Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Archive for April, 2021

Hiring a Plumber Checklist

Wednesday, April 28th, 2021
hiring a plumber checklist - Fox Valley WI

Hiring a Plumber Checklist

On the hunt for the best plumbing contractor in Appleton, WI? Look no further! It’s critical for anyone in need of plumbing services to find someone who will be the right fit for their needs. With so many plumbing services in Fox Cities, it can be overwhelming deciding which plumber to choose. In the article below, we share our Hiring a Plumber Checklist. That way, you find the right person for the job. You can always contact Tureks Plumbing for your residential plumbing or commercial plumbing needs.

References 

Does the plumber you’ve hired have good references or online reviews? Always do some digging before booking a service with a plumbing company. It won’t take too long to read their Google My Business reviews or even ask around for a plumbing referral. Looking online will definitely help.

Residential vs. Commercial Plumbers

Commercial plumbers are best suited for corporate offices, restaurants, and companies, while residential plumbers are ideally suited for your home’s plumbing. Hire the best plumber for the job based on your requirements. At Tureks Plumbing, we offer Appleton residents both residential and commercial plumbing services. Give us a call. We’re happy to help!

Scope of Work

It’s important to clarify what the problem is before hiring a plumbing contractor to do the job. Some plumbing companies do not provide all plumbing services. For instance, if you need trenchless sewer repair, you should find someone who specializes in this service. That way, you have someone who is knowledgeable in the work you need.

Availability 

Most plumbers work regular hours, with a “24/7 emergency services” option. This service comes with a cost. Look for a 24/7 plumbing company that you can count on at all hours of the day. You’ll need someone who can respond quickly and tackle any urgent jobs that come their way. That’s why so many Appleton residents rely on Tureks Plumbing to get the job done right.

Estimates 

Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a Twin Cities plumbing company, recommend getting an estimate before the job begins. That way, you can avoid any hidden costs or fees. The written estimate should include everything: labor, sections, and so on. However, the calculation should not be written until they have thoroughly examined the issue. A plumber who isn’t willing to give you an estimate shouldn’t be on your list. 

Presentable & Professional

Hiring a plumber who is hardworking and professional is a must. There are plenty of plumbing companies in Appleton, WI, who are exactly this. You always want to have complete confidence in your plumber. Contact Tureks Plumbing today if you’re searching for “plumbing services near me.” 

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Sewer Line Damage From Tree Roots

Wednesday, April 21st, 2021
sewer line damage from tree roots - Appleton WI

Sewer Pipe Damage From Tree Roots

So many Fox City residents experience sewer pipe damage from tree roots. So, why is this plumbing problem so common? Mother nature can’t help it. As trees begin to grow, it’s common for their roots to infiltrate underground sewer lines. In the article below, we discuss the seriousness of sewer pipe damage from tree roots. For plumbing services, contact Tureks Plumbing.

Signs of Damaged Pipes

  • Clogged drains – If you keep experiencing clogged drains, it’s likely that you have sewer pipe damage from tree roots.
  • Noises – Gurgle sounds are common after flushing the toilet.
  • Blocked or collapsed pipes – this is often manifested as a clogged drain or toilet. It might be that someone flushed something they shouldn’t have. It is also caused by tree roots in sewage line pipes.
  • Sinkholes – If you see a sinkhole in your yard, it is possible that tree roots are growing within your sewer pipes. Keep a safe distance from it and hire a Fox Valley plumber for a plumbing pipe inspection. This is a severe warning sign that suggests a significant sewer line problem. This amount of tree root disruption in sewer lines jeopardizes your home’s base.
  • Foul odors – Typically, damaged sewage lines emit foul odors. You can have a major sewage problem if you smell rotten eggs or sulfur.

Are you experiencing these plumbing problems? Contact Tureks Plumbing today.

