By May, we’ve usually swapped our snow shovels for garden trowels. But in the Twin Cities, May is more than just planting season—it’s the start of our heavy rain and thunderstorm season.​​

At Tony’s Plumbing & Heating, we see a specific set of challenges this month. While April is about the thaw, May is about managing water and preparing for the summer heat. Here is your May plumbing checklist to keep your home running smoothly.

1. The Sump Pump: Your Home's First Line of Defense
With those heavy May downpours, your sump pump is going to be the MVP of your basement. If it’s been a few weeks since you checked it, now is the time.

• The "Bucket Test": Pour a few gallons of water into the basin to ensure the float trigger kicks on immediately.
• Listen Closely: If you hear grinding or humming but no water is moving, the impeller might be clogged or damaged.
• Don't Forget the Backup: In Minnesota, big storms often mean power outages. If you don't have a battery backup for your pump, May is the best time to install one before the real summer "gully washers" arrive.

2. Roots in the Line? Watch for the "Spring Bloom"
As our East Metro trees fully leaf out, their roots are at their most aggressive, searching for moisture. If your home has older sewer lines, tiny cracks can attract these roots like a magnet.

• Signs of Trouble: Gurgling toilets, slow drains in the basement, or an "earthy" smell near your floor drains.
• Prevention: A professional drain cleaning or camera inspection now can prevent a nasty (and expensive) backup during a Memorial Day weekend gathering.

3. AC Tune-Up Time (Yes, Your Heating Pro Handles This!)
It might feel cool today, but the first 90-degree day is usually just around the corner. Your air conditioner's condensation line is a common source of "mystery leaks."

• Check the Drain Line: Ensure the PVC pipe that drains moisture from your AC unit is clear of algae or debris. A clogged line can back up and cause water damage to your furnace or floor.
• Schedule Your Service: May is the perfect "window" to get your system checked before the summer rush begins in June. 
• If you need a recommendation for an HVAC technician in your area, please let us know. 

4. Yard Drainage & Grading
Take a walk around your yard after a rainstorm.

• The 4-Foot Rule: Ensure your downspouts are discharging water at least 4 feet away from your foundation.
• Grading: If you see water pooling against your house, you may need to add some soil to create a slope that carries water away from your basement walls. This reduces the "hydrostatic pressure" that forces water through tiny cracks in your foundation.

5. Outdoor Faucets & Sprinklers
Now that the risk of a hard frost has passed, it’s time to fully recommission your outdoor plumbing.

• Check for Seepage: Open your outdoor hose bibs and check for any leaks at the handle.
• ​Sprinkler Start-up: If you have an in-ground system, check for broken heads that might be wasting water or creating "swamps" in your lawn.

Tony’s Plumbing & Heating has been proud to serve our neighbors in Oakdale, Woodbury, Stillwater, and across the Twin Cities for many years. We know Minnesota homes, and we know exactly what our local climate does to your pipes.

Is your home ready for storm season? Give us a call today at 651-340-1259 for a spring maintenance check!

As your home’s plumbing moves into a new season of heavy lifting in the Twin Cities, two of the most important components to check are your sillcocks and sump pumps.

Taking a few minutes for a spring inspection now can prevent basement flooding and hidden water damage later.

Inspecting Your Sillcocks After the Thaw
A sillcock (your outdoor faucet) may have survived the winter, but spring is when hidden damage often reveals itself. If water was trapped in the pipe during a deep freeze, the copper can split, leading to a leak the first time you turn the handle in the spring.

The Spring Checklist:

• The First Turn-On Test: Turn on your outdoor faucet and then go inside to check the wall or basement area behind it. If you see dripping or hear spraying water, the pipe likely split over the winter and needs immediate repair.
• Check the Flow: If the water pressure seems lower than last year, there may be a hairline crack or a blockage in the valve.
• Look for Proper Drainage: Ensure the ground around your sillcock slopes away from your foundation. Spring saturation can lead to "pooling" that seeps into your basement.

Prepping the Sump Pump for Heavy Rain
Spring in the Midwest means rising groundwater. Your sump pump is your home’s primary defense against a flooded basement during a thunderstorm or rapid snowmelt.

