Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘commercial plumbing’

Common Plumbing Problems In Older Homes

Thursday, April 27th, 2017

Even in today’s digital age, many people are still looking to buy older homes. But often, these buyers are only looking at the surface of the house.

It’s important to look beyond what you can easily see — for instance, check the pipes.

Galvanized Pipes

Plenty of older homes have galvanized piping. A galvanized pipe is made of steel covered with a layer of zinc to protect it. But the zinc erodes from the piping over time, which causes the pipes to fail from the inside. In turn, this leads to different problems like stopped-up toilets and faucets and low water pressure. Sediment will fill the pipes as they corrode, thereby blocking water flow.

Concrete or Cast Iron Pipes

Some older homes have these kinds of pipes. Concrete pipes won’t deteriorate; however, they will shift and move under the home’s foundation. Cast iron pipes, on the other hand, will deteriorate over time just like the galvanized pipes but can eventually disappear.

Lead Pipes

These pipes have a lifespan of a century. Although they wear well, they may leak lead into the drinking water, causing serious health conditions to households.

Copper Pipes

These can be too pricey for home plumbing, but copper pipes are reliable and durable since they are not prone to leaking.

What else to look for?

Thoroughly check the components attached to pipes, water heaters, drains, and other plumbing systems regularly. When they are not maintained properly, huge problems can happen.

A valve on a line might look normal but it may not work well. Just because it is not leaking does not necessarily mean that there’s no problem with it.

How to Manage Plumbing Issues in Older Homes

  • Determine what kind of pipes were installed – Whether the property has copper, galvanized or concrete pipes, let a licensed plumber inspect it. This professional knows if the pipes are still fully functional or already need replacement.
  • Have a professional check the foundation of the property – Aside from the deteriorating pipes, it is also possible that tree roots have strangled the property’s sewer lines. To prevent costly future repairs, ask a certified professional to check the foundation of the sewer lines and septic systems of the property.
  • Renovate – This is the last resort in managing plumbing issues in older homes. Replace the older pipes with new plumbing systems. Also, replace or repair the property’s water lines, drains, vents, and sewer lines.

Prior to buying a house, it’s always best to know and understand the common plumbing problems in older homes. Also, you should have a professional plumber evaluate the property’s current plumbing condition – which is why you should call us today!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Bathroom Remodel, Commercial Plumbing, Fox Valley Plumber, Kitchen Plumbing, Kitchen Remodel Planning, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Sewer and Drain, Uncategorized, Water Efficiency, Water Heater, Water Heater Instillation, Water Heater Repair, Water Pressure | Comments Off on Common Plumbing Problems In Older Homes

Troubleshooting Common Garbage Disposal Issues

Thursday, April 20th, 2017

Consistent sanitary practices must start in the home. Proper waste management must be observed by each and every household member, and this includes the proper usage of the garbage disposal installed under the sink.

What is a garbage disposal?

It is a device installed under the kitchen sink necessary for shredding food and grinding other waste into very tiny pieces, allowing them to pass through the sewerage system.

Essential parts and function of a garbage disposal

  • Hopper Chambers – There are two parts: the upper chamber for storing food waste straight from the sink, and the lower chamber for collecting shredded and pulverized garbage.
  • Insulated Motor – This is necessary for spinning the flywheel and impellers fast enough to obtain processed garbage. This is generally connected to the electrical switch for ease and safety.
  • Shredder Ring – This is the teeth-like shredder located right after the upper hopper chamber. It is the garbage disposal blade.
  • Flywheel and Impellers – These two main parts are responsible for bringing the food waste to the shredder ring. They work hand in hand with the shredder ring to efficiently grind and pound the garbage.
  • Reset button – This is found underneath the device. It plays a very crucial role in troubleshooting an overheated garbage disposal unit.
  • Waste Line Connector – This is where the processed garbage passes through when flushed down the sewer or septic system.

What to do when things go wrong?

