Common Garbage Disposal Issues

November 18th, 2016

Common Garbage Disposal Issues (And What You Can Do About These)

Most people pay little attention to their garbage disposal systems despite the convenience these provide us. Until the garbage disposal unit acts up and needs repair that is. Just imagine how your cooking and cleanup routines are put in disarray with just one day without the garbage disposal unit.

This is why it is important to learn how to properly use and care for your garbage disposal. Experts recommend cutting or breaking up large chunks of food into smaller pieces.  Avoid throwing non-food items, hard foods and oil. Fats and grease are also a main source of clogged garbage disposals.

It is important for homeowners to look for common garbage disposal issues which can lead to bigger problems when left unchecked. What are these common issues?

Bad smells coming from my sink

As you continue to use your garbage disposal on a daily basis, food and liquids can leave residues. This happens especially in the drain and the main unit itself. In turn, these residues may give off a bad odor. The simplest solution to this problem is to pour a solution made of baking soda and vinegar down the drain. However, if the bad smell persists, it is best to call in your local plumber to solve this problem for you.

Build-up of oils, fats, and grease

One of the biggest mistakes property owners make is to pour oils, grease and fatty food into the garbage disposal system. Over time, these liquids can solidify and build up in the pipes of the actual garbage disposal system. As much as possible, avoid throwing these into the garbage disposal unit. Instead, use a separate receptacle for these. If the garbage disposal seems to work sluggishly due to the build-up of these materials, you can pour hot water to break these up.

Motor failure

Your garbage disposal has a definite lifespan. However, bad practices can significantly shorten this. In particular, its motor can be vulnerable to a host of garbage disposal issues, including overheating, which often arises due to throwing items that the garbage disposal system was not designed to handle.

If the motor seems to be not working, you can look for the reset button and press it. Sometimes, this will solve your woes. In case the motor does not work despite resetting, call in a Fox Cities Plumber. A simple repair could get the job done. In other cases, your garbage disposal system may need a replacement.

Leaks

Leaks can arise from different areas in the system. If the leak seems to come from the drain pipe, a simple replacement of the rubber gasket will solve the problem. If the system has been newly installed, you need to check the ring found near the sink flange. It is important to ensure that the ring is tight. However, if the leak seems to be coming from the body of the unit itself, it may be time to get a new one.

Noises

Most noises occur when a hard foreign object finds its way into the disposal system. If the foreign object does not get jammed, it will eventually go down the drain.

Sometimes, the disposal unit can become noisy when its parts become loose. You simply have to tighten these up. There are also instances wherein the unit’s lugs and blades have become worn down due to overuse. Some models allow you to replace these; however, in most instances, this is a sign that you need to invest in a new one. 

If your garbage disposal issues match some of the above listed problems give us a call. We are located in Appleton and have service trucks available to surrounding Fox City and Oshkosh residents.

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5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

November 16th, 2016

bathroom remodel ideas

5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas

The bathroom is no longer just a place for taking care of one’s hygiene. Over the years, it has become that one space in the house where people can have time to relax and completely rejuvenate themselves. So, if you’re one of the many people who like to do more in the bathroom, one of the great projects to undertake in the coming new year is to remodel the bathroom. This way, you’ll get more enjoyment out of the time you spend in this room.

Here are five bathroom remodel ideas that don’t cost much to carry out but will significantly change the look and even the function of the room.

Bathroom Mirrors

The first of many bathroom remodel ideas is to place more mirrors or replace the small mirror you used to have with a much bigger one. Mirrors do not only provide the benefit of letting you see yourself; they can also make a room look bigger. Also, with mirrors, you can improve the lighting in the room even if you don’t add new lighting fixtures.

Replace your Bathroom Vanity

A bathroom vanity can seem like an expensive bathroom upgrade but the truth is you can replace it for less than $1,000 in some cases. Check with your local bathroom remodel company to see if they can find something in your price range with the style you are looking for. Often times they will have wholesale catalogs with vanity’s you can’t find with the mass retailers.

