How to Unclog Your Shower Drain

April 25th, 2019

how to unclog your shower drainHow to Unclog Your Shower Drain

Usually, the shower drain will start to gradually clog up. One of the first signs you may notice regarding this problem is when water starts reaching ankle-deep while you take a shower. When this happens, you may be at a loss regarding which method you should use to fix the problem. Follow the tips suggested below by the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services to learn how to unclog your shower drain.

Assemble Your Tools

Before you start, you need to gather and assemble everything that you need to complete this task. The tools you are likely to require may include screwdrivers, a straightened coat hanger or a drain claw. You may also need white vinegar, baking powder, latex gloves, and a plastic garbage bag. This plastic garbage bag will be a receptacle for the debris you retrieve from the drain. Place all these items in a bucket so that they are within easy reach while you work.

An experienced plumber in Appleton, WI also recommends that you get a plumber’s snake, a toilet plunger, a chemical drain cleaner, and pliers. Add these to your collection of tools and you should be well on your way to a clean shower drain.

Snoop Around

Get a screwdriver and use it to remove the drain strainer cover. Next, take the flashlight and shine it into the drain. Peek inside and find out whether you can see the clog blocking the shower drain. If you can see it, put on the latex gloves and use a drain claw to pull the clog out of the drain. If you don’t have a drain claw, then a straightened coat hanger with a hook made using a pair of pliers will suffice for this task.

Once the visible clog is out, run some hot water and observe whether the drain is working properly.

Time for Some Pressure

If the water is still draining slowly, a Fox Valley plumber suggests that it may be time for you to switch to the next strategy in your fight against the clog. This other measure entails using a plunger to apply some pressure within the drain pipe so that the clog can hopefully be dislodged.

Apply some petroleum jelly on the rim of the plunger so that it can form a tighter seal on the drain opening. Pump the plunger multiple times for several minutes so that pressure accumulates and pushes the clog down the drain. Run some hot water and see if the water drains swiftly.

Snake It Out

If the plunger doesn’t produce the desired outcome, switch to using a manual plumber’s snake to break up the clog. Experts at Tureks Plumbing Services suggest that you first push the snake gently into the drain until it stops moving. That is your cue that the clog has been reached. At this point, crank the handle so that the head of the plumbing snake can cut through the clog and force the fragments to move down the drain.

Once again, run hot water through the drain. Repeat using the plumber’s snake if the water is still draining slowly.

Plan a Natural Attack

You can also use natural ways to unclog your blocked shower drain. One of the best natural remedies involves the use of hot water, baking soda and vinegar. For this approach, you first pour boiling water down the drain and then pour a cup of baking soda and another of vinegar into the drain.

This mixture will react with the clog and break it up into smaller pieces. Flush more hot water down the drain and chances are the water will drain fast.

Another natural method entails adding water pressure to the power of vinegar and baking soda. For this technique, Fox Valley plumbers advise that you start by pouring a cup of baking soda and another of vinegar down the drain. After that, place a drain cover on the drain opening so that water cannot flow into the drain. Once that is done, run some hot water and leave that water to sit for about 10 minutes.

This water will create a pressure difference between the interior of the drain and the air above. After ten minutes, remove the drain cover and the onrush of water into the drain may have sufficient power to dislodge the clog and push it through the drainage system.

Launch a Chemical Attack

The last trick up your sleeve when all the measures above don’t unclog the shower drain is a chemical drain cleaner purchased from a convenience store near you. Fox Valley plumbers caution that you should follow the usage instructions provided so that you don’t put yourself or the drainage system at risk. Repeat the use of a chemical drain cleaner after a day or so until the drain is working properly.

Contact Tureks Plumbing Services if the suggestions above if you’re still having a drain problem. Our experts will perform a thorough inspection and design the most cost-effective treatment plan to unclog the shower drain so that you can enjoy your showers without fearing that the water will flow out and flood the nearby rooms.

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Why Is My Toilet Bubbling?

April 17th, 2019

why is my toilet bubbling?Why Is My Toilet Bubbling?

Is your toilet bubbling or gurgling at random times even when you haven’t flushed it? You may be having a bigger problem on your hands… The following discussion suggests some of the remedies that you can use to fix this plumbing problem on your own before you call the professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services for help.

Why the Toilet May Be Bubbling or Gurgling

The root cause of a bubbling toilet is negative suction pressure inside the drain line. Fox Valley plumbers explain that this negative air pressure causes an airlock within the drain. Consequently, this airlock may be released, resulting in the air traveling back to the toilet.

