Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘bathroom plumbing’

5 Things That Cause Drain Clogs

Thursday, July 20th, 2017

It is normal for debris to accumulate over time, but there are certain items that can make your drains clog faster. The following are five of the likeliest causes of drain clogs and what homeowners can do to reduce the chances of a blocked drain.

Hair

Clogs caused by hair strands are more common in bathroom sinks, showers and tub drains. Each time you shower, you lose hundreds of strands. These thin strands normally get washed away, but on a rare occasion, strands may get stuck along the walls of your drain pipe. Over time, the buildup can block the flow of water and clog your drain. Installing a hair catcher or sink guard helps, but won’t totally prevent clogs. It is possible to find clogged bathroom drains, especially in older homes.

Soap

Dirt, grime, hair strands, dead skin cells and other types of waste can stick to the soapy residue and cause a blockage. Other than bathroom sinks, showers and tubs, soap scum can also become a problem when washing dishes. One way to reduce this buildup is to pour two buckets filled with hot water and chlorine down the sink at least twice a month.

Grease

Grease buildups more commonly occur in kitchen sinks. Similar to the case of soap scum, small food particles and other sediments can get trapped in this thick, gooey liquid. However, unlike soap, the oily residue is more difficult to remove. You can try using cold water when running your garbage disposal. This can help remove some of the layers of grease and let the fat flow more freely through the drainage pipes.

One better way to prevent grease buildup is to avoid pouring any type of oil down the drain at all. Instead, what you can do is to pour the grease directly into the garbage. This prevents any residue or particles getting stuck along the pipe’s walls.

Toilet paper

Toilet paper sheets are designed to break down easily when exposed to water. This makes the sheets easier to flush. However, paper towels, baby wipes and multi-ply tissue paper are more durable and may not break down as easily as a single ply sheet of toilet paper. To prevent blockage, avoid flushing these types of toiletries down the toilet. Inform your relatives, friends or guests to do the same when staying at your home.

Napkins and diapers

Finally, these types of hygiene products are a major cause of concern. Because they are designed to absorb water, napkins, diapers and other similar products can quickly cause a blockage. Always throw these types of items straight into the trash and not into the toilet bowl. And make sure to call us today!

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7 Common Bathroom Plumbing Problems

Wednesday, June 28th, 2017

7 Common Bathroom Plumbing Problems

Most homeowners will have some essential tools on hand to cope with simple plumbing emergencies. Often, a slow drain or a clogged toilet might need a bit of elbow grease or a plunger for it to work properly again. Small repair jobs can easily be taken care of if you are handy around the house; however, bigger bathroom plumbing problems will need professional assistance.

A regular maintenance schedule is a great way of preventing expensive repairs. An in-depth inspection is indeed the key to catching petty problems before they can cause serious structural damages.

Common Bathroom Plumbing Glitches

1. Low Water Pressure

Your plumbing system is suffering from low water pressure if the water that should gush just trickles from the tap. This problem may be related to the municipal water supply. But often, this can be caused by a build-up of sediment or deposits on faucet aerators. Cleaning the shower heads and aerators can solve this issue; if not, you may have a more complex problem. If you cannot identify the cause of the reduction in water pressure, call a reputable plumber right away.

2. Leaky Pipes

Leaks can be a very expensive nuisance. Although replacing a leaky pipe is not a complex job, it can be a very messy one. So you might want to let a professional deal with these tasks to save on cleaning time. But until the expert plumber gets to your home, consider using a leak tape and a compression clamp to temporarily deal with the leaky pipe/s.

3. Running Toilet

Replace the inner workings of your toilet if it does not behave after flushing. Typically, toilets run if the flapper valve will let the water pass from the tank to the bowl. For most models, toilet repair kits work well.

4. Clogged Drains

If the water going into the tub, sink or toilet will not go out, you may have a complete or partial clog. Often, a plunger can fix the problem but it cannot remove a clog completely. So if you frequently deal with clogs, it is best for you to get professional help.

5. Slow Draining Tub

If the tub drain is full of hair, it slows the water down when it drains out of the tub. Clearing out the debris can solve this problem. But even when the tub is not draining slowly, it is very crucial for you to regularly clear out any debris in the tub drain. Because when this is left for too long, it can completely clog the drain.

