Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘residential plumbing’

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

Monday, March 4th, 2024

The average lifespan for a water heater can vary based on whether it is gas or electric and how well you keep up with maintenance. We are highlighting some of the signs that can indicate it’s time for a water heater replacement in your home.

You can keep reading to learn more about the expected lifespan of a water heater and how to know when it’s time to invest in a new one. Then, you can give our team a call to schedule your water heater replacement in Neenah. Our team can go over all of your different water heater options with you so that you can make a smart choice that saves you money and elevates your home comfort.

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Bathroom Remodel Frequently Asked Questions

Wednesday, October 27th, 2021

Bathroom Remodel Frequently Asked Questions 2021

Bathroom remodels are one of the projects that can give you the best bang for your buck. This not only improves your home’s equity, but you also get to enjoy the perks of having a new bathroom! However, you have to make the right choices. To get started on planning your dream bathroom, you’ll need to know exactly what you want and how you’ll achieve it. It is also important to obtain insights that will help you with decision-making throughout the entire process. To further prepare yourself for the project, check out the answers to the following bathroom remodel FAQs:

How Do I Get Started?  

First, figure out what you want and need to do to improve your bathroom. You may do your research by auditing the existing features and characteristics of your bathroom, and listing down what you want to add or improve. For ideas, you can browse through home design sites or magazines. Make sure to consider everything, from lighting to storage to countertops to showers and toilets to the floors. Once you have your ideas sorted out and organized, talk to a bathroom remodel professional in the Fox Cities area to know more about your options and start finalizing the plans.

How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Take?

It depends on the details. Is your design simple or complicated to undertake? Are the materials you need easily available or do you need to place a special order for them and wait for stocks to be available? Needless to say, a simple remodel using easily available materials can be finished as quickly as possible. At the same time, more extensive projects can still be fast and efficient to do if you work with an experienced and highly competent team.

How Much Will a Bathroom Remodel Cost? 

Again, the answer depends on your choice of materials and how extensive the project will be. If you want to keep costs low, your bathroom remodeling contractor can present you with a range of choices that fit your vision and will still be within your set budget. If money is no issue, a good contractor will still take the time to make recommendations that will offer you more value for your investment. The important thing is to discuss the costs early on, and in a clear, transparent, and documented manner to avoid any surprise expenses. Our friends at Headwaters Construction, a Sacramento general contractor, say that many bathroom remodeling projects these days start around 7K. Of course, this does depend on what you’re looking for. 

How To Increase Bathroom Size Without Changing Square Footage

You can revamp the look and feel of your bathroom through the right design strategies. A small bathroom can feel more spacious without the need for a major renovation through some of the following techniques:

  • Choose light and bright colors.
  • Install vertical or hanging storage to minimize clutter on the floor and over-the-countertops.
  • Switch to a slimmer sink and bathtub, as well as a compact model toilet.
  • Add light fixtures to visually open up the space.

What does WaterSense mean?

A product designed and quality-tested to be 20 percent more water-efficient than federal standards has a WaterSense label from the Environmental Protection Agency. These products include low-flow showerheads and toilets that reduce water consumption without necessarily reducing your everyday convenience. It pays to invest in WaterSense products as it will provide you with significant savings in the long run. Moreover, reducing water use is a great way to contribute to your community’s water conservation efforts.

Contact Tureks Plumbing, your local plumbing professionals in Fox Valley, to to talk about more bathroom remodel FAQs.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in January 2017 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

 

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Kitchen Sink Backing Up When Washing Laundry

Wednesday, September 29th, 2021
Kitchen Sink Backing Up When Washing Laundry - Fox Valley Cities

What to Do When Kitchen Sink Backing Up When Washing Laundry

Plumbing problems can be the worst, especially when it’s affecting several parts of your home. A kitchen sink backing up when washing laundry is definitely out of the normal. This problem can be caused by either a clogged drain or a venting issue. So, where do you start? Well, if you’re looking for a quick fix, we always recommend contacting your local plumbing company. If you’d like to try to fix this on your own, continue to read the article below!

The Location Of The Clog

All plumbing fixture drains in a residence, including the washing machine drain, must connect to a 3- or 4-inch main drain pipe that connects to a sewer or septic tank outside the home. To drain a washing machine into a kitchen sink, the kitchen sink drain must connect to the washing machine drain pipe. Our Appleton plumber says that the clog lies somewhere after the connection to the kitchen sink drain but before the connection to the other drains. Note that the water would just back up from the washing machine drain if the clog was before the kitchen sink. If the blockage occurred after the connection with other fixture drains, it would back up into the lowest fixture, which was usually a shower or toilet.