The air then bubbles through the water in your toilet and that is why you will hear that random gurgling or bubbling sound. In some cases, the toilet may flush itself. Scary, huh?

Several remedies may fix this problem, depending on what exactly is causing the clog and where that clog is located in your plumbing system. Try the options below and see whether the bubbling stops.

Plunge the Toilet

The plumbers at Tureks Plumbing Services suggest that the first step to take to resolve the problem is by plunging the toilet. This should be done after blocking all the nearby drains, such as the sink, the shower drain, and the bathtub drain.

If you don’t block the other drains, the pressure created by the plunger will escape through those drains instead of acting on the clog that is responsible for the airlocks in the system. Use duct tape to seal or block the other drains and pump the toilet plunger 10 or more times. Be observant and find out whether the gurgling or bubbling sounds emerge again.

Check With Your Neighbors

A plumber in Appleton, WI also says that the clog triggering the bubbling in your toilet may be in the municipal sewer line. If that is so, then the problem will not be unique to your property alone.

So, you should contact your neighbors and find out whether any of them has also noticed that their toilet is bubbling or gurgling. If your neighbors are having the same probelm, then you should notify the municipal sewer company. They will send someone to check the sewer line and fix it at no cost to you.

Use a Plumber’s Snake

Another remedy that could fix the problem is by using a plumbing snake to remove any clog in the toilet drain. Plunging the toilet only works to dislodge smaller clogs. Using a plumber’s snake is a better option when the clog is tougher.

You can use either a motorized or a manual plumber’s auger/snake to unclog the toilet. Manual snakes are usually good when the clog is located close to the drain opening since the snake can only travel to a maximum of 15 feet.

Motorized augers are better for clogs located deeper in the system since they are longer and attack clogs with more power. You can rent this motorized plumbing snake from at a home improvement store near you instead of spending much more money to hire a plumber to unclog the toilet.

The head of the motorized plumbing auger is unlikely to pass through the toilet bowl drain, so you may need to remove the toilet and pass the auger through the floor drain. A Fox Valley plumber advises that you also run the plumbing snake through the cleanouts located at regular intervals along the sewer line in your yard if you suspect that the clog is farther out in the system.

If you fail to locate or open the cleanout, contact Tureks Plumbing Services and one of our plumbers will come over and help you to unclog the pipe.

Inspect and Clean the Vent Stack

The vent stack allows sewer gases in the plumbing system to escape to the atmosphere. If anything blocks the vent stack, negative pressure can build up inside a drain and trigger the toilet bubbling that you have been hearing.

To check the vent stack, climb onto the roof and tie a flashlight onto a wire or rope. Lower the torch into the stack and peer down to see where the blockage is located. Tree leaves and small animals (rodents, for example) are the most common culprits when vent stacks are blocked. Use a straightened coat hanger to break through the clog, or use a garden hose to force the clog down into the drain. A plumber’s snake can also clear this clog in the vent stack.

Call a plumber in Appleton, WI for help if you are queasy about the prospect of climbing onto the roof in order to check and clean the vent stack.

In most cases, one of the four options above is usually sufficient to put an end to the bubbling or gurgling in the toilet. If none of those solutions work, contact Tureks Plumbing Services for professional help. A sewer pipe may have collapsed, or tree roots may have partially blocked a sewer line. We are equipped to trace the problem to its root and fix it so that the abnormal sound you are hearing from your toilet is put to an end.

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7 Signs You Need to Replace Your Sump Pump

April 10th, 2019

Signs You Need to Replace Your Sump Pump - Tureks Plumbing Services7 Signs You Need to Replace Your Sump Pump

The sump pump in your basement plays a crucial role in evacuating any water leaks into this lowest point in your home. However, this trusted equipment can fail and result in serious water damage to your property. It is therefore advisable for you to educate yourself about some of the warning signs of a possible sump pump failure so that you can take action in time to avert a disaster. Here are the top signs that Tureks Plumbing Services advises you to watch for in order to replace your sump pump before the worst happens.

Types of Sump Pumps

Submersible Sump Pumps: Submersible pumps are submerged inside the sump pit. They are designed to withstand water damage while submerged in the pit. One major advantage of submersible sump pumps is that they operate noiselessly because the water surrounding them muffles any noise produced by the motor. Additionally, the motors of these pumps tend to be more powerful than those in pedestal pumps, and this makes them the best choice for locations where flooding is most likely to occur. The pumps are also out of the way, so you will not be inconvenienced as you rearrange things in your basement. However, the typical lifespan of submersible sump pumps is shorter than that of pedestal pumps.

