How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

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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Reasons Not to Use Liquid Drain Cleaners

September 8th, 2021
reasons not to use liquid drain cleaners - Appleton plumber

Top Reasons Not To Use Liquid Drain Cleaners at Home

When your drain starts to become slow, your instinct may be to grab the liquid drain cleaner instead of calling a local plumber. Many Appleton plumbers can agree that liquid drain cleaners can cause more harm than good. In this article, our Tureks plumbers share the top reasons not to use liquid drain cleaners.

Say No to Liquid Drain Cleaners

Our experienced plumbers have a problem with chemical drain cleaners. To start, they are not suitable for cleaning drains, although marketing and advertising may have you convinced otherwise. There are plenty of other remedies for drain cleaning. Here’s why you should avoid liquid drain cleaners at all costs:

Drain Cleaners Are Toxic

The chemicals in commercial drain cleaners, particularly off-brand and low-cost variants, are extremely dangerous. The gases are harmful to your health and will irritate your nose and eyes. These fumes linger in the area where the chemical was employed for a long time after it has been disposed of. It’s safe to say these chemicals should not be going down your bathroom sink or shower drain. 

Drain Cleaners Damage Your Pipes

Chemicals in drain cleaners can cause harm to pipes while purportedly “cleaning” them. Hydrochloric acid is the primary ingredient in liquid drain cleaners. This solution eats at your pipes and can eventually cause serious plumbing problems. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, a plumber in Sacramento, agree that you would spend more money replacing your damaged pipes than you would have a professional come out in the first place.

Drain Cleaners Hurt the Environment

As we mentioned before, drain cleaners include harmful chemicals. As a result, they are extremely bad for the environment. Bottle residue ends up in landfills and can contaminate water, harming fish and other species.

Not an Effective Solution

What is the source of your drain clog? Drains can back up due to problems in the sewage system or broken pipes. Dumping chemicals down the drain will not solve these issues, just prolong them. Don’t waste your time or money on liquid drain cleaners. Contact Tureks Plumbing for professional plumbing services. Our team is happy to help, no matter what the problem. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing solutions in the surrounding areas of Appleton, Wisconsin.

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Choosing the Right Bathroom Toilet

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

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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Finding A Fox Valley Plumbing Company You Can Trust

August 11th, 2021

Tips On Finding A Fox Valley Plumbing Company You Can Trust in 2021

appleton wi plumber

Whether you’re new to Appleton, WI, or you’re searching for the “best plumbing company near me” you’ll need some pro tips for finding the best of the best. Most of us have experienced bad customer service at some point in our lives. We want to help you avoid wasting time and money on your home services. Follow these tips on finding a Fox Valley plumbing company you can trust.  

Get Referrals

If you belong to a church, or you have new friends at work, ask who their plumber is. They may have a few plumbers to recommend. Turn to your Fox Valley community. They can even share their experience with these professionals with you so you can determine who exactly to hire for the job. You may even ask who your office hires for plumbing emergencies, and perhaps you can hire the same plumber for the repair or installation you require for your home. Another person you can ask a referral from is your real estate agent; he/she may know someone who services your area and whose quality of service they can vouch for. We may know someone who can help too/

Go the traditional route

Check out the yellow pages. This works if you already have a phone directory at home, although nowadays all directories are online as well.  

Go online and search for a local plumber

The World Wide Web holds a bounty of information to help you find a Fox Valley plumbing company. Look for companies that have websites where you can further check their service menu and find out how to easily contact them. One thing to be mindful of is the longevity of the company, typically in the about page, there is information on how long they have been in business. It is important to find someone who is experienced in fixing the problem you are having. Not only that, but our friends at Gilmore Heating and Air, a plumber in Sacramento, say to be sure that the plumber you choose is licensed, and insured. If you live in Appleton or any surrounding area, and you’re in need of a reputable plumbing company, just type in this keyword, and automatically you’ll be presented a long list of plumbing companies and individual plumbers in the entire Fox Valley area.