When you are well-informed about the different parts and functions of your unit, you’ll generally know how to troubleshoot simple and common garbage disposal issues such as overheating, clogging or jamming, and having no power at all.

It is also recommended that you become aware of the warning signals that your disposal is unable to function properly. Signs include a foul odor, leaks, and a strange noise coming from the unit.

Determine if the problem can be fixed with simple troubleshooting or if it requires professional help.

An overheating garbage disposal unit may simply require pushing the reset button. If resetting doesn’t work, check the source of power. Something might have gone wrong with the circuit breaker.

A jammed garbage disposal can be fixed by helping the impellers move. Before touching the inside of the unit, turn off the circuit breaker for safety. Then you can proceed and try to dislodge the blockage underneath.

A foul odor indicates that the unit may be clogged or blocked. It means that the unit is unable to do its function of grinding food waste into pieces, which is why they don’t get flushed down the drain. This may also indicate that the blades or shredder aren’t sharp enough. Situations like these will need professional services.

Finally, a strange noise and water leaks must also be checked immediately by trained professionals as these signs indicate a much more serious problem. Call us today if you’re having a problem!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Bathroom Remodel, Breaking News, Fox Valley Plumber, Kitchen Plumbing, Kitchen Remodel Planning, Sewer and Drain, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Troubleshooting Common Garbage Disposal Issues

Choosing a Plumber – A Few Important Things to Consider

Thursday, April 6th, 2017

Plumbing troubles and emergencies can arise when you least expect these. And when you encounter these hassles, it is crucial that prompt action be taken in order to prevent further damage.

As such, it is crucial that you call in a plumber that you trust. However, in most cases, homeowners choose a plumber as an afterthought — only when there is a problem that should be dealt with immediately.

The problem with this habit is that you could end up hurriedly scrounging the phonebook or the internet for someone to call, especially if the problem arises during the late hours. And the longer you conduct your search, the more damage the problem causes.

Here are some tips that will make choosing a plumber easier for you, regardless of whether you conduct your search online or get recommendations from friends, relatives or colleagues.

One of the first things that you should look for is a plumber’s license.

That license ensures that the plumber’s credentials are verifiable. Furthermore, a license is a sign that the plumber has invested the necessary resources that make his business legitimate.

Next, check if the plumber has insurance.

If the plumber is licensed, it is highly likely he has insurance since licensing bodies require plumbers to have insurance. However, do not automatically assume that your plumber has one and ask for proof.

Ask if the plumber offers guarantees for his work.

Although guarantees on labor and parts have become an industry standard, again, you should never simply assume.

Inquire if the plumber has received awards or has joined professional organizations. Both are proof that the plumber consistently provides quality work. But apart from quality work, your chosen plumber should also provide excellent customer service. One way to check that is to call the plumber’s office. The best ones will have a person designated to answer customer calls.

It is highly recommended that you get quotes from at least three plumbers.

Upon receipt of these quotes, compare these. Although it is tempting to choose the one that offers the lowest prices, you have to resist. Remember, you get what you pay for.

Whether you conduct your search through your network or online, do not hire a plumber without checking his online reputation. Websites like the Better Business Bureau and Yelp can provide you insights on the quality of work and customer service provided by the plumber. However, do not be discouraged by a few bad reviews. Mistakes and misunderstandings can happen and you should evaluate each individual situation as a unique case. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Commercial Plumbing, Fox Valley Plumber, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Sewer and Drain, Toilets, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Choosing a Plumber – A Few Important Things to Consider

Common Plumbing Issues

Wednesday, March 29th, 2017

Out of sight, out of mind.

Your home’s plumbing system is quietly working in the background, bringing you fresh water when you need it and disposing of waste water.

In an ideal scenario, your home’s plumbing system should be just that, all the time: working quietly and efficiently. But in the real world, plumbing issues can arise when you least expect them.

What are the most common plumbing problems homeowners may face at one time or another?

