Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Tureks Plumbing Services’

Why You Should Hire a Commercial Plumber

Wednesday, February 13th, 2019

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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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Common Objects That Clog Toilets

Wednesday, February 6th, 2019

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Common Objects That Clog Toilets

It is sad to realize that many homeowners spend a lot of money each year to hire plumbers to unclog their toilet or plumbing system. It’s unfortunate because a significant fraction of those emergency plumbing calls could have been avoided if only the homeowners and their family members knew that they shouldn’t flush certain common objects down the toilet. Here are the most common objects that clog toilets. 

Excessive Amounts of Toilet Paper

Most people instinctively know how much toilet paper to use and flush down the toilet. However, kids may not have such rationality, and they will quickly turn flushing toilet paper into a game. When a large amount of toilet paper is flushed in one go, it can bunch itself into a tight ball as it travels down the drain. That ball of toilet paper will not degrade as rapidly as expected, and a clog may develop at that point where the ball has snagged. Fox Valley plumbers advise parents to teach their kids to refrain from flushing excessive amounts of toilet paper.

Don’t Flush Hair 

Are you in the habit of cleaning your pet dog in your bathtub and then letting the fur flow down the drain? Or do you collect that fur and flush it down the toilet? Whether it is human or animal hair, never flush it down your toilet. Many plumbers in Appleton, WI admit that the number one cause of shower drain clogs is hair. A better option is to place a strainer on the bathtub drain so that all the hair is collected and disposed of properly with the trash. Don’t even think of dumping it in the toilet!

Don’t Flush Feminine Hygiene Products

It is common to find signage in public restrooms reminding users not to flush feminine hygiene products like tampons and sanitary towels down the toilet. However, some people don’t implement the same advice at home. Those products aren’t biodegradable, and they will clog the toilet sooner rather than later. Always have a trash can in the bathroom so that such products can be disposed of with the trash instead of finding their way into the toilet. The number of times you have to call a Fox Valley plumber for help regarding a clogged toilet will reduce significantly once you make this one change.

Don’t Flush Paper Towels

There’s a reason why a trash can is placed close to the sink where you wash your hands after using a public restroom. That can is intended to be a receptacle for the paper towel you use to dry your hands. While paper towels are made from, well, paper, they are thick and will not break down easily when flushed. In case you weren’t aware that paper towels shouldn’t be flushed, now you know. Talk to a plumber in Appleton, WI about the plumbing problems caused by paper towels if you still have doubts about the dangers of flushing paper towels.

Don’t Flush Toys

This one seems obvious, but curious and playful kids will not hesitate to turn flushing toys into a game. All it takes is just one toy to get stuck anywhere in the plumbing drains, and you will have a major clog in the system. As you know, kids will always be kids, so take the precaution of having someone to supervise them at all times if they have toys while in the bathroom.

Don’t Flush Baby Wipes and Diapers

You may think that flushing diapers may be a quick fix to the odors, but that quick fix will cost you once the toilet develops a clog. The same risk will take place when you flush baby wipes or any type of wipe. Don’t believe it when the packaging of the wipes says that they are “flushable.” What the manufacturers mean differs from what your plumber in Appleton, WI will regard as flushable. This is because anything you flush should degrade in a short time so that blockages don’t develop in the plumbing system.

There are many other common objects that you should refrain from flushing down the toilet. A simple way to remember them all is to adopt a simple rule that you and your family members should only flush toilet paper and nothing else. Call Tureks Plumbing Services if you suspect that a clog is preventing your toilet from draining as quickly as it should. We shall send an experienced Fox Valley plumber to assess the situation and perform the needed work before your toilet backs up.

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What Are These Black Specks in My Water?

Wednesday, January 23rd, 2019

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What Are These Black Specks in My Water?

It is usually distressing to discover that the water supply in your home suddenly has black specks. So many questions arise, such as whether those specks are harmful, what their source is and what you can do to get rid of them. If you have been asking yourself, “What are these black specks in my water?” read on and learn the possible causes and what you can do to get rid of the specks.

