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Plumbing Problems, Solutions, and Tips from Roto-Rooter

February 21st, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Your house is your castle. It is a place of refuge from the world and an abode for relaxation……. or is it? Houses take a lot of work to maintain. Unless you can afford to hire on help, you are the one responsible for fixing any issue. If it isn’t a fire in the kitchen, it’s going to be a mess in the backyard. As you try to tackle each thing as it comes your way, it is easy to forget what is going on behind your walls. Plumbing is an extremely important part of every home as it brings water to the house and carries away waste. When a clogged toilet or frozen pipe demands your attention, they do it in a big messy way. Since 1935, millions of customers have relied on the service, products and skill of Roto-Rooter to help solve their plumbing problems. From all the experience we’ve gained, consider the following when dealing with plumbing problems in Indianapolis.

The fact of the matter is that you can handle most minor plumbing problems on your own. A clogged toilet, for example, is a common issue you can combat with a toilet plunger. It does a great job in most cases at dealing with backed up flushes. What usually clogs a toilet is excessive use of toilet paper. Even though, it is designed to dissolve in water and be flushed fairly easily, it can still cause problems if you don’t split up the load into a couple flushes. Also, always avoid flushing food, garbage or solids that were never meant to be flushed. Remember, the toilet is a commode, not a garbage disposal.

Clogged drains, just like toilets, happen often and can be combated with the simple means of your own two hands, some tools and a little cleaning product. Whether you are in the kitchen or in the bathroom take a look down the drain and see if you can pull out whatever is causing the clog. In bathroom sinks, buildup of hair and other scum can be easily removed with a screwdriver. In the kitchen, make sure that a strainer is set in place so that stray food particles are caught. Pipe cleaner or pouring boiling water down the drain do a great job of stripping away sticky gunk and preventing frequent clogs.

For more specific information on plumbing problems in Indianapolis, call Roto-Rooter for more information today.

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Plumbing Repair Information for DIY Care

February 18th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Your alarm goes off, you head to the bathroom…… the toilet is clogged. You hop in the shower, the faucet won’t work. You finally get water, but it is colder than the dead of winter. You go down to your basement to investigate and find yourself standing in six inches of water flooding from a broken pipe in the wall. While all of this may not happen on the same day, plumbing repair in Indianapolis happens on a large scale all over the city. Roto-Rooter has been on call since 1935 and has experienced the best and the worse plumbing has to offer. With all of the experience we have gained, we’ve decided to pass along some information to help you take better care of your home’s plumbing.

Clogged drains are no laughing matter. Clogs block off flow quickly and can lead to flooding in no time. Bathroom drains often clog because of hair build up in showers. Soap, dirt and scum also get caught in in the mix, which makes a tough clog. Try using a screwdriver, first remove all the visible gunk and grime. After, try using pipe cleaner, it should take care of the remaining gunk clinging to the sides of the drain. Kitchen sinks have the same type of clogging problem, but with food particles, soap, and dirt. While drain cleaners are a great option, boiling water is a more natural solution. Great for bathroom and kitchen drains, boiling water will help strip away gunk and grime. Do this once a week and your clog problems will continue to disappear.
Frozen pipes are a dozy. When temperatures plummet this winter, don’t leave yourself vulnerable. As water starts to freeze in a pipe, little pockets of air try to escape from the expanding ice. The increase in pressure forces the air out. If trapped, the air will burst through a pipe forming a crack or shattering the line entirely. Unfortunately, flooding is usually a common end result to a frozen pipe. To prevent this flooding from happening, make sure to increase your insulation efforts. Additionally, you can wrap pipes, which are more at risk with special plumbing insulators.

For more information on how you can perform plumbing repair in Indianapolis, call Roto-Rooter today.

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Plumbing Issues and Simple Fixes

February 17th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Whether you live in Dallas, New York City or Indianapolis, plumbing issues are pretty similar, if not the same across the board. On top of that, with the experience we have gained with plumbing in Indianapolis and other locations, we are more than qualified to arrive promptly and get the issue fixed efficiently. While our certified staff of trained plumbing technicians can handle any problem thrown at them, why not prevent a few of the larger ones and save yourself a bundle using some of our great home products? Performing DIY repairs on your own plumbing are easy to do and will help prevent more serious plumbing issues.

