The Top 10 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Posted on March 10, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Having plumbing problems can be a major headache for homeowners. From clogged drains to leaky pipes, plumbing issues often need to be addressed quickly and professionally in order to avoid further damage or even more costly repairs down the road. But there are also many simple maintenance tasks that every homeowner should know how to do in order to keep their home’s plumbing system running smoothly.

Here are 10 essential tips from experienced plumbing professionals that will help you maintain your home’s plumbing system and save money on repair costs in the long run.

Call 317-784-1870 For Plumbing Repair Services in Indianapolis

Optimize Your Home’s Plumbing System With These 10 Tips

1. Inspect plumbing on a regular basis – Having a professional inspect your home’s plumbing system annually is a great way to detect and prevent minor problems before they become bigger issues. During an inspection, a specialist can check for potential leaks, signs of corrosion, and other common issues that may affect the longevity of your system.

2. Know where your main water shutoff valve is located – Knowing how to locate and operate the main water shutoff valve in case of an emergency can help you avoid serious water damage if there’s ever an issue with your plumbing system. It’s also important to make sure this valve works properly so you don’t have any trouble turning it off in the event of an emergency.

3. Clean your drains regularly – Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems and can be easily avoided with regular maintenance. Use a homemade drain cleaner or a commercial cleaning product to keep your drains free from debris that can accumulate over time.

4. Watch out for signs of leaks – Leaks in your home’s plumbing system can cause major damage if left unchecked, so it’s important to monitor your faucets and pipes for any signs of moisture or discoloration. If you notice any unusual wet spots on walls or floors near plumbing fixtures, contact a professional right away to inspect the area and determine the source of the leak.

5. Make sure all plumbing fixtures are in good working condition – From your toilets to your shower faucets, it’s important to regularly inspect all of the plumbing fixtures in your home to make sure they’re in good shape. If any of them appear worn or rusty, you may need to have them replaced by a professional.

6. Insulate exposed pipes – Exposed pipes can be vulnerable to temperature fluctuations that can cause them to freeze and burst during cold weather months, resulting in costly repairs. To prevent this from happening, wrap these exposed pipes with insulation material or thermally insulating tape available at most hardware stores.

7. Practice water conservation habits – Conserving water isn’t just smart for the environment—it can also help you save money on your utility bills. Installing low-flow fixtures, repairing leaky faucets, and running the dishwasher only when it’s full are all great ways to conserve water in your home.

8. Don’t ignore slow-draining sinks – A slow-draining sink is usually an early sign of a clogged drain that should be addressed before it gets any worse. Use a plunger or auger to clear the blockage, or contact a plumbing professional for more serious issues.

9. Get familiar with your garbage disposal – Knowing how to properly operate and maintain your garbage disposal will help reduce the risk of costly repairs down the line. For example, you should never put grease, oil, or non-food items like paper towels in the disposal—this can cause serious damage and create an expensive mess.

10. Don’t attempt major plumbing repairs on your own – If you ever encounter a plumbing emergency or need to perform major repairs, it’s best to contact a professional plumbing company for assistance. Attempting to repair complex problems yourself may lead to further damage or even more costly repairs down the line.

Trust a Professional Plumber for Plumbing Maintenance and Repair

By following these 10 tips from experienced plumbing professionals, you can help maintain your home’s plumbing system and save money on repair costs in the long run. However, if you ever encounter a plumbing disaster that requires professional attention, make sure you contact a reputable plumbing company for reliable service.

Don’t wait for a plumbing disaster to happen – schedule service and a spring inspection today! Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding towns. We serve residential and commercial customers with the most affordable plumbing repair and maintenance prices around!

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 Indianapolis Indiana

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!

The Best Way to Repair a Leaky Faucet

Posted on March 9, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

When you notice a dripping faucet in your home, you usually don’t pay too much attention to it at first. Perhaps this is because most leaky taps are considered minor problems with simple solutions.

But the truth is, if a dripping tap is not fixed in a timely manner, it has the potential to get worse and turn into a large, messy, and costly repair later on. So long as a leaking faucet is not entirely neglected, bigger plumbing problems can be avoided down the line.

