Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Archive for the ‘Residential Plumbing’ Category

Common Holiday Plumbing Disasters

Wednesday, December 22nd, 2021
common holiday plumbing disaster

Common Holiday Plumbing Disasters 2021

As the Christmas season approaches, you could find yourself spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Tureks Plumbing services, plumber Appleton WI, has put together a list of common holiday plumbing disasters that you may strive to prevent during family gatherings to help keep your Appleton home safe.

Plumbing Mishaps During the Holidays

Listed below are some common holiday plumbing Disasters. Your plumber Appleton WI values the integrity of your households plumbing system and is aware that it is an afterthought for most, especially during the holidays. However, we urge you to read these common issues so you know what to look out for.

No Hot Water

Investing in quality water heaters is necessary if you want hot water. If you have guests coming to your home, you should consider having a tankless water heater installed by our experts at Tureks Plumbing Services, water heater replacement Appleton WI. This will help ensure that you can still use hot water to do the dishes right after three people have showered.

If your water heater is working, but you have an issue with running out of water sooner than you may be used to, it may be as a result of sediment in your water tank. To fix this, you have to flush the unit to clear the debris. Our Fox Valley water heater repair techs can help with this.

However, if your water heater is already broken, then you need to call in a professional for a water heater replacement. 

Clogged Kitchen Sink

It seems logical to pour grease into your drain or garbage disposal because it’s a liquid, but this doesn’t mean you should do it. The grease may harden and end up clogging your whole drain. It may also cause an awful odor to come from the drain. If you would like to dispose of any cooking grease, Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, Sacramento plumbing services, recommend that you let it harden first before you dump it in your trash. 

Broken Garbage Disposal

The holiday season brings with it a lot of food, which translates to lots of leftovers. So, instead of throwing small pieces of vegetables into the disposal, chuck them in the bin. There are various items that your garbage disposal can’t grind down. Therefore, throwing them in the disposal could cause damage. Some of these items include coffee grounds, grease, potato peels, or eggshells. After dumping your leftovers in the trash, you should ensure you take the trash out immediately after you’re done to prevent your home from smelling. 

However, if your garbage disposal is clogged or not running, you should find the reset button (usually located at the bottom of the unit) and press it. If the disposal still isn’t working, you should get a Fox Valley plumber to repair it for you. Having a clogged garbage disposal is not only inconvenient but also smelly. If your disposal is not broken, but you notice that it takes a longer time to do its thing, then there might be a chance the blades need to be sharpened. An easy and quick way Appleton plumbers advise homeowners to do is to run a couple of ice cubes through the garbage disposal. 

Broken Washer or Dryer

If you have family staying with you for a long period of time, it’s likely that they’ll be using your washer or dryer. To ensure that both your dryer and washer are functioning properly, simply inspect the appliances. Ensure that there are no cracks in your hose lines. Additionally, you should inspect the seals and line connections. If you do not have stainless steel hoses, you should consider getting them as they are the best. The last thing you want your guests to do is to pay for dry cleaning.

Clogged Drains

It’s not uncommon for your plumbing lines to get clogged when your family is in town. If you notice that your drains are clogged, you should have a plumber from a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, come to fix it for you. Of course, you can try Drain-O and other pipe cleaners, but it may not fix the problem. If that does not work, you can then try snaking the pipes. When you have clogged drains, you can always contact an emergency plumbing company in Appleton, WI. Our team will restore your plumbing system in no time!

For any plumbing disasters that may choose to strike during the holidays, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in December, 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Emergency Plumber, Plumbing Problems, Residential Plumbing | Comments Off on Common Holiday Plumbing Disasters

How to Unclog a Dishwasher

Wednesday, March 17th, 2021
how to unclog your dishwasher - Appleton, WI

How to Unclog a Dishwasher

Have you ever reached to open your dishwasher, only to see a big puddle of water at the bottom of it? You’re not the only one. If you have standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher, it’s time to call a plumber. Below, our plumbing contractors in Appleton, WI, share a few tips on how to unclog a dishwasher. 

Step 1: Unload The Dishwasher

The first thing you should do if your dishwasher is clogged should be to remove all of the dishes and silverware from your appliance. Once everything is cleared from your dishwasher, remove the bottom dishwasher rack so that you can easily access the bottom. 

