Why Does My Sump Pump Smell

January 17th, 2022

Why Does My Sump Pump Smell

The stench of a noxious sump pump is alarming. Homeowners in Wisconsin want to know whether the stench coming from their sump pump is normal or if it indicates a greater issue. In the majority of situations, repairing a stinky sump pump is simple. A plumber Appleton Wisconsin should be called in certain cases.

Reasons Your Sump Pump Smells

That’s when Tureks, your plumbing company Appleton Wisconsin, enters the picture! We’ve assembled all the details you’ll need to understand why your sump pump stinks. Due to the fact that sump pumps deal with waste, homeowners want to make sure the scent isn’t out of the norm. With these pointers, the distinctions are easily discernible. However, should there be an emergency, please call your emergency plumber Fox Valley.

What Is The Purpose Of A Sump Pump?

First and foremost, homeowners must comprehend the role of the sump pump in their house and why it is critical that it stay odorless.Your Fox Valley Plumber states, because of the quantity of rain that falls in Wisconsin, sump pumps are very vital. What your sump pump performs for your house is as follows.

Sump pumps are used to collect and transport water away from your property. It can accomplish this with both indoor and outdoor water (water you use on a regular basis). The water is pumped from the pump to a safe water disposal facility, such as a storm drain or a dry well. This keeps your basement from flooding.

The sump pump does this by sitting in a sump basin located at the lowest place in your basement. When water or dirt is pushed into the foundation by pressure, the water naturally migrates to the basin since it is the lowest point. The water then exits your house via one-way valve-equipped pipes and into a secure location.

A fan-like device called an impeller also drives water toward the pipe’s sidewalls, creating a low-pressure zone. As a result, the water continues to flow through the pipe. When it comes to water, the longer it sits, the more issues it poses. Your basement will not be flooded if everything works properly.

When some components of the system go unmaintained for an extended length of time, the sump pump scent emerges. As a result, the next time you contact Tureks, put maintenance at the top of your priority list!

What Is That Smell?

When sump pumps have a problem, they might smell like a number of things. These odors may make your basement stink, causing you to avoid it entirely. Here are some of the most prevalent odors associated with sump pumps.

Gas

The sump pump may emit a gas-like odor. The odor seems to be gasoline at first, but it is really coming from the sewage. When the sump pump dries up, sewer gas escapes into the house, causing the odor to enter your home. This gas is derived from trash and consists of both benign and dangerous gasses. In a nutshell, be careful of a gaseous odor!

Mildew

Mildew is a frequent odor associated with sump pumps. Mold and mildew develop within the sump pump because it is continually wet. As with anything that gathers water, you’ll want to keep the sump pump as dry as possible without compromising its operation.

Sulfur

Perhaps you can smell rotten eggs—or, more precisely, sulfur—from your sump pump. Sump pumps are known to emit a bad stench for a variety of reasons, the most prevalent of which being dirt build-up.

Waste

Here’s one that’s self-evident: waste. Waste enters the sump pump on a regular basis, which is unpleasant to think about. As a result, waste materials accumulate over time. Clogs may occur as a result of these build-ups. In most situations, cleaning the sump pump is all that is required to eliminate the odor.

Why Your Sump Pump Might Smell

Although the preceding part delves into some of the reasons for a sump pump odor, it’s critical to understand all of the facts. Sump pumps keep your plumbing system clean on a daily basis, so know where to go if anything goes wrong. Some of the most prevalent reasons for a sump pump odor are listed below.

Sump Pump is Dry

Sump pumps dry out after a lengthy period of usage. Because the water no longer covers the air from the gasses, the sewage gas that gathers in the pump is discharged into the residence. In the best-case scenario, this results in a bad odor. Sewer gas leaks, on the other hand, may create health concerns and pose a fire threat in the worst-case scenario.

Water that has become stagnant

Sump pumps catch water before they dry up. For long periods of time, this water rests in the basin with little movement. Mold and mildew thrive in this atmosphere. This growth doesn’t affect the pump’s performance, but it does emit a musty, disagreeable odor.