Your Only Step for Faucet Leak Repair

The best solution for a leaky faucet is professional plumbing service. Calling a licensed plumber should always be the first step to repairing a plumbing leak in your home or office. You may think that a dripping faucet is not a big deal and something that can be fixed easily, but this is not always true. Sometimes, there are many things that could be causing a faucet leak to happen. This is why you need professional water leak diagnostics that only a licensed plumber can provide. It is important to investigate whether or not your leaky faucet is indeed a simple problem with a simple fix, and to ensure that a larger plumbing problem is not being overlooked or ignored.

For Simple Leaky Faucet Repair, a Plumber Will Start By…

1. Determining the Cause of the Water Leak
2. Disassembling the Faucet Fixture
3. Provide Any Necessary Part Replacements
4. Reassemble the Faucet Fixture

A professional plumber has the training, knowledge, and experience to quickly find the root of a faucet leak and provide affordable and efficient solutions for repair. You never want to assume any water leak is minor no matter how small it may appear. As mentioned, there are countless reasons why a water leak might occur in or around your home, which is why it is vital to have a licensed plumbing contractor investigate the cause for you. Catching a small leak early on can prevent large, costly floods and more down the line.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional water leak repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of licensed plumbing contractors, provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services at the most competitive prices in town. With more than 100 years in business here in Indiana, you can trust you are getting the most reputable and proficient plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis. Call 317-784-1870 and learn more about our affordable plumbing repair services, price, and availability today.

Manage Snow Buildup to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Posted on January 12, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Winter is a fun and enjoyable time of year for people of all ages. We look forward to wintertime and snowfall because it brings with it the opportunity to enjoy several activities, like sledding, ice skating, ice fishing, and more. But it is important to not let the festivities of winter distract you from your home owner responsibilities! One of the most important systems in our homes is plumbing, and it is most vulnerable to damage in the winter.

One common problem that can lead to plumbing damage and repair is excessive snow accumulation. It is important to constantly manage the snowfall as it builds up around your home. This will not only prevent inconvenient plumbing problems, it will also save money on costly plumbing repairs. Continue reading to learn some possible plumbing problems that snow buildup can cause, and what to do if you find yourself in the same situation.

Sump Pump and Foundation

Your home’s foundation can be effected by large snow accumulation once the snow begins to melt. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. This water can continue to seep into the basement and lower floors of the home. Needless to say, this can cause a lot of destruction. Personal belongings, clothing, and furniture can be destroyed by flooding, as well as, an extensive list of structural damages. Not only is this devastating for families, it is usually very stressful and costly to undo.

For this reason, in the case of large snow build up around your home, it is wise to check on your sump pump to ensure it is capable and ready to do its job. Start by inspecting the check valve to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line. You can actually hear the pump running, so you’ll know if it’s running too often.

Gutters and Drains

Even though the temperatures are below pleasing, it is important to still keep up with outdoor winter maintenance if you want to prevent costly repairs and problems. Start by regularly keeping your gutters clear of dirt, debris, and snow. Also, be sure all exposed drains are clear of snow as well. This will prevent plumbing clogs and backups.

Plumbing Pipes

Many people think it is best to turn their heat down low, or entirely off, while they travel in the winter. This attempt to save money can actually be a start of a costly plumbing problem. When a home is too cold in freezing weather, the pipes can actually freeze. This leads to freeze/thaw cycles, and eventually, burst pipes. Not only is this an intrusive repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. This can be prevented by keeping your house adequately warm when you are home and away. Keeping the thermostat set no lower than 65 degrees should provide the protection your plumbing needs against freezing.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumber repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing service and repair industry. He repairs, services, replaces, and installs all plumbing parts and systems, as well as, water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, slab leaks, and more! Call 317-784-1870 for information about our affordable and prompt plumbing repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Five Qualities of a Good Plumber

Posted on September 9, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Every homeowner wants to make sure any company they hire for home repairs or reconstructions is trustworthy and proficient. This is especially true for a property’s plumbing. Plumbing is one of the most vital and significant assets of a home, providing everything from bathing and drinking water, to sewage removal, and more. Without functional plumbing, you might as well be camping! And since plumbing is so important and its systems so complex, repairs can be costly and sometimes, even extensive.

For these reasons and more, everyone wants to be sure they are hiring a good plumber they can trust. Continue reading to learn the five attributes that a good and upright plumber should have and be better prepared to hire a plumbing company you can trust.