Silt or Sand in Your Water Line

People who use water from a private well may observe tiny black specks in their water. The specks may also look brownish. These are usually particles of sand or silt that make their way to the faucets. There are three common reasons why these specks will appear in the water.

First, the well may be new, so the likelihood that water with particles will be pumped out is high. In such a case, it is common for the particles to stop appearing in the water if the well is pumped for several days in order to get rid of these contaminants.

Secondly, the well may not have a screen, or the existing one is worn. In this case, replacing the old screen or installing one will resolve the matter. Thirdly, it can also be helpful to install a well liner if your well was dug in sandstone. Whatever the root cause may be, Tureks Plumbing Services recommends swift action before your well pump is damaged extensively by those particles.

Mineral Deposits in Your Water Line

If you are asking about “black specks in my water”, another area to investigate is the possibility that mineral particles have precipitated in the water. The two key suspects in this regard are iron and manganese particles. While harmless, the particles can stain your clothes and dishes. The water pipes may also be affected if they are made from a material that can react with those minerals. Contact the utility company if you notice the water throughout your home shows the presence of these black particles.

Rust Particles in Your Water Line

Rust is usually orange or brown, but in some cases it can look black. These particles of rust is normally a localized problem, so you should suspect that some of the water pipes on your property are rusting if the black specks stop appearing after you have let the water run for a few minutes.

Contact a plumber in Appleton, WI, so that the affected pipes can be identified and replaced before a major leak develops. Refer the matter to the utility company in case all points of use are affected. Such a scenario points to a problem with the water mains, and that isn’t your responsibility to fix.

Disintegrating Rubber in Your Plumbing System

Don’t be quick to condemn the water supplier in case the black specks in your water are accompanied by traces of an oily substance. This is a clear indicator that a rubber fixture is breaking down somewhere in your plumbing system. The first place to look in this case is the hose connecting the water heater to an inlet line. Chloramine or chlorine in the water reacts with the rubber and gradually corrodes it, hence the black specks in your water. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services for a replacement hose that has a lining that protects it from the disinfectants added to the municipal water supply.

GAC in Your Filtration System

GAC, or granulated activated carbon, is a substance that is commonly used as a filter medium in the filtration systems installed by homeowners. You can suspect that these are the culprits when you see black specks in your water and you have a water filtration system in your home. If that is the case, you may not need to spend money on a plumbing repair call. Just check the manual of the filtration system or get in touch with the manufacturer for advice on how you can replace the filtration cartridge since the escaping particles show that the cartridge is defective or worn.

Now you know the possible answers to the question, “What are these black specks in my water?” Contact a Fox Valley plumber, such as one from Tureks Plumbing Services, and you will get professional help in dealing with those esthetically unpleasant specks in your water.

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8 Things You Should Never Pour Down Your Drain

Thursday, January 17th, 2019

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8 Things You Should Never Pour Down Your Drain

Many of the problems with your plumbing system can be traced to the deceptively simple mistakes that you make each time you pour something inappropriate down the drain. Read through the following list of the things you should never pour down your drain.

Avoid Pouring Grease and Cooking Oil Down the Drain

No amount of grease or cooking is small enough to pour down the drain. Grease and cooking oil solidify inside drains and attract other particles to them. Very soon, the mass will grow into a large enough ball to cause a blockage in the plumbing. You will then start noticing that the drains will function sluggishly. The next step will be a total blockage if nothing is done to fix the situation.

Tureks Plumbing Services advises that you refrain from pouring cooking oil or grease down your kitchen sink. Instead, pour oil or scrape grease into a garbage bin for proper disposal so that you save your plumbing system from the possibility of grease or oil-induced clogs.

Avoid Pouring Pumpkin Fragments Down the Drain

It is also a bad idea to dump any part of a pumpkin into the garbage disposal or kitchen drain. This risk increases exponentially during Halloween when you and your family members carve several pumpkins.