Frozen pipes hit homes across the country every winter. As the water starts to freeze, pressure builds and pushes on trapped air. These little pockets of air try to find a way out, and eventually do, bursting through the side of a pipe forming a crack or shattering the pipe altogether. In order to avoid serious flooding, which typically occurs with frozen pipes, make sure to increase the insulation that runs along your waterline. Putting more insulation between pipes and outer walls can better protect your plumbing throughout the winter.
Water heater failure. Most water heaters only end up last about 11 years. While they are built to last even double that amount of time, the daily stress with constant use and no maintenance eventually leads to full system failure. Hard water is a serious culprit. As water is already plenty erosive and damaging to pretty much anything if given enough time, hard water is even worse. Installing a full functioning water softener in the waterline will make sure that your water heater lasts a lot longer.
Clogged toilets are another common issue, which in most cases, can be easily fixed. To avoid getting toilet bowl clogs, make sure everyone in your home understands what can and cannot be flushed. First off, never flush garbage, paper, plastic or any hard substance down the toilet. These items will get stuck immediately and require the services of a Roto-Rooter technician to clear. Only flush toilet paper, waste and approved plumbing care products. Pipe cleaner is another great way to keep your drain running smoothly. Using a toilet plunger will do the job in most cases and help keep your flushes flow normally.

For more information about plumbing in Indianapolis and how you can take better care, call Roto-Rooter today.

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Water Heater Repair: Replacement Tips

February 11th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

With water heater repair in Indianapolis on the rise, people want to know what they can do to make their water heaters more efficient in energy use and lifespan. Since we use water so much everyday, especially warm water for washing, water heaters are constantly on the job 24/7 to make sure that hot water is ready right when we need it. Since most water heaters only last about 11 years on average, you can expect to buy a replacement if a repair is too expensive to justify. In the event that you need to buy a new one, pick on up from Roto-Rooter. Along with our many great models to choose from, our installation service is top of the line. Even if you decide on a product we don’t sell, our technicians are still certified for installation. Hire us, and we’ll get it installed correctly and get you started on the right foot.

Traditional Water Heater

They come with their own problems. Whether gas or electric, older models have a large tank of water to keep heated at all times. Since they are constantly sucking gas and electricity to keep water hot all day, your overall energy costs each month are mostly from your water heater. On top of that, older water heater technology isn’t as robust as some of the newer models manufacturers are coming out with. Even so, using a water softener at all times and performing regular maintenance, you can make a heater last longer than 11 years.

On Demand

While your local cable or satellite service has on demand programming, Roto-Rooter can hook you up with a tankless water heater that can get your the hot water you need on demand. Since the heater doesn’t have a tank of water to heat up all day long and it only heats water that you need right then, you will notice a drastic decrease in your monthly energy bill. As soon as water starts passing through the heater, it zaps the water hot. Another great benefit of these newer heaters is their longevity. One average they last about 20 years and with care can last up to 30.

Safety First

Hot water heaters can be set at a maximum temperature of your choice. While most new models won’t get scalding hot, older ones will. Make sure to check the max temperature so it isn’t set too hot. Accidents happen and serious burns occur. Set the temperature low and avoid them altogether.

For more information about water heater repair in Indianapolis, call Roto-Rooter today!

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Plumbers Make a Difference: DIY Tips from the Pros

February 10th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

With the growing need of plumbers in Indianapolis, Rot0- Rooter has the experience and manpower to rise to the occasion. The fact is at some point or another, every home and business will need the expertise that we have been known for since 1935. When things get messy and out of control, trained Roto-Rooter technicians are on call to provide a level of service other companies have to work hard to keep up with. With a dedication to great service and products, you’re in good hands. What can you do, however, before we get there? Regular maintenance at home can help prevent serious problems like flooding from happening. Here are some tips and trick for everyday plumbing care.

Clogged drains are a pain. Most clogs don’t happen all of a sudden, so it can seem mysterious when you finally notice the problem. Bathroom drains are usually easily fixed as human hair gets trapped along with soap residue and grease. Using a screwdriver to pull out the hair and some pipe cleaner, your bath and shower will be working like new again. The kitchen sink often time’s gets too much food and grease. Especially those that do not have a garbage disposal, clogs happen quite often. Boiling water with baking soda and vinegar will do the trick. The hot boiling water will loosen the gunk while the baking soda makes and vinegar with increased acidity will eat away at what is left clinging to the sides.
Frozen pipes. Many plumbers in Indianapolis deal with them every winter. What most people don’t realize is that it isn’t the freezing water that causes pipes to burst, it is the air. As the cold water turns to ice, little pockets of air get trapped and get compressed. When the air pressure gets too high, they air will actually crack and burst through the pipe. In some cases, pipes can completely shatter. To avoid this, it is important to make sure that pipes running through outer walls are well insulated. Beefing up the insulation between the wall and pipe will keep dropping temperatures from doing serious damage.
Drippy faucets are a headache waiting to happen. While a small drip doesn’t seems like a big deal, if left along long enough water will actually ruin a faucet head. Removing a faucet head and simply putting the sealant washer back into place will fix the issue. If it is warped at all, replacing it with a new one that fits will do the job, too.

