Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Archive for the ‘Water Efficiency’ Category

Discolored Water Problems

Monday, July 11th, 2022

discolored water problems

What Your Water Color Can Tell You

Yellow, Red, and Orange Water

When water is coming out of your tap red, yellow, or orange in color, it usually indicates that there is rust in the pipes. This can happen when the water is not being used for a while and the iron in the pipes begin to rust. If you notice your water is discolored, you should let it run for a few minutes until it clears up. If it does not clear up after running the water for a few minutes, you should contact your local water company near you. They will be able to help you determine if there is anything else going on that could be causing the issue.

Blue or Green Water

If you’ve ever seen blue or green water coming out of your faucet, it’s most likely due to copper corroding in your pipes. Copper is a common material used in plumbing, and while it’s resistant to many different substances, over time it can start to break down. This usually happens when water with high acidity levels comes into contact with the copper, causing a chemical reaction. The resulting blue or green water is harmless, but it can be a sign that your pipes need to be replaced. If you’re concerned about your water quality, it’s always best to consult with a professional plumber near you. They can test your water and give you advice on the best course of action.

Contact Tureks Plumbing

At Tureks Plumbing, we have top-quality plumbing services in Appleton WI to residential and commercial customers in the Appleton area. We take pride in our reputation for being honest, reliable, and affordable. Whether you need a simple repair or a complete installation, our team of certified plumbers will get the job done right. So if you’re looking for a plumbing company you can trust, please contact Tureks Plumbing today. We’ll be happy to provide a free estimate for any of your plumbing needs.

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Water Efficient Plumbing Fixtures

Wednesday, May 5th, 2021

water efficient plumbing fixtures

Why Make the Switch to Plumbing Fixtures That Conserve Water? 2021

Whether you are trying to conserve water, whittle down your monthly water bill, or help save the environment, there is one simple step that can help you achieve these goals. Fox Valley plumbers recommend switching to water-efficient plumbing fixtures! 

These fixtures are plumbing fixtures that conserve water. But exactly how much water, money, and energy can be saved? The EPA estimates that if all American households make the switch to these plumbing fixtures, the country will save roughly 3 trillion gallons of water and $18 billion dollars annually. Let that statistic soak in for a minute.

On top of that, swapping out your old plumbing fixtures for their high-efficiency counterparts can help substantially reduce energy consumption — and in turn, greenhouse emissions. According to the EPA, if at least one in every 100 households makes the switch to high-efficiency plumbing fixtures, there will be around a 100 million kWh reduction in the consumption of electricity which will help eliminate up to 80,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. The largest appliances like your water heater, dishwasher, and washer and dryer will make the biggest difference, while outdoors having a water-efficient irrigation system. But those also come with larger price tags. You don’t have to have a huge budget to begin reducing your water usage, say our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, who offers plumbing services in Sacramento. 

Here’s a brief guide on how do you choose which affordable water-efficient fixtures to start with when reducing your water usage

Low Flow Toilets

Toilets account for a substantial amount of water usage and waste in a household — that’s about 30 percent of the overall water consumption. If the toilet currently installed in your home uses over 1.6 gallons of water per flush (GPF), consider switching to a high-efficiency toilet.

There are three basic options you can choose from high-efficiency or ultra-low flush toilets, dual flush toilets, and composting toilets. High-efficiency toilets have a GPF of 1.28. Dual flush toilets have two flush buttons: one for liquid waste and another for solid waste. Composting toilets, on the other hand, use virtually no water for flushing.

Scott Valley Water district also has rebates for homeowners who switch to low-flow toilets.

Water Efficient Showerheads

In an average household, showering accounts for 20 percent of indoor water use. By making the switch to high-efficiency showerheads, you can save as much as 70 percent of your shower water use.

Today’s high-efficiency showerheads have a strong shower stream so you do not have to exchange a powerful stream for water savings. If the showerhead installed in your bathroom has 2.5 GPM (gallons per minute), switch to an ultra-low flow showerhead with a GPM of 2 and below.