The Spring Maintenance Routine:

• Clear the Debris: Winter can sometimes send silt or small debris into the sump pit. Ensure the intake screen is clear so the pump doesn't have to work twice as hard to move water.
• Test the Float Switch: Pour a five-gallon bucket of water into the pit. The pump should kick on automatically and drain the water quickly. If it doesn't, the float switch may be stuck or faulty.
• Verify the Discharge Point: Walk outside and follow the discharge pipe. Make sure it isn't blocked by leftover ice or debris and that it is directing water at least 10 feet away from your foundation.
• Check Your Backup: Spring storms often cause power outages. If you have a battery backup system, check the charge levels now before the first big storm hits.

Spring is a season of renewal, but it’s also a season of water. By ensuring your sillcocks are leak-free and your sump pump is primed for action, you can enjoy the warmer weather without worrying about what’s happening in your basement. Give us a call if you need help this spring!

When we think about "home improvement," we usually think about fresh paint or new flooring. But in 2026, the most savvy Twin Cities homeowners are looking behind the walls. Modern plumbing technology has evolved from "utility" to "luxury," and the right upgrades can boost your home’s value while slashing your monthly utility bills.

If you’re looking to level up your home this year, here are the four upgrades that offer the biggest bang for your buck.
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1. The "Invisible" Lifesaver: Smart Leak DetectorsImagine being at a Wild game or up at the cabin and getting a text that your laundry room has a leak—followed by your main water valve automatically shutting off to save your floors.

Systems like Flo by Moen or Phyn monitor your home’s "blood pressure." They can detect a pinhole leak (saving you from mold) or a catastrophic burst (saving you from a $20k insurance claim).

​ Many insurance providers now offer premium discounts for homes with automatic shut-off valves.
2. Tankless Water Heaters: Endless Hot WaterWe’ve all been there: being the last one in the shower on a cold Tuesday morning and running out of hot water. Tankless units heat water on demand rather than keeping 50 gallons hot all day in a big tank.

​They are roughly 24–34% more energy-efficient than conventional tanks. Plus, they free up valuable square footage in your utility room and last twice as long as traditional heaters.
3. The "Spa-Level" Kitchen: Touchless & High-OutputIn 2026, the kitchen isn't just for cooking; it's a high-tech workstation. Touchless faucets are no longer a "gimmick"—they are a hygiene essential that saves gallons of water. Pair one with a high-output garbage disposal (like the InSinkErator Evolution series) that can grind through almost anything quietly.
Kitchens sell houses. A workstation sink with integrated accessories and a professional-grade faucet makes your home stand out instantly to buyers.
4. Whole-Home Water FiltrationTwin Cities water varies by neighborhood, but "hard water" is a common theme. This mineral buildup destroys your dishwasher, spots your glasses, and dries out your skin.
It protects your other investments. Your appliances will last 30% longer, and you’ll never have to scrub calcium deposits off your showerheads again.

Ready to bring your home into 2026? Whether you want the security of a smart leak detector or the luxury of a tankless shower, our team is here to help you choose the right tech for your Twin Cities home.

Why April is the Best Time for a Sewer Line Checkup
In Minnesota, we spend all winter worrying about our pipes freezing. But now that the ground is finally softening up in the Twin Cities, a new set of challenges is literally "branching out" beneath your lawn.

While you’re busy with spring cleaning inside your home’s most important drainage system—the main sewer line—is facing its toughest month of the year. Here’s why April is the "Golden Window" for a professional plumbing health check.

1. The "Root" of the Problem
As the soil warms up, trees and shrubs wake up thirsty. In their search for moisture, roots are naturally drawn to the condensation on the outside of your sewer pipes. If there’s even a tiny hairline crack, those roots will find it, grow inside, and create a massive "hairball" that leads to a nasty backup.

Catching root intrusion now, before the heavy May growth spurt, can save you from a middle-of-the-night emergency later this summer.

2. Shifting Soils = Stressful Pipes
The "freeze-thaw" cycle in Minnesota is legendary. As the deep frost leaves the ground, the earth around your home shifts and settles. This movement can put immense pressure on older clay or cast-iron pipes, causing them to sag (creating "bellies" where waste collects) or even snap.

If your toilets are gurgling or you’re noticing strange smells in the yard, the ground shift might have moved your pipes.

3. Flushing Out the Winter "Gunk"
During the winter, we tend to use more hot water and cook heavier, greasier meals. Over time, fats, oils, and soap scum build up on the inside of your pipes. Think of a Spring Drain Cleaning like a "detox" for your home. It clears out the winter sludge so your system can handle the high volume of spring rain.