Step 2: Turn Your Dishwasher Off

Ensuring that your dishwasher is turned off is critical for your safety. You may need to go to your electrical breaker and turn off the electricity in the kitchen. If you need help fixing your dishwasher, you can always contact Tureks Plumbing Services.

Step 3: Drain the Clogged Dishwasher 

Once your dishwasher has been disconnected, you’ll need to remove the standing water with a towel. This will allow you to get to the bottom of what started the clog. For instance, there could be pieces of broken glass causing your dishwasher not to drain properly. The chances are that you could find out what’s causing the problem if you just look at the bottom of the dishwasher. 

Step 4: Locate the Hose

If you haven’t figured out what’s causing your dishwasher to clog yet, you’ll need to locate the dishwasher’s drain hose. This connects directly connects to your sink’s garbage disposal. Look under the sink or under the dishwasher. You may have to take your dishwasher from out of the wall to access the hose. 

Step 5: Clear the Hose

There’s a chance that your dishwasher’s hose needs to be replaced or cleared. After locating the drain hose, detach it from the dishwasher. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumber in Woodbury, MN, about unclogging a dishwasher. They suggest using plyers to loosen or disconnect the hose. It would be a good idea to have a bucket or pan to catch any excess water from the hose. If indeed your drain is clogged, you can try to use can try commercial de-cloggers or grab a coat hanger and unclog it. If you don’t notice any debris that could damage the hose, there could be a clog in the dishwasher itself.

Step 6: Check the Dishwasher’s Drain

Look for a basket-shaped portion at the bottom of your dishwasher and remove it with a screwdriver. Then as you did with a drain hose, use a de-clogging system. If your dishwasher is still not draining properly at this stage, it’s time to search for a “plumber near me.”

Hire a Professional Plumber

To many people’s surprise, it’s very easy to learn how to unclog a dishwasher drain without the help of a professional. However, if not done properly, you can cause more harm than good. Decide whether or not DIY plumbing repair is worth it. To ensure that your dishwasher is working properly, contact Tureks Plumbing today. We offer a variety of plumbing services for homeowners in the Fox Cities and beyond, whether it’s 24/7 emergency service, home remodeling, or residential plumbing services.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Tips, Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing | Comments Off on How to Unclog a Dishwasher

Common Sump Pump Problems

Wednesday, March 10th, 2021
common sump pump problems - Fox City plumber

Common Sump Pump Problems

Though spring is historically a season of heavy rains and flooded basements, we can also see this in the cold winters in Appleton, WI. If you’re not prepared accordingly, the weather can ruin your home. Older homes are more susceptible to water damage and such. Therefore, it can be hard to keep the basement dry. A sump pump is necessary for keeping out water. Since Winsconsin gets a lot of snow and rain, you’ll need to maintain or even replace your sump pump if necessary. To avoid wear and tear on your sum pump, read below where our plumbers in Appleton, WI, discuss the common sump pump problems.

Always Running

If your pump is running all the time, or even just running when there’s no excuse for it, it’s a warning that something is wrong. All this overwork will cause your pump to wear out prematurely. If your sump pump is always running, it may be that the switch is stuck or a broken valve. However, the issue may also be that there is constant flooding that you are not aware of or that the pump just isn’t the right size. Consult a specialist and have them come out and address the problem as soon as possible.

Missing the Lid

A missing lid on your sump pump is just asking for debris build-up. This can cause problems by blocking the pump and jamming the switches. If your pump is clogged or stuck, our registered plumbers are happy to help. Contact us for a sump pump repair and we’ll get it up and running in no time. 

Noisy Sump Pump

All of the sump pumps make some noise while they’re running, but any odd sound is usually not a good sign. There may be thuds, thumps, rattling, grinding, or gurgling, much of the time, also suggesting problems with the engine. Fortunately, the engines can typically be fixed. Our plumbers will let you know if you need a sump pump repair or a replacement. 

Dry Sump Pump Pit

If your pump is running, but the pit is empty, the problem is with your pump or drainage system. The pump and the system should operate together, but if the pit is dry, the drain system can be blocked. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, & Plumbing, a plumbing company in Sacramento, point out that the pump was improperly mounted. 