On top of reducing water consumption, these showerheads can also help reduce energy consumption by decreasing the demand for hot water.

Water Efficient Faucets

Older, inefficient faucets have an average GPM of 2.5. In this case, you can either switch to a high-efficiency faucet with a GPM of 1.5 or below or simply use an aerator or flow restrictor with the faucets currently installed in your home.

If you need a Fox Valley Plumber you can trust to recommend the right brands or even install your new fixtures and appliances, give the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing a call.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in June 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

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How To Reduce Water Waste

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2020
Reduce Water Waste - Turek's Plumbing

When every penny counts, it is wise to look for every opportunity to conserve the resources at your disposal. One of the ways to do that is by reducing water waste. Here are some easy water-saving tips recommended by the experienced plumbers at Turek’s Plumbing Services, a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Whole-House Water Conservation

According to the EPA (Environment Protection Agency), the average American home loses about 10,000 gallons of water each year to dripping faucets, pipe leaks and constantly running toilets.

Fox Valley plumbers say this is literally money down the drain, so your water conservation efforts should begin by addressing these issues. The best way to fix leaks, constantly running toilets and other plumbing system problems that waste water is by asking a plumber to perform annual maintenance on the plumbing system.

The professional will identify all the leaks and repair them so that you can stop losing water and money on a daily basis.

Water Conservation In The Bathroom

More than half of all the water used in your home is used in the bathroom. Read that again, and let it sink in. The greatest water waste reduction dividends are therefore likely to be registered when you pay attention to the way you use water in your bathroom.

For starters, upgrading to the latest low-flow toilets can save you up to 20% of the water you currently use, according to Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial renovation contractor. These savings will increase even further if you get a dual flush toilet so that you can use less water when flushing liquid waste and a little more water when flushing solids.

Rather than take a bath, opt for a short shower in order to reduce your water waste. While at it, a low-flow showerhead recommended by your Fox Valley plumber will cut your water use by half.

It is also a good habit to turn the faucet off while you shave or brush. Train your family members to adopt this habit as well so that you all work as a team to reduce water waste.

Water Conservation In The Kitchen

According to Appleton, WI kitchen remodel experts, washing dishes by hand uses a lot more water than using the dishwasher. It is therefore prudent for you to wait and run a full load in the dishwasher instead of a few dishes at a time.

Additionally, dishwashers have become so efficient and effective that you no longer need to pre-rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. The water you use to pre-rinse will have been wasted.

In contrast, scraping off food particles from plates and dishes before putting them in the dishwasher will conserve water.

While on the subject of scraping dishes, put the scraps on your compost heap instead of dumping them in the garbage disposal says Sacramento, CA plumbing company, Gilmore Heating, Air, & Plumbing. Appleton plumbers say this will save the water that would have been used to clear the garbage disposal of these food scraps.

Saving Water In Your Lawn Or Garden

You also need to shine a light on how you use water outdoors if you are to plug all the points at which water is wasted.

For example, at what time do you water your garden or lawn? Any Fox Valley plumber you ask will tell you that it is best to water gardens or lawns early in the morning or late in the afternoon to save water since minimal evaporation will take place at that time.

Our friends at McQuillan Bros, an HVAC, and plumbing company in Minnesota, recommend aerating the lawn periodically so that more water can be soaked up instead of running off each time it rains or you water that lawn. In this way, you will reduce the amount of water needed to keep the garden or lawn thriving.

You can also start harvesting rain water in a rain barrel or any other available receptacle. This water can be used to water the lawn and your garden, thereby reducing your water bill. Your plants and grass will thrive as you give them this rainwater that is free from chlorine. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!

Saving water starts with knowing all the ways in which you have been wasting water on your property. Contact Turek’s Plumbing to perform a water use audit in your home. Our experienced plumbers will then recommend all the cost-effective ways through which you can reduce water waste and keep water bills affordable. Give us a call today!