4. Water Heater "Spring Cleaning"
Did you know our Minnesota "hard water" works overtime in the winter? As your water heater ran non-stop during the sub-zero months, sediment (minerals like calcium and magnesium) likely settled at the bottom of the tank.

Your heater has to work harder to heat the water through that layer of "rock," leading to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for the unit.

 A quick professional flush this month can add years to your water heater’s life.
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Don't wait for a "Spring Break" you didn't plan for. A quick camera inspection of your sewer line or a water heater flush this month is the best insurance policy against a messy summer.

If you're thinking about upgrading your water heater, chances are you've heard the buzz about tankless models. These compact, energy-efficient systems heat water on demand—meaning no more running out of hot water and no more paying to keep a giant tank warm 24/7.
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But one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing electric or gas. Both have their pros and cons, and what’s right for one home might not be right for another. At Tony’s Plumbing and Heating, we help homeowners all over Minnesota weigh their options. Here's what you need to know.

Understanding the Basics
A tankless water heater works by heating water only when you turn on the tap. As the water flows through the unit, it passes over a heating element (electric or gas-powered), instantly raising the temperature. That means no waiting for a tank to refill—and no paying to keep water hot all day long.
Electric and gas units do the same job, but how they get there—and how they perform over time—can vary significantly.

Why Choose an Electric Tankless Water Heater?
Electric tankless models are often seen as the more budget-friendly option upfront. They’re compact, quiet, and usually easier to install, especially in homes that don't have natural gas service. Because they don’t need venting like gas models do, you have more flexibility in where they can be placed.
These units work especially well in smaller homes or places with low to moderate hot water demand. They’re also a popular choice for add-ons like in-law suites or detached garages, where running a gas line would be costly or complicated.

However, in areas with higher electricity rates, the cost of running an electric unit over time might be higher than a gas model. And if you have a large family or tend to use multiple hot water fixtures at once, you might notice that electric systems can struggle to keep up, especially during cold Minnesota winters.

What About Gas Tankless Water Heaters?
Gas-powered tankless units shine when it comes to performance. They heat water quickly and deliver higher flow rates, making them ideal for larger households with heavier hot water needs—think multiple bathrooms, laundry, and the dishwasher all running at once.

If your home is already hooked up to natural gas, installing a gas unit might be the logical choice. While the upfront cost is often higher, especially if venting needs to be installed or upgraded, many homeowners find that the lower operating costs of natural gas offset the initial expense over time.
That said, gas units do require more complex installation, including proper venting for exhaust gases and a sufficient gas supply line. And like any combustion appliance, they require regular maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency.

What’s Right for Your Home?
The answer depends on a few key factors: your home’s existing energy setup, how much hot water your household uses at once, your budget for installation, and your long-term energy costs.
For smaller homes, apartments, or homes without gas access, an electric unit is often the best fit. For larger homes with multiple bathrooms or families with heavy water use, gas tends to provide better long-term performance and value.

If you’re still unsure, that’s where we come in.

Talk to the Experts at Tony’s Plumbing and Heating
Choosing the right water heater isn't just about convenience—it's about energy efficiency, long-term savings, and making sure your family never has to take a cold shower again. Our team can evaluate your home’s needs and help you decide which system makes the most sense, whether that’s electric, gas, or even a high-efficiency traditional model.
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Ready to upgrade to tankless? Give Tony’s Plumbing and Heating a call today. We’ll walk you through your options, provide a personalized quote, and handle installation from start to finish.

A small drip from your water heater might not seem like a big deal—but if it's coming from the pressure relief valve, it’s worth your attention.
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At Tony’s Plumbing and Heating, we get lots of winter calls about leaking water heater valves, especially when homeowners are using more hot water or heating systems are working overtime. Here’s what you should know—and when to call in the pros.

What Is the Pressure Relief Valve?
The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) is a safety feature on your water heater. It’s designed to:

• Release pressure if the water inside the tank gets too hot (usually above 210°F) or the pressure gets too high (above 150 psi)
• Prevent your tank from exploding due to dangerous pressure build-up

You’ll typically find the valve on the side or top of the water heater, with a pipe running down the side to safely direct released water.