Search for a Plumbing Company Near Me

As mentioned above, a well-functioning sump pump is necessary for avoiding water damage. If you’re having trouble figuring out what the problem is with your sump pump, it’s time to contact a professional. No matter the plumbing needs, you can rely on Tureks Plumbing. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Appleton, WI, and surrounding areas. 

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing, Sump Pump | Comments Off on Common Sump Pump Problems

Tankless Water Heater Myths

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021
tankless water heater myths

Tankless Water Heater Myths

If you think it’s time to replace your current water heater, you may want to consider upgrading to a tankless model. The best plumbing companies will agree that a tankless water heater is the better choice. A new tankless water heater can last up to 30 years. If you’re considering a tankless water heater installation in Appleton, WI, read the article below to learn more about tankless water heater myths.

Myth: Easy To Switch to a Tankless Water Heater

Most homes in Appleton, WI are over 10 years old, so it’s likely that your water heater has a storage tank. Going from a storage-tank water heater to a tankless water heater is harder than it looks. Tankless water heaters burn fuel with coal. As a result, the construction phase for a tankless water heater can also require work on the gas lines to ensure that the device receives adequate gas supplies. 

In addition, extra work might also be needed to equip your home with the necessary ventilation to guide the exhaust gasses outdoors. Therefore, it’s not recommended that you swap out your water heater yourself. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services for professional tankless water heater installation. 

Myth: The Water Is Instantly Hot

A lot of people had the idea that a tankless water heater is comparable to instant hot water in your showers or faucets. Yes, it’s accurate that the tankless device heats up the water as it’s switched on. But, the water also has to pass through the plumbing in your home until it’s sent to the working plug. Essentially, it would take almost the same time for hot water to enter the tap as it does from the storage water heater. If you want to shorten the waiting period for you to finally use hot water, you may want to look at a circulating system installation in combination with your tankless machine to hold hot water continuously accessible in the pipes for immediate supply.

Myth: Require an Annual Inspection

One of the benefits of a tankless water heater is skipping annual inspections! There’s no maintenance timeline for a tankless water heater. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in Stillwater, say that it really depends on the hardness of the water. The harder the temperature, the faster the mineral deposits can build up in the water heater. Your tankless water heater will force much of this through the system, but if there’s a build-up, the scale detector program will send you an error message, and then you’ll need to have it serviced by a professional plumber.

Myth: Not Enough Water

As we mentioned above, most homes have a storage-tank water heater. Therefore, switching to a tankless water heater creates a common misconception that there’s a lack of hot water. “Not the case at all. The water is heated when it moves through the unit. So, you don’t need to worry about not getting enough hot water,” says Ed Tureks from Tureks Plumbing. 

Contact a Plumbing Company in Fox Valley

Need water heater services in Appleton, WI? Tureks Plumbing is happy to help! Our team of professional, licensed, and insured plumbers can service, repair, and install your water heater. We’ve been serving the Fox Valley and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Contact us today for a water heater estimate or if you need residential plumbing services or commercial plumbing services.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing, Tankless Water Heater, Water Heater, Water Heater Instillation, Water Heater Repair | Comments Off on Tankless Water Heater Myths

How to Adjust a Toilet Fill Valve

Wednesday, February 24th, 2021

how to adjust a toilet fill valve - tureks plumbing services

At Tureks Plumbing Services, we make it our duty to educate our customers so that they can fix as many plumbing defects in their homes as they can before they have to call a plumbing professional. It is for the same reason that our experts share the different ways in which you can adjust the toilet filling valve if you see that the toilet tank is not being refilled after you’ve flushed, or that the water is still flowing out of the tank because the filling valve has failed to stop further inflows. In the article below, our Fox Valley plumbers share five ways to adjust the toilet fill valve.

What Is a Toilet Fill Valve?

Your toilet has two valves that work each time you use the toilet. The first valve is the flush valve, which allows water to move from the toilet tank to the toilet bowl when you flush. This flush valve closes once all the water has drained from the toilet tank.