The Sump Pump is Dirty

Your sump pump’s odor might be due to how unclean it becomes over time. Because the sump pump deals with waste, dirt and other material gather rapidly. Though this may not produce an immediate problem, the build-up over time might develop a blockage.

The Accumulation of Waste

The scent of the sump pump is caused by waste build-up. A sump pump is often utilized in a house, which means it gathers waste on a daily basis. When you use a sump pump for a long time, the waste accumulates. This, of course, produces a nasty odor to pervade your house.

Cracked or Shattered

A sump pump odor, in the worst-case situation, indicates a cracked or damaged section of your plumbing. This component might be found in your plumbing system or on the sump pump itself. In either case, your sump pump will be severely harmed.

How to Get Rid of the Smell of a Sump Pump

We can examine some of the remedies now that you understand the reasons for a sump pump odor. Professional sump pump maintenance is required once a year, but there are several things you can do at home to minimize the terrible odor it generates. Here are some of the most effective remedies for these frequent problems.

Repair Any Cracks or Leaks

Sealing the gaps and leaks is one of the best ways to decrease the sump pump smell, which is comparable to mildew. This applies to all of your home’s plumbing. Check for cracks or leaks in all of your pipes and water systems and cover them with waterproof sealant. Also, look for fractures on the sump pump or in the concrete around the system. This removes any extra moisture that might contribute to mildew or mold formation.

Make Sure the System is Clean

This solution for a sump pump odor may seem straightforward, but cleaning your sump pump requires both physical and mental effort. The process entails removing the pump from the sump pit (wear lots of protective gear) and cleaning it with warm water. Depending on how much water the environment gathers over time, homeowners should clean their sump pump every six months or once a year.

Bleach Solution That Has Been Diluted

Here’s another way to get rid of mildew odors. To get rid of mold and mildew, use a diluted bleach solution. You just need to pour a little amount of this solution into the sump basin. Even if mildew isn’t to blame for the stench, the bleach solution will assist to refresh the system and decrease smells.

Fill With Water

The simplest solution for a sump pump odor produced by a dry basin is to replace the sump pump. Simply refill with water and you will immediately notice a change! Sewer gasses are always present in the sump pump system, but they are difficult to detect when there is a layer of water on top of them. In a sense, the water filters the gas particles, removing the odor as well as the harmful side effects of sewage gas.

Maintenance

Performing preventive maintenance on your sump pump system is one of the greatest methods to avoid a sump pump odor. You can achieve this by cleaning your sump pump on a regular basis, evaluating the general condition of your plumbing, and having your system inspected by a professional once a year. It’s the most effective approach to eliminate smells!

Make An Appointment With a Professional

When you can’t seem to get rid of the sump pump odor, it’s time to see a specialist. Tureks skilled plumbers are available to assist you with any sump pump issues you may have. We’ll get rid of the odor and solve any issues we notice along the way.

Please Get in Touch With Us

In Appleton, Tureks wants residents to feel at ease in their homes. That means living in an odor-free environment with a sump pump that really works! The stench of a sump pump doesn’t have to bother you, so follow these steps to get rid of it as quickly as possible.

Please contact us or visit our website or Facebook for more information on our plumbing services. We provide plumbing guidance to Fox Valley residents on a number of concerns. You may get by without a plumber on occasion, but when you do, Tureks is there for you!

Bathroom Remodel Costs

January 9th, 2022

Bathroom Remodel Costs

Your bathroom is a frequently used facility. So it’s no wonder that bathroom renovations are at the top of many homeowners’ priority lists, from soaking in the tub on weekends to ensuring your visitors have a decent powder room to use. Your Appleton bathroom remodel company has put together a must know list of bathroom remodel costs.

What Does it Cost to Remodel Your Bathroom?

Although bathroom renovation may seem to be a problematic endeavor, good planning may help you achieve the style and feel you want for your house. With this guide, learn more about the advantages of upgrading your powder room, guest bathroom, or master bathroom. Bathroom remodels typically cost $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the size of the space and the goods you want to replace.