Drainage Issues

Washing machines may pump up to 15 gallons of water per minute into the drain. This is significantly quicker than any other fixtures or appliances. A drain pipe of 1 1/2 inches was thought to be adequate for earlier washing machines. However, code now requires a washing machine drain pipe size of at least 2 inches in many regions for appropriate drainage. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, who offers Twin Cities plumbing services, say that due to the grease and food that is frequently poured into them, kitchen-sink drain pipes clog more frequently than other plumbing fixtures. Due to the volume of water pumped from the washing machine, even a partial obstruction in the shared drain pipe from the kitchen sink can cause the washing machine to back up into the sink.

Ventilation Issues

If there is a gurgling sound coming from the sink drain when the washing machine drains, the backup could be caused by a venting problem. Drainage problems will occur if the washing machine or kitchen vent is run incorrectly or is too small. Similarly, if the vent is clogged, consider a straw with liquid in it. The liquid will not drain if one end of the straw is blocked. The same is true for a plumbing system. If you hear gurgling coming from the kitchen sink, it’s because the sink is being used as a vent.

Resolving the Issue

If the sink is gurgling, visually inspect the vent for blockages. A clog in a drain pipe is most likely too far away to be unplugged by plunging. At this point, if your kitchen sink is backing up when washing laundry, you should contact Tureks Plumbing. Our team of experienced plumbers will resolve the problem in no time. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services throughout the Fox Valley cities areas. 

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Flood Draining Maintenance Tips

Wednesday, September 22nd, 2021
floor drain maintenance tips - Appleton WI

Floor Drain Maintenance Tips From Appleton Plumber

Floor drains are frequently overlooked when it comes to residential plumbing. Floor drains seem similar to drains found in bathtubs and showers because they are flush with the surface, but they are more typically found in basement floors, garages, laundry rooms, older bathroom floors, and even on patios and roads. Floor drains are installed everywhere. There is a need for quick, effective water drainage. Most Appleton homeowners do not consider floor drain maintenance until a problem arises. Follow these recommended floor drain maintenance tips from your Appleton plumber.

Fill Traps On A Regular Basis

Indoor floor drains collect overflow from sinks, toilets, tubs, water heaters, and washing machines, among other things. Floor drains, whether indoors or outdoors, are designed to efficiently and safely transport water. It’s transferred to a sewer or municipal storm drain, keeping the floor dry and rooms from flooding. The overall objective of traps is to keep sewage odors and gasses from entering your home through the drain. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, who offers Twin Cities plumbing services, recommend filing these drain traps on a regular basis to see that they’re working efficiently. Simply pour a gallon of water down each floor drain in your home. Water will fill the trap, creating a barrier between your home and the sewer system.

Immediately Remove Clogs 

Many various forms of material build on your floor, from pet hair to dust bunnies. Therefore, it has the potential to end up in and block. The first indicator of a clogged drain is if it drains slowly. If you find a blockage early on, you’ll avoid flooding. You can easily eliminate that tiny clog with a plunger and a few pumps. Another trick is to try pouring a baking soda and vinegar solution in the drain. When all else fails, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. Our team offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services throughout the Appleton, WI areas.

Clean Your Drains On A Regular Basis 

Check your plumbing drains for debris. It’s recommended that you clear them at least once a quarter. You can always hire a professional plumber for drain cleaning services. Getting your drains cleared will help you avoid plumbing disasters. It’s also a good idea to arrange professional drain cleanings once a year to avoid obstructions and keep your drains working smoothly.

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How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

Wednesday, September 15th, 2021
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater - Appleton WI

Expanding the Life of Your Water Heater

Most homeowners don’t realize how heavily they rely on their water heater. As you probably know, your water heater is responsible for all of your hot water. Without it, it would be difficult to shower, wash dishes, and do laundry. To keep your water heater working at its best ability, it is recommended that you have it serviced by your Appleton plumber. There are other ways to increase its longevity. In this article, Tureks Plumbing shares how to extend the life of your water heater tank and preserve its efficiency and safety.

Water Heater Maintenance

This will only take a few minutes. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, contact Tureks Plumbing. Here’s what you’ll need: 

  • Bucket
  • Plumbers Tape
  • Towels
  • Slip joint pliers

Note: pressure release valve is required for the following tasks.

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

You may be wondering how long water heater tanks last. Some water heaters can last a decade without maintenance. Some are not so lucky. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, a plumber in Sacramento, point out that the unit’s life expectancy depends on the type of water heater you have. However, a few minutes of water heater maintenance once a year is worth the effort. If there are any issues, here are some water heater repair suggestions to assist keep it running.