The Dangers of Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

Tree roots travel long distances in search of water, and they also seek moisture from tiny leaks. Unfortunately, your sewer line may be the only place for this. Roots with hair-thin strands can easily clog pipes. The gunk, when combined with the grime and grease that flows into the sewer pipes, can cause toilets, sinks, and other drains to become sluggish and even back up.

In addition, roots cause pipes to start cracking. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, the best plumbers in Sacramento, explains clay pipes in older plumbing systems are particularly fragile. This plumbing issue of tree roots in sewer line systems causes some serious damage.

How to Avoid Tree Roots Out of Sewage System Pipes

The only way to deal with tree root problems is to avoid them from happening in the first place. Here’s what our plumbing professionals recommend doing to prevent tree roots from growing in sewer line drain systems.

  • Landscaping – Big trees will have big roots, so keep an eye out for any damage. You can go to the extent of removing trees to prevent the roots from infiltrating your sewer lines. 
  • Stay on top of drain clearing and repairs – If yous suspect that there is a plumbing problem, address it before it grows into a bigger problem. Unfortunately, this type of pipe damage won’t go away on its own. When searching for a “plumber near me,” find a plumber who offers trenchless sewer line repair. Regular clearing and cleaning of sewer lines prevent root growth within your pipes. As a result, substantial sewage upgrades can be avoided.
  • Get regular inspections – Living in an older home? Our plumbing contractors recommend annual plumbing inspections. 

Contact Your Appleton Plumber

A full-functioning plumbing system is crucial for any home. Don’t put off calling a plumbing professional any longer. For any plumbing problems, contact your Appleton plumber as soon as possible. Our Tureks Plumbing team will work with you to provide residential plumbing solutions and restore your plumbing in no time! 

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Water Heater Repair Tips

Wednesday, April 14th, 2021
water heater repair tips - Appleton WI

Troubleshooting Tips For Common Water Heater Issues

In your house, your water heater works hard to provide hot water during showers, dishwashing, and laundry. Since we all heavily rely on our water heater, there are times where your water heater gets overworked. If you’re having trouble with your water heater, we recommend following these water heater repair tips. In need of a water heater repair? Contact Tureks Plumbing in Appleton, WI.

Common Water Heater Problems & Solutions

Water Heater Temperatures 

Water temperature issues are common issues with water heaters. Here are three water temperature problems, as well as their possible causes and solutions:

  • Water is cold – A lack of fuel, a defective thermostat, or a faulty heating element are the most common causes of cold water in a hot water heater. Begin by looking at the fuse box to make sure there are no electricity issues
  • Water isn’t hot enough – If your water isn’t hot enough, it may be due to an undersized water heater, crossed connections, or a defective heating element or thermostat. Turning off the water source and turning on a hot water faucet will rule out a crossed connection. If the water still flows, you might have a crossed connection. Aside from that, we suggest contacting a plumbing contractor for a water heater inspection.
  • Too hot water – Too hot water normally indicates that the thermostat is set too high. To change the thermostat temperature, consult your water heater manual. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your hot water heater to 120° F for the best combination of heat and performance.

Water Heater Leaking

Water leakage can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Temperature and pressure issue (T&P) a safety valve
  • Insufficient water heater problems
  • Overheating a clogged valve
  • A defective gasket

Next, inspect the loose heating element bolts and tighten them as required. If the heating element continues to leak, you will most likely need to replace the gasket. Additionally, look for leaks on or around the storage tank – since storage tanks usually corrode from the inside, you’re likely witnessing the beginning of the end for your water heater.

Of course, you can eliminate tank leaks entirely by investing in a tankless water heater. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, who provides the Twin Cities plumbing services, explains that tankless water heaters last almost twice as long as the storage water heaters. Additionally, they take up about a quarter of the room.

Discolored Water

Rusty water may imply corrosion of your tank’s inner lining, which is often caused by a failing anode rod. Contact a licensed water heater technician to see if removing the anode rod would resolve the issue. From there, you’ll know if you need a water heater repair or water heater replacement. 