Check online forums and review sites

This is if you wish to know what kind of service you can expect from the plumbers you’re considering for your home. Neighbors often frequent in these forums and they discuss their experiences with popular plumbers in the area. You can also present questions in these forums when you join, and typically, members reply promptly and provide information that could help you. Review sites like Yelp or Google Plus allow you to see an unbiased look at customer experiences. Last, check their rating with the better business bureau. BBB will tell you if there are any complaints on the company that you may not find on other review sites. 

Contact Tureks Plumbing Services

Now that you’ve read these tips on finding a Fox Valley plumbing company you can trust, you can find the best plumber for your home! Tureks Plumbing is proud to serve the Fox Valley area would be honored to be your choice Fox Valley plumbing company. So, whether you are remodeling your kitchen, considering a bathroom remodel, or need plumbing services, Turek’s can help you. 

 

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

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6 Common Bathroom Plumbing Problems

August 4th, 2021

Common Bathroom Plumbing Problems In 2021

Fox Valley homeowners or any homeowner for that matter can always encounter plumbing problems. Even the most well-kept households can experience plumbing emergencies from time to time. If the time ever comes where you need emergency plumbing services in Fox Valley, then contact Tureks Plumbing. Our team of professional plumbers will diagnose and repair anything. It helps if you know how to handle some of the most common bathroom plumbing problems. This can help prevent even bigger problems in the future. Read below to learn more about common bathroom plumbing problems we see. 

Clogged Toilet 

If you have got a plunger lying around and have not been able to solve the problem, that can be frustrating and embarrassing. But don’t worry, as a licensed plumbing company in Fox Valley for decades, we have seen it all. There is no shame in having to call a plumber for a clogged toilet. Other concerns we hear often is the flush isn’t working properly or the water level may be insufficient or overflowing. The toilet may become unusable after a short time if this problem is left unaddressed.

Running Toilet

 Do you hear water running even when the toilet is not in use? This isn’t only annoying because of the sound it makes, but it may also cause leaks and flooding, and can lead to a serious waste of water. Often times a running toilet is an easy fix but if your toilet is older and continually having issues, this could be a sign it is time to replace it.  

Leaking Faucet

Water continues to drip no matter how hard or tight you turn the tap or knob. Dripping faucets or showerheads are a source of significant water loss if you let the problem go, and will cause a spike in your water bill. One of the more common issues we have seen come up when it comes to bathroom plumbing problems in Fox Valley. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, who offers faucet repair in Saint Paul, recommend getting this fixed immediately. A leaky faucet can add up fast.

Slow Drain 

The water on the floor, sink, or tub may take a very long while to subside, or puddles often remain no matter how much time has passed. This is never a plumbing emergency but can be a sign of a larger unseen plumbing problem so we encourage you to have your slow drains inspected and even a camera inspection is done by a plumber if needed. 

Water Pressure Problems 

Water pressure may be too low, making it hard to get a sufficient amount of flow from the faucet or shower. This may be caused by various reasons such as water supply issues, built-up sediments inside the faucet, or leaking pipes.

Leaking Pipes 

Puddles under a pipe, flooding, insufficient water supply, and water leaks are some of the glaring signs that there might be a hole or clogging in your pipes. If you find the hole, you may cover it up with plumber’s tape or a suitable adhesive while waiting for the plumber to arrive. Leaking pipes can turn into a huge disaster. Make sure you contact Tureks Plumbing for emergency plumbing services in Appleton, WI. 

Contact Tureks Plumbing Services

Some of these common bathroom plumbing problems can be addressed with temporary fixes. But if they are ignored they may turn out to become bigger and costlier issues. Be careful DIYing any pipes, valves, and other components in your plumbing system without consulting with a professional plumber. The best approach is to call your trusted plumbing contractor and let their team assess the damage, come up with recommendations and implement the solution that they have suggested and you have agreed upon. After the work is done, make sure to schedule routine maintenance in the next few months to detect and address issues early, if any, and to avoid similar problems in the future.

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

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How to Fix a Leaky Sink Trap

July 28th, 2021

Tips for How to Fix a Leaky Sink Trap

Why Is My Faucet Dripping?