For more help, call Roto-Rooter today!

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Tips for Simple Faucet Repair: Roto-Rooter

February 3rd, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Drip, drip, drip…. You are lying in bed and can hear a leaky faucet somewhere in the house. “Should I get up and turn it off? You ask yourself. “No…. I’ll do it tomorrow.” Too often when a leaky faucet starts dripping away, it goes unattended for weeks, even months on end. Whether or not ignoring the problem is intentional, it is still an issue that can be easily fixed. Roto-Rooter has been helping millions of people learn more about better plumbing care and is excited to give you tips and tricks for faucet repair in Indianapolis and can be applied in most situations. With years of experience under our belt, use this information to better yourself and increase your DIY ability around the house.

Leaky faucets are one of, if not the very most common plumbing problem in the world. Water is naturally erosive and can do a number on just about anything it comes across with if given enough time. Although it takes thousands of years, the Grand Canyon was formed by water constantly running by and eating away at the earth. With a leaking faucet, a similar thing happens. The sealant washer inside of a faucet keeps water back when not in use. Water enters under pressure, which causes it to push and eventually seep around the sealing wall. If given enough time, this seepage will drip, leak, and eventually ruin your faucet head.

While this is inevitably going to happen to every faucet in the house, taking action right when a leak starts is the best way to protect the integrity of a brass fitting. When you notice a leak, immediately remove the faucet head with a wrench (protect he brass from scratches by using a rag between the grips of the wrench and the faucet). When the head is removed, take a look inside to see if the washer is seated against the seat perfectly. Readjusting it back into place should fix the problem. Take care that the washer fits absolutely perfectly, or else there will still be some kind of leak after reattaching the faucet head. If the washer is for some reason warped, you can find a replacement washer fairly easy at any hardware store. Take care to get one that fits just right and you will take care of that leak for good.

For more information on faucet repair in Indianapolis, call Roto-Rooter today!

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Plumbing Problems and Fixes: Roto-Rooter

January 31st, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Did your toilet clog this morning? Is your sink acting up? Do you notice a few leaky faucets around the house? With so many plumbing problems in Indianapolis and everywhere else, Roto Rooter has been the service of choice to help eliminate these problems since 1935. With millions of homes that have benefitted from the service, products, and experience of Roto Rooter, we are excited to share some DIY tips for fixes of many of the common plumbing issues that come about. With a little elbow grease and even more desire to learn, you can take care of most of the problems that arise in your home.

Frozen pipes are a serious problem that requires professional assistance. When this happens, we come in and replace the entire pipeline and help clean up the water that may have flooded as a result. While this is an expensive problem to fix, preventing it takes little effort and resources. Insulation is the key to prevent pipes from freezing. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes starts to freeze. Air pockets get trapped inside and as the pressure increases from the forming ice, the air bursts through the pipe, often time cracking or shattering the area completely. Insulating a pipe with fitted materials or simply putting more insulation between the wall and your pipeline will protect it from fluctuating temperatures.

Clogged toilets hit every house often enough that most people have a toilet plunger right beside it just in case. While a plunger will do the job in most instances, it does not actually removes clinging gunk and grime that is stuck on the walls of a toilet bowl drain. With the use of cleaners and other fluids, these clogs can be stripped away. For serious blockages that even a cleaner can’t remove, Roto Rooter professionals can arrive on the scene and snake out the problem. Using a long and flexible metal tool, the snake goes through your system and actually pulls the crud out of the way that caused the block. In order to prevent these serious clogs, only flush toilet paper down your commode. Anything else will put you at risk for serious problems.

One of the most common plumbing problems in Indianapolis and all around the country is clogged drains. Pouring boiling water down your kitchen and bathroom drains helps to clear out the unwanted garbage. Adding a bit of vinegar and baking soda to the mix makes it more potent.

For more information call Roto Rooter today!

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Drain Cleaner Alert: Roto-Rooter

January 27th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Taking care of your plumbing is a great way to prevent serious problems from arising. Prevention is always a cheaper option than replacement or expensive repair. With the help of professional Roto-Rooter technicians, you can have a complete checkup done to see what condition your plumbing is currently in. This inspection can also reveal vulnerabilities and potential problems that will eventually give you headaches. When you know what those things are, you can buy the right tools and products to perform regular maintenance and keep your drains clear, pipes healthy, and water running where it is supposed to. From drain cleaner in Indianapolis to boiling water, there are lots of resources to help you keep your plumbing running right.

Clogs and backups are probably the most common plumbing issue out there. Clogs happen all the time because they take a beating with all the use that they get. Whether in the shower, brushing your teeth, washing dishes, or preparing meals, gunk and grime make their ways into your drains and turn into nasty clogs. When a drain gets blocked, not only can water end up on the floor but water damage and mold become an issue as well. Here are several things to do to prevent clogs.