Strange Noises 

The most common source of strange noises coming from your water heater is sediment buildup. You should try to resolve this issue by flushing the water heater. Ask our plumbers in Appleton, WI, about how to flush your water heater. If you flush your water heater and the issue continues, or if the sediment accumulation is too large to remove, contact us for an estimate on a water heater replacement. 

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Prevent Plumbing Leaks

Wednesday, April 7th, 2021
prevent plumbing leaks - Appleton WI

Prevent Plumbing Leaks in Your Home

If a small leak goes unnoticed or overlooked, it can quickly grow into a significant issue. A leak can cause damage to your plumbing system, yard, or house, in addition to raising your bill. Fortunately, many leaks can be easily avoided! In the article below, we share a few common ways to prevent plumbing leaks in your home. For residential plumbing in Appleton, WI, contact Tureks Plumbing. 

Washing Machine

Washing machines are used pretty often in the average household. If not properly maintained, washing machines are susceptible to leaks. To avoid a leaky washing machine, change the hoses every five years and inspect the connections every year. This can be done by your plumber during an annual or regular inspection. A good rule of thumb is to avoid starting a load of laundry and leaving. This way eliminates the possibility of your flooding your laundry room while you’re gone.

If your washing machine’s hoses or connections leak, contact a licensed plumber to repair the problem. In the meantime, turn off the water to your home to prevent further damage.

HVAC System

A drain pipe is often used to extract the moisture formed by your air conditioner system. A major sign that your A/C system is leaking is when you notice moisture coming from the ceiling. Our friends at Gilmore, an HVAC company that offers air conditioning repairs in Sacramento, say, “If you’re experiencing this problem, the condensation line may be clogged, or the pan is accumulating water. Dirt, dust, mold, and other related materials are commonly responsible for this clog. To avoid this HVAC problem, we recommend annual HVAC tune-ups and changing the air filter every season.”

Pipes & Drains 

If your sewer drain is clogged or leaking, it can lead to a serious plumbing emergency. Not only does this take a toll on your home, but it also affects your health. Ask a plumbing company near me if they can install a backflow preventer in your sewage drains.

Keep in mind that tree roots are often the cause of many plumbing leaks. The roots will often infiltrate the plumbing pipes, causing your plumbing to leak. If you can, plant trees far enough away from your house. Otherwise, you may need to hire a plumbing contractor for trenchless sewer repair. 

Toilets

Every household needs a working toilet. There may be a few reasons why your toilet is leaking. Whether it’s overflowing or leaking at the supply line, it’s a problem that needs to be fixed immediately. When your toilet leaks at its supply line, you’ll need to stop its source. Start by opening the tank lid and closing the flapper. Then you’ll lift the ball and shut off the wall stop until a professional plumber can take a look. 

Kitchen

Another place that can experience plumbing leaks is in the kitchen. Here, we have the dishwasher and refrigerator. Most homeowners don’t keep up on washer or refrigerator maintenance until something goes wrong. Our plumbing contractors recommend checking these appliances on a regular basis. In the end, this could save you from having to replace your kitchen appliances or deal with plumbing repairs. Instead, you can focus on any home remodeling projects! 

Home’s Foundation

Slab leaks are water leaks that occur in the piping under your home’s base. Many are caused by improper development, changes in the city’s water pressure delivered to your home, soil movement caused by changes in weather conditions (from hot to cold and wet to dry), or natural disasters such as earthquakes. Fortunately, most slab leaks can be avoided with proper plumbing maintenance.

Furthermore, plumbing leaks can be caused by corrosion in your pipes. Avoid them by avoiding chemical drain cleaners for removing sewage clogs, and be sure to periodically check the pH levels of your incoming water; 6.5 to 8.5 is the usual range. Our plumbing contractors explain that a pH that is too high or too low can have negative effects on your pipes.

Although not a plumbing leak, improper irrigation, and drainage can cause damage to your house. If you have a plumbing leak, contact Tureks Plumbing for 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Appleton, WI. 

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