Without your plumbing’s P-trap, your drains and sewer would be absolutely foul. The amount of stuff that would go through your drains would allow odors and combustible gases to remain in your kitchens and bathrooms. If you aren’t sure what a P-trap is, it’s the U-shaped pipe under the sink, bathtub, shower, etc. P-traps must be cleaned on a regular basis. If you have a leaky sink trap, you’ll need to contact a 24/7 emergency plumber before your plumbing problem worsens. You can also read the article below for tips on tips for how to fix a leaky sink trap. 

How to Detect a Leaky Sink Trap

Since this leak only occurs when water drains from the sink, you may not notice it until water begins to pool on the bottom of the kitchen cabinet. First, check the P-trap by filling the sink, opening the stopper, and watching the trap as the water drains if the bottom of the cabinet. 

Water tends to run along the pipe and drip from the lowest position when it leaks from one of the connections. Start by wrapping your fingers around the pipe just under each connection and look for water pooling around your fingers to determine which connection is leaking. You’ll know what to do next once you figure out which link is leaking.

Tightening a Loose P-Trap Connection

If a P-trap compression collar leaks, it may just need to be tightened with some pliers. Pro tip: don’t over-tighten it, or you’ll end up stripping the nut. Also, make sure that everything is aligned properly before tightening anything. If you need assistance with any residential plumbing services, contact Tureks Plumbing Services in Appleton, WI.

Disassemble the Trap to Stop a Leak

If tightening the connection does not stop the leak, try disassembling and reassembling the connection. When you disassemble it, you’ll most likely discover why it’s leaking. It could be because the pipe leading into the collar isn’t straight, the sink trap isn’t entirely installed, or the pipe leading into the collar is too short.

The washer connection is a plastic ring that slides along the end of the connection and has a taper that fits securely within the female end. If this is installed at an angle or is installed upside down, simply reinstall it correctly, and the leak will be stopped. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a company that offers plumbing repairs in the Twin Cities, MN, recommend replacing the washer with a new one if it is damaged or nicked.

The sink drain doesn’t always line up exactly with the waste outlet in the arm, and the P-trap connections aren’t always straight. If tightening these crooked connections doesn’t stop leaks, you may have to deconstruct the trap and rebuild it with extra lengths of tubing to make the connections straight.

If you need help fixing a leaky sink pipe, please contact Tureks Plumbing! We serve the Fox Valley cities: Appleton, Kaukauna, Menasha, Neenah, Oshkosh, and more! Our plumbers look forward to working with you.

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Tips for Saving on Your Water Heating Bill

July 21st, 2021
tips for saving on your water heater - Appleton WI

Easy Tips for Saving on Your Water Heating Bill

Owning a house is expensive, and heating water is much more expensive than people realize. If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills, take a look at your hot water heater. You may be surprised to learn that heating water accounts for about 18% of your utility bills. That makes it the second-largest energy expense in the home (after HVAC). So, adjusting your hot water heater setup and usage patterns could result in significant savings. In this article, our Fox Valley plumbers share a few easy tips for saving on your water heating bill. 

Reduce the Temperature on the Thermostat

One of our favorite tips for saving on your water heating bill is adjusting the thermostat that can be found on your water heater. We recommend adjusting the thermostat if it’s set higher than 120 Fahrenheit. With every 10 degrees lower, you’ll save about 3-5%. 

Repair Leaky Faucets

Do you have a dripping faucet that you’ve put off fixing? Consider the following: A slow leak faucet wastes about 3,153 gallons of water each year. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumber Maplewood, if the leak is coming from the hot water tap, you’re not only paying for the wasted water but also for the energy used to heat it. The same could be true for water heater repairs. If your water heater is acting up, search for the best plumber near me, so the problem doesn’t get worse. 

Low-Flow Mode

It’s one thing to put off a bathroom remodel, but don’t put off replacing ancient plumbing fixtures. Replace your showerheads and faucets with low-flow ones if they were made over 20 years ago. Modern showerheads consume half the amount of water that older showerheads did. 

Try to Use Less Hot Water!

