 Photo courtesy of canva As the June heat and humidity start to roll in, we all expect to deal with a few extra bugs outside. But there is one pesky summer visitor that nobody wants to find inside their home: drain flies.
If you’ve noticed tiny, fuzzy gnats hovering around your kitchen sink, bathroom shower, or basement drain, you’re not alone. June is prime time for these annoying pests. Let’s look at why they show up the minute the weather warms up, and how to safely get rid of them and the sour odors they bring with them. Why Do My Drains Smell (and Grow Bugs) in June?Drain flies don't just wander in through an open window; they are actively attracted to your plumbing. Over months of use, a sticky layer of soap scum, grease, hair, and organic food particles builds up along the inside walls of your pipes. This coating is called biofilm. When summer temperatures rise in June, that trapped organic matter begins to decompose much faster, releasing a sour, musty odor up into your home. To a drain fly, that rotting biofilm is paradise—it’s exactly where they lay their eggs. Within days, a minor buildup can turn into a full-blown gnat infestation. The Wrong Way to Fix It: Boiling Water and BleachThe most common DIY "hacks" people try are pouring boiling water or straight bleach down the drain. Unfortunately, these rarely work for long: Bleach is a great sanitizer, but it runs right past the thick, gooey biofilm without actually breaking it down. The flies living deep inside the muck will survive, and the eggs will hatch a few days later. While hot water can help kill surface larvae, pouring boiling water down a bathroom sink or toilet can crack porcelain fixtures or soften and warp PVC pipes beneath the counter, creating hidden water leaks. To get rid of pests, you have to eliminate their food source. Here is how to clean the line without damaging your plumbing: 1. Scrub the Drain Mechanical StyleThe best way to destroy biofilm is old-fashioned scrubbing. Remove the sink stopper or shower grate. Take a long, stiff pipe brush (or an old toothbrush) and scrub the inside walls of the pipe as far down as you can reach to physically break up the slime. 2. Use an Enzyme Drain CleanerInstead of harsh, corrosive chemicals, use an enzyme-based drain cleaner or a specialized drain gel. These products contain live bacteria cultures that naturally eat away at organic grease, hair, and soap scum over several hours. Pour it down the drain before you go to bed so it can sit undisturbed overnight. 3. Flush Inactive DrainsDo you have a guest bathroom shower, a basement floor drain, or a wet bar sink that rarely gets used? When a drain sits empty, the water inside the P-trap (the curved pipe beneath the floor) evaporates. This allows sewer gases—and bugs—to travel straight up into your living space. Pro Tip: Every couple of weeks in the summer, run the water in your unused sinks and showers for 30 seconds to keep the traps filled and seal out odors. Still Smelling Something Sour?If you’ve scrubbed your drains and used an enzyme cleaner, but that musty sewer smell just won't go away, the blockage might be deeper in your main sewer stack, or a vent pipe on your roof might be clogged with debris. When DIY methods don't cut it, give Tony's Plumbing & Heating in Oakdale, MN a call to perform a professional drain cleaning to restore your home’s fresh air.
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 Photo courtesy of Canva June is officially here, and with it comes a massive shift in how we use our homes. The kids are out of school, weekend cookouts are back on the calendar, and the summer humidity is starting to roll in.