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Why You Might Have Low Water Pressure

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2020

low water pressure - tureks plumbing servicesLow water pressure is one of the most frustrating things a homeowner can experience. It slows you down and prevents you from carrying out your chores with the efficiency you are used to. Additionally, low water pressure can affect other aspects of your home, such as water heaters that require the water pressure to work.

Low water pressure can be caused by a number of things. Identifying the problem and fixing it will allow you to enjoy your water and avoid any frustration. Here are some of the reasons contributing to your low water pressure in your home. 

Faulty Fixtures 

Fixtures such as your shower head and faucets could be faulty due to old age. Old fixtures are likely to clog due to rust or dirt. This will affect how much water flows through them. Determine which of your fixtures if faulty by testing them one by one. 

Also, make sure that you check the screen and aerator for each faucet to determine whether they are clean and clear. A clogged screen or aerator could be what is causing the fixture to act up. You can easily solve this by replacing or cleaning the fixtures to attain normal flow. 

Corrosion and Debris 

Your pipes will get old with time. For example, pipes made of galvanized steel are likely to rust. The rust accumulates and starts to collect debris over time. This lowers the water pressure. 

Corrosion and the accumulation of debris take place gradually, so you might not notice it immediately. Your plumber in Appleton will be in a better position to determine the level of rust and debris in your pipes and fix it. 

Faulty Pressure Regulator 

A pressure regulator is a bell-shaped control valve used to reduce pressure in plumbing. This reduces the amount of damage caused by high water pressure on your pipes. The pressure regulator can fail and allow the increase or decrease in water pressure. In this case, your pressure regulator will start to inhibit the pressure of the water. 

You can tell whether your pressure regulator is working properly by trying to adjust it. Any defects will affect all fixtures. Your plumber will test your regulator by connecting a water pressure gauge to the spigot that is closest to the regulator or water main and check the psi readings. A reading of below 52-75 psi means that your regulator could be failing and has to be replaced. 

Faulty Water Valve 

Your plumbing system contains two valves that control the flow of water inside your home. Both valves are found close to the meter, one on each side of the meter. Your city’s water employees can close and open the valve on the street side of the meter. 

You might experience low water pressure if either of the valves is not properly opened. It helps to check both valves, especially if your plumbing system had some work done on it. Remember not to apply too much pressure on the valve when opening it. 

One of the best ways to handle low water pressure is to involve a plumber in Appleton, Wisconsin. If you are looking for trained and qualified plumbers for your plumbing issues, look no further than Tureks Plumbing. We are dedicated to giving you value for your money. Tureks Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services. So, just contact us and we’ll be on our way!

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When to Replace Your Water Softener at Home

Wednesday, September 18th, 2019

How to Know When to Replace the Water Softener at Home - Tureks PlumbingLike any of the other appliances that you have in your home, the water softener will also need to be replaced at some point. It is important for you to know when the time has come to replace this appliance. Most water softeners last for between 10 and 15 years, so if yours is more than a decade old, then you could consider replacing it. Apart from the age, there are other signs that you can base upon to make the decision to replace your water softener. Tureks Plumbing Services shares some of those warning signs.

Less Lather Than Expected

If you notice that you have to use more soap or shampoo in order to get enough lather while you take a bath or shower, then it may be time to replace the water softener since the current one isn’t doing a good job of softening the hard water.

Spotted or Stained Laundry

When you run your clothes through the laundry machine, and the clothes have visible white spots or stains, you can suspect that the water softener isn’t doing its work as it should and you may, therefore, need to be replaced. The spots you see are minerals that have remained after the water evaporated as your laundry dried.

This problem can also be seen on your dishes and pans since the same minerals making your clothes to look dirty are also present in the water used in the dishwasher. Consequently, if you see streaks on your dishes and other kitchenware, take that as a sign that the water softener may have become ineffective and it may be time to replace it or have a Fox Valley plumber check and repair it.