Pedestal Sump Pumps: These pumps derive their name from the pedestal on which their motors sit above the sump pit. The pump has a hose that drops into the sump pit and the pump uses this hose to draw the water out. This pump is easier to service because the motor is in an accessible location outside the sump pit. However, plumbers in Appleton, WI say the pump isn’t as powerful as the submersible versions. So, you would be well advised to avoid installing this pump in your basement if the possibility of flooding is high in your area. Also, the pump can be an inconvenience while you rearrange things in your basement. Pedestal pumps are also noisy while operating.

Signs That Your Sump Pump Is Due for Replacement

1. Age

All machines eventually reach the end of their service life, and sump pumps are no different. Talk to a Fox Valley plumber about replacing your sump pump if it has exceeded seven years in service. This discussion is necessary because sump pumps rarely last beyond 10 years, so you are better off not taking chances with an aging pump.

2. Excessive Vibration

Sump pumps usually start vibrating when their impellers have been bent by debris that has been sucked into the pump. Bent impellers are no longer balanced on the shaft, so that throws the operation of the entire system out of whack. The strain caused by the imbalance of the forces exerted on the shaft is a recipe for serious pump problems later on. It is hard to straighten a bent impeller to its original dimensions, and that is why the best course of action to take is to replace the pump. Avoid this premature replacement by installing a filter to keep debris from being sucked into your sump pump.

3. Nonstop Operation

Switch malfunctions are the biggest cause of a sump pump that runs nonstop. For example, plumbers from Tureks Plumbing Services frequently find that the pump switch is unable to connect to the power source, thereby preventing the pump from cycling on. Alternatively, the float arm may be unable to move freely if the pump shifts within the sump pit. These switch defects account for a significant portion of sump pump defects.

A more serious problem that may prompt you to consider replacing the sump pump is if that pump keeps running nonstop when no other mechanical or technical defect can be identified. In such a case, the pump may have inadequate capacity to handle the load of water in your basement.

4. Visible Rust

Another reason why you should consider replacing your sump pump is when you see rust from this equipment. Rust could be coming from corroded terminals. Iron bacteria can also cause visible rust, so you should ask a plumber in Appleton, WI to take a look before you replace the pump prematurely.

5. Pump Runs for Abnormally Long

A properly sized pump normally runs for variable durations depending on how quickly water is accumulating in the sump pit. However, some pumps may run for an inexplicably long time before turning off. Such a scenario may point to the fact that the pump is undersized for the task at hand. For example, the water discharge network may have several bends that require a lot of power from the pump if the water is to flow through the pipes to the discharge point. Alternatively, the distance over which the pump is required to push the water may be so long that the pump could be straining to perform that task. The best option in such a case is to consult Tureks Plumbing Services so that an appropriately sized sump pump can be installed in the place of the undersized one.

6. Irregular Cycling

You should also have your pump checked if it keeps cycling irregularly. For example, does it start and run for just a few minutes, and then restart shortly after even when there hasn’t been any heavy rain? The float switch may be improperly set or there could be an electrical defect. A plumber in Appleton, WI can take a look and advise on the way forward, which may include replacing the pump.

7. Frequent Power Outages

It may also be necessary for you to consider replacing your sump pump if you have been having frequent power failures. Such incidents expose the electrical components of the sump pump to so much stress that the entire unit may soon fail. Install a surge protection system for your entire home and the sump pump before you procure a new pump.

It may be costly to replace your sump pump, but have you considered the likely cost of dealing with water damage to your property if the sump pump fails as a heavy bout of rain falls in your area? Don’t take that risk. Contact us at Tureks Plumbing Services for an assessment of the health of your sump pump. We shall fix what can be fixed or advise you to buy another pump if our experts realize that your existing pump can no longer be relied upon to evacuate water from your basement.

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Why You Should Hire a Plumber for Your Bathroom Remodel

April 3rd, 2019

Why you should hire a plumber for your bathroom remodel

Why You Should Hire a Plumber for Your Bathroom Remodel

Are you planning to remodel your bathroom so that you can boost the comfort and functionality of the space? Read on and discover why it may be advisable for you to hire a Fox Valley plumber during that remodel instead of attempting to do all that work on your own.

