Tag Archives: plumbing repair in Indianapolis

Don’t Make These 5 Drain Cleaning Mistakes

Posted on by

Indianapolis Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Indianapolis Drain Repair 317-784-1870

Homeowners are known to do whatever it takes to manage their drains without having to pay for plumbing services. The problem is that there are several “do-it-yourself” drain cleaning mistakes that have the potential to do more damage than advantage, and ultimately require the services of a master plumber.

If you are the type that insists on doing it yourself, be sure you don’t make the 5 most common drain cleaning in order to avoid extremely costly and invasive plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn them all.

Mistake #1 Using a Garden Hose to Clear Drains

It is a bad idea to use an outdoor hose to clear outdoor, or indoor, drains. Some people make the mistake of assuming the added water pressure will be a surefire way to clean and unclog a drain, but this is not true. Using a garden hose to clear a drain will cause a whole heap of problems you are not equipped to manage yourself. This will not only damage pipes, it can also create flooding issues and more. Learn the best methods to drain cleaning and leave the garden hose behind!

Mistake #2 Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

Over the counter drain cleaners are not all bad. For emergencies, they can do the trick. But they are not to be used for long-term drain cleaning and clearing solutions. This is because chemical drain cleaners contain harsh ingredients that can corrode and deteriorate plumbing pipes over time. This only leads to costly pipe replacement and repair. Try using natural, organic ingredients to make eco-friendly, non-toxic drain cleaners at home. These recipes generally involve baking soda, vinegar, and other natural ingredients.

Homemade Chemical-Free Drain Cleaner Recipe
1 Cup Distilled White Vinegar
1 Cup Baking Soda

Mistake #3 Using a Clothing Hanger

A nifty trick handed down from generation to generation, anyone who uses a clothing hanger to unclog drains has surely learned this technique from an elder. Although very effective at times, unclogging drains with an un-wound clothing hanger can do more bad than good in the long run. For instance, plumbers receive calls all the time about clothing hangers getting stuck inside drains and pipes. Not only is this a frustrating situation, it can require lengthy plumbing repairs and related costs.

Mistake #4 Using a Drain Auger

Yes drain augers are meant for drains, but they are serious tools that should be used by a trained professional in the industry. If used incorrectly, a drain auger can cause extensive damage to a person’s plumbing pipes and draining system. It may even cause injury in the hands of a novice. Trust a professional plumbing for large drain clearing jobs and auger work.

Mistake #5 Doing It Yourself

The whole “DIY” approach really doesn’t translate well in the plumbing industry. A home’s plumbing is the most significant and complex system. It truly requires the knowledge, training, and skill of a licensed plumber to efficiently repair or service areas of a home’s plumbing in the safest way. A running toilet is one thing, but a severely clogged drain, water heater issue, or pipe leak is something better left to a master plumber.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing repair and service you can afford in Indianapolis, IN. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provide a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. With more than 100 years in business, Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. is your best solution for plumbing repair in Indianapolis, IN. Call us today at 317-784-1870 for a free estimate or for prompt plumbing service at an affordable price!

Bathroom and Kitchen Faucet Replacement Tips

Posted on by

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

Water Hammer Repair 317-784-1870

There are a few indicative signs that suggest your kitchen and bathroom faucets might need replacing. These signs should never be ignored, especially since replacement faucets are affordable and easy to install. For one, if a faucet continues to drip, even after re-fastening or repairing, it needs to be replaced. Second, if a faucet is moderately-outdated, tarnished, or rusted, it needs replacing. This is especially important for kitchen and bathroom remodels, and can even provide an instant upgrade for quick redecorating projects. And last, if a faucet is simply broken or defective, it’s time to replace it. Continue reading to learn what to do when it comes time to replace your bathroom and kitchen faucets.

Faucet Size

The first consideration for faucet replacement is the size of the unit. Faucets comes in all different sizes and shapes, so it is important to measure the distance between the holes in the lavatory to know which size your sink needs. To do this, the faucet has to be removed in order to expose this area. Small lavatory setups generally have three holes, ranging between 3 and 4 inches apart. This setup uses two handles (hot and cold) and a spout that are all connected by an escutcheon plate. When replacing an old faucet, it is necessary for the new setup to match the same configuration. Other setups include single-hole two handle faucets, and single-hole and handle faucets.

Faucet Handles

The second consideration involves the number and the type of faucet handles. You can make this decision by thinking about who will use the faucets. For children, a single-handle faucet is safest to avoid scalding accidents. Parents are familiar with the fact the children often reach for one bathroom or kitchen knob, and they hope it’s the cold one! Single-handle faucets can reduce the likelihood of burn accidents with children because they are not likely to be in the “hot” position. Some single-handle units come with flow-mechanism options that will control how much hot water is available through the faucet. This is helpful for homes with young children. Aside from children, some people, like the elderly, might have trouble turning knob-style faucet handles. They too can benefit from a single-handle faucet setup because they come with rotational-limit stops and short-turn options.

Faucet Valves

Faucet valves are called control valves because they literally control the water flow. They open and close in different measures, controlling the water flow, the water stop, and the amount of water that comes through the faucet. There are various types of faucet valves, each meant for different faucet setups. Compression valves are used for two-handle setups and use a rubber washer to control water flow. Rubber washers will require replacing overtime but this only costs a few cents and is easy to do. Other two-handle faucets might use sleeve-cartridge valves. Sleeve-cartridge valves are also used for some single-handle setups. Brass cartridges are better choices compared to plastic ones. For other single-handle faucets, ball valves are used. These use spring-loaded seals and metal balls to control water flow. Although inexpensive and durable, they are a bit complicated to install. One of the most recommended faucet valves are called ceramic disk valves. They operate using a two-part disk that revolves, controlling the flow of water. Disk replacement is quick, simple, and inexpensive. These are great for areas with higher levels of hard water.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer Indianapolis Indiana, is happy to answer your questions about faucet repair, plumbing fixtures, plumbing repair, and more. Our team of licensed plumbers offer a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including installation, repair, maintenance, inspections, and sales. Call 317-784-1870 for affordable and fast Indianapolis plumbing repair services you can trust.