According to many plumbers, one of the leading issues faced by homeowners are clogs. Clogs can occur in the sewer, sink or bathtub. And although clogs may seem like a large problem, in most cases, these are not.

Toilets often back up. Your garbage disposal system can cause the sink to clog. Fortunately, most of these can be easily prevented by avoiding throwing large foreign objects into the sink, tub, and toilet. And in most cases, a clog can be undone with the aid of your trusty plunger.

However, there are instances wherein you will need some professional assistance.

For example, in severe situations, pipes may need to be replaced or walls or floorings may need to be torn down.

Another common problem homeowners face is related to the sewer and septic tank. This is one problem that, more often than not, requires the attention of professional plumbers. Apart from the stench, septic tank issues can cause damage to your property and cause health problems for your family.

Some septic tank-related problems can stem from clogs. In other cases, the problem arises form issues related to a section of the system’s pipes.

Whatever problem you may be facing, it is critical that you act as quickly as possible.

That can be as simple as using a plunger to unclog your toilet or calling in professional plumbers to assist you.

This is why it is important that you find a reliable plumber who can attend to emergencies even before you need one. Remember: Every second that your plumbing issue is left unattended and unsolved, the more likely that the problem will worsen and become complicated, resulting in further damage and added costs.

Do yourself a big favor and conduct your search for a trustworthy plumber as soon as you possibly can; this way, you won’t be scrambling to find one when you actually need a plumber, or settle for the first one who answers your call during a plumbing emergency.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Commercial Plumbing, Emergency Plumber, Kitchen Plumbing, Kitchen Remodel Planning, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Residential Plumbing, Sewer and Drain, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Common Plumbing Issues

7 Ways to Effectively Prevent and Clear Clogs in Your Drain

Monday, March 27th, 2017

Clogs in the drain are household inconveniences that can be avoided. Since many are easily disgusted by the backflow of murky water caused by a clog in its usual path, it’s important to know what shouldn’t be done in order to prevent these blockages from building up inside drains.

As such, professional plumbers in Wisconsin have listed seven effective ways to prevent clogs below, as well as solutions to clogged drains that you can apply.

Don’t pour cooking grease into the sink.

It may be liquid in form when you pour it in, but an instant change in temperature can cause it to solidify. In Wisconsin, where it’s often cold, grease poured down the sink will harden in drain tubes right away, according to professional plumbers who service Applegate and Fox Valley residents.

Don’t dump coffee grounds in the sink.

Sure, these won’t harden in the drains and can be pushed down by the strong flow of water, but they can build up over time, especially if they get caught in hardened grease.

Don’t flush hair down your bathroom drains.

Hair doesn’t deteriorate and it can get entangled with the different elements present in your drain. Use a drain cover and throw away hair in the trash instead. It’s nasty, but what’s nastier is fishing out a huge hairball from your drain that’s preventing water from flushing away from your house.

If grease is already clogging your drain, the quickest solution to use is boiling hot water.

The hot temperature will turn grease into liquid again and it will mix with hot water and flow down the drain easily.

Another solution for clogs created by grease and soap scum is a solution of baking soda and vinegar.

This solution will corrode clogs and clear the drain. Not only that, baking soda and vinegar have disinfecting properties too, so if your drains are getting to be really stinky, the solution can take care of that as well.

To get rid of soap scum and hair, you can also try lye.

If you’re not familiar with lye, it’s a chemical that is used to perm the hair and it’s also used for soaps. Since it’s potent enough to alter the shape of or even burn hair, it’s effective in dissolving clogs in the drain. Make sure that you only use a small amount of lye because it’s a caustic substance.

For clogged garbage disposals, try filling an ice cube tray with equal parts of vinegar and water. Freeze the mixture of vinegar and water, and when you have ice cubes, dump them in the garbage disposal. The acidity from the vinegar will clean the drain and its chips will scrape grease off the drain walls. 