While we usually think of plumbing issues as winter emergencies (like frozen or burst pipes), the summer months actually bring an entirely different set of demands on your home’s plumbing system. More people at home means more showers, extra laundry, and a kitchen sink that’s working overtime. Before the summer heat takes full swing, here are three essential plumbing checks every homeowner should perform this June to prevent unexpected blockages and water damage. 1. Protect Your Garbage Disposal from Summer CookoutsJune kicks off the peak season for backyard barbecues, but all that food prep can wreak absolute havoc on your kitchen drain. Garbage disposals are designed for light food residue—not heavy meal disposal. If you want to avoid an emergency plumbing call during your weekend party, keep these common summer items out of your disposal entirely: Corn Husks and Celery: These fibrous, stringy vegetable scraps act like a web inside your disposal, wrapping around the blades and burning out the motor. Bones and Fruit Pits: Watermelon seeds, cherry pits, and ribs/chicken bones will instantly jam or break the grinding components. Cooking Oils and Grease: Never pour grease down the drain. It may be liquid when it's hot, but it quickly cools, solidifies inside your pipes, and creates a dense grease clog that catches everything else you wash down. 2. Check Your Sump Pump Before Heavy Summer StormsJune often brings heavy downpours and sudden thunderstorms. If you have a basement, your sump pump is your home’s first line of defense against severe water damage and flooding. Don't wait for a midnight storm to find out your pump is dead. Run this quick 5-minute test today: Locate your sump basin in the basement and remove the lid. Pour a bucket of water slowly into the pit. What to look for: The water level should rise, triggering the float switch. The pump should turn on automatically, discharge the water quickly, and shut itself back off. If your area is prone to severe storms that cause power outages, June is the perfect time to consider installing a battery-backup sump pump. It will keep running even if the main electricity goes out. 3. Watch (or listen) for Toilet "Running" and Silent LeaksWith kids, grandkids, or guests home for the summer, our bathrooms are about to get busy and extra usage can accelerate wear and tear on toilet tank components (like the flapper or fill valve). A toilet that "runs" constantly isn't just an annoying background noise—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day, causing a shocking surprise when your July water bill arrives. Want to test your toilet for a silent leak? Try drop a few drops of food coloring into your toilet tank and leave it alone for 20 minutes without flushing. If you see the color leaking into the toilet bowl, your flapper valve isn't sealing properly and needs a quick, cheap replacement. We want you to enjoy a worry-free summer when it comes to plumbing! Take a few minutes to test your sump pump, review disposal rules with the family, and catch silent bathroom leaks now means you can spend your summer focusing on the beach, the grill, and the warm weather—not dealing with a messy plumbing backup. If you find yourself in the middle of a plumbing emergency this summer, you know who to call! Tony's Plumbing & Heating will be here!  We use our plumbing every single day, but most of us don't give our drains a second thought until the water stops flowing. Whether it’s a bathroom sink filling up while you brush your teeth or a kitchen sink that’s slow to drain after dinner, a sluggish pipe is a cry for help.
Before you run to the store for a bottle of harsh chemical drain cleaner, let’s talk about how to handle common clogs safely without ruining your pipes. The Hidden Danger of Chemical Drain Cleaners When a drain slows down, the knee-jerk reaction for many homeowners is to pour a liquid chemical cleaner down the hatch. While it seems like an easy fix, professional plumbers rarely use them—and for good reason. These chemical formulas rely on high-heat chemical reactions to melt away blockages. This intense heat can soften and deform PVC pipes or corrode older metal lines, leading to incredibly expensive leaks down the road. They emit toxic fumes that can irritate your eyes and lungs. Plus, if the chemical fails to clear the clog, you're left with a sink full of toxic, stagnant water that makes it dangerous for a professional to fix. 3 Safe Ways to Clear a Slow Drain at HomeIf you're dealing with a minor, everyday blockage, try these safe DIY methods first: 1. The Baking Soda & Vinegar FlushFor a natural, pipe-friendly refresh, pour a half cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow it up by pouring a half cup of white vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz for about 15 minutes to break down grease and soap scum, then flush it completely with a kettle full of boiling water (use hot tap water if you have PVC pipes and please be careful as you do this). 2. Grab the Right PlungerIf there is standing water, use a plunger. Make sure you are using a standard cup plunger (which has a flat bottom perfect for sinks and tubs) rather than a toilet flange plunger (which has an extended rubber sleeve). Ensure there is enough water to cover the rubber cup, seal it tightly over the drain, and give it a few sharp, vertical plunges to dislodge the debris. 3. Use a Plastic Drain SnakeFor bathroom sinks clogged with hair and soap buildup, a cheap, flexible plastic "drain snake" or hair zip tool from the hardware store works wonders. Gently feed it into the drain, twist, and pull it back up to fish out the hair blocking the trap. When to Call in the Pros? While a single slow sink is usually an easy fix, some signs point to deeper issues in your main sewer line that require professional tools. Give a licensed plumber a call if you experience: Multiple Clogged Drains: If your kitchen sink, bathroom tub, and toilet are all backing up at the same time, the blockage is deep in your main line. Foul Odors: Persistent sewer smells coming from your drains often mean a broken vent pipe or a sewage backup. Frequent Reoccurring Clogs: If you have to plunge the exact same sink every single week, you aren't actually removing the block—you're just pushing it down the line. We're here to help in the Oakdale, Minnesota area! Give us a call at 651-340-1259. Bonus Pro Tip: Prevent future issues by installing simple mesh drain strainers in your sinks and showers which can catch hair and debris before it ever enters your plumbing system.  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.