Pop of Color

Create a color contrast. Incorporate accessories and bath essentials that come in really bright colors such as canary yellow, red, cobalt blue, or fuchsia. These will instantly give the bathroom a completely different appeal.

Wallpaper

As bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley we know that a new trend for bathrooms is creating some texture on the walls. This can be achieved by laying regular or paintable wallpaper. Not only does wallpaper come in a variety of really nice designs to give your bathroom a new look, but it can also conceal the imperfections (such as holes, cracks and even discoloration) present on your walls. The cost is anywhere from $10 to $30 per roll. In a bathroom you may only need a couple of rolls to get the job dome.

Decor

Add a rug and new towels or countertop accessories. Give your bathroom an even plusher appearance by choosing an interestingly shaped rug for the “dry” area of your bathroom. Bathroom accessories come in so many designs that will really give the room loads of character. They’re quite affordable, too, so purchasing new bathroom decor is truly a fantastic way to upgrade the room without spending too much money.

If you have more money to spare for the project, you can do even more to upgrade the room. But if you don’t have the financially flexibility for something bigger, these remodel ideas are perfect to try. Any questions, contact the experts in home remodel at Turek’s Plumbing!

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Increase Your Home’s Value With a Kitchen and Bath Remodel

November 14th, 2016

kitchen and bath remodel

How to Increase Your Home’s Value With a Kitchen and Bath Remodel

If you want to increase your home’s value, you need to start out by making a plan. Your upgrades should best be intentional and not impulsive, so list the changes and updates you want to achieve. Factor in your choices the duration in which you plan to live in the house. If you plan to sell soon, it’s a good idea to be guided by a realtor regarding improvements you should implement.

In making your list, be sure to categorize according to cost, both in time and money. It’s important that you be realistic and keep your financial limits in mind. Once you have your list categorized, figure out what’s doable.

With your plan in place, do your research on the potential returns of your intended improvements. Understandably, some will add more value to your home than others.

Now, if your budget only allows you to focus on a couple of areas in your home, the expert recommendation is that you do a kitchen and bath remodel. Any real estate professional will tell you that a kitchen upgrade brings in the greatest return. The bathroom, on the other hand, is a workhorse, so you need to remedy all the wear and tear it has suffered to ensure that everything’s in tip-top shape and looking great.

What can you do to upgrade your kitchen?

  • Change the paint. It’s simple, but the difference it makes is huge. You could also change the look of your cabinets using a faux-wood finish.
  • Install a new backsplash. New tile looks attractive and adds color to your kitchen.
  • Switch to stainless steel. This gives your kitchen a new, shiny, and modern appeal.
  • Put in a rolling island. This gives you adjustable storage and counter space.
  • Hang a pot rack and a wine bottle holder. This will allow you to display new pots and pans as well as an interesting assortment of wines, which will emphasize the functionality of your kitchen.

What can you do to beautify your bathroom?

  • Put in attractive faucets and switch to under-mount sinks. Drop sinks look dated.
  • Invest in a granite countertop. This should be cheaper than a kitchen countertop since it would be smaller.
  • Use wall mounts instead of overhead lighting. They are warmer and make the bathroom look more chic.
  • Install heated floors. These should win many buyers over if you’re looking to sell.
  • Improve the bath area. Consider installing a stone surround tile shower with body sprays. This will give your bathroom a Zen feel.
  • Freshen up your grout. Old grout usually causes the dingy look of a bathroom.

These kitchen and bath remodel ideas are sure to make your home look better while gaining value. If you are interested in a few remodel ideas, call your local Fox Cities Plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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Converting your bathroom from tub to shower only

November 10th, 2016

Video: Converting Your Bathroom Tub Into Shower Only – How Will It Affect Resale Value?

Are you considering converting your bathroom by getting rid of your tub and switching to a shower-only bathroom?