Make an effort to be more careful of how much hot water you use. Shorten your showers, wash your laundry in cold water, and only run the dishwasher when it’s full. Examine your daily routine and look for ways to reduce your use of hot water. Even cutting your thirty-minute shower could reduce your water waste and energy bills! 

Use a Timer for Hot Water

It is a waste of money to heat water that will not be used. We suggest installing a timer on your hot water heater so you can save the most energy. If you reside in a region where energy prices are higher during peak hours, you may even use it to turn off your water heater during certain times. 

Purchase a More Energy-Efficient Water Heater

Traditional storage tank hot water heaters have an average lifespan of 15 years. If yours is towards the end of its useful life, consider upgrading to a more efficient water heater. Tankless hot water heaters and solar hot water heaters are significantly less expensive to operate. Aside from the financial advantages, you’ll appreciate the fact that tankless hot water heaters have an unending supply of hot water. Need water heater replacement in Appleton, WI? Contact Tureks Plumbing Services! We offer the best plumbing services in the Fox Valley areas. 

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How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost?

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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Tips for a Clog-Free Summer

June 29th, 2021
tips for a clog-free summer

Tips for a Clog-Free Summer in Appleton, WI

Summertime life may be carefree and simple, but that is not the case for plumbers and many homeowners. Summer can be a time of clogged drains and overflowing toilets. The reason for more plumbing service calls during the summer season is pretty simple. Kids are home throughout the day, which can result in more plumbing problems, says our Appleton plumbers. During this season, families are more active, so it’s likely that more things are getting dumped down the drain or disposed of. In this article, we share plumbing tips for a clog-free summer in Appleton, WI! 

Watch What You Flush

According to Tureks Plumbing Services, more frequent clogs are a side effect of using water-saving toilets. As a result, people must be more cautious about what they flush. Wet wipes, while convenient, might block sewage systems. Even flushable items will not dissolve as fast as toilet paper. Trust us when we say that if you constantly put “flushable” wipes in the toilet, you will have plumbing problems. 

Flushable wipes aren’t the only item you have to watch for. Paper towels, napkins, and even too much toilet paper can clog your toilet. When flushing the toilet, our Fox Valley plumbers recommend keeping the handle down to ensure a full flush that pushes everything through.

Take It Easy on Your Kitchen’s Garbage Disposal

Being mindful about what you put down in the garbage disposal can help you avoid additional plumbing problems. Many garbage disposals have difficulty grinding up summer staples like melon rinds and corn cobs. Grease from barbecues is another summer clog reason. Never pour hot grease down the drain or garbage disposal. The liquid you pour down combines with the leftover food to harden into a sticky substance. When you use your garbage disposal, make sure it is clear by flushing it with plenty of water.

Don’t Put Your Hair Down the Drain

For a clean, cool summer look, many individuals clip and shave their hair. However, do not attempt to wash your hair down the bathroom drain because the mix of hair, soap, and toothpaste can form an impenetrable clog. Consider placing hair catchers in shower and bathtub drains for persons with long hair. There are plenty of affordable devices that will collect your hair before it goes down the drain. It may be gross, but it will save you money on trenchless sewer repairs.

Bathtub Drains

Bathtubs may be kept clear with a little regular care. According to Tureks Plumbing, dumping a gallon of boiling water down your bathtub drain once a month will help you have a clog-free summer. After that, it’s a good idea to run regular warm water for approximately five minutes simply to keep pushing everything as far down and out as you can. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, a plumber Sacramento, recommends staying away from chemical drain cleaners. They’re not recommended for the life of the plumbing system. In fact, they can cause more harm than good. With each use, they can actually degrade pipelines. Leaks can form over time, causing costly damage and being pricey to repair.

Contact Plumbing Company Near Me

Don’t give up if you wind up with a clogged toilet, sink, or drain. In most circumstances, an experienced, dependable plumber can unclog a clogged drain in a matter of minutes and at a fair price. It is more preferable to have it done correctly than to try to fix it yourself and cause a much larger problem. If you’re in need of plumbing services in the Fox Valley area and beyond, contact Tureks Plumbing Company. Our team of plumbing professionals will fix the problem in no time. 

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