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.
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."
Take a walk around your yard after a rainstorm.
Now that the risk of a hard frost has passed, it’s time to fully recommission your outdoor plumbing.
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:
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:
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. 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. 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.  As the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom, spring is an excellent time for homeowners in the Twin Cities to focus on plumbing maintenance. With the changing seasons, it’s important to ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly, especially after the harsh winter months. Here are some essential tips to keep your plumbing in top shape this spring:
1. Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses As temperatures rise, you'll likely be turning on your outdoor faucets for the first time in months. Check for leaks, drips, or any signs of damage. Ensure that hoses are in good condition and that there are no kinks or cracks. If you notice any issues, it’s best to address them now to avoid further damage or water waste. 2. Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts Spring rains are common in Minnesota, so it’s crucial to ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your foundation, which can cause serious plumbing issues. Clean them out and consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris accumulation. 3. Check for Leaks in the House Walk through your home and check for any signs of leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in your basement. Take note of any water stains, mold, or dampness, as these could indicate a plumbing problem. Early detection can save you from costly repairs down the line. 4. Service Your Water Heater Scheduling regular maintenance for your water heater is a great way to extend its lifespan and improve efficiency. Check the temperature setting—ideally, it should be set to 120°F. This not only prevents scalding but also conserves energy. Flushing your water heater to remove sediment buildup is another effective way to keep it running smoothly. 5. Be Cautious of Tree Roots In the Twin Cities, spring brings new growth, including tree roots that can invade your plumbing system. Keep an eye on trees near your sewer lines, as their roots can cause blockages. Regularly inspect your yard for signs of root intrusion and consider professional services if you suspect an issue. 6. Schedule a Plumbing Inspection Consider scheduling a comprehensive plumbing inspection with a reputable plumbing company. A professional can identify potential issues that might not be visible to the average homeowner. This proactive approach can save you from unexpected plumbing emergencies and costly repairs in the future. 7. Update Fixtures and Toilets If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your fixtures or toilets, spring is a great time to do it. Water-efficient toilets and faucets not only reduce your water bill but also contribute to an eco-friendly home. Consider consulting with a plumbing expert to find the best options for your household. By taking these proactive steps for your plumbing maintenance this spring, you can ensure a smooth transition into the warmer months while avoiding unexpected headaches down the line. If you need assistance, our expert team at Tony's Plumbing & Heating is here to help with all your plumbing needs. Serving the Oakdale, Minnesota area, we offer professional inspections, repairs, and installations to keep your home running smoothly. Contact us today to schedule your spring plumbing maintenance!  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. 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. 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.  Photo by Canva 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.
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:
Why Is It Leaking? If you notice water dripping from the valve or the discharge pipe, it could mean: 1. Normal Operation
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:
What Should You Do? Here’s what we recommend:
Need Help? Call Tony’s Plumbing and HeatingIf your water heater’s pressure relief valve is leaking, we can:
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. |
AuthorAt Tony's Plumbing & Heating, we offer outstanding residential and commercial plumbing and heating services in the East Twin Cities metro. With our blog, we hope to bring you useful tips and tricks for ever day life! Categories
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