What is so bad about getting rid of pumpkins in the garbage disposal? For starters, pumpkin fragments harden when left on any surface. Haven’t you had trouble cleaning your carving knives after leaving them for a while in the aftermath of cutting pumpkins? Fox Valley plumbers caution that the pumpkin fragments can harden within the drain or garbage disposal and cause problems for the system. Instead, pour those fragments in the trash so that you spare the plumbing system from the eventual problems likely to be triggered when they harden inside the pipes.

Avoid Pouring Fibrous Food Items Down the Drain

While it is recommended that you consume as much fiber in your diet as possible, the same can’t be said for your home’s plumbing system. Fibrous foods, such as celery stalks should not be dumped in the garbage disposal. Those fibers will stick on the disposal blades or form clumps within the drainage pipes. Either possibility isn’t good for the health of the plumbing system and should be avoided by placing those foods in the garbage bin.

Avoid Pouring Rice and Pasta Down the Drain

Another thing you should never pour down your drain is rice and pasta. These items have a lot of starch in them. So they can congeal into a paste-like substance that will stick on the walls of the drainage pipes. Additionally, other solids flowing through the system will attach themselves to this starchy glue and cause a major clog to develop. Talk to a plumber in Appleton, WI, in case you have been disposing of these food items in the garbage disposal. The plumber will inspect the pipes and clean those drains so that any accumulations are removed before they cause a blockage.

Avoid Pouring Bones Down the Drain

The garbage disposal can easily crush different kinds of bones that you dump inside it, right? Wrong. The garbage disposal isn’t a crusher or any such heavy-duty machine. Making it break down hard bones will not only cause massive tear and wear, but also cause major problems to your system.

Err on the side of caution by dumping all bones, except tiny fish bones, into the trash can in your kitchen. This will prolong the service life of the garbage disposal and also safeguard the plumbing system from the harmful effects of any bones that may escape the blades of the garbage disposal.

Avoid Pouring Raw Meat Down the Drain

Raw meat (or trimmings) is also one of the things you should never pour down your drain. Experienced plumbers in Fox Valley say that the meat utilizes all the oxygen within the drainage system as it decomposes. Consequently, there will be no oxygen left for the beneficial bacteria that break down the wastes flushed down the plumbing. Over time, the wastes will accumulate in the septic tank and overflow into the drain field. It is, therefore, better to refrain from triggering this unfortunate chain of events if you want to avoid costly plumbing system repairs.

Avoid Pouring Flour Down the Drain

Flour has a lot of starch, so it should not be poured down the drain. When starch absorbs water, it forms some kind of glue that will bind any particles it comes in contact with into a tight ball. This ball of debris will grow larger until it partially or wholly blocks the drainage pipe. Tureks Plumbing Services recommends that you dispose of unwanted flour in the trash can so that it doesn’t cause plumbing system problems.

Avoid Pouring Coffee Grounds Down the Drain

Can you honestly claim that you have never poured coffee grounds down the drain in your kitchen? Most people have done so because they aren’t aware of the long-term harmful effects of that habit. Now that you know, refrain from pouring those spent grounds in the garbage disposal. They will accumulate in the drains and eventually cause a clog. A far better use of the coffee grounds is to scatter them in your garden or place them in your compost pile so that your plants can benefit from their rich nutrients.

The list of the things you should never pour down your drain is longer than what has been covered in the discussion above. Ask Tureks Plumbing Services professionals for specific questions regarding your plumbing system. Our plumbers will be more than glad to address your concerns, and we are waiting for your call if you ever have any plumbing system problem and need help resolving it.

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Why Flushable Wipes Will Clog Your Drains

Wednesday, January 9th, 2019

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Why Flushable Wipes Will Clog Your Drains

Many manufacturers of wet wipes claim that their products can be flushed down the toilet, but the experience of many homeowners shows that plumbing problems result when these wipes are routinely flushed. This article seeks to answer the question “Are flushable wipes safe to flush?”

How Does Flushing Wet Wipes Compare to Flushing Toilet Paper?

Tureks Plumbing Services reveals that in different tests conducted, toilet paper was found to disintegrate within 8 seconds after being flushed down the toilet. However, wet wipes hardly disintegrated more than a minute after being flushed.