If you’re suffering from a clogged drain, schedule an appointment with us today!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Commercial Plumbing, Emergency Plumber, Kitchen Plumbing, Kitchen Remodel Planning, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Residential Plumbing, Sewer and Drain, Uncategorized | Comments Off on 7 Ways to Effectively Prevent and Clear Clogs in Your Drain

7 Bathroom Renovation Tips to Consider

Tuesday, March 7th, 2017

If you’re thinking of upgrading the look and function of your bathroom, it’s crucial to look into maintenance considerations to ensure your fullest satisfaction from this project. You need to make sure that with the new style and use you’ll get out of this important investment, you will not be compromised by the more difficult cleaning or safety concerns it may require.

To help you with these, professional bathroom remodelers Applegate and Fox Valley residents hire share seven of the most important bathroom renovation tips to consider.

Choose the right tiles for flooring

It’s best to go with tiles that are non-porous. Not only are they easier to clean, they won’t get stained easily as well. Your best options are glazed and porcelain tiles that have some texture to them – aside from being easier to clean, they’re safer to walk on as well.

Choose the best grout on the market

Non-porous urethane formulas are pricey but they set really quickly, don’t crack, don’t get stained (setting off the nice color of your tiles), and they don’t need sealing.

Use acrylic or hybrid formula caulk with mildewcide

These are much easier to replace though they actually last for a much longer time. You want to make sure that caulking around bathroom equipment looks nice and smooth for as long as possible. Caulking is also a breeze to remove over time.

Make sure electrical wiring and sockets are in strategic locations

Convenience when using electronic devices in your bathroom is a must; this can also make use of electronic devices safer. Proper wiring will also help enhance the effects of lighting fixtures.

Take into consideration the height of all users

You want to make sure all pieces of bathroom equipment are easily accessible. When the kids grow up, you may want to buy steps that will help them reach things without any trouble, or have bars installed that they can hold on to for safer footing – especially when getting in the tub.

Create niches for bath essentials

Having built-in storage spaces for your bath essentials can reduce clutter in the bathroom – you won’t have to buy cubbies and storage boxes that need to be replaced over time.

Invest in a really good toilet

If your budget will allow it, don’t think twice about purchasing a “toilet for the future.”  This investment can take time in the loo to a whole new level of water-efficiency and comfort.

If you’d like more tips and tricks, visit our website!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Bathroom Remodel, Commercial Plumbing, Fox Valley Plumber, Remodel Contactor, Toilets | Comments Off on 7 Bathroom Renovation Tips to Consider

How to Deal with Basement Flooding

Friday, March 3rd, 2017

basement flooding

Basement and Bathroom Flooding

Any type of flooding in your home is a problem, but two of the worst types that your household could experience are bathroom flooding and basement flooding.

Bathroom flooding can be a disgusting process for all because of the human waste factor and how it can impact your entire household’s daily hygiene routine. Despite this, basement flooding remains a much bigger concern. Aside from the fact that it can be caused by everything from overland flooding, to infiltration flooding, to sewer backup, to a combination of two or all three of these types of flooding (different levels of nastiness for flood water), it can also lead to serious structural damages that can make your home unsafe to live in.

Since the basement is part of the house’s foundation, compromised elements in this room can alter the integrity of the entire structure. It’s important to mention as well that because of the room’s location, it’s quite prone to mold growth, which can pose health risks for you and your family. Molds are not easy to treat, and getting rid of them will not only set your finances back, but it will also be a great inconvenience to your family since you will be asked to evacuate your home until the situation is properly resolved.

Suffice it to say, basement flooding is a situation that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. You can’t let dirty water just sit in the room and breed all sorts of potentially harmful elements; the quicker you get rid of the water, the better. For this job, you will need plumbing specialists to help drain the flood and also correctly identify the cause of flooding.

Urgently addressing the situation is required if the flooding is caused by sewer backup. Applegate and Fox Valley plumbers say that while contaminated water is the main issue, other factors worsen the problem. Flooding can place extra pressure on the pipes underneath the home and this can result in the heaving of basement floors, especially when improper backwater valves are used.