Use a drain strainer. Filters can easily be installed onto any drain and are really easy to clean when they are full. When you see for yourself what your filter is catching, it will be a wonder why you haven’t had even more clogs than you have.
Boiling water is a great way to free build up that is forming. Greases, food, and others particles easily get caught in drains. Pouring boiling water down pipes is an easy way to quickly get rid of this build up and actually get rid of drains. Adding baking soda and even vinegar to this method can be even more effective against tougher clogs.
A garbage disposal is another great way to prevent clogs. Make sure to use an enzyme based drain cleaner in Indianapolis so that you can start building up bacteria colonies that will help improve the health of your drainage. They will eat away grime that is easily missed by the disposal and can actually help clear up space in a septic tank over time.

For more plumbing information and help, call Roto-Rooter today to speak with a certified technician.

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Why Frozen Pipes? Roto-Rooter

January 23rd, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

When winter comes around, you have enough to worry about with snow on the roads, ice on the walk, and holiday shopping to get finished. The last thing you need is a plumbing crisis on your hands. Despite all that, frozen pipes in Indianapolis are still one of the most common problems that people run into during the winter months. Even the most careful homeowner can easily overlook the potential for pipes freezing and not know until it is too late. If you live in a cold climate, you might want to consider the following so that you can make it through this next winter better off this year.

It is important to realize that the reason pipes crack and burst when temperatures drop isn’t necessarily the ice. Most of the time, it is the air caught inside that is the culprit. Especially in drains, lots of air gets caught through the line. When temperatures quickly drop, water starts to freeze and trap air. The water expands and actually increases air pressure drastically. It is for this reason that the majority of crack and bursts in a line happen away from the ice. The built up air pressure breaks through the weakest part of the pipe.

It is for this reason that you make sure your pipes are always being used during the winter. Plumbing that has water running through it regularly has a smaller chance of freezing. So if you plan on leaving your house for long periods during the winter, consider having your house winterized along with your sprinkler system. Pushing out all the stray water and keeping pipes ventilated will help prevent frozen pipes in Indianapolis and also keep air pressure from spiking and breaking a line.

If, however, you will be home all through the winter, consider boning up on the amount of insulation your have in your walls. Most water lines that enter the house run alongside outer walls. These outer walls experience drastic temperature changes that can quickly chill a pipeline. Adding an extra layer of insulating between the wall and the pipe will act as a buffer and help moderate temperatures. Even if the pipe reaches outdoor temperatures, the insulating still prevents water from freezing. Also, wrapping pipes with an extra layer of specially made insulation will help go the extra mile in places that experience frigid temperatures for months at a time.

For help, call Roto-Rooter for more information today!

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Plumbing Repair in Indianapolis

January 20th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Nobody likes to have to call a plumber just like nobody likes to go to the dentist. However, when a tooth hurts, we know we have to call and make that appointment. Likewise, when the plumbing in our home or business shows signs of trouble, we need to take action and call the leader in plumbing repair in and around Indianapolis – Roto-Rooter, America’s Neighborhood Plumber®.

What’s in a name? Everything. Years of dedicated, proven experience have earned Roto-Rooter a place as a trusted name in Indianapolis households and companies. There is no question about the quality and service that you can expect when you pick up the phone and call for help with plumbing services.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for many who list themselves as “plumbers” in the local phone book. All too frequently, Roto-Rooter professionals are called in to clean up the plumbing mess left by others whose promises of “budget values” ended up breaking the bank. While Roto-Rooter is happy to step in and turn nightmares around and restore restful nights, it cannot be stressed how important it is to call on the right experts from the beginning. Not only will you save time, money, and headaches by choosing the proven leader in plumbing services, but you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are not playing phone-book roulette with something as important as your home or office building.

Plumbing is a serious matter, and Roto-Rooter takes plumbing seriously. From experts required to demonstrate proven abilities in all areas of both residential and commercial plumbing to the very best technologies, tools, equipment, and up-to-date know-how, you can expect to get the latest and greatest that the world of plumbing has to offer Indianapolis, and you know you’ll be getting it at a great value, as well.

From the moment you call, you will receive timely service, including a free and honest estimate for the plumbing repair work to be performed. When our expert-trained technicians arrive at your location, you will see them in our Roto-Rooter marked vehicle, wearing an official Roto-Rooter uniform and badge. This means that you can rest easier, knowing that the individual you are inviting into your home or office is part of the best team for all things plumbing. Should there be any issues with your job, you will have the entire Roto-Rooter team at your service to help ensure a positive outcome each and every time.