Deposits Around Faucets and Pipes

You also need to observe the pipes and faucets in your home. If you see crusty deposits on those faucets and pipes, then the water softener may not be doing its job. That chalky substance can gradually clog the pipes or even damage them.

Changes in the Taste of Water

If you have been drinking water directly from a faucet, you may start to notice that its taste changes to something you don’t like. That change may signify that the minerals which the water softener was removing are now remaining in the water because the water softener is no longer doing its work as it should. This suspicion may gain further credence if you notice any of the other signs discussed earlier.

Changes in the Water Pressure

If the water pressure at different points of use drops inexplicably, the problem may lie squarely with the malfunctioning water softener. The drop in pressure may be due to the mineral deposits in hard water accumulating on the walls of the pipes to the extent that water cannot flow through easily. Fox Valley plumbers advise that it is much better, in the long run, to replace the water softener instead of indulging in the futile task of repeatedly clearing the clogged pipes.

Too Much Salt

Older water softeners required the homeowner to keep topping up the salt that is used by the appliance to soften hard water. Appleton plumbers reveal that if you check your water softener and find that the supply of salt isn’t changing despite the water softener running, then that water softener may have reached the end of its usefulness and it may be time to replace it.

Dry and Itchy Skin

If your skin feels itchy and dry after a shower, then some dissolved minerals may be remaining in the water. This is a sign that the water softener isn’t as effective as it once was.

When to Replace Your Water Softener

The signs above are only indicative and may not be definitive proof that it is time to replace your water softener. This is because the problem may be fixed by servicing the appliance, or another cause may be responsible for the signs you see. For example, the metallic water pipes in your home may be rusty, which could explain the altered taste of the water in your home. The best way to confirm that your water softener is due for replacement is by asking an Appleton plumber from Tureks Plumbing Services to check the softener and determine whether servicing or repairing it may restore it to full functionality, or whether replacing it is the best option. Don’t live with the problems resulting from hard water flowing through your pipes, contact Tureks Plumbing Services for help today!

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What Are These Black Specks in My Water?

Wednesday, January 23rd, 2019

what are these black specs in my water - tureks plumbing services

What Are These Black Specks in My Water?

It is usually distressing to discover that the water supply in your home suddenly has black specks. So many questions arise, such as whether those specks are harmful, what their source is and what you can do to get rid of them. If you have been asking yourself, “What are these black specks in my water?” read on and learn the possible causes and what you can do to get rid of the specks.

Silt or Sand in Your Water Line

People who use water from a private well may observe tiny black specks in their water. The specks may also look brownish. These are usually particles of sand or silt that make their way to the faucets. There are three common reasons why these specks will appear in the water.

First, the well may be new, so the likelihood that water with particles will be pumped out is high. In such a case, it is common for the particles to stop appearing in the water if the well is pumped for several days in order to get rid of these contaminants.

Secondly, the well may not have a screen, or the existing one is worn. In this case, replacing the old screen or installing one will resolve the matter. Thirdly, it can also be helpful to install a well liner if your well was dug in sandstone. Whatever the root cause may be, Tureks Plumbing Services recommends swift action before your well pump is damaged extensively by those particles.

Mineral Deposits in Your Water Line

If you are asking about “black specks in my water”, another area to investigate is the possibility that mineral particles have precipitated in the water. The two key suspects in this regard are iron and manganese particles. While harmless, the particles can stain your clothes and dishes. The water pipes may also be affected if they are made from a material that can react with those minerals. Contact the utility company if you notice the water throughout your home shows the presence of these black particles.

Rust Particles in Your Water Line

Rust is usually orange or brown, but in some cases it can look black. These particles of rust is normally a localized problem, so you should suspect that some of the water pipes on your property are rusting if the black specks stop appearing after you have let the water run for a few minutes.