This inability to breakdown quickly makes wet wipes a risky product to flush down your toilet because the wipes eventually accumulate and cause a clog in the system.

Why Would Manufacturers Claim That Wet Wipes Are Flushable?

Two possible reasons could explain why some manufacturers claim that the wet wipes they make are flushable. The first reason is that due to competition, some manufacturers may choose to be “economical with the truth” (mislead buyers) by asserting that you can flush their products down the toilet. Saying otherwise would mean that the product wouldn’t be popular among buyers since no one wants to do extra work to dispose of the wet wipes in the garbage when flushing them is an easier option.

Secondly, the protocol that some manufacturers use to test whether a wet wipe is flushable or not isn’t as rigorous as what plumbers would want. For example, the manufacturer may design a computer simulation model to generate data on how quickly the wipe will breakdown. At the same time, the manufacturer may just test whether the wet wipe will go down the drain. So if it does, then it has passed the test of being flushable. Consequently, many wipes pass the “flushability test” without being flushable in the true sense of the word.

How do Wet Wipes Cause Clogs?

As already mentioned, wet wipes don’t break down as quickly as toilet paper does. Consequently, these solid materials will flow down the drains and slow down as they move further in the system. Fox Valley plumbers say that problems arise as these wet wipes approach the entrance to the septic tank. This is because the entry points are small. So, the wipes stand a high chance of building up there and causing a blockage.

Matters are worsen based on the condition of your pipes. For example, some metallic pipes are so degraded that the wipes can snag on their interior surfaces. This triggers a domino effect of other materials piling up behind the wet wipe until a clog forms. The big ball of solids will be costly to trace and remove.

Experienced plumbers at Tureks Plumbing Services explain that the condition of the pipes may be the reason why one home will develop a major clog months later while another home will take longer to suffer the consequences of flushing wet wipes down the toilet.

Why Professional Drain Cleaning Is Important

You can never be sure that wet wipes or other unsuitable materials (feminine hygiene products, for example) have never been flushed down the toilet. The effects of such actions don’t usually show immediately. So, Tureks Plumbing Services advises homeowners to be proactive and have the drains cleaned professionally at least once every three years.

This professional drain cleaning does a more thorough job than the chemical cleaners that some people pour down drains. For example, the chemical cleaners can damage some plumbing pipe materials. Plumbers select the most appropriate technique, such as water-jetting, to clean out the plumbing drains so that they are clear.

Now you have a comprehensive response to the question “Are flushable wipes safe to flush?” In case you still have other concerns, just reach out to Tureks Plumbing Services or any Fox Valley plumber. You will get the help you need to make the right choices regarding what to flush or not flush.

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7 Ways to Save Water at Home

Friday, January 4th, 2019

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7 Ways to Save Water at Home

Many areas regularly experience water shortages that cause the utility companies to ration how much water each home can access in a day. Additionally, the cost of water has been creeping upwards over the years. These two factors make a strong case for saving as much water as you can in your home. This article discusses some of the easy ways to save water at home so that you reduce how much you spend while conserving the environment.

Fix Water Leaks

Experienced professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services estimate that most homes have water leaks they aren’t aware. Many homeowners don’t realize this until a plumber performs a plumbing system inspection, or a major leak develops, and water starts gushing out. Those undetected leaks not only cause your monthly water bill to rise, but they also have the potential to trigger other costly effects. Damage to your foundation and the risk of mold growth in your home are commonly caused by water damage.

It is therefore prudent to fix any faucet or other leaks as soon as they are noticed. In the meantime, you can use a bucket to collect any water from a leaking faucet. Use that water for other domestic chores, such as watering your indoor plants.

Be Mindful of How You Use the Dishwasher

Many modern dishwashers come with an Eco setting. Use that setting each time you are using this appliance. Additionally, you can save more water by waiting until you have a full load for the dishwasher before you start it. This measure will use water more economically than when you run less than full loads in the dishwasher.

