What Foods Are Safe To Put Down The Garbage Disposal?
Because it’s meant to dispose of food waste, the title “trash disposal” is a little deceptive. Your plumber Appleton Wisconsin assumes you’re not putting plastic, glass, or metal down the garbage disposal, but a few less-obvious foods are on the no list below.
What You Can Use Your Disposal For
Our Tureks Plumbing team, pipe repair Appleton WI, has compiled a list of foods you can and cannot put down your trash disposal. Garbage disposals can grind just about anything you throw at them. Your plumbing, on the other hand, is a different matter, states Fox Valley Plumber.
What You Can’t Put Down Your Disposal
That bacon grease you spilled down the drain a while ago may have been the start of a blockage down the road that plumbing maintenance Appleton WI will need to fix.
Grease, Fats, and Oils
All of our experts agreed that fats, oils, and grease should never be disposed of down the sink—or any drain for that matter. They may come out as liquids, but those things can solidify and form blockages farther downstream in the water system. In fact, approximately 70% of sewage overflows are caused by grease.
Additionally, creamy foods like peanut butter and dairy products come under the grease, fats, and oils category, which many people are unaware of. As a result, butter, heavy cream, and ice cream are all gone.
Importantly, small quantities of grease can’t always be avoided when using the disposal—think sautéed veggies or creamy sauces—which is why you should always run the disposal with cold water. In that case, cold water is essential.
Foods High In Carbohydrates
It’s OK to scrape the last of the macaroni off a plate, but a takeaway container of week-old fried rice? Toss it in the garbage can. Large amounts of starchy items like rice, pasta, and potatoes break down into a mush that clogs your drain and gums up your disposal, explains Gilmore Plumbing Heating and Air heating company Sacramento.
Vegetable Peels
Also harmful are celery, maize husks, artichokes, edamame pods, asparagus, and rhubarb.
As strange as they may sound, fruit and vegetable peels may create similar difficulties, particularly if you jam a lot down the garbage disposal at once. Individual peels are thin and have little heaviness to them. They may also block pipes in the same way fibrous foods can.
Coffee Grinds, Eggshells, and Shellfish
Eggshells are another popular waste meal, with 33% of our survey respondents admitting to putting them down the trash disposal.
Although they seem to be innocuous, they do not dissolve rapidly, causing a considerable volume of them to gather and clog the drain, particularly if you have older pipes. Shellfish and coffee grounds are the same way since they don’t break down readily and are also reasonably oily—a double whammy.
Foods You Can Toss in the Disposal
Below, our experts share what can go in your disposal.
Citrus Rinds
It may surprise you to find that putting the rinds of oranges and other citrus fruits into your garbage disposal is beneficial. They not only help to clean your disposal organically, but they also leave it feeling excellent and fresh.
Ground Coffee
There are conflicting answers on this one, but we don’t mind if you pour a small number of coffee grounds down the drain. However, don’t put too much in because it might build up in the pipes and cause a blockage or backup. This is due to the oil found in coffee grinds.
Cooked Meat Scraps
When you’re cleaning up after supper, dump any leftover meat scraps in the garbage disposal. But, once again, no enormous amounts or substantial pieces.
The majority of fruits and vegetables Almost all fruits and vegetables are safe to throw in the garbage disposal, as are most veggies. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, which will be discussed further below.
Little bones
Bones are challenging to break down in a garbage disposal. Therefore we recommend that you throw them away rather than put them down the garbage disposal. However, if you happen to drop a little bone down the garbage disposal, it’s usually not a huge deal and should grind up without causing any problems.
Contact Tureks Plumbing Today For Garbage Disposal Repair
If you are having any issues with your garbage disposal contact our team today.
Tureks Plumbing, plumber Appleton Wisconsin, has put together a list of home plumbing myths. You may think you know it all when it comes to plumbing DIY’s, but these debunked myths from plumbing company Appleton Wisconsin will say otherwise.
Plumbing Myths Debunked
Continue to read this list of home plumbing myths from pipe repair Appleton WI if you want to improve your homes plumbing.