Setting Up the Drainage System Is Complex

You may get away with not hiring a plumber in Appleton, WI, if your bathroom remodel is minor. However, the stakes are much higher if you want to move plumbing lines or add a new feature. In such a case, you need the expertise of an experienced plumber on your side so that the layout of the new drainage system can be determined with as much precision as possible.

In this way, you will never have to deal with the problems that come with an improperly designed bathroom drainage system. For example, some homeowners who opt out of hiring a Fox Valley plumber during major bathroom remodels have ample time to regret their mistake when they realize that they can’t enjoy the remodeled bathroom because its drainage is sluggish or a major leak develops.

You May Need a Professional Opinion

A bathroom remodel provides an excellent chance to get up close and personal with the different pipes in order to assess their condition. As a layperson, it may be hard for you to make an accurate assessment of the condition of those pipes.

Consequently, you may proceed with the project and then have to rip everything up months later in order to fix a defective pipe. Avoid these extra costs and inconveniences by getting help from plumbing professionals.

Experienced Fox Valley Plumbers

An experienced Fox Valley plumber will bring all his or her accumulated knowledge and experience to bear during your bathroom remodeling project. For example, he or she will know exactly where to look for existing defects before installing the new bathroom fixtures.

Our plumbers in Appleton, WI have the best tools to get the job done right. You don’t want to go and buy specialized tools just to complete the bathroom remodel and leave the tools unused for years, do you? Hire a plumber and have peace of mind that your project will be done properly in the shortest time possible.

Tureks Plumbing Services Has Your Back

A lot can go wrong during and after a bathroom remodeling project. For example, you may accidentally drop and break the new sink you want to install. Or, the new toilet may shift and damage the plumbing pipes attached to it (resulting in major water damage).

All the costs of such unforeseen incidents will be on you if you completed the bathroom remodeling project on your own. However, Fox Valley plumbers are usually bonded and insured. So, the plumber’s insurance policy will cover mishaps that could occur during or after the project is complete. This is as long as it is within the period covered by the warranty.

As you can see, it makes a lot of sense to work with an experienced professional from Tureks Plumbing Services during your bathroom remodel project. If your budget is an issue, then find ways to divide the work. In this way, you will get the best of both worlds without taking any avoidable risks with this important section of your home. Contact us today and we will help you to get the bathroom remodeling project done cost-effectively.

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Plumbing Mistakes New Homeowners Make

March 28th, 2019

plumbing mistakes homeowners make - tureks plumbing services

Top 7 Plumbing Mistakes New Homeowners Make

The hassles associated with moving into your first home can drain you to the bone. It is therefore not surprising that you may easily make several rookie mistakes as you undertake some plumbing repairs to fix problems that went undetected when you were checking the home before buying it. Here are the top plumbing mistakes that the plumbing professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services regularly encounter with inexperienced first-time homeowners.

Thinking Any Tool Will Do

Many homeowners don’t have a sufficient collection of plumbing tools to attend to every plumbing defect that may arise. The temptation to improvise when you want a quick fix to a plumbing problem can, therefore, be high.

However, Fox Valley plumbers advise that you avoid using any makeshift tool when tackling plumbing problems because you risk making the problem worse or injuring yourself. For example, not any random tool that you find can cut a metallic plumbing pipe. Only undertake a plumbing project in your new home if you have the right tools for that job.

Taking Long to Fix Minor Defects

Another common mistake that plumbers in Appleton, WI see is that homeowners neglect to fix plumbing problems that they regard as minor. For example, you may not pay sufficient attention to a dripping faucet because you’re busy settling in. 

Those plumbing issues that you regard as minor can worsen and be costly to fix later on. For example, the dripping faucet can cause water damage to the floor and walls. A running toilet can flood. The list goes on and on. It is therefore advisable for you to fix each plumbing problem you notice as soon as possible so that it doesn’t get a chance to get any worse. If you can’t, then call a Fox Valley plumber for help.

Not Shutting the Water Off

It is very easy to get distracted by the task of putting together the different tools and materials that you will need for a plumbing project, and you forget what professionals consider to be Plumbing 101; turning the water off before you start.

Many homeowners confess that they learn this the hard way after getting started and having water gushing into their faces at high pressure. The resultant water damage from this mistake can be enough to make some people vow never to undertake any plumbing DIY project.

Don’t let this happen to you. Learn from the mistakes of others and shut the water off before you begin fixing any plumbing defect. Tureks Plumbing Services recommends that you locate the shutoff valve of the particular plumbing fixture that you want to fix so that the rest of the home can still have running water. For example, your kitchen faucet has a shutoff valve somewhere underneath the sink. The toilet also has a shutoff valve somewhere behind the toilet tank. Use the main shutoff valve located outside the home if the repair you want to undertake affects the main water line, or when you can’t locate the shutoff valve for the defective fixture.