Contact a plumber in Appleton, WI, so that the affected pipes can be identified and replaced before a major leak develops. Refer the matter to the utility company in case all points of use are affected. Such a scenario points to a problem with the water mains, and that isn’t your responsibility to fix.

Disintegrating Rubber in Your Plumbing System

Don’t be quick to condemn the water supplier in case the black specks in your water are accompanied by traces of an oily substance. This is a clear indicator that a rubber fixture is breaking down somewhere in your plumbing system. The first place to look in this case is the hose connecting the water heater to an inlet line. Chloramine or chlorine in the water reacts with the rubber and gradually corrodes it, hence the black specks in your water. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services for a replacement hose that has a lining that protects it from the disinfectants added to the municipal water supply.

GAC in Your Filtration System

GAC, or granulated activated carbon, is a substance that is commonly used as a filter medium in the filtration systems installed by homeowners. You can suspect that these are the culprits when you see black specks in your water and you have a water filtration system in your home. If that is the case, you may not need to spend money on a plumbing repair call. Just check the manual of the filtration system or get in touch with the manufacturer for advice on how you can replace the filtration cartridge since the escaping particles show that the cartridge is defective or worn.

Now you know the possible answers to the question, “What are these black specks in my water?” Contact a Fox Valley plumber, such as one from Tureks Plumbing Services, and you will get professional help in dealing with those esthetically unpleasant specks in your water.

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7 Ways to Save Water at Home

Friday, January 4th, 2019

tureks plumbing services Ways to save water at home

7 Ways to Save Water at Home

Many areas regularly experience water shortages that cause the utility companies to ration how much water each home can access in a day. Additionally, the cost of water has been creeping upwards over the years. These two factors make a strong case for saving as much water as you can in your home. This article discusses some of the easy ways to save water at home so that you reduce how much you spend while conserving the environment.

Fix Water Leaks

Experienced professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services estimate that most homes have water leaks they aren’t aware. Many homeowners don’t realize this until a plumber performs a plumbing system inspection, or a major leak develops, and water starts gushing out. Those undetected leaks not only cause your monthly water bill to rise, but they also have the potential to trigger other costly effects. Damage to your foundation and the risk of mold growth in your home are commonly caused by water damage.

It is therefore prudent to fix any faucet or other leaks as soon as they are noticed. In the meantime, you can use a bucket to collect any water from a leaking faucet. Use that water for other domestic chores, such as watering your indoor plants.

Be Mindful of How You Use the Dishwasher

Many modern dishwashers come with an Eco setting. Use that setting each time you are using this appliance. Additionally, you can save more water by waiting until you have a full load for the dishwasher before you start it. This measure will use water more economically than when you run less than full loads in the dishwasher.

Upgrade to Water-Efficient Appliances

Efficiency is much more important today. Our friends at Gilmore Heating & Air, a plumbing and residential ac company in Folsom, agree that homeowners everywhere are upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems and water-efficient appliances. By popular demand, most appliance manufacturers now have water-efficient models that you can consider for your home. For example, you can ask an Appleton plumber from Tureks Plumbing Services to replace your old toilets with dual-flush versions.

The dual-flush toilets conserve water because a user flushes using less water after a short call while the full flush is reserved for the time when a member of your household has done number two. Similarly, a smart sprinkler system can save you a lot of water. Since the system will determine the most appropriate volume of water to use during each session of watering your lawn. Sensors in the soil detect how much water is still available and send signals to the control system to tweak its parameters for that day.

Buy Biodegradable Cleaning Products

One of the biggest reasons why there is less water, and it is expensive is the impact of the pollutants contained in modern cleaning products. Those pollutants are poured down drains, and they ultimately end up in underground water reservoirs or streams. Utility companies, therefore, have to use a lot of resources to clean that water before supplying it to homes and other places where it is needed.

Plumbers in Appleton, WI, therefore advise homeowners to opt for eco-friendly cleaners when shopping. This will reduce the degree to which groundwater is polluted.