Toilets Flush in Other Directions in Other Countries
No, south of the equator, toilets do not flush in the other way states Fox Valley Plumber. The concept is inspired by the Coriolis Effect, which explains why cyclones spin. Although cyclones do spin in opposing directions across the Northern and Southern hemispheres, there isn’t enough water in toilets to cause this effect. Furthermore, the jets control the direction in which toilets drain.
Garbage Disposal Blades Can Be Sharpened With Ice
It’s hard to believe that ice could sharpen the “blades” of trash disposal, yet the myth persists. Perhaps it’s because it’s been suggested that ice cubes be used to clean garbage disposal. Instead of blades, garbage disposals contain two teeth-like features called impellers that ground particles into a liquid while the machine rotates.
A Brick in the Toilet Will Save You Money
Some people claim that placing a block in the toilet tank can conserve water. However, this will prevent your toilet from flushing properly. Check out how to detect a bargain if you need a higher working toilet.
Grease is Melted By Hot Water, Preventing Clogs
Sure, hot water dissolves the grease and flushes it away. However, after the grease has liquefied, it cools, hardens, and gradually builds up in the pipes. The grease attracts food particles, lint, and hair, blocking the pipe. And those clogs are so far away that even a domestic snake wouldn’t be able to reach them. It will cost you about $150 to hire a professional to clear the line.
In contrast, cold water hardens grease before it reaches the sewage system, allowing it to float to the municipal sewer. The disposer motor is additionally cooled by cold water, extending its life. Just pray it doesn’t turn into one of these 100 bizarre plumbing mishaps that have occurred in real life.
Flushable Wipes Are Safe For Your Toilet
One of the most common causes of pipe obstruction is “flushable” baby wipes. They don’t degrade in the same manner that toilet paper does, making it detrimental to your pipes.
Drain Cleaners Are Safe
Another plumbing suggestion is to stay away from liquid drain cleaners. Liquid drain cleaners may harm pipes since they eat away at them. Instead, use a plunger or, better yet, an auger to get the job done. What if you don’t have either? Without a plunger, here’s how to unclog a toilet.
If Your Water Heater is Rumbling, It Could Explode
It’s unlikely that your water heater will blow up. However, it’s more than likely in need of a good cleaning, explains heating company Sacramento. A significant silt buildup within the tank usually causes a rumbling or gurgling sound. Steam bubbles rising through the sediment provide the sound. Failure to solve the problem might result in your water heater failing prematurely.
Tank Cleaners Aren’t Harmful
It’s a mystery why they are still around; maybe it’s because they look so well with Grandma’s hair. Toilet pieces might wear out as a result of certain drop-ins.
You Can Clear a Clogged Sink With a Plunger
If you’ve put drain cleaners into the sink, you can’t use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. Likewise, if you’ve poured drain cleaner down the drain, don’t use a plunger on the blocked sink since the chemicals may cause significant burns when they’re forced back up through the sink by the plunging.
Contact our Tureks Plumbing team if you have any questions or concerns when it comes to these home plumbing myths.
The Tureks Plumbing staff, pipe repair Appleton Wisconsin, is ready to answer your plumbing inquiries in plain English and walk you through the fundamentals of routine repairs. Leaky faucets and malfunctioning trash disposals are only the tips of the iceberg when it comes to plumbing issues. Let’s look at some of the most often asked plumbing questions.
What Kind of Pipe Material is Used?
Follow our pipe guide below to figure out what kind of plumbing material you have in your home:
Clogged drains or a water leak may appear at any time, even in recent houses. These are the most frequent plumbing concerns, whether you’re living in an older house undergoing renovations or just buying a new home and want to be prepared:
Toilet is clogged
Clogged drains in the bathtub or shower
Garbage disposal clogged
Dripping faucets
Pipes that are leaking
Water pressure is low
Toilet isn’t flushing
Sewage odor
Sink drains slowly
How To Keep My Pipes From Clogging?
Having clogged plumbing may be significant pain. Whether it’s a clogged tub or a significant obstruction in your central sewage system, treating the issue as soon as possible can help you avoid additional harm. The most effective approach to prevent blocked pipes is to watch what you dump down the drain and toilet. As a starting point, consider the following suggestions:
When utilizing the trash disposal, run cold water through it.