Checklist for Basic Water Heater Maintenance: Examine the Pressure-Relief Valve

Put the Valve to the Test

Check the pressure-relief valve, which is usually placed on the top or side of the water heater. If the pressure inside the tank becomes too high, this valve will automatically open. Place a bucket beneath the valve for draining.

Change the Valve (if Necessary)

Replace the valve if it does not release water when you lift the lever. The replacement is straightforward: Turn off the water, drain the tank, and then detach the discharge pipe and the old valve. Wrap sealant tape around the threads of the new valve and screw it in. If your valve has been sitting for a while and has never been tested, it may leak after you test it. 

Examine Your Work

Close the cold water supply line shutoff valve that feeds the water heater. Then, using any faucet, turn on the hot water to relieve the pressure inside the water heater’s tank. Keep the water running until you’ve finished your work. Turn off the electricity to your electric heater at the main panel. Turn the gas control dial to “off” on a gas heater.

Built-up Sediment From the Water Heater Tank Should Be Drained.

Drain the tank to flush out sediments that have accumulated at the bottom. Sediment buildup reduces the efficiency of your water heater, shortening its life and increasing your energy expenditure. Two or three liters of water should be plenty to wash away sediments, but always let the water flow until no particles are visible in the bucket. Slowly open the drain valve and let the water run until it is clear and sediment-free.

Expect Noises

Don’t be alarmed if you hear gurgling or groaning from the heater. That sound is simply air entering the system as the water drains. Drain the tank entirely, detach the old valve, and screw in a new one if the drain valve won’t close tightly when you’re finished. To restart the water heater, open the shutdown valve and run hot water from any faucet to purge the system of air. Then, relight the pilot or switch on the electricity.

Set the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If the dial lacks digits, use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the water temperature. Higher temperatures promote sediment buildup and increase the danger of scorching injuries.

Now that you know how to extend the life of your water heater, you can easily incorporate this in your annual to-do’s. If you come across any problems, don’t hesitate to contact Tureks Plumbing. Our team is available 24/7 for emergency plumbing services. 

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Choosing the Right Bathroom Toilet

Wednesday, August 25th, 2021

Bathroom Toilet

Choosing the Right Bathroom Toilet in 2021

Most people don’t look for qualities in their toilet unless they’re replacing their old one. When choosing a toilet, you should look for what fits your needs best. Be careful though, many new toilets have fancy features you don’t necessarily need. Below, our Fox Valley plumbers share a few things you should consider when choosing a new toilet

Who will be using the toilet?

This is such an important factor because the height and shape of the toilet will contribute to the household’s comfort when using it. If you have little kids sharing/using the toilet most of the time, perhaps it’s best to go for something that’s not too high and is a bit narrow. There’s always the danger of them falling in with larger bathroom toilets. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, who provide Sacramento plumbing services, says it’s a common mistake for homeowners to choose a toilet that is too low to the ground. Try to find a toilet that is average-sized.

How’s the flush power?

You need a strong flush, especially if the bathroom is located on the higher level of the house. Flush power is indicated on the product packaging (which is why it’s often displayed as well in stores) and the scale of power is from 1-10.

How big is the bathroom?

The size of the bathroom has to be considered as well. According to the interior design experts that Fox Valley and Applegate, Wisconsin residents trust, while elongated toilet bowls feel more comfortable, a round bowl may be the better choice for a small bathroom. Elongated toilet bowls measure up to 31″ from the wall; on the other hand, round fixtures max out at 28″. That means they save more space, and not only that, round bowls cost less, too.

What is the style you prefer?

There are four styles to choose from:

  • Two-piece toilets – This is the most common type. The tank and bowl are separate and it’s easy to find replacement parts for this style of toilet bowl.
  • One-piece toilets – The tank and bowl are built together. It’s more expensive but it saves space and it’s much easier to clean.
  • Wall-mounted toilets – This, needless to say, is mounted to a wall and doesn’t require a toilet foot or base. This is ideal for people who have mobility issues. It’s also more expensive to buy and install and a thick wall is required for mounting.
  • Water-saving toilets – These are very popular and they come in different designs, but they don’t use more than 1.6 gallons of water for every flush.

What Add-Ons Do You Want?

Toilets can come with built-in bidets and seat warmers. There are those with lids that close on their own. See which of these you need or want in a bathroom toilet bowl.

The right toilet is always the one that can meet your requirements. Establishing what you and your family really need will help you when choosing the right bathroom toilet. Don’t hesitate to contact Turek’s Plumbing today to choose a bathroom toilet that is right for you. 