We cannot deliver the world, but we can deliver the best plumbing and plumbing services that America has to offer, right here in Indianapolis and the surrounding area.

Don’t be hung out to dry the next time you need to call a plumber. Instead, call on the one and only name you can trust for honest, fast, and reliable plumbing repairs – call Roto-Rooter today!

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Best Water Heater Repair in Indianapolis

January 17th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

There are many things about life that you just don’t enjoy as much until they are gone. Then you realize how much you relied on them in your day to day life. This is especially true with indoor plumbing, including clean, hot water on tap. When you notice that you water heater is having problems, it can seem a minor nuisance at first, but if you ignore the problem, it can be costly or even down-right dangerous. Seeking out a reliable water heater repair service at the first signs of trouble is important, so it is good to know who you can trust in the Indianapolis area to give you straight answers, an honest and free estimate, and provide you with the best possible products and services in order to keep the water flowing clean and hot in your home or office.

You’ve heard the name Roto-Rooter before, and now, you know that they do more than just fix toilets and clogged drains. They are the most professional, well-equipped, and highly trained plumbing service in Indianapolis, and they are the perfect people to call should you suspect any problem with your water heater or water heating system.

Roto-Rooter can handle jobs large and small – commercial or residential. They will help correctly diagnose any water heater problems and recommend the best solutions available. With both common sense and a thorough A-Z knowledge of water heater repair and replacement options, a professional plumber from Roto-Rooter is your best choice to restore peace of mind and clean, hot water flow.

There are a number of symptoms that may be indicative of water heater problems, including:

You experience trouble getting hot water to flow from the tap.
You see rust-colored water exiting the tap.
You smell sulfur (Rotten egg) in the vicinity of your water heater.
You hear popping, rumbling, or whining sounds from your water heater.
You see water leaks or droplets on the copper tubing connected to your water heater.
You see water puddles beneath your water heater.
You can’t get your pilot light to ignite.
You notice repeated problems with your thermostat reset button going off.

Roto-Rooter’s water heater repair service in Indianaopolis and surrounding areas can help you properly diagnose and fix any water heater problems or help you select and/or install a new water heater. Restore the flow of clean, hot water to your home or business, so you can go on with living and enjoy peace of mind again.

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Sump Pump Installation in Indianaopolis

January 13th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

You might notice it as a little wet or damp spot in the corner of your basement. Maybe the carpet and carpet pad feel a little bit wet, or maybe the concrete looks wet. You might look around for a leaky pipe or spill that may have caused it. However, month after month, you begin to notice a pattern. The wetness appears and reappears every time it rains, or even when you water plants around the perimeter of your home. Could it really be that the outside water has found its way inside and onto your basement floor? Now, sometimes, its more than just a simple wet spot or minor problem. Sometimes its an out right flooding or drainage problems that can wreak havoc on your home. Regardless of whether you have a minor foundational leakage problem or a major problem that requires an immediate sump pump installation, you can rest assured that Roto-Rooter has the right answers for you, helping you fix your basement drainage, leaking, or flooding problems for good.

Many Indianapolis residents have long understood the peace of mind and protection that comes with the installation of a quality sump pump in their basements. Depending on water tables, run off, and drainage in, under, and around their homes, many residents have come to depend on a proper functioning sump pump to prevent repeated, untold damage to their basement, allowing them to reclaim this space for living as opposed to facing constant water drainage or flooding issues.

The word sump pump is pretty self-explanatory. A sump is a hole or basin that accumulates excess drainage and water, so it does not accumulate or damage other parts of the basement. Once it begins to fill with water, a pump system is activated to carry water out of the sump and away from the home where it can drain properly or tie into existing drainage systems. While most areas, including parts of Indianapolis do not allow sump pumps to tie into public sewer systems, a Roto-Rooter professional can help answer your questions about sump pumps and water issues in your home.

It is unwise to play phone book roulette when it comes time to select a plumber or sump pump installer for your home. Most Indianapolis area plumbers are not fully equipped to deal with the broad range of basement flooding or drainage problems, let alone offer much more than a one-size-fits-all solution to your unique problem and situation. While they may make claims to the contrary, most plumbing contractors lack the tools, equipment, and specialized training necessary to properly address sump pump installation with expertise and competency.

Your local Indianapolis area Roto-Rooter sump pump professionals have access to the latest tools and equipment to make sure that your problem is properly diagnosed, so that you end up with the right solution to your problem. You can have full confidence in a name that has been synonymous with quality plumbing services for decades.