Mismatching Plumbing Materials

One major shortcoming of DIY projects is that many homeowners don’t have enough experience to know that some materials don’t go well together. For example, did you know that you can trigger large scale water pipe corrosion if you join two pipe sections with a metallic connector that is not compatible with the pipes you are joining?

Talk to a plumber in Appleton, WI before you buy plumbing repair materials. That way the professional can guide you about which material is compatible with your home’s plumbing system. This guidance will save you from installing incompatible materials that can end up creating bigger problems.

Doing Unpermitted Work

The plumbing code usually stipulates which plumbing projects can be done without a permit and which ones require a permit. It is vital that you ascertain whether the project you want to take on requires you to get a permit from the authorities or you don’t need one.

Otherwise, unpermitted work can result in serious issues later on. For example, you may find it hard to get a buyer for that home if the pre-purchase inspection uncovers unpermitted work. You could also be prosecuted and fined if the authorities discover that you didn’t obtain the necessary permit required. It doesn’t hurt to talk to a Fox Valley plumber as you plan your plumbing project just to be sure that you won’t run into any problems later.

Careless Mistakes While Soldering

Some plumbing projects, such as repairing pipe leaks, may require you to do some soldering. Be extra careful if your project requires you to bring out your soldering torch. For example, ensure that you have covered or removed anything flammable from the work area before you start. Additionally, you should never set the torch down when its flame is still lit. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times while you work. If you aren’t sure about your ability to implement all the necessary safety precautions, simply call a plumber in Appleton, WI for help.

Not Asking for Professional Help

It is okay for you to fix as many plumbing problems in your home as you can. Our team at Tureks Plumbing Services make it our duty to share useful information that can empower you to resolve plumbing problems without calling an expert each time a problem crops up. However, we always caution homeowners to know their limitations. Always ask for professional help when situations go out of your expertise. This is serious enough to warrant repeating; contact Tureks Plumbing Services each time you are faced with a plumbing problem that you are unable to fix on your own. We are available 24/7, so don’t put your safety and property at risk when we can sort the problem quickly.

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Top 6 Trenchless Sewer Repair Benefits You Should Know

March 20th, 2019

Trenchless sewer repair benefits

Top 6 Trenchless Sewer Repair Benefits You Should Know

Needing sewer line repairs on your property usually triggers groans from homeowners because of the inconvenience. However, new trenchless sewer repair technology is now available and you can opt for this modern way of fixing sewer line defects. Here are some of the key benefits of trenchless sewer repair that you can consider.

Trenchless Sewer Repair Is Less Invasive

Traditional sewer repair methods were a nightmare because of all the disruption that it would cause. For example, a large section of your yard can be dug up in order to fix a damaged sewer pipe.

Trenchless sewer repair has provided a solution to all this mess. In this method, only one or two access holes are dug and the repair is completed without further damage to your landscape. Ask a Fox Valley plumber about trenchless sewer line repair if you need sewer repair done.

Trenchless Sewer Repair Requires Less Time

Another major advantage of trenchless sewer repair is that less time is required to complete the project. An expert at Tureks Plumbing Services explains that there are two key reasons for this time-economy of the technique. First, the fact that minimal digging is needed saves time. Where plumbers need several days or weeks to dig up and then return the fill earth into the hole during traditional sewer repair, trenchless sewer repair needs just one or two access holes and the job can proceed swiftly.

The second reason why less time is required is that a significant portion of the work is done by machines rather than by humans. For instance, the process of inserting a liner inside a damaged sewer pipe is achieved using a machine. Traditional sewer repair often requires more man labor. For instance, workers will have to get inside the pipe in order to repair it, and this takes more time.

Trenchless Sewer Repair is Less Expensive

Initially, it is easy to conclude that trenchless sewer repair is more expensive compared to traditional sewer repair. However, a closer analysis shows the reverse to be true. For example, a plumber in Appleton, WI explains that traditional sewer repair may seem affordable but when you factor in the costs you incur to restore your yard to the state it was before the repairs, then the option doesn’t seem so affordable after all. The longer lifespan of the completed trenchless sewer repairs also spreads out the cost and makes the option affordable in the long run.