Upgrade to Water-Efficient Appliances

Efficiency is much more important today. Our friends at Gilmore Heating & Air, a plumbing and residential ac company in Folsom, agree that homeowners everywhere are upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems and water-efficient appliances. By popular demand, most appliance manufacturers now have water-efficient models that you can consider for your home. For example, you can ask an Appleton plumber from Tureks Plumbing Services to replace your old toilets with dual-flush versions.

The dual-flush toilets conserve water because a user flushes using less water after a short call while the full flush is reserved for the time when a member of your household has done number two. Similarly, a smart sprinkler system can save you a lot of water. Since the system will determine the most appropriate volume of water to use during each session of watering your lawn. Sensors in the soil detect how much water is still available and send signals to the control system to tweak its parameters for that day.

Buy Biodegradable Cleaning Products

One of the biggest reasons why there is less water, and it is expensive is the impact of the pollutants contained in modern cleaning products. Those pollutants are poured down drains, and they ultimately end up in underground water reservoirs or streams. Utility companies, therefore, have to use a lot of resources to clean that water before supplying it to homes and other places where it is needed.

Plumbers in Appleton, WI, therefore advise homeowners to opt for eco-friendly cleaners when shopping. This will reduce the degree to which groundwater is polluted.

Know When to Water Your Plants

The time when you water your plants can also contribute to water conservation or wastage in your home. For example, a person who waters the lawn at midday will waste a lot of water because a fraction of that water will evaporate instead of percolating into the ground. In contrast, another person who waters the lawn early in the morning or late in the afternoon will conserve water because most of the water will soak into the ground during the cool weather. It is also helpful to invite a Fox Valley plumber to check the irrigation system for leaks.

Reduce Your Shower Time

Research has established that the traditional showerheads release about five gallons of water every minute. People who take lengthy showers, therefore, waste a lot of water. Another of the ways to save water at home entails spending no more than five minutes when showering. Use a timer if need be. Switch to low-flow showerheads as well so that you cut water use in the shower further. Plumbers from Tureks Plumbing Services can help you to select the most appropriate showerheads.

Another related trick is to keep the water faucet off as you brush your teeth, shave or soap your hands. A touch-free faucet can be a good upgrade for the purpose of saving water as you use the bathroom sink.

Spread the Word – Save Water

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that your efforts alone will achieve the water conservation results that you desire. Tell all your family members to participate to save the most water! Devote more effort towards training your kids to be mindful of how they use water. You will gradually see them become more conscious of their water-use habits.

Implementing the different ways to save water at home requires you to partner with an experienced plumber in Appleton, WI. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services if you need any help in dealing with a plumbing problem. We are available 24/7 throughout the year, including holidays.

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6 Winter Plumbing Tips That Will Save You Money

Friday, December 28th, 2018

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6 Winter Plumbing Tips That Will Save You Money

The plumbing system undergoes a lot of stress during the winter. It’s imperative that you do everything possible to protect your plumbing system from developing costly defects during this time of the year. This article discusses some of the winter plumbing tips that will save you money. 

Turn the Exterior Water Valves Off

The water pipes outside your home have the highest chance of freezing since they are exposed to the elements. It is therefore advisable for you to wrap them in insulation and also turn the water off. Additionally, experts at Tureks Plumbing Services recommend that you leave the outdoor faucets to drip slowly so that the likelihood that the pipes will freeze is reduced.

Locate the Main Shutoff Valve

Another of the important winter plumbing tips is that you need to know where the main shutoff valve of your plumbing system is located. This information will help you to take swift action to turn the water supply off in case a plumbing emergency, such as a pipe burst, occurs. Otherwise, searching for the main valve as water is gushing all over your house can result in serious water damage that will be expensive to fix. Fox Valley plumbers also recommend that you open and close this valve at least once each year to keep it working properly.

Be Careful When Conserving Energy During the Winter

Many homeowners tend to lower the thermostat setting on the HVAC system as they leave home in order to conserve energy. However, you need to be mindful that you can end up being penny wise but pound foolish while trying to save a few dollars on your energy bill without thinking about the broader implications of that decision. In other words, turning the temperature too low can create an opportunity for a plumbing pipe to freeze and trigger water damage that will cost you thousands of dollars to fix. An experienced plumber in Appleton, WI, recommends that you play it safe and avoid lowering the temperature to less than 45°F so that you conserve energy but protect water pipes from freezing while you are away.