The second valve is the toilet fill valve or ballcock. This valve is responsible for controlling the movement of water into the toilet tank. The valve opens when the tank is empty and then closes once the tank has filled to the predetermined level. As already mentioned, this valve may malfunction and either prevent water from flowing into the tank, or the valve fails to stop water from getting into the tank even when the tank is full. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in Minneapolis, MN, explain that the specific steps that you take to adjust the fill valve will depend on the type of valve that is in your toilet tank.

How to Adjust Your Toilet’s Fill Valve

Adjusting a Piston/Plunger Ballcock

This type of fill valve depends on a ball attached to a float rod (made from brass) to control water flow into the toilet tank. As the ball moves up or down, the rod shifts and activates a plunger inside the ballcock assembly. That plumber can either let water through (if the ball moves downwards), or it can block the flow of water into the tank (if the ball moves upwards).

Adjusting this ballcock is, therefore, a simple task that entails gently bending the brass rod downwards or upwards, depending on your needs. For example, you can bend the rod upwards if the tank wasn’t filling up completely after you flush the toilet. Tureks Plumbing Services cautions that you shouldn’t raise the rod so high that the maximum level of water will exceed the top of the overflow tube. Conversely, you can bend the brass rod downwards if you notice that water was filling the tank to the point of overflowing.

Adjusting Brass Diaphragm Ballcocks

This type of ballcock resembles the plunger valve, except that there is no plunger stem in the brass diaphragm ballcock. The valve body is round and houses a diaphragm seal. Afloat rod moves this mechanism up and down to control water movement. As was the case for the piston valve, you also bend the float rod downwards or upwards in order to adjust the level at which water fills the tank.

Our plumbing company in Appleton, WI, also suggests that you may need to use penetrating oil to free the button of the diaphragm cup if mineral deposits or sediment have locked it in the closed position. Manually push the button down and up multiple times until it can move freely.

Adjusting Plastic Diaphragm Ballcocks

Recent models of plastic diaphragm ballcocks come with an adjustment screw that you can use to alter the fill level of the toilet tank. Turn this screw clockwise if you want to lower the fill level. Conversely, turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise when you want the fill level to be higher.

Adjusting Fill Valves That Have Float Cups

Most toilet assemblies now come equipped with a fill valve that has a float cup, so if yours is a newer house, then it is most likely to have this type of fill valve. The flow of water in such a system is regulated by a cylindrical plastic float. This float moves down or up along the shaft of the fill valve.

A metallic spring keeps the float cup attached to a small float rod. Tureks Plumbing Services advises that you can simply press both sides of this spring and then move the float cup downwards or upwards in order to adjust the fill level of that toilet tank.

Some models of this type of fill valve come with screws that you can adjust to raise or lower the fill level. Check for such a screw and manipulate it to change the level at which the tank fills.

Adjusting Pressure-Activated Fill Valves

Truly floatless fill valves depend on pressure differences to regulate the flow of water into the toilet tank. In this case, the fill valve sits inside the water in the tank. Sensors in the valve detect the pressure differences and cause the valve to move up or down. Check the top of the fill valve and locate the adjustment screw found there. Turn this screw clockwise to raise the fill level or turn it counterclockwise if you want to lower the fill level.

As you can see, the task of adjusting the fill valve is easy once you identify the type of valve in your toilet tank. Contact a plumber in Appleton, WI, for help if you aren’t able to correct the water flow anomaly in your toilet tank despite implementing the tips above. Tureks Plumbing Services offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Appleton, WI, so reach out any time you need our services.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in March 2019 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Plumbing Problems, Residential Plumbing, Toilets | Comments Off on How to Adjust a Toilet Fill Valve

5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2021

5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues

5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues 2021

Some of the sewer line problems homeowners in Appleton, WI, face include blocked, corroded, damaged, and root-infested pipes. By implementing the right preventative plumbing tips, you can escape all the hassles and high costs of sewer line and plumbing repairs. Below are five tips for preventing common sewer line issues.

Do Not Flush Just Anything Down The Toilet

The toilet is designed to accommodate toilet paper and human waste, and nothing else. Avoid flushing diapers, tampons, cotton balls, and other paper products down the toilet since they do not dissolve easily and will simply block your pipes and cause an array of plumbing problems.