What to Consider

Take a few moments to consider which features of a bathroom makeover are most important to you and what you would like your Fox Valley Plumber to install. Here are some crucial things to think about:

Why Are You Remodeling?

Do you want to modify the design of your room, or do you think it may be more functional following a renovation? Make a list of your most important goals explains Plumber Appleton Wisconsin.

What is Your Schedule?

Some homeowners believe their bathroom renovation is long overdue and can do all of the tasks at once. In other cases, implementing incremental changes rather than a complete rebuild may be a preferable option.

What Are Your Finances?

Before deciding which improvements to make, you’ll need to know how much money you have.

Cost-Affecting Characteristics

It’s essential to consider aspects that might affect the ultimate cost while planning your project. For example, many homeowners consider the following features:

Bathtubs

The price of a tub is determined by its size and design. Installing a standalone bathtub, for example, may result in higher plumbing expenditures. Gilmore Heating, Air and Plumbing, Sacramento heating company, also explains it is important to take into account whether or not your water heater is up to snuff.

Vanities and Cabinets

The most cost-effective selections are the stock vanity options, which are the most affordable. The cost is affected by the size, top type, cabinets, and material utilized. Small areas and luxury master baths may benefit from custom cabinets.

Countertops

The cost of renovations will be heavily influenced by the materials used. For example, the stone is attractive and long-lasting, although it is more expensive than other materials. Prefabricated countertops may be used in various settings and can help you save money.

The manufacturer, style determines the cost of a faucet and material utilized.

Sink

The price of pedestal sinks, drop-in sinks, and designer designs differ. Drop-in sinks are often a cost-effective alternative that comes in various forms.

Toilet

It is easy and inexpensive to replace an old toilet. The cost of primary and luxurious models varies, although installation expenses are often minimal.

Tub Liner

This is a significant improvement option if you can’t afford a more extensive update or if you don’t want to go without a shower for too long.

Tile For Walls and Floors

Bathroom floor tile options include ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. The cost of the materials will be the determining factor, although the natural stone is frequently more expensive to install because of its difficulty in cutting and placing. Wall tile selections range from natural stone and bare ceramic to glass and mosaic types that simulate raw materials.

To learn more about bathroom remodel costs contact Tureks today!

Signs to Replace Your Water Heater

January 5th, 2022

Signs to Replace Your Water Heater

We’re guessing you spend at least 30 minutes a day worrying about your water heater. Wrong—we hope you’ve got more important things on your mind. Most of us don’t give our water heater a second thought until we turn on the shower or sink and there’s no hot water. The fact is that most hot water heater issues develop decades before the equipment breaks. So here are some signs to replace your water heater from you plumber Appleton Wisconsin.

How to Tell You Need a New Water Heater

Here are a few clear indicators that your hot water heater isn’t operating correctly and needs to be repaired–don’t worry. Tureks, water heater repair Appleton Wisconsin provides water heater repair services across the Appleton area.

Water of Poor Quality

You may learn a lot about your water heater’s functionality by checking the hot water as it flows out of the faucet. Minerals, silt, and other debris may build-up at the bottom of your water heater’s tank over time, resulting in rusty, muddy water. Water heater replacement Appleton WI states, you may also notice unpleasant smells or metallic tastes in your water.

Leakage

One of the most prevalent water heater issues is leakage. Your emergency plumber Fox Valley is here to help. If you observe a pool of standing water near your water heater, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible. A leaky water heater may signify an internal breakdown of the device that needs immediate care, depending on the cause of the leak. You risk floods and serious water damage to your property if you don’t.

Unpredictable Temperature

Do you find it difficult to regulate the temperature of your hot water? Even if you don’t touch the faucet handle, does the temperature change from hot to cold? Another clue that your hot water heater is on its way out is inconsistency in the temperature of your hot water.

You may be able to solve the problem by altering the water heater’s settings in certain circumstances. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to contact Tureks for a water heater repair or replacement.