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

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Kitchen Remodel Budget Mistakes to Avoid

Wednesday, August 18th, 2021

Kitchen Remodel Budget

Kitchen Remodel Budget Mistakes to Avoid in 2021

Kitchen remodels can offer significant ROI, when done right. If you’re not in love with your kitchen or are looking to sell in the near future, consider making some small upgrades. When you repair or switch old fixtures with modern models, you can increase the value of your property. Likewise, a few well-appointed innovations can increase the energy efficiency of your home, allowing you to reduce energy use and enjoy lower power and water bills in the long run. To ensure that you get the most bang for your buck, avoid making these common kitchen remodel mistakes. 

Remodeling Without a Plan

Take time to sit down and really think about what you want and need from your new kitchen. The biggest – and easily avoidable – expense you can face during a remodel is when you suddenly change your mind. So hire a home remodeling company to see what your new kitchen will look like in 3D. A rough sketch or some hazy description just won’t do. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., who offers general contracting in Sacramento, say this can actually cause you to go over budget.

Not Checking Your Kitchen Contractor’s Credentials

The one thing you can do that will help you significantly reduce costs and avoid unnecessary expenses is to work only with the best contractors. Having a team of established professionals to work on your kitchen will allow you to have access to solutions that are customized to your needs and aligned with your budget. So before hiring anyone, do your homework first and contact the most reputable tradespeople you can find in your area. Our friends at Specialized AV, an audio and video company in Sacramento, recommends looking up your contractors license to ensure they are who they say they are.

Being blinded by “bright, shiny” things

A snazzy splashback, expensive countertops, chic sinks, or picture-perfect floors may make your kitchen impressive, but it’s not wise to simply consider a material’s looks or popularity alone. With research and expert advice, you can find alternatives that are not as overpriced, and may even be more durable or practical for your purposes. When budgeting, prioritize the basics: good lighting, efficiency, storage, and safety. Allot your funds first for items that will improve your kitchen’s function without hampering your style.

When improving your kitchen, remember to have a plan and stick to it. Remember the basics before splurging on the pretty things, and hire only the Fox Cities plumbing experts. With this game plan, you’ll soon have a kitchen that’s dreamy and purposeful at the same time. Contact Tureks Plumbing services for all of your home remodeling needs. 

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

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How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost?

Wednesday, July 14th, 2021

Kitchen Remodel Cost

2021 How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost? 

Are you planning a kitchen remodel this year? The pandemic sparked a lot of home projects. Starting kitchen remodel projects are a much bigger project than people anticipate. The first step to sticking to the budget is understanding the cost of an average kitchen remodel. So, how much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2021? Our Fox Valley home remodeling experts share more about kitchen remodel costs. 

Planning a kitchen remodel?

Before the pandemic, a homeowner could spend $4,000 to $47,000 on a kitchen remodel. On average, a typical home remodels project will hover between $11,424 and $29,178. Now that the prices of wood and materials are high, it’s likely that material could be double or even triple of what it was a year ago. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a Sacramento ground-up construction company, point out that the type of material you choose will determine the cost. Furthermore, the more unique, the more expensive. Things to consider are wall painting, cabinet refacing, kitchen sink upgrades, and the installation of a tile backsplash.

What are the factors that influence your kitchen remodel cost? Where will your budget for a remodel go?

Cabinetry and hardware account for the bulk of the expenses, taking as much as 29 percent of the overall budget. This is followed by installation costs (which usually account for 17 percent of the budget), followed by appliances and ventilation (which account for 14 percent of the budget), and countertops (which take 10 percent of the remodel budget). Other costs include design fees, lighting, flooring, doors and windows, faucets and plumbing, walls and ceilings, and other expenses.

If you want to trim your budget, there are a few areas where you can cut corners. For example, instead of hiring professionals, you can do some of the installation by yourself. Or instead of using custom cabinets for your new kitchen, you can opt for stock cabinets. Another strategy that you can try to keep costs low is to break the project into smaller pieces. This allows you to upgrade your kitchen while spreading the work and expenses across a longer timeline.

What are the other factors that you need to consider when you are planning a kitchen remodel?

One crucial factor that you need to consider is how long you are planning to live in your home. Simply put, if you are planning to sell your home in the near future, you should resist the temptation to splurge. Experts recommend spending somewhere between five to 15 percent of a home’s value for a remodel. Within this range, you can expect to recoup your investment for your kitchen’s upgrade.

You should also consider the average cost of kitchen remodels in your area. If you are planning to sell your home, your kitchen should be within the same range as the other kitchens in your neighborhood. If you over- or under-spend on your kitchen, potential buyers will notice that and might affect the performance of your home in the property market.