6. Dripping Faucets

An unresolved dripping faucet can be very annoying if you don’t know how to stop it. This will also drive your water bill higher. Not all sinks are equipped with washers to efficiently hold back the flow of water. Some use durable ceramic plates for a tight seal. Calling pros to deal with this plumbing issue is a smart idea.

7. Sewer Smells

If you can smell sewer gas in your bathroom, this can be caused by a dry shower trap, damaged drain pipes, a clogged drain or an old toilet ring. Although there are some DIY remedies for eliminating the smell, it is still best for you to contact a reputable plumber to identify its cause and properly deal with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are the most common bathroom plumbing problems homeowners face?
Answer: Based on Turek’s Plumbing blog, typical issues include slow or clogged drains, running toilets, low water pressure, leaking faucets or showerheads, malfunctioning flush mechanisms (like lifted chains or bad flappers), overflowing or insufficient water levels, and clogged traps.

Question: What causes a toilet to run continuously or not flush properly?
Answer: Common causes include a misaligned or disconnected lift chain, a loose or overly tight handle, or a deteriorated flapper failing to seal correctly—each of which affects the flush cycle and water flow.

Question: Why might I experience low water pressure in my bathroom?
Answer: Low pressure can stem from corroded or leaking pipes, outdated or clogged fixtures like showerheads and faucets, or faulty pressure regulators, all restricting flow and reducing water force.

Question: How can I prevent slow or clogged drains in bathroom sinks or tubs?
Answer: Preventive steps include using mesh drain covers to catch hair and debris before they enter plumbing, minimizing buildup and clogs, and regularly clearing as needed to keep drains running smoothly.

Question: When is it time to call a professional plumber for bathroom issues?
Answer: If problems persist beyond simple DIY fixes—like recurring clogs, widespread drainage issues, persistent low pressure, or complex flush mechanism failures—it’s wise to enlist a professional to diagnose and repair properly.

 

 
 

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Slow Drain Septic System Problems

Thursday, June 22nd, 2017

Slow Drain Septic System Problems: Signs, Causes, and How to Fix Them

The bathroom is one of the dirtiest places in your home since different types of bacteria can be found here. Once you have a drainage or septic system problem, you will consider your toilet even more unsanitary and a hassle to use.

Signs of a Septic System Issue

Septic system problems are more common in houses and buildings that have already been in use for many years. Some of the signs that indicate you already have this kind of plumbing problem are:

  • Water is draining slowly from the shower, bathtub, sink, and other areas
  • The sound of gurgling from the tub or sink when a toilet is flushed
  • Water backing up in toilets, tubs, and sinks
  • Water puddles on the grounds on your lawn
  • The smell of sewage odors outdoors

Possible Causes

There are several reasons why you have a problematic or slow drain septic system. The most common one is the overuse of the system. This means that too many people are using or too much water is being used in the household or building that the usage has gone beyond the system’s capacity.

Another common cause of this problem is the lack of or delay in inspection, maintenance, and pumping. Once your septic tank becomes full, the filter in the outlet baffle will start to plug. This plugging action will cause the water level inside the tank to rise which will restrict the flow of effluent.

Finally, your septic system may not be working properly if something is clogging the pipes or drains. Grease, food, certain sanitary products, toys, or even pieces of clothes can be stuck somewhere in the pipes and cause the slow drain or the system’s malfunction.

Getting Things Back to Normal

If the reason behind your slow drain problem is a blockage, you can remove the clog by using some tools at home. However, harder clogs and blockages will require the use of a plumbing snake; in such instances, it is best to call in experts to do the job to avoid further damaging your plumbing and septic system.

Calling in professional plumbers at the onset of a problem is always a smart idea since the contractors will know how and where to identify the issue quickly. In case you have slow draining fixtures, plumbers will check the drain-vent system. If the problem is in this area, they have the expertise, tools, and equipment to fix the issue. Also, if you already have a failed septic system, qualified plumbers will be able to detect this easily. Depending on the particular problem and design of your system, the professional plumbers will give you sound advice on whether it is best to have your system repaired or replaced.