It Takes a Long Time for Water to Heat Up

If your water takes a long time to heat up, it might be due to a problem with the thermostat or heating element. This might also suggest a silt buildup in the tank. It may be time to replace the unit if changing the thermostat or heating element, or flushing the tank, does not cure the issue.

Your Water Heater Is Making Strange Noises

A water heater is not uncommon to create noise, particularly when the burner unit is activated to heat the water. However, some noises, such as creaking, rattling, pounding, knocking, or whining, should be avoided since they might signify problems. You may try flushing the tank to remove any silt that’s generating the noise, but if it doesn’t help, the heating element will need to be replaced.

Age

Age isn’t simply a number when it comes to your water heater. Even a high-quality, well-maintained water heater, like any mechanical item, can not last indefinitely. So while an older water heater may not show indicators of difficulty, it is more likely to have a problem or fail completely.

Most water heaters have a lifetime of 10 to 15 years. If your unit is between these ages or older, Tureks can provide you with high-quality water replacement services right here! It doesn’t get much better than that–upgrading to a new unit will improve system efficiency while also potentially lowering your energy expenses.

How can you tell if your water heater is malfunctioning?

Call the experts at Tureks in Fox Valley, WI!

Contacting the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services is the best approach to find out whether your water heater is in good operating order. Our skilled experts can promptly identify the majority of common water heater issues and conduct excellent repairs or, if necessary, install a new water heater. Get in touch with us now to learn more about our water heater services!

Common Holiday Plumbing Disasters

December 22nd, 2021

Common Holiday Plumbing Disasters 2021

As the Christmas season approaches, you could find yourself spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Tureks Plumbing services, plumber Appleton WI, has put together a list of common holiday plumbing disasters that you may strive to prevent during family gatherings to help keep your Appleton home safe.

Plumbing Mishaps During the Holidays

Listed below are some common holiday plumbing Disasters. Your plumber Appleton WI values the integrity of your households plumbing system and is aware that it is an afterthought for most, especially during the holidays. However, we urge you to read these common issues so you know what to look out for.

No Hot Water

Investing in quality water heaters is necessary if you want hot water. If you have guests coming to your home, you should consider having a tankless water heater installed by our experts at Tureks Plumbing Services, water heater replacement Appleton WI. This will help ensure that you can still use hot water to do the dishes right after three people have showered.

If your water heater is working, but you have an issue with running out of water sooner than you may be used to, it may be as a result of sediment in your water tank. To fix this, you have to flush the unit to clear the debris. Our Fox Valley water heater repair techs can help with this.

However, if your water heater is already broken, then you need to call in a professional for a water heater replacement.

Clogged Kitchen Sink

It seems logical to pour grease into your drain or garbage disposal because it’s a liquid, but this doesn’t mean you should do it. The grease may harden and end up clogging your whole drain. It may also cause an awful odor to come from the drain. If you would like to dispose of any cooking grease, Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, Sacramento plumbing services, recommend that you let it harden first before you dump it in your trash.

Broken Garbage Disposal

The holiday season brings with it a lot of food, which translates to lots of leftovers. So, instead of throwing small pieces of vegetables into the disposal, chuck them in the bin. There are various items that your garbage disposal can’t grind down. Therefore, throwing them in the disposal could cause damage. Some of these items include coffee grounds, grease, potato peels, or eggshells. After dumping your leftovers in the trash, you should ensure you take the trash out immediately after you’re done to prevent your home from smelling.

However, if your garbage disposal is clogged or not running, you should find the reset button (usually located at the bottom of the unit) and press it. If the disposal still isn’t working, you should get a Fox Valley plumber to repair it for you. Having a clogged garbage disposal is not only inconvenient but also smelly. If your disposal is not broken, but you notice that it takes a longer time to do its thing, then there might be a chance the blades need to be sharpened. An easy and quick way Appleton plumbers advise homeowners to do is to run a couple of ice cubes through the garbage disposal.