Avoid Pouring Oil and Grease in Your Sink

Grease, oil, and fatty substances that can be found in soaps and shampoos can accumulate inside the sewer line and cause a blockage. As such, it is important that you do not throw grease and leftover oil down the kitchen drains.

Installing a grease receptor under the kitchen sink will also help prevent grease stoppage. You can also keep the kitchen drain clean by pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water every few weeks or so. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in St. Paul, MN, recommend keeping a jar under your sink where you can pour grease into it after cooking. 

Do Not Plant Trees or Shrubs Near Your Sewer Line

Tree roots naturally move to areas with water supplies, which include pipes. If you are starting a garden, avoid planting in areas near or on top of the sewer line.

You can also consider removing trees planted near the sewer line to prevent the roots from damaging the pipes.

Another option would be to sprinkle copper sulfate crystals around the sewer line. This substance will create a poisonous zone around the pipe and prevent the roots from infiltrating into the pipes.

Lastly, if you want to grow trees, plant ones with shallow root structures such as ash, maple, oak, and willow.

Install a Backwater Prevention Valve

A backwater prevention valve is installed into a sewer line and sometimes into a drain line in the basement of a home or building to prevent sewer backflows. When installed properly, the valve allows sewage to go out but not to come back in.

Have Your Sewer Line Checked Periodically

If you are living in a home that is more than 10 years old, have a Fox Valley plumber check your plumbing system and sewer line every year or so or whenever you have any problems with your drains. A professional plumber will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of your sewer line issue and make the necessary plumbing repairs. In case you have iron pipes, consider having them replaced with UPVC pipes. They are more effective in preventing tree roots from entering your line. 

When you have plumbing problems, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. One of our plumbers will assess your plumbing problem and recommend the solution that fits your budget and your needs. We also offer trenchless sewer repairs for a no-dig plumbing solution. Give us a call today for a free estimate! 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Emergency Plumber, Fox Valley Plumber, Plumbing Pipes, Plumbing Problems, Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing, Sewer and Drain, Toilets | Comments Off on 5 Tips For Preventing Common Sewer Line Issues

What to Expect During a Plumbing Inspection

Thursday, December 24th, 2020
What to Expect During a Plumbing Inspection

What to Expect During a Plumbing Inspection 

As most of us may know, it’s easy to fall behind home maintenance, from plumbing to electrical and HVAC and appliances. There’s a lot to take care of as a homeowner, which is why many people only fix things until it’s broken. To ensure appliances in your home run smoothly and to also save you from extra costs incurred due to breakdowns, you need to be aware of different systems in your home and how they’re functioning. To do this, you can schedule a plumbing inspection by a Fox Valley plumbing company at least once a year. Below, we explain what to expect during a plumbing inspection.

Why Are Plumbing Inspections Important?

While you can perform these inspections on your own, having a professional inspect your home has various benefits. First and foremost, you can rely on the expertise and experience of a Fox Valley plumber from Tureks Plumbing Services to locate and fix any problems that your plumbing system has.

Additionally, hiring a professional to perform a plumbing inspection for your system means that you don’t have to do it yourself. That way, you can spend your Saturday relaxing after a long week instead of housework. Having a professional inspection done also makes sure that all issues, both big and small, are fixed, from having your outdoor pipes insulated properly to prevent freezing over the winter to having your water heater flushed and tested regularly. 

This saves you a lot of time and leaves you with peace of mind. What homeowner wouldn’t want that?

What Should You Expect During an Inspection?

A plumbing inspection done by our plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, will include:

  • Discharge and sump pump inspection
  • Shut-off valve inspection
  • Video camera inspection of your sewer pipes and subsurface drains. Locating any misalignment and cracks and getting them fixed may prevent future pipe blockage or collapse
  • Inspection of your tankless water heater or storage water tank. Your water heater will have its pipes and pressure relief valves tested, then get its water temperature checked before it’s flushed.
  • An inspection of your laundry room, kitchen and bathroom venting, and drainage systems
  • Inspection of toilets, showers, and sinks. Here, toilets will get their filler mechanisms, flappers, and water levels checked
  • Examination of any and all exposed plumbing. This includes traps beneath the laundry room, bathroom, and kitchen sinks as well as shut-off valves
  • Inspection of the water filtration system
  • Checking your hydrants for leaks