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Water Heater Facts Homeowners Should Know

Monday, June 12th, 2017

 Top Water Heater Facts Homeowners Should Know

Often, plenty of homeowners take their hot water heaters for granted. They usually forget about them until they run out of hot water. To beef up your knowledge about the important home features, here are some water heaters facts you may not know about:

Facts About Water Heaters

1. The idea of using a water heater first emerged in London in 1868. A painter discovered how to heat cold water by putting gas burners below the water pipes. Edwin Ruud, a Norwegian mechanical engineer, took inspiration from this idea, so he created the first tank-type water heater.
2. One-fourth of your home’s energy usage often comes from using a water heater for taking showers, doing laundry, and washing dishes.
3. On average, an American household makes use of around 80-120 gallons of hot water on a daily basis. About 6-8 gallons of water are used for showers, 15-20 gallons for taking a bath, 20-30 gallons for a load of laundry, 2 gallons of water per minute for washing the dishes, and 6-10 gallons per load if you use a dishwasher.
4. Be cautious in dealing with water heaters because in less than 5 seconds, the human skin may suffer 3rd-degree burns when it comes in contact with water that has a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
5. Tank water heaters usually last for 10-12 years while tankless water heaters can last for 18-20 years.

How Water Heaters Work

Water heaters will look like huge metal cylinders that are consigned to a basement or a laundry room. Some of the latest styles offer some interesting features. Water heaters exploit the heat rising principle so they can provide hot water to your faucet conveniently.
In a traditional water heater system, there is a big tank that will hold and heat the water. The dip tube will feed cold water to the bottom of the tank’s interior, where it starts to warm up. The heating mechanism remains on until the water reaches the desired temperature. The heated water then rises to the top of the tank. The energy used in order to keep the water hot even when no one is using it is known as standby heat loss.
For tankless water heater systems, standby heat loss is avoided because it only heats the incoming water when you need it. As such, they are also known as on-demand water heaters.
A tankless heating system makes use of a powerful heat exchanger, which is only activated by the incoming flow of water. So if you turn on your faucet, the incoming water will circulate through the exchanger, which then heats the cold water to your desired temperature. To schedule an appointment call us today!

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Remodeling an Old Bathroom – Your Blueprint for Success

Thursday, June 8th, 2017

Introduction to Bathroom Remodeling Services

Bathroom remodeling services offer homeowners in Milwaukee, WI, the perfect opportunity to upgrade their space, enhance functionality, and add a touch of luxury to their daily routine. Tureks Plumbing Services is Milwaukee’s trusted bathroom remodeling expert with over 20 years of experience, and we proudly serve Milwaukee and the surrounding areas with top-quality remodeling and plumbing services. Whether you’re dreaming of a full bathroom renovation, a sleek shower remodel, or simply replacing outdated fixtures with modern replacement showers, the right remodeling project can significantly boost the value and comfort of your property. Experienced contractors in Milwaukee work closely with homeowners to create a custom plan that fits both your vision and your budget—whether you’re maximizing a small space or designing a spacious master suite. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, professional bathroom remodeling services ensure your new bathroom not only looks stunning but also meets your family’s needs for years to come.

Homeowners can easily schedule a free in-home estimate or consultation for their bathroom remodel. Flexible payment options are available, including deferred payment plans to help you pay for your remodeling project over time.

Benefits of Bathroom Remodeling

Investing in a bathroom renovation brings a host of benefits for homeowners in southeastern Wisconsin. Not only does a new bathroom add significant value to your property, but it also transforms your daily routine, making every bath or shower feel like a luxury experience. Modern bathroom remodeling services can improve the overall functionality of your space, whether you’re adding walk-in bathtubs for accessibility, installing stylish bath surrounds, or opting for a custom design that reflects your personal style. A well-planned remodel can become a major selling point if you ever decide to move, often recouping much of its cost at resale. Most importantly, a thoughtfully designed bathroom creates a relaxing retreat in your home, elevating both comfort and quality of life.

Designing Your Bathroom

Designing your bathroom is the foundation of a successful remodeling project, and it all starts with a thoughtful approach to layout, material selection, and style. In Milwaukee, WI, homeowners have access to expert bathroom remodeling services that can help create a custom plan tailored to your needs, whether you’re updating a master suite or maximizing a compact space. A well-designed bathroom not only elevates your daily routine but also adds a sense of luxury and comfort to your life.