There are several reasons why people would want to do this. any of our clients looking to get rid of their tub are Seniors and need to be able to get in the shower without stepping over the side of the tub. It can be difficult to step over 15 inches to get in the tub for a shower especially with a hip or knee problem which is common in seniors. Other reasons for converting from tub to shower only are you simply don’t take baths. It could be that you don’t want the hassle of maintaining a bathtub or simply want more space. Trends are showing that shower-only bathrooms are more contemporary-looking so many homeowners are simply making the change for style purposes. Whatever your reasons are for converting your bathroom, you need to take into account the possible ramifications of such a move, especially on your home’s value. In the below video, Turek’s Plumbing Owner, Ed Turek talks about this very subject. 

Converting tub into shower only — how will it affect resale value?

Bathroom remodel projects can do a lot in increasing your home’s value, which usually means a good return on however much you invested. However, if you do decide to replace a bathtub with a shower, you’re changing your bathroom specs from a full bath (toilet, tub, and shower) to a three-quarter bath. This, however, doesn’t automatically mean a decrease in value.

Another factor you might want to consider is how many bathrooms there are in your home. If you’re removing the tub in the only bathroom, this might turn off many potential buyers — ones who love a good soak after a tiring week, mothers who prefer to bathe their children in the tub, etc. As long as your home maintains at least one tub, converting one bathroom to shower-only shouldn’t negatively impact its resale value.

It’s true that bathroom remodels are popular and considered a good investment. If you’re reselling in the near future, you have to appreciate that a mid-range, full bathroom remodel can return more than 50 percent of the investment. Nonetheless, if you expect to continue living in the house for some time, your convenience seriously trumps value.

You have to figure out what best serves your needs, especially where safety is a concern.

If, right now, you could use more space for storage or for your personal comfort, then you should have a bathroom that gives you that. If safety is an issue, there definitely shouldn’t be any question either. You need to do what’s best for safety. You’ll just have to take the slight decrease in value if it does result in that. If you are considering a bathroom remodel in Appleton, Oskosh or the Fox Cities area, be sure to give us a call. We will be happy to schedule an in-home evaluation and estimate. 

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Water Heater Facts You Need to Know

October 27th, 2016

Water Heater Facts

Water Heater Facts

You use your water heater, like millions of people, on almost a daily basis, especially when the cooler seasons arrive. But despite the ubiquity of these appliances, have you really given much thought to these? You may have a hard time picturing a life without a water heater, but what water heater facts should you be aware of?

Here are Some Fun Water Heater Facts That You Might Want to Know

Energy Factor

  • Your heater accounts for a fourth or 25 percent of your overall energy consumption. If your energy bills seem to be steadily climbing, one of the first things that you need to check is your heater. Also, if you want to reduce your energy consumption, you may want to switch to a more efficient heater.
  • A conventional tank water heater has a lifespan between 10 and 13 years. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, has a longer lifespan, lasting somewhere between 18 and 20 years.
  • The average person will use six to eight gallons of hot water for a shower. A person taking a bath, on the other hand, will consume between 15 and 20 gallons of water. An average load of laundry consumes roughly 20 to 30 gallons of water while washing the dishes uses about two gallons of water per minute. If you opt to use a dishwasher, it will use between six and 10 gallons of water.
  • Before water heaters were invented, you needed to heat water on a stove. The first water heater was developed in England in 1868 after a painter found a way to place gas burners beneath water pipes to heat cold water. In turn, a Norwegian engineer named Edwin Ruud found inspiration from this idea and developed what is to be the ancestor of the first tank water heater.

Exploding Water Heater?

  • It is possible for a water heater to explode. However, such cases occur very rarely. If you wish to avoid this situation, you have to check the heater’s temperature and water pressure and look for signs like the smell of leaking gas and rust.
  • If you want hot water fast, consider investing in a hot water recirculating system. This system shortens the delay in getting hot water by continuously circulating the heated water throughout the building. It is ideal for large homes and commercial applications. However, be aware that the system uses a huge amount of energy if the pipes are not properly insulated.
  • The right way to choose heater size is to count the number of occupants. When choosing a water heater is it also important to consider the peak hour water demand. 