Know When to Water Your Plants

The time when you water your plants can also contribute to water conservation or wastage in your home. For example, a person who waters the lawn at midday will waste a lot of water because a fraction of that water will evaporate instead of percolating into the ground. In contrast, another person who waters the lawn early in the morning or late in the afternoon will conserve water because most of the water will soak into the ground during the cool weather. It is also helpful to invite a Fox Valley plumber to check the irrigation system for leaks.

Reduce Your Shower Time

Research has established that the traditional showerheads release about five gallons of water every minute. People who take lengthy showers, therefore, waste a lot of water. Another of the ways to save water at home entails spending no more than five minutes when showering. Use a timer if need be. Switch to low-flow showerheads as well so that you cut water use in the shower further. Plumbers from Tureks Plumbing Services can help you to select the most appropriate showerheads.

Another related trick is to keep the water faucet off as you brush your teeth, shave or soap your hands. A touch-free faucet can be a good upgrade for the purpose of saving water as you use the bathroom sink.

Spread the Word – Save Water

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that your efforts alone will achieve the water conservation results that you desire. Tell all your family members to participate to save the most water! Devote more effort towards training your kids to be mindful of how they use water. You will gradually see them become more conscious of their water-use habits.

Implementing the different ways to save water at home requires you to partner with an experienced plumber in Appleton, WI. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services if you need any help in dealing with a plumbing problem. We are available 24/7 throughout the year, including holidays.

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Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

Wednesday, December 26th, 2018

Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

Research has it that approximately 45 percent of all people make resolutions at the start of each year. However, only a paltry 8 percent of those people actually implement those resolutions. Our team Tureks Plumbing Services would like you to consider the following plumbing resolutions for the New Year so you can save on your plumbing bill in 2019!

Be More Considerate of Your Garbage Disposal

The garbage disposal is one of the unsung heroes of your plumbing system. However, many homeowners ignore this appliance until something malfunctions. Let next year be a different year for the garbage disposal in your home. Resolve to treat it better by being more mindful about what you deposit inside the disposal. For example, don’t place large chunks of debris inside the disposal just because it has blades that can cut that debris into tiny pieces. Instead, cut the debris into smaller pieces so that the garbage disposal doesn’t overwork.

Such consideration will reduce the wear and tear on your disposal. Defects will also be fewer, so you will have a reduced need to call Tureks Plumbing Services to fix a disposal malfunction.

Fix Defects Promptly

The second of the plumbing resolutions for the New Year entails taking prompt action as soon as a defect is detected in the plumbing system. You see, plumbing defects differ in intensity/seriousness. For example, a minor leak may develop at the kitchen faucet, or the main water pipe into your home may burst and start gushing water into your yard. These two leaks elicit different degrees of urgency among homeowners.

However, that minor leak that you delay to fix can result in additional problems. For example, the slow leak can inflate your monthly water bill. Secondly, the moist conditions created by the leak can promote the growth of mold and mildew (with their attendant health risks).

It is therefore wise for you to contact a plumber in Appleton, WI, each time you detect any defect in the plumbing system. The New Year will then have fewer plumbing emergencies if you act quickly each time a defect is noticed.

Conserve Water

You should also resolve to conserve water more in the New Year. This can be attained in several ways, such as upgrading to water-efficient toilets and showerheads. In fact, even fixing defects promptly can help you to conserve water since the wastage resulting from plumbing defects will be avoided.

Consult a Fox Valley plumber in case you want to implement more comprehensive changes in your home in order to make the plumbing system more efficient. The professional will inspect your home and suggest the most cost-effective ways to conserve water in your home.

Give Your Water Heater More Attention

The water heater in your home is an important appliance from a comfort point of view and from the aspect of energy-efficiency. For example, a sudden malfunction can deny your family members hot water to take a shower in the middle of winter. Such an inconvenience can be hard to bypass during such weather.