Higher Quality Work

Trenchless sewer repair utilizes high-quality materials that make the completed job better than traditional plumbing. For example, cured in place pipes (CIPP) are used to fix damaged pipe sections. These pipes have no seams. So, they stand a high chance of lasting much longer than metallic pipes which have joints. In fact, many trenchless sewer repair firms often say the pipes will last for 50 or more years! This is due to the high quality of the materials used during trenchless sewer repair.

Improved Sewer Function

The latest technology that is used during trenchless sewer repair ensures a successful repair. For instance, the seamless CIPP pipes used to remove the places where solids flowing through the system could snag and cause a clog to develop. You should, therefore, talk to a Fox Valley plumber about trenchless sewer repair if you would like a more efficient system once the repairs are completed.

Convenience

As already mentioned, traditional sewer repair takes several days or even weeks to be completed. Can you imagine living in your home for all those days when you cannot use the toilet or shower? You will most likely find a temporary place to live, such as a hotel, while the plumbers complete the repairs. Such inconveniences can disrupt your life and make it harder for you to do the things that you normally do, such as focusing on your job while at work. Trenchless sewer repair spares you those inconveniences since the sewer system will be back to normalcy in a short time.

Trenchless sewer repair may not be appropriate for all situations. For example, the damaged pipe section may be on an undeveloped section of your property where traditional trenching wouldn’t cause any serious damage. It is therefore advisable for you to talk to an expert at Tureks Plumbing Services so that the suitability of this method can be ascertained.  

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How to Clean Your Dishwasher

March 6th, 2019

How to clean your dishwasher - Tureks Plumbing Services

How to Clean Your Dishwasher

You may become increasingly uncomfortable about using utensils that have been cleaned in a smelly dishwasher, and you may be wondering what you can do to fix the problem. The experts at Tureks Plumbing Services share some simple tips and tricks that you can implement to get rid of dishwasher odors.

Scrub the Dishwasher

The drain filter is the most likely cause of the smells coming from your dishwasher. Access this component by removing the bottom rack of the dishwasher and then twist the filter until it comes out of its position. Use a brush to scrub it thoroughly so that all food particles are dislodged from it. Fox Valley plumbers also suggest that you scrub the door and the interior walls in order to eliminate any food particles that may be stuck there.

While at it, remove the gaskets on the dishwasher door and give them a scrub. The gaskets can trap food particles, and over time, those particles will start giving off a nasty smell. Tureks Plumbing Services reminds you to clean the dishwasher racks too. Remove them from the dishwasher and clean them from the sink. Scrub them thoroughly until they are spotless.

This thorough cleaning of the dishwasher is likely to get rid of the root cause of the smells. Our friends at Maid for Muddy Paws, who offers cleaning services in Katy Cypress, add that you are less likely to experience the same problem soon after.

Use Vinegar and Baking Soda

The white vinegar in your pantry can come to the rescue once odors start emanating from your dishwasher. Plumbers in Appleton, WI recommend that you place a cup of this vinegar on the upper rack of the dishwasher. Make sure your dishwasher is empty before you use this remedy. Next, run a full cleaning cycle. The vinegar will break up all the food particles that could have caused the smell.

The beauty of using vinegar is that its strong smell will quickly dissipate as your dishwasher dries once you open it. Similarly, the odors will also be long gone by the time the dishwasher dries.

For additional sanitization, sprinkle some baking soda over the entire bottom section of the dishwasher. A cup will suffice for this purpose. This time around, run the dishwasher at the hottest setting for the shortest time possible. The heat will make the baking soda to dissolve, and your dishwasher will be odorless at the end of that cleaning cycle.

Refer to the User Manual

Another way to get rid of the odors coming from your dishwasher is by reading the troubleshooting section of its manual. Fox Valley plumbers recommend this step because all manufacturers include specific steps that you can take if you notice odors coming from your dishwasher.

For example, the drain hose may be partially blocked, hence trapping water there and triggering smells with time. Improper drain hose installation can also gradually trigger odors since water from the sink can back up into the drain and remain stagnant there until odors develop. Tureks Plumbing Services, therefore, suggests that you read the troubleshooting chapter and take the suggested steps if the dishwasher remains smelly after you have cleaned it using the methods described earlier.

An electrical problem can also trigger an odor to come from the dishwasher, especially when there is a poor connection. Check the junction box under the door of the dishwasher. Call an expert, such as an electrician, if you suspect that an electrical defect may be responsible for the odor.

It may be time to involve the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services if the smells remain even after you have tried the solutions above. A clog may be further along the drain, and our plumber will locate it in no time. Schedule a service call today so that the inconvenience of the dishwasher odor can be eliminated.

