To most people, the plumbing in their home can be a mystery. But David Heffner, owner of Heffner Plumbing, wants to help homeowners demystify how their plumbing operates. Heffner is offering a “Plumbing 101” course through IUPUI’s Division of Continuing Studies on July 27 from 10 a.m. to noon at the IUPUI Park 100 Learning Center, 5980 W. 71st St., Suite 100.
“I meet customers all the time that have no clue as to how to shut the water off to their house,” says Heffner, who has 25 years of experience as a plumber. “Or, they don’t know how to figure out what kind of water heater they have when it needs to be replaced.”
During Heffner’s class, people will learn basic information on understanding their home’s plumbing, such as:
- Finding out where the home’s water comes from.
- Identifying if the home is on a septic system or city sewers.
- Determining if the home’s water heater is gas or electric, and what its size is.
- Locating the main water shut-off valve.
Participants also will learn do-it-yourself (DIY) maintenance tips, like:
- Unclogging a garbage disposal.
- Fixing slow drains in a bathroom sink or tub.
- Why a water heater needs to be flushed – not drained.
- Replacing a toilet flapper.
- Troubleshooting sump pump problems.
How white vinegar can help plumbing fixtures.
“When homeowners have a basic understanding about how their plumbing works and know some maintenance and DIY tips, it can literally save them thousands of dollars in property damage, in the event of an emergency,” says Heffner.
The cost of this one-day class is $49. However, if participants take advantage of an early-bird discount by registering before July 21, the cost is $44.10. This is a 10 percent discount.
To register for “Plumbing 101,” go to: cln.iupui.edu/apps/catalog/index.asp?site=IUPUI. Click on “new courses” and select “Plumbing 101.”
If enough interest is generated from this course, IUPUI’s Division of Continuing Studies plans to offer it each semester.