When planning your new bathroom, consider how the layout will impact both functionality and flow. Professional designers in southeastern Wisconsin can help you make the most of your space, ensuring that every element—from the placement of the tub and shower to the selection of new fixtures—works harmoniously. Material selection is another key factor; choosing durable, water-resistant materials ensures your bathroom stands up to daily use and the local climate. Whether your style leans modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, a custom plan allows you to create a space that reflects your vision and fits your budget.

From installing a spacious walk-in shower to selecting elegant vanities and lighting, every detail contributes to the overall feel of your bathroom. With the right team, you can transform your bathroom into a relaxing retreat that enhances your family’s comfort and adds value to your home.

Types of Bathroom Remodels

Homeowners in Milwaukee, WI, have a variety of options when it comes to bathroom remodeling services. A full bathroom remodel is the most comprehensive, involving the installation of new fixtures, countertops, tile, and often a complete reimagining of the space. Shower remodels focus on updating the shower area, with new walls, flooring, and modern shower heads to create a fresh, inviting look. It is important to have professionals install bathtubs and shower components to ensure both functionality and aesthetics in your remodeled bathroom. Replacement showers are a great solution for those looking to swap out an old shower for a new one, often featuring walk-in designs or upgraded materials for added style and convenience. Additional options include tub-to-shower conversions and expanding your bathroom to better suit your needs. No matter the scope, professional installation ensures your new fixtures and materials are built to last, transforming your bathroom into a space you’ll love.

Remodeling an Old Bathroom – Your Blueprint for Success

Perhaps your old bathroom is too small and you wish to have a bigger one built. Or maybe you live in an old home and you want to refresh its look by giving it a do-over, starting with the bathroom. Or perhaps, your old bathroom no longer fits your current needs. A bathroom remodel can truly transform your house, enhance comfort for your family, and create a space you won’t forget.

Whatever your reason may be, remodeling an old bathroom is a serious undertaking that should be approached carefully. The right material selection, thoughtful layout, and proper lighting are essential for creating a functional and stylish bathroom that meets your needs.

In Milwaukee, modern and minimalist bathroom remodel styles are especially popular, featuring matte black fixtures, floating vanities, and built-in shelving. Homeowners often choose durable, water-resistant materials like porcelain tile and quartz to withstand Wisconsin’s climate. Permits are generally required for bathroom remodels in Milwaukee, especially when plumbing or electrical work is involved, so it’s important to work with experienced remodelers who can guide you through the process. Incorporating smart technology such as smart mirrors and touchless faucets, as well as high-efficiency exhaust fans with humidity sensors, can help prevent mold and add convenience. Optimizing small spaces with floating vanities and built-in shelving is a smart way to maximize storage, and tub-to-shower conversions are a popular update for many families. Installing low-flow toilets and energy-efficient lighting can save money and water, while eco-friendly fixtures further reduce utility bills. Walk-in bathtubs provide accessibility and safety, and replacement bathtubs or a shower remodel can greatly improve both the appearance and comfort of your bathroom. Choosing low-maintenance materials will help reduce upkeep over time. When budgeting, consider that average costs for a full bathroom remodel in Milwaukee range from $20,000 to $35,000, with labor, materials, and a contingency fund for unexpected issues. A bathroom remodel is often a smart financial decision, yielding an average return on investment of 70%. Be sure to choose a remodeler with a strong track record, positive customer reviews, and free estimates to ensure a successful job. A well-done bathroom remodel can add significant value to your home and create a spa-like oasis with features like heated floors, walk-in showers, and double vanities.

A remodeled bathroom can also enhance your daily routine, making tasks like washing and shaving more convenient and enjoyable in a space designed for both comfort and practicality.

Use the right type of tiles

If you want bathroom tiles that are easy to clean and maintain, avoid those made with porous materials, like stone. Instead, opt for glazed or porcelain tiles. Material selection is crucial in a bathroom remodel, especially in Milwaukee, where durability and water resistance are important due to Wisconsin’s climate. For this reason, porcelain tile and quartz are highly recommended as durable materials for Milwaukee bathroom remodels.

On the other hand, if you want to boost safety, opt for tiles with matte finishes, textured surfaces, or those that contain sand in their glazes.