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8 Kitchen Trends in 2019

February 27th, 2019

kitchen trends in 2019 - Tureks Plumbing Services

8 Kitchen Trends in 2019

2019 is well underway and you may wish to know which kitchen trends are on so that you pick one for your upcoming kitchen remodel. Here are eight stunning kitchen trends in 2019 that will get your creative juices flowing as you plan that kitchen remodel.

Kitchen Trend #1: Concealed Vents

Nothing sticks out like a sore thumb more than a range hood that is exposed within your kitchen. The hot trend as the year begins is that of concealed range hood vents. Such features give the kitchen a seamless look that will have you loving this space in your home!

Kitchen Trend #2: Wood and White

Another trend that is going to gather momentum this year is a kitchen that has two tones, such as wood and white combined. As an example, picture everything below the countertop as being made from wood with white trim, and then everything above the countertop is white, especially the open shelving used in lieu of upper cabinets.

Kitchen Trend #3: Curated Collections

Curated collections are also going to be a big trend in 2019, if the reports by plumbers in Appleton, WI are anything to go by. People are now opting to keep their rare handmade collections, such as vases and crocks, out in the open. These collections can turn your cooking space into an amazing display of diverse precious pieces.

Kitchen Trend #4: Industrial Countertops

Chances are high that you will be seeing a lot of textured countertops this year. For example, the countertop may be made from concrete and have splotches or a patina that makes the countertop look rusty. Such stunning designs will increase as people get tired of the glossy finishes in kitchens.

Kitchen Trend #5: Matte Black Cabinetry

Black matte is captivating, and this finish is promising to take 2019 by storm. To get its full splendor, select a countertop that contrasts with the black matte finish. A brighter color is recommended for this purpose so that the uniformity of the cabinetry can be broken and brightened.

Kitchen Trend #6: Mixed Metals

Brass is no longer going to be lonely in kitchens during 2019. It is now official; metals are now being mixed to create a stunning look. For example, you can have a faucet made out of copper, as well as a brass lampshade hanging just above your centralized kitchen counter. Mixed metals bring out the best in each other, and your kitchen is the better for it!

Kitchen Trend #7: Forged Iron Shelving

Another kitchen trend that plumbers in Appleton, WI are beginning to see more of is forged iron shelving. Forged iron is making a comeback as a material of choice in kitchens, and black is riding this wave too as the go-to color for this trend. This combination creates an elegant yet edgy atmosphere in kitchens.

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Common Touchless Faucet Problems

February 20th, 2019

touchless faucet problems - tureks plumbing srvices

Common Touchless Faucet Problems

Are you considering installing touchless faucets in your home? Read on and discover some of the common issues that these kinds of faucets have so that you make an informed decision about buying and installing touchless faucets.

Touchless Faucet’s High Initial Cost

Touchless faucets use advanced technology to operate, and this technology makes the initial cost of the faucets to be high. They are certainly more expensive than the traditional faucets unless you consider the high-end versions of the traditional faucets. This high cost is also compounded by the technical help you will need to install the touchless faucet. The device requires an electrical connection in order to power the sensors upon which the faucet depends for its operation. That installation cost adds to the total cost of acquiring the touchless faucet.

Fixed Settings on Touchless Faucets

Some models of touchless faucets don’t come with a provision that allows you to customize the settings for the user. For example, many of the touchless faucets are designed to dispense only warm water. This means that you will be stuck with those settings, whether they are suitable for your needs or not. However, experts at Tureks Plumbing Services reveal that some newer models of touchless faucets some with a remote control unit or other ways through which a user can tweak the settings.

Energy Consumption

Touchless faucets either use batteries or are connected to the electricity supply in your home. You need to be mindful about how the faucet is powered as you select a model to buy. For example, some battery-powered touchless faucets use rechargeable batteries while others use batteries that need to be replaced periodically. Generally, the rechargeable batteries are a better option since they will save you from incurring a cost to replace the batteries from time to time.

Plumbers in Appleton, WI also reveal that touchless faucets that use electricity are becoming more common. However, these versions impose an extra load on your power supply, so your energy bill will increase when you opt for this type of touchless faucet. Any power outage also means that you will not have access to water when you try to use the faucet.

Accidental Activation of Touchless Faucets

People who have pets and young children may need to think carefully before buying and installing touchless faucets in the home. This is because pets and kids can unintentionally activate the faucet. For instance, pets may walk into the path of the sensors and cause the faucet to activate and discharge water. This not only wastes water but power as well.