It is therefore vital that you resolve to give your water heater more attention this coming year (and beyond) so that it can continue to give you the reliable service that you have come to expect. Check the anode frequently and replace it when it is eroded. Flush the tank regularly so that sediment doesn’t accumulate and spring a leak. You can also ask a Fox Valley plumber to check that water heater so that the defects you weren’t aware of as a layperson are fixed before they worsen and compromise the functioning of the appliance.

Keep Pipes Warm

Your plumbing resolutions for the New Year may not be complete if you haven’t thought about how to winterize the plumbing system. Make a conscious decision to keep the water pipes warm during the cold months of the year so that you can forestall those pipes from bursting after freezing.

It is especially important to keep the pipes outdoors and those where no air conditioning exists (attic and basement, for example) warm by wrapping them in insulation. This insulation is affordable and can be bought in rolls at plumbing or hardware stores. Ask one of our experts at Tureks Plumbing Services for recommendations in case you aren’t sure of which particular product to buy and use.

Have Regular Inspections Done

Resolve to start being more proactive rather than reactive when it comes to addressing plumbing system issues. Don’t wait for a problem to occur before you pay some attention to the plumbing system. Instead, ask an experienced plumber in Appleton, WI, to inspect the entire system at least once each year so that defects can be caught early. Such proactive measures will reduce your expenditure on plumbing repairs, and the system will break down less frequently.

Tureks Plumbing Services is available round the clock throughout the year. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help in implementing any of the plumbing resolutions for the New Year covered in the discussion above. We shall do everything possible to keep your plumbing system working without a hitch.

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Posted in Bathroom Remodel, Kitchen Plumbing, Kitchen Remodel Planning, Plumbing Pipes, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Professional Plumbing Services, Residential Plumbing, Sewer and Drain, Toilets, Water Efficiency, Water Heater, Water Heater Instillation, Water Heater Repair, Water Pressure | Comments Off on Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

What Causes Water Pressure to Decrease?

Wednesday, November 21st, 2018

what causes water pressure to decrease

What Causes Water Pressure to Decrease?

Low water pressure can be frustrating as it has an effect on your daily life. From use in the kitchen to the shower, low water pressure can make a task as simple as washing the dishes a nightmare.

So what causes water pressure to decrease? We have 6 common reasons why most homes face water pressure issues.

Water pressure issue #1: Issue with the water valve

Two valves control most homes water flow. If you face water pressure issues, you want to check these valves first. They are usually near the water meter. The valve that is positioned on the street side is the city’s, you may not have access to this since it belongs to the city. The other valve, which is on the side of your home, controls the water in your home.

You want to make sure both the valves are completely open. They control the water flow into your home so if it is not completely open then chances are you will have low water pressure. When operating the valve, you need to be gentle with it. Don’t apply too much force, which can cause damage.

If access to the city valve is cut off then you can contact the city office and see if they can send someone down to open it for you.

Water pressure issue #2: Fault in the fixtures

The faucets and showers in your home are used daily. With time they start to wear and tear. Faulty fixtures are one of the most common reasons for low water pressure. Once they get old the fixtures easy clog up with limestone, dirt, and even rust. All of which results in lower water pressure.

The best way to test whether it is a certain fixture is to run water through it at the same time with another. If you notice a difference in the pressure of the two then you know that one is faulty. Before running the test, just be sure to clean the aerator of the fixture so no dirt is stuck in it, which also results in lower pressure. When you’ve determined a fixture to be faulty, you can clean it out to clearing out the clog or have it replaced.

Water pressure issue #3: A damaged pressure regulator

The pressure regulator does exactly as it names states, it regulates water pressure in the plumbing. It is important that the regulator stays in shape otherwise you will either get no pressure or too much of it.

Fixing a regular isn’t hard; you just need to replace it. You can do it on your own or seek help from an Appleton plumber.