Keep mildew at bay with the right type of caulk

Opt for an acrylic or hybrid formula caulk which can provide protection against mildew for up to five years. Additionally, both are easy to remove.

Need a half bath?

When planning a bathroom remodel, especially for small spaces, it’s crucial to carefully consider the layout to maximize both comfort and functionality. If you want a half bath, you will need a space that measures roughly three feet by six feet. To optimize storage in small Milwaukee bathrooms, consider utilizing floating vanities and built-in shelving. Do check your local building codes for further clarification.

Upgrade the electrical system

Take advantage of the work that will be done in your old bathroom and have its electrical system upgraded. This is particularly important if you live in a very old home. The new electrical system should be able to accommodate your gadgets and appliances.

Placement of bathroom accessories

How high should you place towel bars, robe hooks and other accessories? Proper lighting placement and thoughtful vanity design are essential for enhancing both the functionality and style of your bathroom. Broadly speaking, the towel bar should be about four feet high, the medicine cabinet about five and half feet high, and the toilet paper holder should be around six inches away from the toilet.

Leave room for accessories

If space is limited, consider adding niches where you can place toiletries. This will allow you to make efficient use of available space while leaving enough room for bathroom essentials.

Splurge on the best toilet that you can afford

If you must splurge on one thing, make it the toilet. Installing low-flow toilets and eco-friendly fixtures during your bathroom remodel is a smart way to save money and water, as these sustainable choices help reduce utility bills and conserve resources. At the very least, opt for one that has a Maximum Performance testing score of 500.

Know the pros and cons of each type of sink

If you haven’t set sights on a particular type of sink yet, study the pros and cons of each available option and weigh these against the available space as well as your needs. Consider material selection and vanity options to ensure your sink choice complements your bathroom’s style and functionality.

When you want a warm bathroom floor

Consider investing in an electric mat which can complement your home’s heating system. You can program its thermostat to warm up the floor a few minutes before you wake up.

Replacement and Installation

Replacement and installation are critical steps in any bathroom remodeling project, especially when it comes to upgrading key fixtures like showers, bathtubs, and bath surrounds. In Milwaukee, WI, homeowners can choose from a wide range of options, including sleek replacement showers, accessible walk-in bathtubs, and custom-designed bath surrounds that add both style and functionality to the space.

When replacing or installing new fixtures, it’s important to consider the underlying plumbing and electrical systems to ensure everything operates safely and efficiently. Material selection plays a big role in the longevity and appearance of your new bathroom—opting for high-quality, water-resistant materials will help your investment last for years to come. Experienced contractors in greater Milwaukee can guide you through the process, from selecting the right products to handling the installation with precision and care.

Whether you’re replacing an outdated tub, installing a modern shower, or upgrading your bath surrounds, professional bathroom remodeling services ensure that every aspect of your project is completed to the highest standards. With expert installation, you can enjoy a beautiful, functional bathroom that meets your needs and enhances your home’s value.

Hiring a Professional

Hiring a professional contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your bathroom remodeling journey in Milwaukee, WI. A skilled contractor brings expertise in custom design, material selection, and installation, ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish. In southeastern Wisconsin, reputable bathroom remodeling services are available to help homeowners tackle projects of all sizes, from updating small spaces to renovating older homes.

When selecting a contractor, look for experience, positive customer reviews, and proper licensing. A professional will work with you to create a custom design that fits your lifestyle and budget, helping you choose the right materials and fixtures for your space. Whether you’re installing new countertops, sinks, or toilets, a trusted contractor will manage every aspect of the job, ensuring quality workmanship and timely completion.

By partnering with an experienced team, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish, functional retreat that adds value to your property and enhances your daily routine. Professional contractors take pride in their work, delivering results that homeowners in Milwaukee can enjoy for years to come.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Maintaining your remodeled bathroom is essential for preserving its style, functionality, and value over time. In Milwaukee, WI, regular maintenance helps homeowners avoid costly repairs and ensures that plumbing, fixtures, and finishes remain in top condition. Simple steps like routine cleaning, checking for leaks, and promptly replacing worn-out fixtures can extend the life of your bathroom and keep it looking fresh.