If you are thinking about water heater replacement in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Types of Plumbing Pipes

October 25th, 2016

Plumbing Pipes

Types of Plumbing Pipes

Whether you are having a new house built or you are planning to have your current home remodeled, it is a good idea to know what your options are when it comes to building materials. This allows you to make a sound investment decision, anchored not only upon the price but other factors as well, including safety.

The same concept applies to your home’s plumbing. Whether there’s a burst pipe that needs replacement or a remodel, or you are planning to add a bathroom to the house, there are a few types of plumbing pipes that you can choose from.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes rank as one of the most popular types of plumbing pipes because of their longevity and reliability. Initially introduced 80 years ago, many of these pipes still remain in use.

Another advantage of copper pipes is that these do not pollute drinking water. On top of that, these pipes are among the most sustainable because these can be recycled.

Cross-linked Polyethylene

Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX pipes are typically used for tricky retrofits, like situations where it can be difficult or costly to embed other types of pipes beneath walls. Because of the unique properties of PEX pipes, it is relatively easy for plumbers to snake these into walls. Some plumbers even use a single PEX pipe across entire houses while forgoing the need to create joints or soldering. On top of that, these pipes have a relatively long lifespan.

However, if you are considering using these pipes for your home, you have to be aware that there have been studies which suggest that the process of fabricating these pipes involves the use of a toxin commonly found in gasoline called methyl tertiary butyl ether. Traces of this toxins can be absorbed by the water as it passes through the pipes. The state of California, however, has approved the use of PEX pipes.

According to some experts, the new crop of PEX pipes available in the market is generally safer than older counterparts.

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

CPVC pipes have long been a favorite of avid DIY-ers because these are straightforward to install; practically anyone can use these, even without special tools.

Additionally, CPVC pipes have been available in the market for 40 years, attesting to the value these pipes offer. Using these pipes won’t affect the quality of the water in your home.

However, if you have eco-friendly leanings, be aware that these pipes produce a high amount of pollution during fabrication. Plus, these pipes cannot be recycled and require the use of chemical solvents, which are volatile.

Polypropylene Pipes

In terms of water safety, the number one name for that is Polypropylene pipe. Although PP has been used in Europe for 30 years, it is a relative newcomer in America. But despite that status, PP has a proven record of both durability and water safety.
Unlike other pipes, PP does not require the use of chemicals to join together different ends. However, these pipes have a steeper price tag and require the use of specialty tools.

If you would like more information about pipes available for your home, contact your Fox Cities Plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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Plumbing Projects to Increase Your Home’s Value

October 19th, 2016

Plumbing Projects

What Plumbing Projects Could Increase Your Home’s Value?

Whether or not you intend to sell your Appleton, WI home, it wouldn’t hurt to make some improvements. It’s important to note, not all home improvements have the ability to increase your homes value.

Among the home improvement efforts that can actually have a huge impact on your home’s market value are those that include plumbing, since plumbing is such an essential component in a comfortable and convenient life at home. As such, provided below are plumbing projects to increase your home’s worth:

Adding a New Bathroom

HGTV estimates an 80% to 130% return on investment from a new bathroom remodel. Why such value? People like the convenience of being able to take a bath or use the toilet whenever they need to. Bathrooms have become spaces to experience full comfort and relaxation. People have great appreciation for a well-designed bathroom that will provide them such an experience. And of course, the cost of bathroom implements is no joke. If they are high-quality provisions that offer multiple convenience features (such as “futuristic” toilets and senior-friendly hot tubs), and are combined beautifully with each other for optimum function, then the value they’ll create in the lives of people will be greater.

Kitchen Remodeling

Modern kitchens boost home values by anywhere between 5% to 10%; incorporating new gas appliances and improving plumbing to match a better floor layout can really enhance the value of the room. The kitchen remodelers that Applegate and Fox Valley residents trust advise placing the cooktop and dishwasher on the sink for a smoother flow of activities in the kitchen.