If there is no trash disposal, a drain strainer should be employed.
Pouring grease or oil down the drain is not a good idea.
Run hot water over the dishes after they’ve been washed to remove any fat.
Drain stoppers in the shower and bathtub should be cleared.
Only toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet.
Septic tanks should be pumped every two to three years.
Avoid coffee grounds, bones, oil, fruit peels, and other fibrous things in the trash disposal.
What is the definition of a plumbing emergency?
Plumbing issues may not always arise during regular business hours, as helpful as that would be. When leaks and blockages occur on the weekend or in the middle of the night, you must decide whether or not you need to contact your Appleton emergency plumber.
Is there a water leak in my house?
If your house is constructed on a slab or your pipes, run underground, detecting a water leak might be challenging. The following are the most prevalent indicators of a water leak:
Flooring that is damp or spongy
The sound of flowing water coming from the walls has increased the monthly water bill.
Water pressure drop
In one area of the yard, the grass is greener.
If you’re having any of these problems, call your Appleton, WI plumber for help with leak detection.
What is the average lifespan of a water heater?
Water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years. Maintaining your device regularly can help it last longer. If you have a traditional tank water heater, emptying it once a year will assist in removing silt and minerals that may accumulate at the bottom. If your water heater sits in the garage, ensure that your garage is sealed so animals and weather don’t ruin your heater, explains our friends LMS Garage Doors. If your water heater isn’t too old but is showing symptoms of wear and tear, contact a water heater repair professional in Appleton to get it back up and running.
Is it necessary for me to get a new toilet?
If your toilet is causing you trouble, it may be time to replace it. The following are some indicators that it’s time to replace your toilet:
Clogs that do not go away
After each usage, flush many times.
Toilets that are more than ten years old are inefficient in energy use.
Continued leaks
Will the sewage line repair necessitate tearing up my yard?
Tureks Plumbing can conduct most sewage line repair work without digging using trenchless sewer repair methods. The expense of traditional sewer repair is split between the sewage line repair and the repair of yard work, driveways, or flooring. Our professionals use trenchless sewer line repair to handle your plumbing issues with the least amount of damage to your property.
Is damage from a busted pipe covered by homeowners insurance?
One of the most typical homes insurance claims is for damage caused by broken pipes. Most insurance companies will pay for damage caused by leaky or broken pipes if the problem could not have been avoided. You may take the following actions to prevent damaged pipes or leaky appliances:
Ensure baths and showers are properly caulked and sealed, and check for leaky faucets both inside and out.
If you live in a chilly climate, insulate your pipes.
Inspect and replace appliance hoses on your dishwasher or washing machine regularly.
What can I do to keep my pipes from freezing?
Follow these pipe insulation procedures to avoid frozen pipes:
Before covering the pipes with insulation, run a heating cable along with them. The line will maintain a steady temperature in the pipes.
Look for noticeable cracks around the foundation or basement on the exterior of your house. Fill cracks with spray foam or caulking.
Turn off your outside faucets’ water valves. Allow extra water to drain, then use an insulated dome to keep the faucets freezing.
You may allow warm air from your house to reach the pipes under your sinks by opening the cabinet doors.
To avoid your heating system crashing during the cold months, get your HVAC system examined once a year. The low weather may have an immediate impact on your plumbing.
Allow your faucets to drip slowly and quietly. Even a small quantity of water running can help avoid frozen pipes.
Contact Tureks Plumbing Today for Plumbing Services in Appleton WI
Our professionals are ready to assist you with the upkeep of your house. We’ll assess the issues, explain the situation, and provide simple remedies to bring your home back to normal as soon as possible. So for all of your plumbing and HVAC requirements, give Tureks Plumbing a call today.
Your bathroom is a frequently used facility. The average cost of a bathroom remodel can help you plan your budget and understand what to expect. So it’s no wonder that bathroom renovations are at the top of many homeowners’ priority lists, from soaking in the tub on weekends to ensuring your visitors have a decent powder room to use. Remodel cost can fluctuate depending on the size of your bathroom, the scope of the project, and the materials you choose. The total cost includes all aspects of the remodel, such as labor, materials, fixtures, and permits. Bathroom remodels generally cost between a few thousand dollars for small updates to tens of thousands for a full renovation, depending on your location and project details. Your Appleton bathroom remodel company has put together a must know list of bathroom remodel costs.