Professional bathroom maintenance services in greater Milwaukee offer expert support for plumbing and electrical systems, helping you address issues before they become major problems. Scheduling regular inspections and upkeep not only protects your investment but also maintains the comfort and safety of your space. Whether you’re planning to upgrade your bathroom or simply want to keep it in peak condition, a maintenance plan tailored to your needs and budget can make all the difference.

By staying proactive with maintenance and working with trusted professionals, Milwaukee homeowners can enjoy a stylish, functional bathroom that adds lasting value to their property and enhances their quality of life.

Remodeling Costs and Budgeting

When planning a bathroom remodeling project in Milwaukee, WI, understanding the costs involved is essential for a successful outcome. The total cost can range widely, depending on the size of your bathroom, the materials selected, and the complexity of the work. On average, homeowners can expect to invest between $5,000 and $20,000 or more for a quality remodel. Key factors influencing your budget include labor, plumbing, electrical work, and the quality of materials chosen for fixtures, tile, and countertops. A reputable contractor will provide a detailed estimate and help you plan each phase of the project, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. Many Milwaukee homeowners also explore financing options or local incentives to make their dream bathroom more affordable. With careful planning and the right team, you can create a beautiful, functional bathroom that fits your style and budget.

 If you are interested in remodeling your bathroom, call us to set up an appointment!

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How to get jewelry out of a drain

Wednesday, May 31st, 2017
You are doing the dishes after a family meal and before you even finish, your prized piece of jewelry (a ring, bracelet, earring) slips off from you. Before you even have the time to catch it, it goes down the kitchen sink.

What should you do?

If you want to know how to get jewelry out of a drain, here are the steps that you need to follow.

Keep the area off limits

Tell the members of the household to avoid using the sink until the item has been retrieved. Otherwise, it will become increasingly difficult to get the jewelry back.

Turn off the garbage disposal and water

If water keeps on flowing down the drain, the jewelry might be pushed down further until it reaches the sewer line. When that happens, the chance of getting the item back becomes slim.

Stopping the flow of water increases the likelihood that the item goes to a more accessible area of the kitchen plumbing system, like the P-trap.

Find a magnet

Find a strong magnet and attach it to a string. After that, lower the magnet down the drain. There’s a good chance that you can get your jewelry back with this nifty trick.

Check the P-trap

If you can’t retrieve your jewelry with a magnet tied to a string, the next best thing to do is to check if the item is sitting inside the P-trap.

Before removing the different components of the P-trap, you should place a bucket underneath it to catch the water, the grime, and hopefully, the jewelry that went down the drain.

Start by removing the slip nuts and the J-shaped part of the P-trap using either a pair of pliers or a wrench. If you are lucky enough, you will be able to retrieve the lost item and you can replace the parts that you remove. But before replacing these parts, it is a good idea to clean the gunk off the pipes.

Call your Appleton Plumber 

If you are unable to successfully retrieve the item or if you do not want to gamble and test your luck with your home’s plumbing system, consider calling in the experts for help.

Preventing this plumbing emergency

If you wish to avoid the loss of a piece of prized jewelry, there are a few things that you can do.

As much as possible, remove any jewelry before doing the dishes, especially if the sink is open and unstopped.

Place the jewelry that you removed from yourself in a safe area and not over the sink. Alternatively, you can put a jewelry tray nearby.

Put drain stoppers in the kitchen and bathroom sinks. These can help prevent jewelry and other valuable items from going down the drain.

If you have a piece of jewelry trapped in your drain, please call us today for help!

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Why Are My Drains Bubbling?

Tuesday, May 23rd, 2017

Bubbling toilets or drains explained

Whenever you use the bathroom to take care of your personal hygiene, the only sounds you would want to hear are the ones you make as you move around — the sudden rush of water as you turn on the tap, the toilet flushing, water going down the drain. If your body pipes up as well — such as your stomach rumbling thanks to the heavy meal you had earlier — that would be expected, and thus totally fine, too.

What you don’t want to hear, however, is a gurgling noise coming from various areas of the bathroom. If you hear this gurgling or bubbling noise after you use the shower, sink, or the toilet, it could mean trouble — and it’s something that you shouldn’t ignore.