Broken Washer or Dryer

If you have family staying with you for a long period of time, it’s likely that they’ll be using your washer or dryer. To ensure that both your dryer and washer are functioning properly, simply inspect the appliances. Ensure that there are no cracks in your hose lines. Additionally, you should inspect the seals and line connections. If you do not have stainless steel hoses, you should consider getting them as they are the best. The last thing you want your guests to do is to pay for dry cleaning.

Clogged Drains

It’s not uncommon for your plumbing lines to get clogged when your family is in town. If you notice that your drains are clogged, you should have a plumber from a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, come to fix it for you. Of course, you can try Drain-O and other pipe cleaners, but it may not fix the problem. If that does not work, you can then try snaking the pipes. When you have clogged drains, you can always contact an emergency plumbing company in Appleton, WI. Our team will restore your plumbing system in no time!

For any plumbing disasters that may choose to strike during the holidays, contact Tureks Plumbing Services.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in December, 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Steps to Winterize Your Plumbing

December 14th, 2021

Steps to winterize your plumbing - Tureks Plumbing

Steps to Winterize Your Plumbing 2021

Winter is one of the most difficult seasons of the year. The hardest aspect about winter is the dip in temperature to dangerously low levels. These very cold conditions are difficult not only for you, but also for some of the equipment in your house, states Plumbing company Appleton WI.

The plumbing in your home, for example, is one of the locations where very freezing temperatures may quickly cause harm. Given the significance of plumbing in your house, it’s critical to make sure it’s not damaged by the next winter.

Tureks Plumbing, Plumber Appleton WI, team recommends the following steps to winterize your plumbing.

5 Steps to Winterize Your Plumbing

Making sure your plumbing is ready for the extreme drop in temperatures is not only good for the continued supply of your water, but it also saves you the money you will spend hiring a plumber in Appleton, Wisconsin, for repairs.

Prepare Your Outside Faucets for the Winter

Plumbing maintenance Appleton WI advises that you drain anything that holds water, such as your swimming pool, sprinklers, outdoor taps, and cooling units. Turn off the water in valves and other items that aren’t going to be of use during winter. Hoses should also be drained and stored away for the winter.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Fox Valley plumbers know that the cold will damage your pipes if left exposed for long. Find all your exposed pipes in places such as the garage, attic, and crawl spaces and make sure they are well insulated. You can use an insulation foam on the inside and outside of the pipes to protect them against prolonged freezing conditions. You can also use a towel or pool noodle instead of the insulation foam.

Another great form of insulation is the use of heat tape, which protects your pipes from freezing. Take great care when using heat tape though, as they have been known to cause fires. Make sure that your insulation is thorough because the cold can affect the gaps.

Drain Your Cooling Unit

It helps to drain your cooling unit of all water since you are not going to be using it during the cold season. Also, make sure to shut off all water valves in preparation for the winter.

Keep the Heat on When Traveling

If you are traveling for winter, leave your thermostat at about 55 degrees, advises St. Paul MN heating company, McQuillan Home Services. While it may not look economical since no one will be using the heat, you will be saving a lot of money in repair costs for frozen and damaged pipes.

Make sure to shut off the main water supply to your home and turn on all the taps to drain all the water from the pipes. You can use an air compressor to blow excess water out of the pipes. Taps should be left on.

Flush your toilets and remove as much water as possible from your home if you are not going to be spending the winter there. In instances where you can’t remove the water, such as in your toilet bowl, use antifreeze so that the water does not freeze and crack the toilet.

Fix any Cracks and Leaks

Cold air can see in through the cracks causing the pipes to freeze. Use caulking or spray foam to fix these cracks.

Making your plumbing winter-ready is an important part of maintaining your home. Make sure to do this before winter sets in. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services. Contact us today to learn about the additional home services we provide!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in December, 2019 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

December 8th, 2021

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Wisconsin is known for having a lot of harsh weather and temperatures that are far below freezing. Unprotected water lines m how to prevent frozen pipes ay freeze in freezing weather, causing a major mess and expensive damage if they burst. Fortunately our plumber Appleton Wisconsin has offered a few simple steps you may take to safeguard your pipes and avoid a disaster.