What affects the cost to remodel a bathroom?
Several key factors influence bathroom remodel costs:
Size and layout of the bathroom
Scope and complexity of the renovation
Type and quality of materials selected
Plumbing or electrical system updates
Labor and contractor requirements
Custom features, cabinetry, or tile work
Permits or code compliance needs
Bathroom Remodel Cost Breakdown: What to Expect in 2025
Although bathroom renovation may seem to be a problematic endeavor, good planning may help you achieve the style and feel you want for your house. With this guide, learn more about the advantages of upgrading your powder room, guest bathroom, or master bathroom. Bathroom remodel costs typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, but they can vary widely depending on factors such as materials, labor, and bathroom size.
The cost per square feet or overall square footage of your bathroom has a significant impact on the total remodel cost, as larger bathrooms require more materials and labor. Setting a realistic budget is essential to ensure your project aligns with your financial expectations and the scope of work. It’s important to get project estimates from professionals to better understand potential expenses. All these factors contribute to the final cost of your bathroom remodel.
What to Consider
Take a few moments to consider which features of a bathroom makeover are most important to you and what you would like your Fox Valley Plumber to install. The design process is essential in planning your bathroom project, as it helps you anticipate costs, make informed decisions, and avoid surprises. Approaching your remodel with a structured bathroom renovation process ensures your goals are met efficiently. Here are some crucial things to think about:
Why Are You Remodeling?
Do you want to modify the design of your room, or do you think it may be more functional following a renovation? Make a list of your most important goals explains Plumber Appleton Wisconsin.
What is Your Schedule?
Some homeowners believe their bathroom renovation is long overdue and can do all of the tasks at once. In other cases, implementing incremental changes rather than a complete rebuild may be a preferable option.
What Are Your Finances?
Before deciding which improvements to make, you’ll need to know how much money you have.
Material costs and plumbing costs are major components of the bathroom remodel budget, so it’s important to factor these in early. Materials for your remodel are available at different price points, allowing you to choose options that fit your budget. Be sure to plan for unexpected expenses by setting aside a contingency fund of 10–20% to cover unforeseen issues that may arise during the renovation.
Cost-Affecting Characteristics
It’s essential to consider aspects that might affect the ultimate cost while planning your project. The size and type of bathroom—such as a medium bathroom or a primary bathroom—can significantly influence the overall bathroom remodel cost, with primary bathrooms typically requiring a larger investment due to their size and premium features.
For example, many homeowners consider the following features: bathroom cabinets (which impact both cost and functionality), medicine cabinet (a common upgrade for storage and appearance), cabinet hardware (an easy way to update the look), light fixtures and LED lighting (for style and energy efficiency), towel racks and grab bars (to enhance comfort and safety), shower heads and low flow toilets (modern, water-saving upgrades), walk-in shower and wet room (high-end features that can increase costs), flooring options (affecting both cost and style), plumbing fixtures (a significant part of the remodel), new tub, old tub, and cast iron tub (when replacing or upgrading the bathtub), electrical systems (which may require professional attention), and general contractors (who can manage the remodel and subcontract specialized work).
Bathtubs
Replacing an old tub with a new tub is a common part of bathroom remodels, and the price of a tub is determined by its size and design. Installing a standalone bathtub, for example, may result in higher plumbing expenditures. For those seeking a luxury upgrade, installing a cast iron tub offers a timeless and high-end appeal. Alternatively, a shower remodel can be considered if replacing the tub is not desired, with costs influenced by materials, size, and the scope of work. Tureks Plumbing Services, Sacramento heating company, also explains it is important to take into account whether or not your water heater is up to snuff.
Vanities and Cabinets
The most cost-effective selections are the stock vanity options, which are the most affordable, and bathroom cabinets are a key component of the vanity area. The cost is affected by the size, top type, cabinets, and material utilized. Upgrading or replacing the medicine cabinet can also update storage and improve the overall appearance during a remodel. Small areas and luxury master baths may benefit from custom cabinets. Additionally, updating cabinet hardware is a simple and affordable way to refresh the look of your bathroom without a full renovation.