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Best Plumbers in the Indianapolis Area

January 12th, 2012 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Hiring plumbers in the Indianapolis area can be a tricky process. It’s shouldn’t be, but some people tend to over-complicate it. Frankly, it should be simple process that goes without much saying or effort, but he problem and complication creeps in when people, inexplicably, consider hiring a “plumber” or “plumbing service” that is not from Roto-Rooter – America’s Neighborhood Plumber®.

Now, of course, you wouldn’t make this same error, but an unfortunate number of people like to learn life’s tough lessons the hard way. Hiring a plumber is not something to joke around about or treat lightly. There is a reason Roto-Rooter has earned its reputation as the premiere and trusted provider of both residential and commercial plumbing services.

While it’s impossible to know what exactly people are thinking when they call on some fly-by-night, gimmicky plumbing outfit, we’ve all heard the horror stories about a simple repair gone bad or even those tales of plumbers walking out with money in hand, leaving the repair undone. The lures of “lowest priced plumbing” offers often come with later regrets. Sadly, this is when many people break down and call the true professionals from Roto-Rooter to come repair the “repairs” from the damage the last guy did to the plumbing. Not only do they finally get the service they need, but they learn that they would have been better off calling Roto-Rooter in the first place.

As one of the better thinkers in Indianapolis, you will not be the next victim of an advertising gimmick, but you will have the sense to call the honest and trusted professionals the first time. You can have full confidence that the Roto-Rooter professional is highly trained, fully equipped, and back by the a team of plumbers who will get the job done right. You can rest assured that you will have a skilled, equipped, licensed, and insured professional responding to address your plumbing concerns the right way.

Should you face any plumbing emergencies, you can call on Roto-Rooter any time of the day or night to by dialing a convenient 24/7 hotline that will connect you with those who stand by able and ready to tackle anything from minor to complex plumbing emergencies.

You can breath a deep sigh of relief, knowing that the Roto-Rooter truck will arrive in a timely manner, and you will be greeted by a true plumbing specialist who wears both the company uniform and badge, indicating the backing and support of Roto-Rooter’s trusted name.

None of us wants to have to call a plumber, but it’s nice to know where to turn should that need arise. With Roto-Rooter, you can be assured the best quality and value for all of your plumbing needs.

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Plumbing Problems in Indianapolis: Roto Rooter Speaks

December 23rd, 2011 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Plumbing issues can come up quickly and seemingly out of the blue. The reality is that plumbing problems can be pinpointed and prevented far before they happen through regular cleaning and maintenance. So if you want to prevent broken pipes, clogged drains, and serious water damage, consider some of the following tips and trick Roto Rooter has to offer. We have years of experience in the industry and our quality service and products have been the number one solution to millions of customers each year. We are excited to offer our customers with the right information so that they can take better care of their plumbing and do some of their own maintenance.

Clogged toilets are a terrible problem that can ruin your day. When toilets get clogged, the backed up mess can flood the floor and create a very unpleasant chore for you. One of the best ways to prevent these types of clogs is to realize what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. Consider the following list of what should never be flushed down your toilet bowl.

Solid objects. Anything metal, plastic, or wood should never be flushed. Stones and pebbles especially will only get lodged somewhere along the line and cost a lot of money to have removed.
Food. Peals, cores, pits, bones, meat, grease, and other food products can quickly turn a free flowing sewage line into your worst nightmare. Always throw food away in the garbage and not the toilet.
Paper products. Books, magazines, newspapers, paper towels, etc. will seem like they flush easy, but in reality they stick to your drain pipes and cause clogs very easily. Keep those out of the toilet always.

While the above should never be flushed, the following can be.

Human waste. Anything related to bodily functions can be disposed of in the toilet. While even these at time can cause clogs, they are usually a lot easier clogs to manage with a plunger and cleaning products.
Toilet paper. While paper products in general should never be flushed, toilet paper is designed to dissolve and not stick to the sides of your pipes. Despite these designs, you can still clog up a toilet using too much toilet paper at a time.
Toilet bowl cleaners. Roto Rooter products and other cleaning chemicals designed for toilet bowl cleaning are fine to use according to the directions included.

For information about other problems and serious issues, call Roto Rooter today!

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Great Faucet Repair TIps: Roto-Rooter

December 20th, 2011 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Plumbing is the part of the house that we often times don’t want to think about. Out of sight and out of mind, faucets quickly start to leak, pipes clog, and drains work less and less efficiently. With these problems happening to people everyday, Roto-Rooter has been there to help millions of customers clean up the mess and fix the problem. While we are here to help during emergencies, we also offer the information you need to maintain your plumbing and prevent serious problems from arising using simple tips and ideas. Whether you want to learn faucet repair or simply need to clean a drain, our online resources can get you started in the right direction.