How to Prevent Freezing Water Lines

What causes burst pipes? It’s not the ice in the pipe that causes it to burst, contrary to common opinion; it’s the pressure that grows. Emergency plumber Appleton Wisconsin explains, the pipe will stay intact if the water lines thaw before the pressure grows too high. However, if they remain frozen for an extended period of time, or if they freeze, thaw, and refreeze many times, the unfrozen water in the pipe will finally build up enough pressure to break the line. Thousands of gallons of water might spill out of the pipe before anybody detects the breach resulting in pipe repair Appleton WI.

Walls and Doors Should Be Insulated

Best heating company Sacramento, Gilmore Heating & Air, states that if you have a problem with frequent pipe freezes, try insulating walls and doors, adding weather stripping to doors, and making sure windows are securely sealed. The best long-term solution is to keep the room heated, even if it is more costly.

Pipes Should Be Insulated

Another alternative is to have lining pipes Appleton WI insulate water pipes in unheated areas of your house (e.g., attic, crawlspace, and garage) using foam insulating sleeves before the cold winter arrives. If you don’t have any foam covers, old towels and blankets may be used instead. Keep an eye out for any fire threats.

Heat Tape or a Pipe Heater

A water pipe heater or heat tape, which delivers heat directly to your water pipes to avoid freezing, may be installed (or hired to have it installed by a professional plumber). Most hardware shops will have these goods.

Close your garage door

Be sure to close your garage door on cold days to offer an additional layer of protection from the cold air and wind if water lines run through your garage or the outer wall that connects to it.

Allow Warm Air to Flow Into Tight Spaces

Leave the doors open on the cupboards beneath your sinks and let the water trickle from the faucets when the temperatures are forecast to be very cold. This will enable warm air from the rest of your house to flow around the pipes, preventing them from freezing, and the dripping water will keep pressure in the lines from building up.

Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees if you’ll be traveling or away from home for a prolonged amount of time during the chilly months. Shutting off your main water supply and opening each faucet to let the water drain from the pipes is also a good idea.

Pipes Should Be Rerouted

Your supply lines and water pipes may also be rerouted away from unheated portions of your house, such as the garage and outside walls, by a skilled plumber.

If Your Pipes Freeze, What Should You Do?

To begin, turn off the house or business’s main water supply valve.

Then turn on the faucet into which the pipe pours water (if you can determine the location of the frozen pipe). This will release some of the system’s pressure and enable the water to flow more freely when the temperature changes.

Next, if feasible, warm up the room. Open doors to let extra heat in, open heating vents, or switch on a space heater if possible.

You may next use a hair drier or a space heater to attempt to reheat the pipes around the frozen region. Hot clothes placed around the pipe might also be helpful. Always keep an eye on the warming process and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal usage.

Water spilling from thawing pipes should be avoided near electrical cables and appliances. The combination of water and electricity is very harmful.

What happens if the pipeline bursts?

Shut off your main water supply and contact a plumber if your pipe is leaking or has broken. Water damage may be minimized by turning off the water supply.

We make every effort to offer up-to-date and accurate information, but this material may include mistakes or information that is inappropriate for your circumstance or your equipment. The resources on this website are intended to give general information. Tureks Plumbing Services disclaims any and all responsibility arising from the information given. Always review your equipment’s operating handbook before attempting to repair or alter plumbing, electrical, or other equipment in your home or company, and only do so if you are competent.

Feel free to contact us with any questions, concerns or service requests.