Benefits of Having Your Plumbing Inspected

  • You get to save water and money by repairing any small leaks before they develop into big issues.
  • You lower your risk of plumbing emergencies. However, if an unanticipated plumbing emergency does arise, contact an emergency plumber in Appleton, Wisconsin, for assistance
  • Like everything else, plumbing systems have lifespans. Having an inspection done extends your system’s lifespan. Locating any faults in pipes and repairing them will keep your pipes from clogs and leaks, thus lengthening their lifespan
  • You can present your most recent inspection report to your Fox Valley plumber, making it easier to fix any issues without spending extra time searching for the sources   
  • You get to maintain the value of your home. Your plumbing system’s condition plays a very important role in the home appraisal. Well-maintained pipes (with an inspection report as proof) gives you the upper hand in negotiations when selling your house
  • You identify pipes that are broken or cracked.

Should I Hire a Residential Plumbing Company?

If you already had your house inspected, but you have noticed leaks, you should contact a professional plumber at Tureks Plumbing Services as soon as possible. Leaks are destructive hence the need to address the issue quickly. 

Despite not noticing any problems with your plumbing but you haven’t an inspection done, you should hire a plumbing company for annual plumbing maintenance services. McQuillan Bros, a Minneapolis plumbing company, agrees that this will save you time and money in the long run. If you decide not to get an inspection despite our recommendation to do so, you should be on the lookout for any issues that might arise and draw up a plan on how you wish to handle any problems if an issue arises or something breaks down. 

Furthermore, having a home inspector carry out an inspection is no different from you doing it yourself. This is because they do not possess the technical knowledge to advise you on any issues your plumbing may have. 

Contact a Fox Valley Plumber

If you have any concerns that you would like addressed, Tureks Plumbing Services can help you with your residential or commercial plumbing needs. Just give us a call today!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Fox Valley Plumber, Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing | Comments Off on What to Expect During a Plumbing Inspection

Plumbing Tips When You’re Away from Home

Wednesday, November 18th, 2020
Plumbing Tips When Your Away From Home- Tureks Plumbing

Plumbing Tips When You’re Away from Home

Are you planning on going on a mini winter vacation? You should consider following these plumbing tips when you’re away from home. This will help you save money and prevent the shock of coming back to unpleasant plumbing surprises.

Make Sure You Set Your Water Heater to the Lowest Setting

Please ensure that you turn down the temperature of your water heater before you leave your house. This will keep your energy on the low while you’re away. Alternatively, you could also shut off the water heater completely and drain it. This may help to prevent flooding. There is no point in paying for hot water that no one is going to use. 

While you’re at it, you should check the condition of your water heater. If there’s an issue, call a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, for water heater replacement services.

Fix Any Issues with Faucets and Other Appliances

Before leaving, you should set aside time to check on your appliances and faucets for any signs of leaks and loose hoses. Additionally, any small issues, such as your toilet continuously running, should be fixed before you leave.

Make a list of everything that has an issue ad get it fixed before your departure. You can contact Tureks Plumbing Services to fix leaking faucets at an affordable price. 

Leaving these issues unfixed can be costly, especially if the leak worsens while you are away. Prevent damaged flooring by getting the leaks fixed immediately as they may also increase your water bill. 

Empty and Clean Your Refrigerator

A few days before you leave, empty your fridge of the items that can easily spoil, such as meat, dairy products, fresh produce, and tofu. This will allow you to turn up the fridge thermometer, which will help cut down on energy costs. 

If you do end up throwing these perishables out, ensure that you dispose of the waste properly. Fox Valley plumbers warn that pouring everything down the drain may clog your garbage disposal.

Also, if you are using trash bags, please take everything out for garbage collection before you leave. Forgetting may mean you are coming back to your house smelling of rotten eggs and spoilt milk, and no one wants that!

Adjust Your Thermostat

Turning up down thermostat during the summer, whether manual or programmable, may help avoid wasting energy. However, do not turn off your AC as the heat buildup may affect wood floors, doors, cabinets, etc.

Our friends at Gilmore Heating and Air, a heating and cooling company in Folsom, says that if you are leaving during the winter, turn down your thermostat but do not turn off your furnace completely.