One of the most common plumbing repairs that we perform is faucet repair. While it is the most common it is also one of the easiest problems to fix. The key to successfully repairing a leaky faucet is to do it right away. Water is erosive and can damage a faucet even further over time and eventually leave it completely irreparable. As soon as you notice drips starting, get to work to salvage your faucet head or else you might need to buy a new one completely.

Drippy faucets that go unrepaired are expensive issues. Every month a leaky faucet can waste about $20 worth of water and even more if it is hot water leaking. Multiply that by 3 or 4 leaky faucets and you are looking at a lot of money literally going down the drain.

When you turn the faucet off, a washer falls into place that sits against the seat and actually completely seals off the flow of water. If for any reason that washer moves it can result in drips and even full on leaks. Upon disassembling the faucet head, look at the washer and make sure that it fits perfectly back into its original position. If for some reason you find that it is warped, take the entire head in to a local Roto-Rooter or hardware store and find a new washer. Only a perfect match will work, otherwise you will be dealing with drips again. Also, when replacing the washer, make sure that it is material that can handle both hot and cold water. If not, your new washer will warp again and lead to the same problem if not worse in the not too distant future.

For more questions, call

-Rooter today!

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How to Choose the Right Plumbing Products

December 16th, 2011 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Effective plumbing products play a pivotal role in keeping your home’s plumbing well maintained throughout the year. Plumbing and drain cleaning products can help to cut down on any necessary Indianapolis plumbing repairs, which in turn will help save you money and ensure that your plumbing is working properly.

Walking into a generic store can provide you with seemingly endless options of plumbing products to choose from, so how can you determine which ones will best meet your needs? Unfortunately, there is no simple answer because some products are highly ineffective and some products do not have the strength necessary to deal with a more in depth problem.

Times have changed in every field and industry, which is why it is so important to choose plumbing and drain cleaning products that offer the latest advancements in environmentally friendly microbiology. This will ensure that you are getting an advanced product, while doing your part to help preserve the environment.

Our Products

Instead of dealing with the stress and uncertainty involved with deciding whether you have found an effective product or not, why not take the guesswork out of buying plumbing products and trust the professionals at Roto-Rooter to help you get the quality products you deserve? We offer highly effective, reasonably priced plumbing products that are not only environmentally friendly, but are also guaranteed to ensure your complete satisfaction. They will not only successfully meet your needs, they will also work quickly so that you can have your plumbing back in optimal running order again in no time.

Most homeowners know what it is like to have a stubborn clogged drain that you can never seem to fully repair due to ineffective products that cannot deliver on their promises. This is why we recommend that you call our professional licensed and insured plumbers to provide you with the products necessary to take care of the problem once and for all. This will allow you to rest assured that the problem has been completely addressed so that you do not have to worry about a repeat problem the following month.

If you are not sure of which products will best meet your current needs, while helping to ensure that you will not have to worry about Indianapolis plumbing repair problems again anytime in the near future, simply give us a call. Our highly trained customer service representatives can provide you with a recommendation based on your particular plumbing needs.

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The Purpose of a Sump Pump

December 15th, 2011 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Does your basement flood after a large storm? Is it always damp due to moisture underground? Along with leaving your basement feeling musky, clammy, and uncomfortable all around, excess moisture can also quickly lead to mold, mildew, and a number of other bacterial problems that will negatively affect your home, your possessions, and even your health.

Leaking and flooding in your basement or crawlspace can lead to foundation damage over time, which will in turn lead to costly repairs in the future. If the flooding problem is not addressed right away, then these resulting consequences will only continue to occur and worsen over time.

To reliably fix the problem, ensuring that basement flooding will be a thing of the past, consider looking into a professional Indianapolis sump pump installation. Sump pumps work by gathering any excess water in your home into a ditch (also known as a sump pit) that has been installed in your basement floor. Once the water hits a predetermined level, the sump pump will automatically dispose of the water by transferring it out of your home into a local sewer drain. This will help to not only protect your home, but also to improve its overall aesthetical and nominal value.

Finding the Best Solution for Your Needs

During your free estimate with Roto-Rooter, we will assess the problem to determine which course of action can best meet your needs. We can not only recommend the right sump pump for your home or business, but can also provide you with more information on how to properly maintain you sump pump to ensure that it continues to reliably meet your needs for years to come. We can also professionally install your Indianapolis sump pump for you to ensure that it is properly installed to further its aesthetic and functional properties.

A basement or crawlspace flooding or leaking problem is not only a nuisance. It can actually pose a danger due to its effect on the indoor air quality. It can also lead to huge repair costs when it destroys your possessions or property, not to mention the investment of time and stress associated with the cleanup that ensues after a flood in the basement. Therefore, it is crucial that you call us as soon as possible so that we can quickly provide you with the solution you need to take care of the problem once and for all.