Expert Tips on Preventing Frozen Pipes

November 23rd, 2021

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Winter 2021

I expert tips on preventing frozen pipes n Wisconsin, winters can be fairly pleasurable; snow days provide the ideal setting for a range of entertaining outdoor activities. Extreme cold weather, on the other hand, may cause issues; many houses must deal with keeping frozen pipes from restricting the water supply, but it can also cause pipes to break, and will then be in need of Pipe Repair Appleton WI. It’s a good idea to understand how to protect your pipes from ice up when temps dip into the negatives to save additional costs and hassles, as well as to prevent your pipes from busting. The following are some of the most important recommendations from your Plumber Appleton Wisconsin:

Install insulation in attics and crawl spaces where pipes run through.

Pipe insulation can be purchased from local hardware stores or home centers. Don’t be quick to buy just any type of insulation, however; get professional advice from plumbing maintenance Appleton WI on how thick the material should be to effectively prevent your pipes from freezing up when the weather turns unexpectedly cold.

Heating cables and tapes would be good alternatives to insulation foam.

Fox Valley plumbers say that the best choice is a heating cable with a built-in thermostat and UL label. This cable will automatically turn the heat on when it’s needed; that means you don’t have to worry if you’re out of town or fast asleep when temperatures suddenly drop.

Open Doors

On days when it’s unusually cold and there’s a real risk of pipes freezing, opening the doors to the cabinets under the kitchen and bathroom sinks will help. Sacramento Plumbing Contractors at Gilmore Heating and Air, states the conditioned air provided by your home’s HVAC system will allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. That warm air will help neutralize the cold a bit so you don’t have to worry about your pipes freezing. Drain the exterior pipes — especially if you’ll be going away for a few days.

Place some insulation sleeves around your exterior pipes.

Allow faucets to drip slowly to keep water flowing through the pipes. Movement will prevent the water from turning into ice. Just keep the faucet open — this way, you’ll be able to monitor if water has frozen inside and you need to introduce heat to the pipes to melt it (a hair dryer with a high heat setting will do the trick). Also, keeping the faucet open will ease the pressure inside the pipe that can cause it to burst.

Contact Tureks Plumbing Today For Frozen Pipe Repair

Apply these tips to your home and you can be sure that the harsh cold of winter will translate to savoring hot cocoa by the fireplace, sledding down the hills, and building snowmen instead of arranging for costly repairs due to frozen or burst pipes.

Be sure to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.

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

Water Heater Problems That Should Be Immediately Addressed

November 18th, 2021

Water Heater Problems That You Should Be Concerned About 2021

Most water heaters are constructed to last a long time, with lifespans of up to 12 years or more. However, how long your water heater will stay in excellent working order is determined by a variety of things. Our Appleton Wi plumbers explain that the quality and manufacture of the unit, as well as how the system was built, will all have an impact on the operation of your water heater over time. Incidents such as an earthquake, flooding, fire, or even building improvements may all have an influence on the unit’s stability.

Conducting regular maintenance and check-ups is one crucial practice that can extend the life of your water heater. By checking every now and then and making some improvements as necessary, you can detect issues early. When addressed early you have the opportunity to handle it before the problem becomes more serious.

But some problems can’t be fixed anymore and the last resort is to replace the unit. You’ll need to know (or better yet, ask plumbing experts’ advice about) when to replace a water heater. Watch out for the following water heater problems that should be immediately addressed and will most likely call for a replacement.

Old age

First, our Fox Valley Plumbers explain that ideally, water heaters should be assessed for replacement 10 years after the manufacture date. Our friends over at Gilmore Heating, Air and Plumbing, Sacramento Plumbers, recommend to check the manufacturer’s sticker on the tank to determine the age of your water heater.

Leaking hot water

Water leaks or water build-up around the water heater is a tell-tale sign of trouble. Turn off the unit’s power the moment you notice this and call a professional. It’s important to act immediately to alleviate the leaking, prevent flooding, and avoid further damage not just to the unit but also to the entire property.

Water discoloration

Rust in water indicates corrosion in the tank’s interiors or the water pipes, especially if the piping is galvanized. If the rusty water doesn’t clear up after repeatedly draining the hot water, then the tank may have a serious rust problem. Another cause of discoloration is sediment build-up. Sediment collecting on the bottom of the tank should be prevented through regular flushing. However, even this may not be helpful anymore as the water heater becomes older.