Water pressure issue #4: Clog in the water pipes

If your fixtures and valve have been cleared after inspection then the reason behind low water pressure could be clogged pipes. Clogged pipes aren’t easy to deal with and is better if left to a professional. You can consult a plumber to help figure out how the clog can be resolved. This can only be done after they inspect the pipes and determine where the clog is.

Water pressure issue #5: Plumbing problem

Corrosion in the plumbing can happen in older homes. If you are having trouble diagnosing the problem then chances are the plumbing is corroded. This may require a complete overhaul of the plumbing, which is obviously a project you cannot take up on your own. An Appleton plumber can help you with the project they can assess the corrosion and determine what the proper step maybe.

Water pressure issue #6: Main supply line has issues

If your home has been cleared from the above issues then chances are there is an issue with the main supply line. The line doesn’t supply your home with enough water, which has resulted in lower pressure. A plumber in Appleton, WI can help you assess this problem and help you take the right step to have it resolved.

There are numerous different factors that cause water pressure to decrease The hard part for most homeowners may just be identifying what the problem is. Before you take any drastic steps on your own be sure to get an expert to help out with the assessment and tell you the right course of action to take. Otherwise, you may end up causing more problems.

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The 5 Most Common Plumbing Problems

Thursday, April 19th, 2018

As your home gets older, you may find yourself calling the plumber more often. This is because, over time, your pipes and other parts will be affected by the usual wear and tear and will become brittle or blocked. As a result, different kinds of plumbing issues will arise every now and then.

Knowing how to detect and fix simple plumbing problems can save you money, time, and unnecessary stress. Below are some of the most common plumbing problems you may encounter and tips on how to deal with them.

Leaking faucets

As faucets get older, their washers wear out as well. You can extend the life of your faucet’s washers by not turning the faucet on and off with too much force. Dripping faucets can also be repaired temporarily by replacing the joint yourself.

Leaky pipes

This typical plumbing problem can cause huge and expensive damage to floors, walls, and belongings. Leaks in pipes usually occur at joints. If this is the issue, you can easily fix this with commercial joint fillers and fitting compounds which you can buy at a hardware store. You can also prevent small leaks from worsening by checking your pipes regularly. Be on the lookout for rust or white lime deposits since they can indicate the beginnings of a leak.

Clogged or slow drains

If the water or anything that goes into your sink, toilet, or tub won’t go out, it is highly likely that you are dealing with either a partial or a complete clog. To get the drain flowing quickly again, remove the waste materials or debris immediately. There are different plumbing tools you can use for this task.

You can also use some chemical products or lubricants which will break up the waste material. This will allow the stuck material and water to flow through with ease.

No hot water coming from faucets or shower

This plumbing problem is caused by an issue with your water heater. If this problem keeps happening, before calling a  Tureks Plumbing Services, make sure you check the following first:

  • If you have an electric water heater, check the thermostat first. Your device may have a malfunctioning heating element which you can also replace since you can buy this part at most hardware stores. Check if the device is leaking water and has an undersized or weak fuse or breaker since they can cause your heater to malfunction as well.
  • If you have a gas water heater, make sure that the gas is on and the gas valve is not in the closed position. Make sure the pilot light is on as well. Adjust the setting to ensure that the temperature is set high enough to give you adequate amounts of hot water.

Low water pressure

Low water pressure is a common plumbing problem in older homes but it can also happen in newer homes, too. Low water pressure can be caused by a leaking or corroded pipe, old shower heads, blocked faucets or pipes, and other plumbing issues. You can keep this problem in check by having pressure regulators installed.

If you’re not sure you can deal with your plumbing issue, don’t hesitate to call the professionals immediately. Plumbers, such as the team of Turek’s Plumbing, will be able to correctly assess your problem and fix it quickly.

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Posted in Commercial Plumbing, Emergency Plumber, Kitchen Plumbing, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Residential Plumbing, Sewer and Drain, Toilets, Uncategorized, Water Efficiency, Water Pressure | Comments Off on The 5 Most Common Plumbing Problems