Check the Outdoor Drainage

Your lawn will receive huge amounts of snow and rain during the winter, so make sure the drainage works. Start by checking the gutters and downspouts for any debris that may prevent snow and water from draining away. Clear the yard too so that nothing prevents runoff water from leaving your property.

Take Extra Care of the Kitchen Plumbing

Winter also coincides with the holidays, so the kitchen plumbing is under excessive stress during this time. The kitchen drains, and garbage disposal needs proper care to continue functioning.

For example, Tureks Plumbing Services recommends that you wait for all oils and fats to solidify in your cooking pots instead of pouring them down the drain. Rather, scrape them off the containers and into the garbage bin for disposal. This will save the drains from clogging up due to the effects of those fats.

Similarly, use the garbage disposal carefully. Always start the disposal before you pour food debris into it, then run water through the disposal so that the drains are cleared. This will prevent the disposal from clogging up.

Make the Right Hiring Decisions

Your plumbing system will function based on how well the system was taken care of prior. This begins with hiring the most qualified and experienced professionals, such as those from Tureks Plumbing Services, to service and repair the system. Such professionals will be licensed and insured, and you will receive a written statement detailing each repair that needs to be done each time something breaks.

The winter plumbing tips shared in the discussion may not cover all the basics that you need to look into. However, they will go a long way towards reducing the likelihood of problems in your plumbing system. Work closely with your Fox Valley plumber so that you can receive all the information and technical assistance.

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Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

Wednesday, December 26th, 2018

Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year

Research has it that approximately 45 percent of all people make resolutions at the start of each year. However, only a paltry 8 percent of those people actually implement those resolutions. Our team Tureks Plumbing Services would like you to consider the following plumbing resolutions for the New Year so you can save on your plumbing bill in 2019!

Be More Considerate of Your Garbage Disposal

The garbage disposal is one of the unsung heroes of your plumbing system. However, many homeowners ignore this appliance until something malfunctions. Let next year be a different year for the garbage disposal in your home. Resolve to treat it better by being more mindful about what you deposit inside the disposal. For example, don’t place large chunks of debris inside the disposal just because it has blades that can cut that debris into tiny pieces. Instead, cut the debris into smaller pieces so that the garbage disposal doesn’t overwork.

Such consideration will reduce the wear and tear on your disposal. Defects will also be fewer, so you will have a reduced need to call Tureks Plumbing Services to fix a disposal malfunction.

Fix Defects Promptly

The second of the plumbing resolutions for the New Year entails taking prompt action as soon as a defect is detected in the plumbing system. You see, plumbing defects differ in intensity/seriousness. For example, a minor leak may develop at the kitchen faucet, or the main water pipe into your home may burst and start gushing water into your yard. These two leaks elicit different degrees of urgency among homeowners.

However, that minor leak that you delay to fix can result in additional problems. For example, the slow leak can inflate your monthly water bill. Secondly, the moist conditions created by the leak can promote the growth of mold and mildew (with their attendant health risks).

It is therefore wise for you to contact a plumber in Appleton, WI, each time you detect any defect in the plumbing system. The New Year will then have fewer plumbing emergencies if you act quickly each time a defect is noticed.

Conserve Water

You should also resolve to conserve water more in the New Year. This can be attained in several ways, such as upgrading to water-efficient toilets and showerheads. In fact, even fixing defects promptly can help you to conserve water since the wastage resulting from plumbing defects will be avoided.

Consult a Fox Valley plumber in case you want to implement more comprehensive changes in your home in order to make the plumbing system more efficient. The professional will inspect your home and suggest the most cost-effective ways to conserve water in your home.

Give Your Water Heater More Attention

The water heater in your home is an important appliance from a comfort point of view and from the aspect of energy-efficiency. For example, a sudden malfunction can deny your family members hot water to take a shower in the middle of winter. Such an inconvenience can be hard to bypass during such weather.

