several areas that can influence the plumbing quality in and around your home.

Continue reading to learn how to manage your outdoor plumbing and prepare it for the spring and summer.

Outdoor Plumbing Tips

When it comes to preparing your outdoor living spaces for the spring, the first step is an inspection. Take some time to walk around your home and check for issues regarding your outdoor plumbing. Once you complete this inspection, you have a better idea of what actions need to be taken next. Here’s where to start:

• Check all outdoor drains, gutters, window wells, and downspouts for blockages and damage. • Check all hose bibs and faucets to ensure water flow is normal. • Check all plumbing vent pipes (including the outside dryer vent) for blockages. • Check the septic tank filter field for damage or clogs.

Blockages in these areas commonly include leaves, pine cones, twigs, trash, birds’ nests, and other miscellaneous debris. It is important to inspect for these obstructions as often as possible in order to prevent costly structural damage repairs. Once you finish your initial inspection, it is recommended to carry out the following tasks:
• Remove all blockages from drains, gutters, vents, downspouts and window wells. • Repair any damages to the above areas. • Apply a quality root-killing drain cleaner to your drain line. • Have your septic tank pumped if necessary. • Hire a licensed plumber to provide comprehensive inspection services.

It will probably require professional service to repair any damages to gutters, downspouts, vents, and drains, as well as, make any replacements. It is not safe to attempt these tasks without certified training, ample experience, and proper equipment. When it comes to the septic tank, it is important to have it pumped every 3 to 5 years. This will reduce the need for expensive filter field replacement.

In order to ensure your outdoor plumbing is leak-free and in good condition, you need to hire a licensed plumbing company for professional inspection and diagnostic services. They retain the proper tools, equipment, and training to accurately identify areas of concern, and recommend effective and affordable solutions for plumbing problems. Catching a problem early on is cheaper than waiting for it to become a big, costly repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call state-licensed master plumber Mark Weilhammer at 317-784-1870 when you need professional plumbing service in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Here at Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc., we are passionate about providing exceptional plumbing services at economy-based prices. We offer a wide range of plumbing repair services, for both residential and commercial properties. For prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair, call 317-784-1870 today!

Plumbing Tips for the Basement

Posted on January 22, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

The most common consequence of basement plumbing problems are basement floods. Flooded basements happen as a result of a number of reasons, most of which can be prevented. This is why regular plumbing maintenance for basements is so important. It will not only protect and preserve your basement plumbing systems, it will also reduce the chances of costly plumbing repairs down the line.

Common plumbing systems in basements include water heaters, water softeners, boilers, sump pumps, septic tanks, sprinkler line valves, washing machines, bathrooms or kitchens, and more. All home plumbing systems are different, but they will all have one thing in common in terms of basement plumbing: the need for regular maintenance. Continue reading to learn some tips for proper basement plumbing care, and who to call when you need a master plumber in your neighborhood.

Where to Start…

It is important to first consider safety when you are inspecting and servicing your basement plumbing appliances and systems. Never store flammable liquids or chemicals near water heaters, gas furnaces, or any other type of fuel-powered appliance. This includes gasoline, propane tanks, liquid adhesives, solvents, and anything else that has a flammable warning. On the topic of natural gas, it is important to make sure sewer gases are not building up too much within household drains, mostly drains that are not used as often like basement floor drains. To prevent sewer gases from backing up, simply pour a bucket of clean water down the drain every other month to keep the trap seal full.

Moving on, you should always inspect and pump your home’s sump pump periodically to prevent costly repairs like filter field replacement. Do this every three to five years, depending on the size of the home and the age of the sump pump. Another area of concern for basement flooding is your washing machine. Be sure to regularly inspect the machine and the connective hoses to check for bulges, leaks, and kinks. Catching a washing machine problem early on will not only save money on potential flooding repairs and renovations, it will also avoid having to buy a new washing machine.

If you like to save energy, be sure to also maintain a moderate water heater temperature setting. Not only does this reduce energy consumption, it also prevents dangerous scalding accidents. A good temperature setting for water heaters is anywhere between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater temperature is set above 120, consider lowering it a bit for safety and energy efficiency.

If you have water hammering problems, or loud noises from water usage, consider installing shock absorbers. These absorb vibrations in the water lines, muffling the obnoxious sounds made from water hammering. And for water leaks, there is an easy way to test for them that should be done every month or so. During a time that water is not being used in the house, simply read your water meter, taking notes on what you see, then check the meter again 12 hours later to see if anything has changed. If there has been a radical change in the past 12 hours that water was not used, it could be an indication of a leak. In this case, you would need to call a master plumber for professional water leak diagnostics and repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for licensed plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber Mark Weilhammer is happy to answer your questions about basement flooding, sump pump repair, water heater repair, water softener repair, and all other plumbing problems! We offer a wide range of plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties. Just call 317-784-1870 to speak with a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis, IN today.