Why Is It Leaking?
If you notice water dripping from the valve or the discharge pipe, it could mean:
1. Normal Operation

• Sometimes the valve releases small amounts of water to relieve built-up pressure—especially during high hot water usage.
• If it’s occasional and minimal, it may not be a problem.

2. Excess Pressure in the Tank

• If your water pressure is too high, the valve may open frequently.
• High pressure can be caused by:
  • A faulty expansion tank
  • High municipal water pressure
  • Thermal expansion as water heats

3. Temperature Is Too High

• If your water heater’s thermostat is set too high, it could be triggering the valve to open.

4. Faulty or Worn-Out Valve

• Over time, sediment buildup or age can cause the valve to leak constantly, even if there’s no pressure issue.
• Once the valve is compromised, it often needs to be replaced—not repaired.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
A constantly leaking T&P valve is not just annoying—it’s a warning sign.
Ignoring it could lead to:

• Water damage near the heater
• Higher utility bills
• Full system failure
• In rare cases, a dangerous pressure buildup if the valve stops working entirely

What Should You Do?
Here’s what we recommend:

1. Don’t cap or plug the valve – It’s a safety feature and should always be open to release pressure if needed.
2. Check the thermostat – Make sure it’s set no higher than 120°F.
3. Look for consistent dripping – Occasional discharge is normal. Constant dripping or pooling is not.
4. Call a licensed plumber – If you're unsure whether it’s safe or if the valve needs replacing, let us take a look.

Need Help? Call Tony’s Plumbing and HeatingIf your water heater’s pressure relief valve is leaking, we can:

• Inspect and test the valve
• Check water pressure and temperature
• Replace the valve if needed
• Recommend solutions to prevent future problems (like a thermal expansion tank)

​Don’t wait for a drip to turn into damage. Call Tony’s Plumbing and Heating today—we’ll keep your hot water flowing safely all winter long.

A clogged drain or overflowing toilet always seems to happen at the worst possible time. But before you panic, grab your plunger! It's one of the most effective (and underrated) tools in your home.
At Tony’s Plumbing and Heating, we’ve unclogged just about everything—and we’re here to share how to use a plunger properly so you can handle small clogs like a pro.

First, Choose the Right Plunger
Not all plungers are the same! There are two main types:
1. Cup Plunger (Flat Bottom)

• Best for sinks, tubs, and showers
• Flat rubber cup, ideal for creating a seal on flat surfaces

2. Flange Plunger (With Extra Rubber Flap)

• Designed for toilets
• The extra flap fits into the toilet drain for better suction

If you're trying to unclog a toilet with a cup plunger—it won’t work nearly as well!

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Plunger
Whether it’s a sink or toilet, here’s how to plunge effectively:

1. Add Water If Needed
There needs to be enough water in the bowl or basin to cover the plunger’s cup. This helps create a strong seal.

2. Create a Tight Seal
Position the plunger directly over the drain and press down gently to force out the air. Then, firmly press and pull the plunger up and down--without lifting it off the surface.

3. Plunge with Force
Use strong, quick thrusts for 15–30 seconds. You're creating suction and pressure to dislodge the clog.
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4. Test the Drain
Remove the plunger and check if the water drains. If not, repeat the process. Some clogs take a few rounds.

What Not to Do

• Don’t use chemical drain cleaners before plunging—they can splash back and cause burns.
• Don’t plunge a sink with a garbage disposal without unplugging it first.
• Don’t give up too soon—persistent plunging often works!

Clean Up
After the clog is cleared, clean your plunger with disinfectant and hot water. It’s a good idea to store it in a bucket or container for sanitary storage.

Still Clogged? Call Tony’s Plumbing and Heating
If you’ve tried plunging and nothing’s working, or the clog keeps coming back, it might be a sign of a deeper issue—like a blockage in your sewer line or buildup in your pipes.

We’re here to help with:

• Stubborn toilet clogs
• Backed-up sinks or tubs
• Drain cleaning and inspection
• Whole-home plumbing maintenance

Give us a call and we’ll get things flowing again—fast, clean, and done right.

Planning a sunny getaway this winter? While you're enjoying the beach or ski slopes, your home's plumbing system is still battling the Minnesota cold.

At Tony’s Plumbing and Heating, we’ve seen the damage a frozen or burst pipe can cause—especially when no one is home to catch it. Here’s how to protect your home’s plumbing and heating system while you're on vacation.