Licensing

Plumbing, as mentioned, is complex, and very important that it remains functioning for a home. This is why plumbing is a professional trade that requires schooling, training, and state licensing. If a plumber does not have the proper state licensing to provide plumbing service and repair, then steer clear of their direction! Always be sure that a plumber and plumbing company is fully licensed for liability purposes. And be sure they can show proof of this licensing.

Competence

You want a plumber that is highly knowledgeable in the plumbing service and repair industry. By talking to several plumbers, you can get an idea of who knows what they are talking about and who seems to either “beat around the bush” or tell you what you want to hear. Ask questions and assess how detailed and lucid their answers are too. This can help you gauge whether or not they have proper knowledge of the plumbing repair you need.

Experience

Just as important as competence and knowledge, experience is essential to be a good plumber. There is a learning curve to the plumbing industry, just as there are for several trades and activities. A novice plumber is not going to be able to undertake difficult and complicated plumbing projects like a veteran in the industry could. For serious services and repairs, trust a plumber with decades (at least 10 years) of experience.

Reliability

Reliability is professionalism at its core. If a company cannot be trusted to come through with what they promise, they are not being professional. Plumbers who show up promptly, on-time, neatly dressed, and full-equipped are reliable. Be sure the plumber you hire can provide these incentives on every single visit.

Reputation

The best plumbers get talked about, and they have a good-standing reputation within their local communities. If you cannot find any information about the plumbing company you’re hiring, online or within local directories, you are likely dealing with a novice business. Look for online customer reviews and see what the community says about the plumbing company you wish to call. Be sure to use a valid and reliable directory like Yelp for current and real customer reviews.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for master plumber service in Indianapolis. State-licensed master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry, and Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. has been in business here in Indiana since 1901! We are the trusted plumbing company in Indianapolis to call when you need reliable and proficient plumbing repair and service in your neighborhood.

What is a Plumbing Emergency?

Posted on June 15, 2015 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbers 317-784-1870

A home encompasses a long list of appliances and systems that can defect at any moment. One of the most serious of household emergencies involves the plumbing. Plumbing emergencies can be the messiest and the most costly. Costs can arise from not only plumbing repair and replacement, but also from structural damage renovations and emergency service fees. One way to reduce these costs is to implement proper plumbing maintenance and routine inspections in order to catch an issue early on before it gets out of control. Another way to reduce these costs is to know which plumbing issues are emergencies and which are not.

Emergency services do cost more, but can save thousands in the end. Even if the emergency happens in the middle of the night or on a weekend, like most so-inconveniently do, it is vital to get an emergency plumber to your home immediately. If something is not a crisis, you can save on these particular costs by waiting to call a plumber during regular hours or business days.

Emergency Plumbing

It is important to know the difference between a plumbing issue that can wait until morning or the next business day, and a plumbing emergency that requires immediate service. Service costs are not cheap, and emergency ones are even more, so knowing this difference can save homeowners’ hundreds of dollars. For example, things like minor water leaks can be managed on your own by simply turning off the main water valve at night and placing a bucket underneath it during the day until you can get service. Continue for more examples of plumbing emergencies and non-emergencies.

EMERGENCIES:

• Gas Leaks or Lingering Gas Smells
• Flooding (i.e. carpets, floors, basement, lawn, etc.)
• Wet or “Sweaty” Walls
• Large Amounts of Standing Water in Lawn
• Burst Pipes
• Frozen Pipes
• Sump Pump Problems and Defects
• Major Water Leaks that Can’t Be Controlled with Main Water Shutoff Valve
• Etc.

NON-EMERGENCIES:

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

When determining whether or not a plumbing issue is an emergency, ask yourself these questions:

Can it Wait?

Think about the seriousness of the issue and if leaving it alone until morning or the next business day will cause more damage. If you can mitigate the issue, like catching dripping water in a bucket, you probably don’t need emergency service. On the other hand, if it is something that needs to be functioning at all times, like if you only have one toilet, it could be an emergency.

Will Turning Off the Main Water Valve Help?

As mentioned, some plumbing leaks can be managed on your own through the night without calling for emergency service. A leak can be managed through the night by turning off the specific and main water valves; and then calling for plumbing service the next day. On the other hand, larger water leaks, like burst pipes, need emergency repair.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides a wide range of plumbing repair services for residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need minor or major plumbing work, our highly trained and qualified plumbing contractors retain the proper resources and expertise to implement accurate plumbing repairs in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Call 317-784-1870 to learn more about our Indianapolis master plumber services, prices, and availability today.