Check on Your Sump Pump

If you live in a house with a basement, Tureks Plumbing Services recommends that you ensure that your sump pump is working properly before you leave. A sump pump’s work is to divert water from a house to other places like a dry well or a municipal storm drain. Unexpected weather changes such as heavy storms may damage your property, especially if your sump pump is not working and your basement may flood. A working sump pump prevents the basement from flooding.

Have a professional plumber from a Fox Valley plumbing company come to your house and perform routine maintenance to make sure your sump pump is running smoothly at least a week or two before your departure.

Do Not Turn Your Pool Pump Off

If you have a pool, turning off your pool pump before you leave may cause a buildup of algae in your pool. Instead of turning off your pool pump, you should keep it running at optimal settings and have a friend come to your house once every few days to check on your pool and make sure that the pump is operating properly.

Ask a Trusted Friend to Check on Your House

It’s always advisable that you have a relative or friend look after a house when you are out of town. Ensure that you leave them with your emergency contacts, including your plumber’s phone number. 

Alert Your Alarm Company

If your home has a monitored alarm system, ensure that you contact the company to let them know that you will be away. Provide them will your contacts as well as that of a trusted neighbor, just in case the company can’t be able to reach you.

Checking on these things before you leave for vacation will wipe any worry away. You can actually enjoy your vacation without any hassle, knowing that your house will be dry and clean when you come back. 

For more expert plumbing tips, contact the team at Tureks Plumbing Services. We are more than happy to offer our plumbing services!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Plumbing Tips, Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing | Comments Off on Plumbing Tips When You’re Away from Home

No-Dig Trenchless Sewer Repair

Wednesday, July 22nd, 2020
no-dig trenchless sewer repair Fox Valley

No-Dig Trenchless Sewer Repair with Tureks Plumbing

What is Trenchless Sewer Repair?

You no longer have to dig up your yard or driveway thanks to trenchless sewer repair. There are so many trenchless sewer repair benefits! This no-dig trenchless sewer repair option is cost-effective and much less damaging than traditional sewer repair methods. 

Fox Valley homeowners prefer trenchless sewer repair because it permanently fixes sewer issues without the digging. If you have a sewer problem, you can count on Tureks Plumbing. Our team will quickly evaluate your sewer and drain lines with a sewer camera. Once we’ve done a camera inspection, our team will recommend the best solution. 

How Does Trenchless Sewer Repair Work? 

First, our team will clean out all roots and de-scale any debris. After the cleaning process is complete, our team will start to repair the pipelining. 

There are several trenchless rehabilitation options that plumbing professionals may recommend. The Perma-Lateral System is our go-to trenchless repair solution. This no-dig sewer repair technique is designed to create a new pipe within the old pipe by inserting a new liner. The length of your custom pipe liner depends on the solution you and your technician have decided upon. 

Unlike traditional sewer replacements, the Perma-Lateral System only requires one access point. Once the liner has been placed in the damaged pipe, it’ll take up to 3 hours for the ambient to be cured or 20 minutes if it’s steam cured. Once the lining has been cured, and the bladder has been extracted, the pipe will be as good as new! 

Here’s a quick look at a recent trenchless sewer repair project.

trenchless sewer repair in Appleton WI

How Do I know if I need Trenchless Sewer Repair? 

Trenchless sewer repair is not only quick, easy, and affordable, but it’s also effective in fixing a ton of sewer problems. Here is what trenchless sewer repair is commonly known for fixing:

  • Cracks in pipes
  • Corrosion
  • Pipe breaks
  • Tree roots
  • Sewage backups
  • Minor pipe misalignment

Trenchless Sewer Repair Costs

Trenchless pipeline rehabilitation varies in costs. Our friends over at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing and HVAC company in St. Paul, agree that the cost depends on the soil type, materials used, and how deep the pipes are buried. No dig sewer repair options are still one of the most cost-effective solutions for the long term. You won’t find yourself spending thousands of dollars to restore your pipes.

Whether you need trenching or trenchless sewer repair, you can count on Tureks Plumbing. Our plumbing professionals have extensive experience in providing trenchless sewer repair services in Appleton, Neenah, Oshkosh, and more. Contact us today to learn more about our plumbing services. 