Countertops
The cost of renovations will be heavily influenced by the materials used. For example, the stone is attractive and long-lasting, although it is more expensive than other materials. Prefabricated countertops may be used in various settings and can help you save money. Solid surface countertops are a durable and cost-effective option for bathroom remodels.
The manufacturer, style determines the cost of a faucet and material utilized.
Sink
The price of pedestal sinks, drop-in sinks, and designer designs differ. Drop-in sinks are often a cost-effective alternative that comes in various forms.
Toilet
It is easy and inexpensive to replace an old toilet. Installing low-flow toilets is a smart choice for water conservation and efficiency, as they use less water per flush, help lower utility bills, and support eco-friendly bathroom remodels. The cost of primary and luxurious models varies, although installation expenses are often minimal.
Tub Liner
This is a significant improvement option if you can’t afford a more extensive update or if you don’t want to go without a shower for too long.
Tile For Walls and Floors
When considering bathroom remodel cost, it’s important to evaluate the various flooring options available, such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles. The cost of the materials will be the determining factor, although the natural stone is frequently more expensive to install because of its difficulty in cutting and placing. Wall tile selections range from natural stone and bare ceramic to glass and mosaic types that simulate raw materials.
Bathroom Renovation Process
The bathroom renovation process is a journey that transforms your space from outdated or inefficient to stylish and functional. It all starts with careful planning and a clear vision for your bathroom remodel. Begin by assessing your bathroom size and determining your priorities—whether you’re updating a small bathroom, tackling a full bathroom remodel in your master bathroom, or refreshing a medium bathroom for guests.
During the design process, you’ll make key decisions about flooring options, bathroom cabinets, countertops, and plumbing fixtures. Material costs can vary significantly, with choices ranging from budget-friendly surfaces to high end materials like natural stone or custom vanities. Many homeowners also consider luxury features such as heated floors, walk in showers, or LED lighting to elevate their bathroom renovation project.
Once your design is set, it’s time to move into the construction phase. Light construction tasks—like painting walls, replacing faucets, or updating cabinet hardware—are great opportunities for DIY projects that can help you save money. However, for more complex work, such as installing a tiled shower, moving plumbing fixtures, or upgrading electrical systems, hiring skilled labor or licensed contractors is essential to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes.
Labor costs and material costs make up a significant portion of the total project cost, so it’s important to get detailed project estimates and set a realistic budget. Don’t forget to factor in unexpected expenses, such as hidden water damage or the need to update electrical work to meet current standards. Permits may also be required, especially for a full bathroom remodel or when altering the floor plan.
Throughout the bathroom renovation process, keep your goals and budget in mind. Prioritize the features that matter most to you, whether it’s a new tub, custom cabinets, or upgraded light fixtures. By planning carefully and working with experienced professionals when needed, you can achieve a beautiful, functional bathroom that adds value to your home and fits your lifestyle.
Bathroom Remodeling Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Bathroom remodeling is a major investment, and with the right approach, you can transform your space while keeping your bathroom remodeling budget in check. A typical bathroom remodel typically costs anywhere from $6,000 to $18,000, but the total project cost can vary significantly based on the bathroom size, the materials you select, and labor costs.
Start with a solid plan. Before diving into your bathroom renovation project, take time to assess your needs, set clear goals, and determine your must-have features. Whether you’re updating a small bathroom, a guest bathroom, or planning a full bathroom remodel for your master bathroom, a well-thought-out floor plan is essential. Consider how the layout, storage, and traffic flow will impact the functionality and comfort of your new space.
Material and labor costs are key factors. The materials you choose—such as natural stone countertops, custom vanities, or solid surface shower walls—can have a big impact on your overall cost. High end materials and luxury features like heated floors or walk in showers will increase costs, while more budget-friendly options can help you save money. Labor costs are another significant portion of your remodeling project, especially for skilled labor like plumbing and electrical work. While some homeowners tackle DIY projects like painting walls or replacing faucets to cut costs, it’s best to leave complex tasks to licensed contractors to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What does the Tureks Plumbing page say about typical bathroom remodel costs? Answer: According to the article, bathroom remodels typically cost between $5,000 and $10,000. The final cost depends on factors like the size of the bathroom and the quality of the materials and fixtures you choose.