On the other hand, if you are not planning on moving out of your current home in the foreseeable future, you can indulge and spend as much as you can afford. You can recoup your investment through the regular use of your kitchen. 

If you have questions about kitchen remodel costs, contact the professional plumbers in Fox Cities at Turek’s Plumbing today! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with our latest plumbing news!

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

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What Is a Sewer Cleanout?

Wednesday, May 19th, 2021

Sewer Cleanout

What Is a Sewer Cleanout? 2021

A home’s plumbing system is an intricate network. One of the most important components of this network is a sewer cleanout. When you ned a sewer cleanout in Appleton, WI, you can always trust Tureks Plumbing. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing. Below, we discuss sewer cleanout and what you can expect. 

What is a sewer cleanout?

According to trusted Wisconsin plumbers that service Fox Valley and Applegate residences, the sewer cleanout is a capped pipe that enables people to gain access to a clogged sewer line so that they can clean out any blockages. It is a requirement for the connection of the house’s main drain to the house sewage. Usually located no more than three feet past the edge of the home, homeowners can identify it by the “S” stamped on the concrete or painted on the curb. Underneath this marker is the home’s sewer line which is connected to the city sewer. However, for homes with a septic system, the cleanout is placed between the house and the septic tank.

If it’s placed where it should be it usually comes with a cap that says “clean out.”

Do all homes have a sewer cleanout?

The short answer is no. Not all homes are built to code therefore some houses actually do not have one and just rely on a basement cleanout. These homes are at a great risk of indoor flooding due to the build-up of debris in the drainage system, says our friends at Gilmore Heating and Air, a trusted Sacramento plumber

Are cleanouts always located in the same places?

For homes that are built to code, the answer is usually. However, a lot of residences have the sewers added after the construction of the home. To locate the cleanout for such houses, plumbers typically just follow the line from the street side connection and the house.

Do homes have only one cleanout?

A lot of homes actually have multiple sewer cleanouts. The extra cleanouts are often capped stubs or pipes sticking out of exterior walls, and they can also be found in basements and crawl spaces. At times, they are even located in the attic for the easy removal of obstructions in the vent of the drainage system. Multiple cleanouts are created for the convenience of accessing both lateral and vertical drains in people’s homes.

Sewer cleanouts, however, are believed to be the most essential because this help prevent drains in the house from getting backed up and directing water (dirty water, mind you) back into the house.

Given the special function of a sewer cleanout, it’s imperative that plumbing professionals install it correctly. Your Fox Cities plumbers at Turek’s Plumbing advise homeowners to save up for a sewer cleanout. It can be helpful to have a cleanout installed if there are repetitive blockages in the drainage system. If you’re having difficulty with your plumbing system, contact Tureks Plumbing today! 

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

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Spring Cleaning for Drains and Sewers

Wednesday, March 11th, 2020

Spring Cleaning for Drains and Sewers - Tureks Plumbing ServicesAs spring approaches, homeowners can’t help but think about spring cleaning from purging the garage to decluttering drawers. One aspect of spring cleaning that people tend to forget is the drains. Like everything else, your home’s drains also need to be cleaned.

Plumbing professionals highly recommend having your drain cleaned around this time of the year. You need to go through your home and mark every drain from the sink to bathtubs. Cleaning the drains will help decrease the chances of clogs. The following tips will help you take the right step to prevent your drains from getting clogged:

Start with the Kitchen

Your kitchen sink is put through a lot. All those plate scrapings going down the drain can accumulate and result in a clog. You want to make sure that when washing dishes, you throw any leftover food into the trash, no matter how small it may be. This will help prevent your kitchen drain from clogging. 

The Bathroom

The shower drain can clog up easily if you don’t take care of it. All the hair that gets caught up in it, as well as residues from shampoo and soap you use, can easily get caught up in the drain. To prevent this from happening, Sacramento HVAC company and plumbing experts recommend that you set a hair catcher on the drain, so it catches all the gunk. You won’t have to worry about having to get it cleaned out of the drain due to it clogging up.

Outdoor Drains

Outdoor drains are a bit trickier as they need to be inspected properly. You need to check the roots and everything around them so you can see if the pipes are damaged or not due to them as well as check for leaks. You may want to consult the professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services to inspect the drains in your home. Not only will they inspect the drains, but they can ensure that preventative measures are taken to stop clogs. 

Should you Consider Commercial Cleaners to Clean Drains?

Commercial cleaners can help you unclog drains, but they result in more problems in the long run. First off, the cleaners don’t actually tackle the main problem causing the clog, instead act as a temporary solution. The chemicals in the cleaner are also harmful to the environment. Instead of relying on commercial cleaners, contact the best plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, for professional plumbing services.

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