It is therefore vital that you resolve to give your water heater more attention this coming year (and beyond) so that it can continue to give you the reliable service that you have come to expect. Check the anode frequently and replace it when it is eroded. Flush the tank regularly so that sediment doesn’t accumulate and spring a leak. You can also ask a Fox Valley plumber to check that water heater so that the defects you weren’t aware of as a layperson are fixed before they worsen and compromise the functioning of the appliance.

Keep Pipes Warm

Your plumbing resolutions for the New Year may not be complete if you haven’t thought about how to winterize the plumbing system. Make a conscious decision to keep the water pipes warm during the cold months of the year so that you can forestall those pipes from bursting after freezing.

It is especially important to keep the pipes outdoors and those where no air conditioning exists (attic and basement, for example) warm by wrapping them in insulation. This insulation is affordable and can be bought in rolls at plumbing or hardware stores. Ask one of our experts at Tureks Plumbing Services for recommendations in case you aren’t sure of which particular product to buy and use.

Have Regular Inspections Done

Resolve to start being more proactive rather than reactive when it comes to addressing plumbing system issues. Don’t wait for a problem to occur before you pay some attention to the plumbing system. Instead, ask an experienced plumber in Appleton, WI, to inspect the entire system at least once each year so that defects can be caught early. Such proactive measures will reduce your expenditure on plumbing repairs, and the system will break down less frequently.

Tureks Plumbing Services is available round the clock throughout the year. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help in implementing any of the plumbing resolutions for the New Year covered in the discussion above. We shall do everything possible to keep your plumbing system working without a hitch.

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6 Ways to Afford Your Dream Home Improvement Project

Tuesday, December 18th, 2018

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6 Ways to Afford Your Dream Home Improvement Project

One of the biggest challenges homeowners face is affordable home improvement projects. Here are some ways to save for a home improvement and keep that project within budget.

Put Aside Money Until You Can Afford the Improvement

They say good things come to those who wait, and the same applies to home improvements you’ve been longing to do. You’ll most likely complete the home renovation if you start putting money aside now.

For example, you can dine out less frequently in order to reduce your expenditure. The money that you save when you eat in can go towards the home improvement project. Of course, it helps when you know how much you will need for the project. So, talk to Tureks Plumbing Services about the project you have in mind. The estimates you get will help you structure a budget.

Get Money Out of the Equation as Much as You Can

Another way to afford your dream home improvement is a trade or sweat equity. Instead of draining your account to pay for the work, why not search for people to whom you can render your services in exchange for theirs?

For example, you can offer your accounting services to a Fox Valley plumber in exchange for the plumbing services of that individual or company in a home improvement plumbing project. Admittedly, it will take some extra work for you to reach out to the professionals you want to implement this barter arrangement with.

Reconsider How You Source Materials

Where and how you get the materials needed for a home improvement project may also offer avenues for you to save and keep the project on track budget-wise. For example, instead of buying the plumbing materials you need from a hardware store, why not check out the garage sales in your area so that you can reuse what others no longer need? Tastes and preferences evolve, so chances are you will get good quality materials using this approach.

Flea markets, estate sales, and thrift stores are other places where you can find budget-friendly materials. Explore these options and only buy new materials if you fail to find what you want. Remember to have those products refinished (where possible or necessary) so that they can look as good as new before they are installed by a local plumber in Appleton, WI.

Shop for Affordable Contractors

The cost of labor takes a sizeable chunk of your home improvement budget. It, therefore, follows that any savings that you make on this item alone can go a long way towards making the entire project affordable.

Consequently, you would be well advised to devote some time to search for an affordable contractor for your project. For example, search for a vendor who is willing to regard your project as a side hustle while undertaking main contracts. Such a contractor is likely to be more affordable than another who looks at your project as their main employment during that time.

Remember to get bids from different Fox Valley plumbers so that you get an idea about the reasonable rates.

Do Some of the Work Yourself

Another of the clever ways to save for a home improvement project is by taking on some of the work yourself so that you avoid having to pay someone for that work. For example, home improvement project estimates will usually include the cost of prepping for the project and cleaning up once the project is completed.