Question: What are the main factors that affect bathroom remodel costs? Answer: Key factors include the bathroom size, type of fixtures such as bathtubs and vanities, quality of materials, and any plumbing changes. Custom designs or premium materials can significantly increase the overall price.
Question: Why is planning important for budgeting a bathroom remodel? Answer: Planning allows you to prioritize features, choose materials within your price range, and avoid surprises. It helps set realistic expectations and ensures you don’t exceed your remodeling budget.
Question: How can layout and fixture choices influence the cost? Answer: Keeping the same layout is more cost-effective since it avoids plumbing relocation. Choosing standard fixtures instead of luxury or custom ones also helps control costs and stay within budget.
Question: Besides materials and fixtures, what other elements add to the remodel cost? Answer: Additional costs can come from labor, demolition, installation, permits, and inspections. These are essential parts of the project and should be included in your budget from the start.
To learn more about bathroom remodel costs contact Tureks today!
We’re guessing you spend at least 30 minutes a day worrying about your water heater. Wrong—we hope you’ve got more important things on your mind. Most of us don’t give our water heater a second thought until we turn on the shower or sink and there’s no hot water. The fact is that most hot water heater issues develop decades before the equipment breaks. So here are some signs to replace your water heater from you plumber Appleton Wisconsin.
How to Tell You Need a New Water Heater
Here are a few clear indicators that your hot water heater isn’t operating correctly and needs to be repaired–don’t worry. Tureks, water heater repair Appleton Wisconsin provides water heater repair services across the Appleton area.
Water of Poor Quality
You may learn a lot about your water heater’s functionality by checking the hot water as it flows out of the faucet. Minerals, silt, and other debris may build-up at the bottom of your water heater’s tank over time, resulting in rusty, muddy water. Water heater replacement Appleton WI states, you may also notice unpleasant smells or metallic tastes in your water.
Leakage
One of the most prevalent water heater issues is leakage. Your emergency plumber Fox Valley is here to help. If you observe a pool of standing water near your water heater, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible. A leaky water heater may signify an internal breakdown of the device that needs immediate care, depending on the cause of the leak. You risk floods and serious water damage to your property if you don’t.
Unpredictable Temperature
Do you find it difficult to regulate the temperature of your hot water? Even if you don’t touch the faucet handle, does the temperature change from hot to cold? Another clue that your hot water heater is on its way out is inconsistency in the temperature of your hot water.
You may be able to solve the problem by altering the water heater’s settings in certain circumstances. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to contact Tureks for a water heater repair or replacement.
It Takes a Long Time for Water to Heat Up
If your water takes a long time to heat up, it might be due to a problem with the thermostat or heating element. This might also suggest a silt buildup in the tank. It may be time to replace the unit if changing the thermostat or heating element, or flushing the tank, does not cure the issue.
Your Water Heater Is Making Strange Noises
A water heater is not uncommon to create noise, particularly when the burner unit is activated to heat the water. However, some noises, such as creaking, rattling, pounding, knocking, or whining, should be avoided since they might signify problems. You may try flushing the tank to remove any silt that’s generating the noise, but if it doesn’t help, the heating element will need to be replaced.
Age
Age isn’t simply a number when it comes to your water heater. Even a high-quality, well-maintained water heater, like any mechanical item, can not last indefinitely. So while an older water heater may not show indicators of difficulty, it is more likely to have a problem or fail completely.
Most water heaters have a lifetime of 10 to 15 years. If your unit is between these ages or older, Tureks can provide you with high-quality water replacement services right here! It doesn’t get much better than that–upgrading to a new unit will improve system efficiency while also potentially lowering your energy expenses.
How can you tell if your water heater is malfunctioning?
Call the experts at Tureks in Fox Valley, WI!
Contacting the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services is the best approach to find out whether your water heater is in good operating order. Our skilled experts can promptly identify the majority of common water heater issues and conduct excellent repairs or, if necessary, install a new water heater. Get in touch with us now to learn more about our water heater services!