Keep the Heat On (Yes, Really)
It might be tempting to turn your heat way down to save money while you’re gone, but don’t do it! Your heating system plays a crucial role in preventing pipes from freezing.

Recommended Thermostat Setting:
Keep your heat at 55°F or higher while you're away to maintain a safe temperature in your walls, crawlspaces, and basements—where pipes are most vulnerable.

If you have a smart thermostat, set it to "away mode" and monitor your home from anywhere.

Prep Your Plumbing Before You Go
Before you head out, give your plumbing some love to avoid coming home to water damage.
Vacation Plumbing Checklist:

• Shut off the main water supply (especially for longer trips)
• Drain pipes by opening faucets and flushing toilets after shutting off the water
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and under sinks
• Disconnect garden hoses and cover outdoor spigots
• Leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate

Don’t Forget Your Water Heater
If you shut off the water to your house, it’s also a good idea to:

• Turn off your water heater, or
• Set it to “vacation mode” if available

This saves energy while preventing unnecessary strain or damage while the system isn't in use.

Ask a Neighbor to Check In
If you're away for more than a few days, ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to:

• Check the thermostat and plumbing areas
• Look for signs of leaks or frost
• Make sure the heat is still running

Catching issues early—even from a small drip—can prevent a major disaster.

Schedule a Pre-Vacation Plumbing & Heating Check
Not sure if your system is vacation-ready? Let our team at Tony’s Plumbing and Heating give you peace of mind. We’ll inspect:

• Your furnace and thermostat
• Pipe insulation and leak-prone areas
• Water heater settings
• Sump pump operation

Travel Worry-Free with Tony’s Plumbing and Heating
A little prep goes a long way toward protecting your home. Before you head off on your winter escape, make sure your plumbing and heating systems are ready for the cold.

Schedule your winter check-up today—and leave home with confidence.

As Minnesota temperatures plummet in January, your plumbing system faces one of its biggest challenges of the year: the risk of frozen pipes. A single frozen pipe can burst, causing thousands of dollars in water damage—not to mention major headaches.

At Tony’s Plumbing and Heating, we want to help you avoid winter plumbing emergencies. Here’s what every homeowner should know this season.

Why Do Pipes Freeze in Winter?
When the temperature drops below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and eventually cause the pipe to burst. Pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas—like basements, garages, crawlspaces, or exterior walls—are the most vulnerable.

Common causes of frozen pipes include:

• Lack of insulation around plumbing
• Cracked windows or air leaks near pipes
• Thermostat set too low when you're away from home

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
The good news? With a few simple steps, you can prevent frozen pipes and protect your home.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Insulate pipes in cold areas with foam pipe insulation.
• Keep cabinet doors open (especially under sinks) to let warm air circulate around pipes.
• Let faucets drip slightly on bitterly cold nights—moving water is less likely to freeze.
• Seal cracks and openings around pipes to prevent cold air from creeping in.
• Keep the thermostat consistent, even when you're away—ideally 55°F or higher.

Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen
Catch the warning signs early to avoid disaster. Look out for:

• Little or no water flow from faucets
• Frost or condensation on visible pipes
• Odd smells from drains (which can mean a pipe is blocked with ice)

If you notice any of these red flags, don’t wait—take action immediately.

What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
First things first: turn off the water supply to prevent damage if the pipe bursts.
Then:

• Use a hair dryer or space heater to gently warm the pipe (never use an open flame!)
• Open nearby faucets to allow melted water to flow out
• Call a professional plumber if you can’t access or safely thaw the pipe

At Tony’s Plumbing and Heating, we’re just a phone call away and ready to help with emergency service.

Winter Plumbing Tune-Ups: Peace of Mind All Season
January is a great time for a plumbing and heating checkup. During a winter tune-up, our licensed technicians can:

• Check for vulnerable pipes
• Ensure your furnace is running efficiently
• Look for leaks, cracks, or signs of wear
• Test your water heater performance

It’s a small investment that can save you from big problems later.
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Call Tony’s Plumbing and Heating Today! 
​Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your winter. Whether you need help winterizing your home, thawing a pipe, or upgrading your system, Tony’s Plumbing and Heating is here for you.

Call us today to schedule your winter plumbing check-up and enjoy a warm, worry-free season.