Also, weeping tiles are connected to the municipal system through sanitary sewer laterals or storm sewer laterals, and sewage can be pressured back into the weeping tiles; this may result in great damage to the home, which will not only require repairs but replacement of materials as well.

If you need to have your basement serviced due to flooding, your insurance company may be able to help shoulder the cost due to sewer back-up, so do get in touch with them to see if your insurance policy can actually cover the cost of sewer backup damage. If it does, you won’t have to worry much about getting your home properly restored.

Contact us today for more information.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Bathroom Remodel, Emergency Plumber, Fox Valley Plumber, Plumbing Problems | Comments Off on How to Deal with Basement Flooding

Common Commercial Plumbing Problems (and How to Avoid Them)

Thursday, November 24th, 2016

commercial-plumbingCommon Commercial Plumbing Problems

A plumbing issue in your commercial property can be one of the costliest and most inconvenient situations you can face. If left unattended, even a minor issue can become a serious and complicated problem within just a short span of time. The flow of your operations, the health and safety of your clients and employees, and your everyday productivity and efficiency can all be affected by commercial plumbing problems.  

While addressing plumbing problems promptly is important, the best course of action is still to be proactive in preventing issues before they happen. As an owner, manager or caretaker of a commercial property, it’s your duty to be familiar with common commercial plumbing problems so you can undertake measures to reduce their possibility of occurring.  

Common Plumbing Problems

Water leaking from pipes, taps and fixtures is a frequent problem for both commercial and residential plumbing systems. Leaks can be caused by a variety of reasons, from simple, everyday wear-and-tear to worn-out connectors to pipe damage.

Leaking can cause property damage, flooding and a significant waste of water and energy. Thus, it’s a must to conduct routine check-ups and maintenance. Plumbing maintenance should be performed by a professional. A good plumbing check up will include checking the condition of each component in your plumbing system.

Another common plumbing issue is blocked drains and clogged toilets and sinks. When drainage is slow or not working well, the accumulated water may eventually overflow. When the water overflows it can be extremely difficult to control and clean up.  

Clogged Toilet

Meanwhile, a clogged toilet is the last thing you would want to worry about when managing a commercial property. Aside from the possible overflow, it may also cause unpleasant odors and health risks if it’s not addressed immediately.

Commercial property owners must then be very strict about keeping bathrooms, restrooms and other wet areas clean and well-maintained. All the time to prevent debris and foreign objects from blocking drainage systems.

How to Prevent Commercial Plumbing Problems

Don’t call a plumber only when an emergency happens. It’s best to look for a reputable local plumber to perform maintenance work, systems upgrades and replacements. The more familiar a plumber is with your system, the better they will be able to solve problems should those arise.

Your Fox Cities plumbing team at Turek’s Plumbing will not just assess the system and hunt for damage. They will also conduct improvements and other related jobs to ensure pipework and drainage systems are working in tip-top condition.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Commercial Plumbing | Comments Off on Common Commercial Plumbing Problems (and How to Avoid Them)

Water Heater Facts You Need to Know

Thursday, October 27th, 2016

Water Heater Facts

Water Heater Facts

You use your water heater, like millions of people, on almost a daily basis, especially when the cooler seasons arrive. But despite the ubiquity of these appliances, have you really given much thought to these? You may have a hard time picturing a life without a water heater, but what water heater facts should you be aware of?