Fox Valley plumbers also caution that young kids can also create a game out of activating the touchless faucet. Therefore, homeowners need to teach the kids to refrain from misusing the touchless faucets in the home.

Sensor Malfunctions on Touchless Faucets

Touchless faucets can become unreliable as their sensors age or get exposed to environmental challenges, such as dust. Any malfunction of the sensors means that the faucet will not work. Talk to a plumber in Appleton, WI for recommendations of the most reliable brands of touchless faucets. We will also advise you regarding how easy it may be to get replacement parts for the model you wish to buy.

The common problems above should not discourage you from buying touchless faucets for your home. Touchless faucets make things easy and are simple to use. Always do your research before making a purchase you’ll have to use every day. Involve our experts at Tureks Plumbing Services so that we can help you to select and install these devices correctly. Only then will you be able to enjoy the water conservation, superior hygiene and all the other benefits that accrue from using touchless water faucets.

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Why You Should Hire a Commercial Plumber

February 13th, 2019

why you should hire a commercial plumber - tureks plumbing

Why You Should Hire a Commercial Plumber Instead of a Handyman

Some inexperienced owners or managers of commercial buildings may think that it will be more cost-effective for them to hire a handyman to fix commercial plumbing problems instead of hiring commercial plumbers for those tasks. However, many compelling reasons exist to make the case for hiring commercial plumbers for all plumbing maintenance and repairs in commercial buildings. This article discusses some of those reasons.

The Use of Appropriate Tools

Plumbing problems can be complex. For example, drains can block due to accumulations of grease and fats, or due to solids that were inadvertently flushed. Non-professionals are likely to use the wrong tools to try and fix the problem. These tools may at best not get rid of the problem completely. They may even create worse problems, such as when the pipe is damaged by the improper tools. Commercial plumbers like those from Tureks Plumbing Services, use the best tools for a given problem so that the issue will be fixed without creating additional problems within the plumbing system.

Round the Clock Availability

Handymen don’t specialize in any kind of job, so they are likely to accept any and all kinds of assignments given to them. These individuals get tired and therefore only work within a given timeframe. You are likely to be stuck in case the plumbing system develops a problem outside business hours, on weekends or during holidays.

Fox Valley plumbers are available 24/7 because they know that plumbing problems don’t respect work schedules or holidays. You can, therefore, count on someone from Tureks Plumbing Services coming out to your aid each time you call about a problem. Who doesn’t want such an assurance of help at any time of the day or night?

Plumbing Code Compliance

Good luck to you if you want to rely on a handyman to maintain your commercial plumbing system in accordance with the plumbing code of your area. You risk having the building shut down by the authorities as soon as plumbing code violations are discovered. It is far better to engage a commercial plumber in Appleton, WI so that you are sure that the professional will do everything in accordance with the applicable code in your area. This will save you from the losses associated with closing your building until all plumbing code violations are rectified.

Lasting Plumbing Solutions

Don’t expect anything other than a patched up job from a handyman. For example, he or she will fix a leak by trying different materials around the damaged pipe. It is just a matter of time before that makeshift repair gives way and you have a worse problem on your hands. A Fox Valley plumber will inspect the affected section of the plumbing system and select a repair method that will fix the problem for good. Which would you prefer, the patches of a handyman or the lasting solutions implemented by an experienced commercial plumber?

Insurance

A commercial plumber in Appleton, WI is always insured and bonded. This means that you will be protected in case your property is damaged while the plumber is working. For example, your property may sustain water damage in case a pipe suddenly bursts while the plumber is working. The insurer of the plumber will meet all the costs of fixing the water damage. In addition, the work done by a commercial plumber comes with a warranty. So you will not incur any additional cost in case the repair fails within the warranty period. Handymen don’t provide these protections.

Provision of a Variety of Services

Tureks Plumbing Services is a one-stop center for all your commercial plumbing needs. You will be able to get any service you need, such as plumbing system inspections, plumbing repairs, and maintenance, etc. Such a broad range of services cannot be obtained from a handyman, however, experienced he may be. Fox Valley plumbers undergo extensive training, so they are equipped to provide a wide range of plumbing services.

As you can see, you can save money and time by engaging the licensed plumbers at Tureks Plumbing Services anytime you need plumbing Services in Appleton, WI or the surrounding areas. We’ll design a custom plan so that you never have to suffer a preventable plumbing problem.

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