Noise

Sediment that has hardened on the bottom of the tank often causes banging, popping or rumbling sounds while the water heats up – a sign that your water heater is already ready to retire. Hardened sediment can cause leaks, holes and increased energy consumption as the unit needs to work harder and longer when trying to heat the water.

Change in the taste of water

If you drink water straight from the tap, a change in taste or texture can indicate trouble. A metallic taste to your water is an obvious sign that the water heater may already be deteriorating.

If you are dealing with any of these water heater problems in Fox Valley, contact Turek’s Plumbing. Schedule an appointment to have one of their qualified plumbers out as soon as possible!

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

Kitchen Backsplash Trends To Consider For A Kitchen Upgrade

November 9th, 2021

Are You Considering a Kitchen Remodel? Here Are Trends In Kitchen Backsplash 2021

Perhaps you’ve recently moved into an older home and want to make it truly your own by making a few changes. Alternatively, you may have updated some aspects of your home, making others appear obsolete. Making a new backsplash is an easy way to enhance your kitchen. What are the most recent kitchen backsplash trends? Our Kitchen Remodel Appleton WI professionals share below.

Kitchen Trends In Kitchen Backsplash

When it comes to kitchen backsplash, there are plenty of trendy and traditional materials you can choose from. To name a few, slate, granite, travertine and glass have been enjoying a fair amount of popularity among designers and homeowners in 2021. These materials are closely followed by wood and metal typically used as accents.

Our Appleton Kitchen remodel specialists share that tumbled stone backsplashes and anything with pastel hues have considerably lost their popularity in the kitchen design world.

Size and shape

Overall, larger ceramic tiles have become more popular for backsplashes. Many designers use tiles ranging 1″ X 3″ to 4″ X 12″. Some designers combine different tile shapes, colors and sizes for a more dramatic effect. You might also want to vary the depth of the materials used in your kitchen backsplash to add dynamism. Also, more and more designers are opting for vertical patterns over horizontal ones.

Using large tiles for small kitchens (and vice versa)

Can you use large tiles for the backsplash to make your small kitchen appear larger? It is possible to use large tiles to make your small kitchen larger but there are a lot of other things to consider. For one, you have to remove the clutter around your kitchen. Second, you need to use the tiles to create a horizontal line.

On the other hand, if your kitchen looks too big and you want to trim its size visually, you can use small tiles and colors.

Here, there is no single rule of thumb to follow. You can use large or small tiles no matter what the size of your kitchen is.

Matching the backsplash with other kitchen elements

The general consensus among designers is that the backsplash color should complement other elements in the kitchen including the cabinet, floor and countertop. That does not mean that you need to find an exact match. Rather, you should choose a color for the backsplash that complements the color of the other elements.

White subway tiles

Although white subway tiles remain a popular option among designers and their clients, many are veering away from these because of the basic look these offer. If you are leaning toward a more classic and clean look, you can use these tiles.

Similar materials for backsplash and countertop

A lot of designers avoid using the same materials for both as these can make the kitchen look overwhelming. It is possible to avoid this by using exotic stones.

Extending the backsplash up to the ceiling

If the wall where the backsplash is going to be placed has no wall cabinet, you can extend the tiles up to the ceiling, depending on your taste and the overall design of the kitchen.

Inspiration from Europe

One trend that is popular among Europeans is reducing the space allocated to wall cabinets, allowing the backsplash to take center stage. A lot of Europeans are also favoring the installation of tiles up to the ceiling because these are easier to clean and are more hygienic.

One good rule of thumb when choosing a backsplash color and design is to consider the kitchen lighting. The more natural light you have in your kitchen the darker you can go. If your kitchen is lacking in natural light, you will want to try and lighten up the space with lighter colors.

If you are considering a kitchen remodel, contact the remodel professionals at Turek’s Plumbing Services and let them help you start designing your beautiful new kitchen today!

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

Bathroom Remodel Frequently Asked Questions

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.