Got Low Water Pressure? Find Out Why!

Posted on October 17, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

Are you tired of dealing with low water pressure at home? Are your bathtubs, sinks, showers, and hoses giving you a hard time? Does it take longer to rinse shampoo out of your hair? Does it take a long time for the bathtub to fill up? If so, it is time to diagnose the issue! Continue reading to learn what the underlying plumbing issue is, and how to get that fast and healthy water pressure you’ve been longing for!

Water Pressure and Plumbing

It’s completely normal to be puzzled, stumped, and thrown for a loop when water pressure begins to fail. Two common scenarios are people who move into a home with great water pressure, only to see it fade away over the years; while the other scenario is families whose homes have always had weak water pressure, and cannot find a remedy to turn it around. These can be very frustrating circumstances, because lack of knowledge leaves homeowners in the dark. It is highly suggested to consult an Indianapolis master plumber for accurate diagnostics and service. They retain the proper training, licensed, experience, and resources to accurately diagnose the issue, and render solutions you can afford.

Reasons Why Your Water Pressure Might Be Low or Diminishing:

• Underground Piping Disruptions

• Tree roots, Poor Foundations, or Leaking Pipes

• Calcium Buildup in or on Plumbing Pipes and Fixtures (Common Reason for Slowly Fading Water Pressure)

• Large Chemical Deposits

• Thin Piping (Common in Older Homes)

• Mineral Buildup on Faucets and Shower Heads (Simply Replace)

• And More

If you are experiencing water pressure problems in your home or commercial property, call a licensed plumber for professional service and diagnostics. Great water pressure is a true asset for any home, and can even increase a property’s value.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

For more information about low water pressure in Indianapolis, call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 today. Mark Weilhammer, owner and master plumber, provides exceptional plumbing repair and service for residential and commercial properties. We have been a family owned and operated company since 1901, making us one of the oldest Indianapolis plumbing companies in the state of Indiana! We offer free estimates, DIY advice, free plumbing information, emergency services, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis master plumber about water pressure repair and plumbing service today!

A Guide to the Homeowners DIY Plumbing Kit

Posted on October 10, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

When it comes to plumbing repairs and needs, not all require the assistance of a master plumber. In these cases, a handy homeowner can implement some DIY strategies to combat their plumbing problems on their own. So what does every homeowner need to complete their “do-it-yourself” plumbing kit? The answer is below!

Indianapolis Plumbing Repair 317-784-1870

DIY At-Home Plumbing Kit

There are specific tools, gadgets, and equipment needed to tackle all the different plumbing emergencies and repairs a homeowner might do themselves. A handy homeowner can accomplish a wide array of plumbing endeavors around the house if properly equipped. Depending on your experience and “level of handiness” choose plumbing tasks that are comfortable for you. Call a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for plumbing repairs that require a more professional touch. Think about it; with the right materials, you can save hundreds of dollars fixing that dripping faucet, unclogging a toilet, cleaning calcified fixtures, snaking drains, and much more all on your own!

Whether it’s a leaky faucet, or a clogged toilet, these tools will have you prepared for that next unexpected plumbing repair. Here is a list of the items you should purchase and have gathered in a kit for all your DIY plumbing projects and undertakings.

• Plunger
• Pipe Wrench
• Drain Snake
• Drain Cleaner Solution
• Rubber Gloves
• Calcium-Lime-Rust Remover (CRL)

A plunger is the most basic and necessary tool for any home. It is used to dislodge buildup and fix clogged toilets. A pipe wrench is equally necessary for anyone who wishes to stop a dripping faucet, or a leaky pipe under the sink. These wrenches are adjustable and easy to use; and can be fitted to most pipes and fixtures. Snaking a drain can be done just by using an old wire hanger, but several products are available on the market that provide a snake and a drain cleaning solution. These are great products to have on-hand in the case of a clogged or backed-up drain. Rubber gloves protect the hands from harsh cleaning and drain clearing solutions, including CRL. CRL is a popular calcium, lime, and rust remover that can remove white scum and buildup from plumbing fixtures.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for superior DIY plumbing information and advice in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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. Call 317-784-1870 and learn more about the various plumbing repair services we offer in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.