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What Are the Differences Between Electric and Gas Water Heaters?

December 9th, 2011 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

Water heaters are a rather large investment for any individual or family to make due to the upfront, maintenance, and monthly usage costs. This is why it is so important to choose the right water heater that will not only reliably meet your needs, but will also end up saving you the most money possible in the end. Once you have found your ideal new water heater, you need to ensure that it is properly maintained year-round and that any Indianapolis water heater repair services are addressed right away to help preserve your investment, while ensuring its dependability and longevity.

To begin your search for the water heater that offers you the greatest value, you need to first consider whether you are more interested in an electric or gas water heater. As is the case with any product or service, there are a number of advantages and disadvantages associated with both options.

Benefits of Gas Water Heaters

More Affordable. In most cases, electricity is far more expensive than gas, so you will end up saving a good deal of money by choosing a gas operating water heater to heat the water in your home or business.
Effective Even in a Power Outage. In the event of a power outage, an electrical water heater will not have the energy it needs to heat the water in your home. There is virtually nothing worse during a power outage than being forced to take a cold shower in the dark due to the complete lack of electricity. To deal with this, consider the fact that a gas water heater will last reliably, even through a power outage.

Benefits of Electric Water Heaters

Increased Safety. Many homeowners feel more comfortable facing the prospect of an electrical problem than dealing with the chances of a gas explosion in the event of an extreme gas water heater problem.
Longer Life Expectancy. Electrical water heaters commonly enjoy a longer life expectancy than their gas counterparts.

We have outlined several benefits associated with each type of water heater above, but for more personalized information, make sure to give us a call. The licensed and insured Indianapolis water heater repair professionals at Roto-Rooter can provide you with a professional recommendation, along with more information on what you can do to best maintain your gas, electric, or tankless water heater to improve its efficiency and longevity.

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How to Deal With a Clogged Drain

December 8th, 2011 by Roto-Rooter Bloggers

If you have noticed that there is a stubborn clog in your bathroom sink, kitchen sink, or shower drain, then this can wreak havoc on your plumbing, pipework, and can leave your sink or shower dirty in no time. Not to mention the annoyance of having water build up in the sink or shower when you are merely washing your hands or attempting to take your morning shower.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to deal with this stubborn Indianapolis plumbing problem, such as:

• Remove the plug to find the source of the problem. Once the plug has been removed from your sink or shower, you should be able to clearly see where the problem lies so that you can quickly remove any blockage material.

• Use effective drain cleaning products. Taking a walk through your local home goods or home improvement store can be overwhelming when you are simply looking for a reliable drain cleaning product. With so many options to choose from, it can be very difficult to pick out which one will actually meet your needs and which ones will only waste more money due to their ineffectiveness.

Fortunately, we offer a complete line of affordable, effective plumbing and drain cleaning products that will not only take care of even the most stubborn clogged drain, but can also actually help to prevent future clogs from forming…we guarantee it!

• Purchase a small drain snake or use a wire hanger to remove the blockage that is causing the drain clog.

• Call us! Oftentimes, there is blockage that cannot be reached using residential products and equipment. This is where a professional plumber needs to step in to take care of the root of the problem.

The best thing you can do to deal with any plumbing problem, regardless of the size or complexity of the issue, is to call Roto-Rooter to handle the problem for you. Our highly experienced Indianapolis plumbers can quickly, affordably handle any plumbing problems, including clogged drains, so that you can get your plumbing back in no time. Don’t wait to have your drain unclogged. The problem will not correct itself. In fact, it will only get worse with time. Instead, trust the professionals at Roto-Rooter to deal with the problem for you. We are so confident that we can appropriately deal with the problem that we even stand behind our quality services with a stress-free guarantee.

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A New Process to Clean Out Mineral Build Up

August 27th, 2009 by Ray Lee Master Plumbers

There is a brand new process called Pipe relining to remove calcium and minerals from the inside of your piping. This process is not available in every state, nor is it accepted by every code, but it soon should be. You can check with your local Indianapolis plumber to see if this process is acceptable.

Pipe relining forces a solution of a grinding compound through the pipes to break loose all calcium and mineral build up. It also forces a solution of epoxy coating into the pipes, which
then seals the inside to protect them from future build up. Currently the cost of this process is just as expensive as pipe replacement, but there is no damage to surrounding walls and floors.

The alternative is to relining is to replace all of your existing piping with PEX or PVC, which is a more expensive endeavor. All walls must be broken open to install the new pipes and the costs can quickly add up. Pipe relining is a great process to take advantage of and is highly recommended.

For help with Indianapolis plumbing call, Roto-Rooter at 1-800-GET-ROTO for 24 hour plumbing services or visit our Web site for more information.

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