Why are my drains bubbling? Here are possible answers to this question:

·         There is a blockage in your vent pipe or drain

·         A pipe may have collapsed or gotten damaged

·         There is a buildup of grease dirt or other debris in your home’s plumbing

Vent pipes are joined to the major pipes that make up your home’s plumbing. These typically end at the roof of your house. If a vent pipe is blocked by things such as accumulated dirt or debris coming from outside your house such as dead leaves, these gurgling noises indicate that air cannot escape through the vent. Instead, the air makes its way to the nearest available opening, which could be the sink in your bathroom.

If the problem is buildup in your plumbing, it means that water cannot drain properly. Typically, both water and air flow through the drain and then escape the pipes through their respective spots. When the pipes are dirty and blocked, however, the air bubbles will end up getting expelled at the nearest vent, which results in the bubbling noise.

Keep in mind, though, that if you hear the gurgling noise in every drain you can find throughout the house, then it is an indication of a much bigger blockage in the main plumbing pipe, and not in the smaller pipes attached to the drains.

How can these blocks — and consequently, the gurgling sounds — be prevented?

There are a number of things that everyone in the household can do to keep your home’s pipes free and clear:

·         Refrain from pouring or throwing anything down the drain that could cause buildup — this could be grease, hair strands, food particles, and other physical waste.

·         If the buildup already exists, you can try using chemical solutions to clean out the pipes. Make sure to use the product as directed so that they can work as intended. Also, remember to follow safety precautions when handling the chemicals.

·         Alternatively, an auger can be used to manually unclog the pipes. With sufficient force, any buildup can be broken up, but take care not to cause damage to the pipes and cause additional leaking problems.

If you’re unsure about how to perform these properly, there’s always the option of getting in touch with the plumbing specialists in your area. These professionals will know exactly how to diagnose and resolve your plumbing problems and get rid of that troublesome gurgling noise once and for all.

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A Guide to Locating Leaky Pipes

Thursday, May 18th, 2017

Appleton Plumber Provides Advice in Locating Leaky Pipes

Isn’t it just annoying when you find a puddle in your house and you’re not sure what or who created it? Before you conduct your sleuthing, tough, you better wipe it up first lest somebody slips on it.If water no longer reappears after wiping up the area, it’s quite likely that somebody just spilled something on the floor. However, if a new puddle forms, one of the possible causes is a leaky pipe.

If you suspect that you indeed have leaky pipes, the plumbers trusted by Fox Valley and Applegate residents have an easy guide, provided below, that you can follow to locate where the leaks are.

How to take care of the problem

  1. Wipe up the puddle again and then place paper towels or bags around the area where you found the puddle. The leak may be coming from under the floor or from the pipes located on the walls or overhead. If a drip falls, it will surely leave a spot and it’s going to be easy finding where the drip came from.
  2. Do check supply lines or water-using appliances around the area as well. They may have rips or splits, or hoses that have come loose. Turn on the water to see if there are leaks anywhere and then turn the supply off once you see a puddle forming somewhere. It helps to perform this task to establish whether your damaged plumbing system or something else causes the puddle.
  3. Once you identify where the leak is coming from, see if you can perform a remedial job that can control the leak until you can get a plumber to carry out a proper repair.
  4. Now, if you no longer see a puddle after wiping it up, this doesn’t mean that there’s no leak. Observe the area for the next few days because it may just be a slow leak and it only creates a puddle when certain activities at home increase water pressure. You also need to take care of slow leaks because over time, they may get worse. Have your plumber have a look at them so preventive work can be carried out.

If you simply cannot find where the accumulation of water is coming from, set an appointment with your plumber right away. Leaks are no light issues; they can be the cause of accidents, they can attract moisture-loving pests (cockroaches, moths, spiders, and rodents), they can encourage the proliferation of harmful bacteria and molds, they can cause damage to other structural elements of your house or to your furniture, and they can create a spike in your water bill. Contact one of our Appleton, WI plumbers today!

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Benefits of Walk in Tubs for Seniors

Wednesday, May 10th, 2017

Safer, Easier Bath Time with Walk in Tubs for Seniors

Baths are dangerous places for the elderly and infirm. Slippery water, slick porcelain, thresholds that need to be stepped over — it’s a formula for disaster if you aren’t steady on your feet. Aside from adding grab bars and non-slip shower mats, it’s usually best to also install walk in bathtubs. This is one of the most common solutions in elderly and medical care facilities.