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Residential Plumbing, Sewer and Drain, Trenchless Sewer Repair | Comments Off on No-Dig Trenchless Sewer Repair

5 Bad Habits That Could Ruin Your Bathroom Plumbing

Wednesday, June 24th, 2020

If you would like to take the preservation of the plumbing system of your home to a whole new level, you have to shine a light on your habits and drop those that are bad while maintaining those that support the service life of a plumbing system. In this blog post, we look at some of the bad habits that could ruin bathroom plumbing in your Appleton, Wisconsin home.

Taking Long, Hot Showers

What? Yes, that long, hot shower that you take to reinvigorate your body and mind after a long day at work isn’t doing the plumbing system any favors.

How does this happen? The specialists at Turek’s Plumbing Services explain that even with proper ventilation, hot showers have a knack for making moisture (or steam in this case) to access every nook, cranny and crevice in the bathroom.

As you may already know, warmth and dampness are the perfect combo for the growth of mold, so your long, hot showers are paving the way for a mold problem to fester in your bathroom.

We at Turek’s Plumbing Services know the immense benefits of taking a hot shower, so we will not recommend that you kick them to the curb. Instead, we advise that you take shorter hot showers (not exceeding 10 minutes), ensure there’s as much ventilation in the bathroom as possible, and avoid cranking up the temperature of the water too high.

Letting Hair Buildup

The reason why most plumbing clogs occur in the shower and bathroom sink is largely because of hair. If the hair falling into the bathroom drains isn’t removed periodically, it will accumulate to a level that will block the flow of water through the drain.

If the blockage isn’t fixed, you may end up with a burst pipe. Bathroom remodel professionals in Appleton, WI therefore suggests that you use a clothes hanger to extract the hair that gets into the drains so that no buildup is allowed in there. This proactive step will save you from making so many service calls to Appleton Wisconsin plumbers.

Leaving Standing Water on the Bathroom Floor

If you wouldn’t leave standing water on your kitchen floor, why would you leave it on the bathroom floor? Standing water can damage and warp bathroom flooring, and this in turn can compromise the plumbing components underneath the affected sections of the flooring.

The resultant damage caused by standing water in your bathroom is unlikely to be covered by your home insurance policy, so not only are you going to feel the pinch in your pocket, but you also risk slipping and falling as you walk on that wet floor.

At Turek’s Plumbing Services, we recommend that you buy a bigger shower mat or rug so that the problem of standing water is no more.

Neglecting Water Backups

Does water back up or flow slowly through the toilet or shower drain? Take action immediately so that you fix this problem in its early stages.

For example, if the slow drainage is due to trapped hair, remove the drain cover and use a straightened hanger with a hook at its end to extract the trapped hair.

Similarly, if you notice mineral build ups on the showerhead, Sacramento, CA plumbers suggest that you rub vinegar or shampoo on that spot. The mineral deposits will be gone and your bathroom plumbing will be free from a potential defect.

Leaving Damp Materials

Mold thrives in moist environments that have access to the light, and that is exactly what your damp towels and loofahs provide. 

If you are in the habit of using a towel and then dumping it on the floor or in the hamper, then know that you are making it easy for mold and bacteria to find a haven in your bathroom.

It is therefore advisable for you to hang up your towel to dry after using it, and place your loafers in a well-ventilated spot so that they can dry as well. Replacing the loofahs periodically is also a good practice to develop since you will protect your health and the plumbing system from being infiltrated by the microbes growing on these moist items.

At Turek’s Plumbing Services, we know it can be very difficult to break a bad habit just as it is difficult to maintain a good one. That is why we offer our services to homeowners in Appleton, Wisconsin. We use our routine service calls as an opportunity to point out any habits that seem to be compromising the plumbing system so that the needed changes can be made. Remember, our aim is to give you information to help you minimize plumbing problems so that you only call us to fix the issues that you cannot address on your own. Contact Appleton, WI plumbers today and join our growing list of happy homeowners!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in bathroom plumbing, Bathroom Remodel, Fox Valley Plumber, Plumbing Problems, Residential Plumbing | Comments Off on 5 Bad Habits That Could Ruin Your Bathroom Plumbing