Do as much of the work yourself as possible so that you cut the project cost. For example, you can remove the bathroom tiles yourself in preparation for the installation of a new bath. Similarly, you can take care of disposing of the debris after the project instead of leaving it for the Fox Valley plumber.

Rethink Your Choice of Materials

Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a tilt-up construction company, agrees that you can also reduce the cost of any renovation project by opting for budget-friendly materials. For example, you can buy laminates instead of splurging on granite countertops for your kitchen. The lower-priced product will look as attractive as the top-of-the-range option, but at a fraction of the cost.

Use this approach for all the materials that you need for your home improvement project. The experts at Tureks Plumbing Services can help you select reliable materials for all budget ranges.

Now you know the different ways to save for a home improvement. Get to work implementing those techniques so that you bring your dream to life. Fox Valley plumbers are waiting to help you in any way they can. So, don’t hesitate to ask for their input if you have budgetary constraints.

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What Causes Water Pressure to Decrease?

Wednesday, November 21st, 2018

what causes water pressure to decrease

What Causes Water Pressure to Decrease?

Low water pressure can be frustrating as it has an effect on your daily life. From use in the kitchen to the shower, low water pressure can make a task as simple as washing the dishes a nightmare.

So what causes water pressure to decrease? We have 6 common reasons why most homes face water pressure issues.

Water pressure issue #1: Issue with the water valve

Two valves control most homes water flow. If you face water pressure issues, you want to check these valves first. They are usually near the water meter. The valve that is positioned on the street side is the city’s, you may not have access to this since it belongs to the city. The other valve, which is on the side of your home, controls the water in your home.

You want to make sure both the valves are completely open. They control the water flow into your home so if it is not completely open then chances are you will have low water pressure. When operating the valve, you need to be gentle with it. Don’t apply too much force, which can cause damage.

If access to the city valve is cut off then you can contact the city office and see if they can send someone down to open it for you.

Water pressure issue #2: Fault in the fixtures

The faucets and showers in your home are used daily. With time they start to wear and tear. Faulty fixtures are one of the most common reasons for low water pressure. Once they get old the fixtures easy clog up with limestone, dirt, and even rust. All of which results in lower water pressure.

The best way to test whether it is a certain fixture is to run water through it at the same time with another. If you notice a difference in the pressure of the two then you know that one is faulty. Before running the test, just be sure to clean the aerator of the fixture so no dirt is stuck in it, which also results in lower pressure. When you’ve determined a fixture to be faulty, you can clean it out to clearing out the clog or have it replaced.

Water pressure issue #3: A damaged pressure regulator

The pressure regulator does exactly as it names states, it regulates water pressure in the plumbing. It is important that the regulator stays in shape otherwise you will either get no pressure or too much of it.

Fixing a regular isn’t hard; you just need to replace it. You can do it on your own or seek help from an Appleton plumber.

Water pressure issue #4: Clog in the water pipes

If your fixtures and valve have been cleared after inspection then the reason behind low water pressure could be clogged pipes. Clogged pipes aren’t easy to deal with and is better if left to a professional. You can consult a plumber to help figure out how the clog can be resolved. This can only be done after they inspect the pipes and determine where the clog is.

Water pressure issue #5: Plumbing problem

Corrosion in the plumbing can happen in older homes. If you are having trouble diagnosing the problem then chances are the plumbing is corroded. This may require a complete overhaul of the plumbing, which is obviously a project you cannot take up on your own. An Appleton plumber can help you with the project they can assess the corrosion and determine what the proper step maybe.

Water pressure issue #6: Main supply line has issues

If your home has been cleared from the above issues then chances are there is an issue with the main supply line. The line doesn’t supply your home with enough water, which has resulted in lower pressure. A plumber in Appleton, WI can help you assess this problem and help you take the right step to have it resolved.

There are numerous different factors that cause water pressure to decrease The hard part for most homeowners may just be identifying what the problem is. Before you take any drastic steps on your own be sure to get an expert to help out with the assessment and tell you the right course of action to take. Otherwise, you may end up causing more problems.

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