Here are Some Fun Water Heater Facts That You Might Want to Know

Energy Factor

  • Your heater accounts for a fourth or 25 percent of your overall energy consumption. If your energy bills seem to be steadily climbing, one of the first things that you need to check is your heater. Also, if you want to reduce your energy consumption, you may want to switch to a more efficient heater.
  • A conventional tank water heater has a lifespan between 10 and 13 years. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, has a longer lifespan, lasting somewhere between 18 and 20 years.
  • The average person will use six to eight gallons of hot water for a shower. A person taking a bath, on the other hand, will consume between 15 and 20 gallons of water. An average load of laundry consumes roughly 20 to 30 gallons of water while washing the dishes uses about two gallons of water per minute. If you opt to use a dishwasher, it will use between six and 10 gallons of water.
  • Before water heaters were invented, you needed to heat water on a stove. The first water heater was developed in England in 1868 after a painter found a way to place gas burners beneath water pipes to heat cold water. In turn, a Norwegian engineer named Edwin Ruud found inspiration from this idea and developed what is to be the ancestor of the first tank water heater.

Exploding Water Heater?

  • It is possible for a water heater to explode. However, such cases occur very rarely. If you wish to avoid this situation, you have to check the heater’s temperature and water pressure and look for signs like the smell of leaking gas and rust.
  • If you want hot water fast, consider investing in a hot water recirculating system. This system shortens the delay in getting hot water by continuously circulating the heated water throughout the building. It is ideal for large homes and commercial applications. However, be aware that the system uses a huge amount of energy if the pipes are not properly insulated.
  • The right way to choose heater size is to count the number of occupants. When choosing a water heater is it also important to consider the peak hour water demand. 

If you are thinking about water heater replacement in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Water Heater | Comments Off on Water Heater Facts You Need to Know

Types of Plumbing Pipes

Tuesday, October 25th, 2016

Plumbing Pipes

Types of Plumbing Pipes

Whether you are having a new house built or you are planning to have your current home remodeled, it is a good idea to know what your options are when it comes to building materials. This allows you to make a sound investment decision, anchored not only upon the price but other factors as well, including safety.

The same concept applies to your home’s plumbing. Whether there’s a burst pipe that needs replacement or a remodel, or you are planning to add a bathroom to the house, there are a few types of plumbing pipes that you can choose from.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes rank as one of the most popular types of plumbing pipes because of their longevity and reliability. Initially introduced 80 years ago, many of these pipes still remain in use.

Another advantage of copper pipes is that these do not pollute drinking water. On top of that, these pipes are among the most sustainable because these can be recycled.

Cross-linked Polyethylene

Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX pipes are typically used for tricky retrofits, like situations where it can be difficult or costly to embed other types of pipes beneath walls. Because of the unique properties of PEX pipes, it is relatively easy for plumbers to snake these into walls. Some plumbers even use a single PEX pipe across entire houses while forgoing the need to create joints or soldering. On top of that, these pipes have a relatively long lifespan.

However, if you are considering using these pipes for your home, you have to be aware that there have been studies which suggest that the process of fabricating these pipes involves the use of a toxin commonly found in gasoline called methyl tertiary butyl ether. Traces of this toxins can be absorbed by the water as it passes through the pipes. The state of California, however, has approved the use of PEX pipes.

According to some experts, the new crop of PEX pipes available in the market is generally safer than older counterparts.

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

CPVC pipes have long been a favorite of avid DIY-ers because these are straightforward to install; practically anyone can use these, even without special tools.

Additionally, CPVC pipes have been available in the market for 40 years, attesting to the value these pipes offer. Using these pipes won’t affect the quality of the water in your home.

However, if you have eco-friendly leanings, be aware that these pipes produce a high amount of pollution during fabrication. Plus, these pipes cannot be recycled and require the use of chemical solvents, which are volatile.

Polypropylene Pipes

In terms of water safety, the number one name for that is Polypropylene pipe. Although PP has been used in Europe for 30 years, it is a relative newcomer in America. But despite that status, PP has a proven record of both durability and water safety.
Unlike other pipes, PP does not require the use of chemicals to join together different ends. However, these pipes have a steeper price tag and require the use of specialty tools.

If you would like more information about pipes available for your home, contact your Fox Cities Plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

Continue Reading

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Sewer and Drain | Comments Off on Types of Plumbing Pipes