Replacing Old, Rusty Iron Pipes

Home appraisers pay great attention to plumbing when assigning value to a home. Directing money toward the replacement of old pipes on the property can boost the property’s market value. Heavy-duty plastic tubing is generally the more preferred option now. This type of tubing is much easier to maintain and homeowners won’t have to worry about rusty particles in the water.

These three plumbing projects are the most highly recommended to implement in order to boost the value of your property. These projects may seem complicated or daunting at first. But you can have the assurance that when you do decide to sell, you will get a solid return on your investment.

If you are looking for a plumber in Applegate, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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How Should You Handle a Plumbing Emergency?

October 17th, 2016

Plumbing Emergency

How to Handle a Plumbing Emergency

Uh-oh, there’s a plumbing emergency. What now?

It’s a question all property owners will most likely face in at least one point in their lives. It pays to prepare and know the sure answer to that question in advance, so you’ll know how to act in case of such an unfortunate situation.

Understanding how to handle a plumbing emergency properly will allow you to prevent more serious consequences from happening and to avoid costly avoidable repairs. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

Thinking Ahead

You don’t have to wait for an emergency to happen before taking action. The moment you move into a house, make it your priority to get the number of a reputable plumber in your area. It doesn’t matter whether the plumbing system in your property is old or brand-new; unforeseen damage is possible whatever the circumstance.

Of course, it’s better if you also get to know the plumbing team better, aside from merely getting their contact information. Calling them on the phone or asking them to do maintenance work or to conduct a checkup will allow you to test their skills and reliability, allowing you to determine if you can count on them during more serious cases.  

When You Notice the Problem

A water leak is one of the most obvious manifestations of a plumbing problem, and should be addressed without delay. Aside from causing costly damage to your property and belongings, a leak can also lead to significant water waste, flooding and safety issues such as electrocution and fire due to water coming in contact with electrical wires. At the first sign of a leak, shut off the direct water source of the affected fixture. If you still can’t trace the leak, then turn off the main water supply to the house as well to see if that stops the water flow.  

Reporting the Issue

Other common causes of a plumbing emergency are connected to problems in the sewer and the main water line. If this is the case, then only your water company will be able to resolve the issue. Call the water company first so they can determine if the problem is related to their services. If it is, it should be handled by their office instead of an outside contractor.   

Before the Plumber Comes In

A good emergency plumber will be able to respond to your call through their 24/7 services. Before calling them, it’s best to gauge the extent and source of the problem through a quick ocular inspection. This way, you can provide more details when you call for help, allowing them to fix the problem faster.

If you are facing a plumbing emergency, and you need a plumber in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Common Fox Valley Plumbing Problems

October 14th, 2016

Common Plumbing Problems That Demand the Immediate Attention of Plumbers

Plumbing issues at home are common. A leaky faucet, a hole in a water pipe, clogged drains – every household experiences these. At times, homeowners can resolve these problems themselves since they are minor issues that do not require special materials for the repair. However, there are some common plumbing problems that are beyond DIY and really do demand the expertise of experienced plumbers.

Dripping faucets 

While these seem easy enough to fix, there are often complex reasons why faucets drip. Finding the potential reasons for the constant dripping action is not easy for people who have a very limited understanding of how a plumbing system works. Therefore, it’s better to just hire a professional to inspect the entire system and correctly identify the reason why the faucet is leaking the way it is.

Running toilet

A toilet is a system that many homeowners are simply not very familiar with; most people just know how to use it. A running toilet means a lot of water wasted and this will show up in your monthly water bill. Replacing the inner workings takes a lot of patience; there are small fittings to work with, and if you’re not a particularly patient person, you may not be able to carry out the repair properly. Just entrust the task to the pros who can accomplish it in no time.

Clogged drains

When commercial drain cleaners that melt off clogs and plungers fail, there’s really nothing more that homeowners can do themselves in order to solve the clogged drain problem. According to a plumbing contractor that serves Fox Valley and Applegate residents, it’s gnarly work to tackle clogs, so the smart way to deal with this issue is to hire experienced plumbers who know of more methods for fixing clogged drains.