Just Lets You Walk In

Walk in tubs allow senior folk to walk straight into the tub and forgo the perilous exercise of stepping over the tub’s edge one shaky leg at a time. They go through an inwards-opening watertight door. A seat is also installed into the tub, which allows the elderly to sit comfortably while they take a bath and relax.

All these accommodations naturally make walk in bathtubs costlier than the norm. Expect price tags to start at around $2,000, with more luxurious designs going upwards of $10,000. The $8,000 difference between low and high-end walk in tubs include, but are not limited to:

  • High-speed drains
  • Shower wands
  • Complex temperature controls
  • Bubbling jets, and more

Finding the Perfect Tub to Walk Into

Walk in tubs are investments not only because they tend to be expensive; you also need to pay close attention to the design and features of your purchase. Since they’re designed specifically to meet the needs of the infirm and the elderly in the bathroom, you need to closely inspect if they meet the needs of whoever will be using them.

Consider, for instance, that some walk in tubs have narrow entrances, and the senior who will use the tub may not be able to easily navigate the entrance if it’s too narrow. Others have small ridges that you have to step over — much smaller and easier to surmount than an ordinary tub’s full height — but it could still prove to be an inconvenience. Make sure the person who will be using the walk in tub can get an opportunity to see it and try it out before purchase.

A Caveat: Walk In Tubs Require Patience

Since they have installed doors, it’s obvious that the elderly using them won’t be able to “walk into” a tub full of water. Walk in tubs are filled with the user already inside, and likewise, drained completely before the user gets out.
This means you also need to closely consider temperature controls — nobody wants to sit in an empty tub filling with cold water while waiting to bathe. Nobody wants to wait while the tub takes its time to get filled, too, so there’s another factor. In the same vein, since users can’t exit without draining the tub first, drain times should also be factored in.

Walk in tubs for seniors are a valuable and pricey investment; ask your plumber for more details.

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Common Plumbing Problems In Older Homes

Thursday, April 27th, 2017

Even in today’s digital age, many people are still looking to buy older homes. But often, these buyers are only looking at the surface of the house.

It’s important to look beyond what you can easily see — for instance, check the pipes.

Galvanized Pipes

Plenty of older homes have galvanized piping. A galvanized pipe is made of steel covered with a layer of zinc to protect it. But the zinc erodes from the piping over time, which causes the pipes to fail from the inside. In turn, this leads to different problems like stopped-up toilets and faucets and low water pressure. Sediment will fill the pipes as they corrode, thereby blocking water flow.

Concrete or Cast Iron Pipes

Some older homes have these kinds of pipes. Concrete pipes won’t deteriorate; however, they will shift and move under the home’s foundation. Cast iron pipes, on the other hand, will deteriorate over time just like the galvanized pipes but can eventually disappear.

Lead Pipes

These pipes have a lifespan of a century. Although they wear well, they may leak lead into the drinking water, causing serious health conditions to households.

Copper Pipes

These can be too pricey for home plumbing, but copper pipes are reliable and durable since they are not prone to leaking.

What else to look for?

Thoroughly check the components attached to pipes, water heaters, drains, and other plumbing systems regularly. When they are not maintained properly, huge problems can happen.

A valve on a line might look normal but it may not work well. Just because it is not leaking does not necessarily mean that there’s no problem with it.

How to Manage Plumbing Issues in Older Homes

  • Determine what kind of pipes were installed – Whether the property has copper, galvanized or concrete pipes, let a licensed plumber inspect it. This professional knows if the pipes are still fully functional or already need replacement.
  • Have a professional check the foundation of the property – Aside from the deteriorating pipes, it is also possible that tree roots have strangled the property’s sewer lines. To prevent costly future repairs, ask a certified professional to check the foundation of the sewer lines and septic systems of the property.
  • Renovate – This is the last resort in managing plumbing issues in older homes. Replace the older pipes with new plumbing systems. Also, replace or repair the property’s water lines, drains, vents, and sewer lines.

Prior to buying a house, it’s always best to know and understand the common plumbing problems in older homes. Also, you should have a professional plumber evaluate the property’s current plumbing condition – which is why you should call us today!

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