Septic tank leaks

These are nasty plumbing situations that only professional plumbers can do something about.

Water heater problems

The mechanism of water heaters is not easy to understand and tinkering with these systems yourself can potentially do more harm than good.

Leaky pipes

These result in wastage of water and a big mess. Leaks in pipes usually happen at joints and while this problem is easy to repair, it can be a messy job. On top that, DIY repair is usually just a temporary fix. If you don’t want to deal with this issue frequently in the future, a permanent plumbing repair (which usually involves replacing pipes and other fittings) by a professional plumber is the solution to implement.

Plumbing problems can be a huge hassle for the household. So if you experience any and you want the fastest restoration of your plumbing system’s proper working order, don’t think twice about calling the pros.

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The Unforeseen Costs of Adding a Kitchen Island

October 11th, 2016

Kitchen Island

The Unforeseen Costs of Adding a Kitchen Island

For the homeowner who loves to cook for the family, throw dinner parties, or simply spend plenty of quality time with loved ones over food, the kitchen is a special haven where magic happens. Here, you get to chop ingredients, stir giant pots of sauces, watch over meats and veggies cooking on the stovetop or in the oven, plate up gourmet dishes, share an after-school snack with the kids, or sneak a mouthful or two of a sinful dessert in the middle of the night.

With all the hustle and bustle that goes on in this space, it’s easy to understand why many long to renovate their kitchen so that it can finally include one of the most coveted features: the kitchen island. You’ve seen it in movies, TV series and home makeover shows — a man or woman busily (but happily) puttering around a gorgeous kitchen island as they throw a meal together — and you feel a primal longing to have one in your own home.

Weighing the Costs of Renovation

A kitchen island does indeed offer a plethora of benefits. Additional counter space for prep work, more hidden storage options are just a few possible benefits. Extra spaces for different amenities, more seating areas can increase your home’s resale value.

Before you decide to make a move it’s crucial to take a closer look at the work to be performed. Make sure to consider unforeseen costs of adding a kitchen island so that you can have realistic expectations about budgeting for this kitchen renovation. Bottom line: It’s a lot more than just slapping down a slab of granite over your existing base cabinets.

The island countertop should be easily carried into the kitchen. The countertop is the crowning glory of this renovation project. The goal is to bring it into the home in one piece. If the slab is too big to clear corners or carry up and around staircases, it has to be cut. That can cost you (as well as create an unattractive seam in the stone).

You need tasklights. Overhead lighting fixtures are necessary and the costs can vary depending on the fixtures you choose and the distance of the kitchen from the electrical panel. Your electrician may need to open the ceiling and run new wires; this will also involve repairing the drywall and repainting the ceiling afterwards.

Electric outlets must be added. Islands are required by code to have electrical outlets every 6 feet. It can be costly if concrete must be drilled through to run electrical wires to the electrical panel.

Entirely new plumbing must be put in. Since islands are nowhere near a wall, there is an issue that must be addressed. The plumbing has to be installed under the floor, yet the requirements or the island’s water, vent and drain is the same for a kitchen sink that abuts a wall.

Kitchen sinks typically require a P-trap to prevent sewage gases from entering the sink. In an island, however, this P-trap will inevitably stick out horizontally.

To create proper venting, loop venting must be introduced. To achieve this:

  • A plumber must attach a T-fitting to the P-trap drain; this causes the water flow to be directed down toward the floor.
  • Afterwards, the T-fitting is attached to an inverted U-designed vent pipe. The top should run upwards to the counter’s bottom, and then loop back down through the floor.
  • Both pipes will now be connected to the primary drain, and the vent pipe will be hooked to another pipe that is connected to the house’s main vent pipe.
  • In the event that loop venting cannot be applied to a kitchen, a plumber should instead install an air admittance valve.

Talk to your Fox Cities plumber about all the facts of adding a kitchen island. It is critical to take the best approach when building the kitchen of your dreams.

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