Monthly Archives: May 2023

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plumber
Author Sue White Posted on

WHEN DO YOU NEED TO HIRE A MYRTLE BEACH PLUMBER

plumberYou should turn to a plumber if you have to install a new plumbing system or probably repair a plumbing problem. To all those who have experienced a plumbing problem before like a leaking faucet or a broken pipe, they know how frustrating it could be.

Although hiring a plumber means additional expenses, it is absolutely nothing compared to the hassle that you have to go through if you leave these concerns unattended. Without the right knowledge and proper training in the field, most homeowners will feel frustrated and overwhelmed when faced with even minor plumbing issues. Given that, it is a must to hire a professional Myrtle Beach plumber right away.

Plumbing Issues That Need The Attention of a Plumber

Leaky Faucets

One of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face at some point is a leaky faucet. Washers in the faucet will eventually wear out and cause water to pass through. This results in an annoying trickle of water. If you know how you can easily replace these worn-out washers. But if you don’t have the time to get it done or if you are uncertain, don’t hesitate to hire a plumber.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are commonly caused by items that are not supposed to be washed down the drain, to begin with. The kitchen sink is your home’s most used drain and it is the one that gets clogged the most. A few of the items that should not be put down the drain are vegetable peelings. Meanwhile, the drains in your bathroom sink and showers should also be constantly monitored for hair, which is the most common form of blockage.

plumberClogged Toilets

You should never ignore a leaking toilet. You shouldn’t try to fix it if you are not sure because incorrectly doing so can lead to bigger issues. Keep in mind that water can seep into your floors and walls and can cause extensive damage to your home. It can also add hundreds of dollars to your monthly bill. Meanwhile, a clogged toilet is another plumbing problem that you should never ignore. It can be caused by several reasons and should be addressed by a professional plumbing contractor.

Defective Garbage Disposal

A defective garbage disposal unit is another common plumbing problem that you need to watch out for. If in case you turn it on and is not working or if you hear weird noises while the motor is running, then there might be an obstruction in the system. You have to call a plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach to get rid of the clog and fix your garbage disposal system.

Hire A Pro

If you are in the market for a plumber, you need to do your research before making a decision. Ask for referrals from friends, family, colleagues, or even your local real estate agent. You should also check with your local plumbing supply store for recommendations or go online and read reviews of potential plumbers. Also, don’t forget to check if they are licensed, insured, and have a good reputation for providing excellent plumbing services.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC if you need the install, repair, replace, or maintain your plumbing system.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

toilet problem
Author Sue White Posted on

MOST COMMON TOILET PROBLEMS AND REPAIR TIPS

toilet problemYou always have the option to try a DIY repair if your toilet is running, leaking, slow filling, won’t flush, or noisy, before you call a residential plumber.

First things first. Let us learn how a toilet works and then we will discuss the basic toilet repair and troubleshooting tips to fix those common problems.

How Does It work?

To give you a better understanding of how the plumbing and the toilet works, remove the tank’s lid and flush the toilet a couple of times. You will notice the following things:

  • The chain will lift the flapper valve, also known as the tank ball or stopper, whenever you push the handle.
  • The water that is inside the tank will flow through the flush valve and into the toilet bowl.
  • The water that came from the tank will then force the wastewater into the toilet bowl right through the trap and then to the primary drain.
  • When the tank is already empty, the flapper valve will then close and then the ballcock/fill valve will then refill the tank.
  • Once the tank is full, the float ball will close the ballcock or the fill valve.

Water On the Floor Surrounding The Toilet

In case you notice that there is water on the floor surrounding your toilet, be sure to repair the problem immediately to prevent moisture from damaging your subfloor. Begin by evaluating every connection like the fill valve mounting nut, tank bolts, as well as supply tube coupling nut. Make sure that everything is tight. If yes then you might have to change the washers.

When the weather is warm and humid and the water is leaking from the side of your tank, it might be condensation. Water getting inside the tank is commonly colder compared to the temperature of the room. Utilize the correct ventilation so as to lessen condensation. Another recommended solution is a toilet liner kit, which involves placing a foam panel inside the tank.

toilet problemYou should also check if the toilet tank is cracked because if it is, you have to purchase a new one.  The water surrounding the base of the toilet can be due to a wax ring that doesn’t seal anymore or due to a cracked toilet base. In case the toilet is leaking all the time, then you have a problem with a cracked toilet base and it should be replaced. In case leaking takes place on or after the flush, you may have to change the wax ring.

The Toilet Will Not Flush

If the toilet is not flushing, the first thing you need to do is check the flush handle, the flush lever, the chain, and the flapper valve, as well as the connections of each part to ensure that they are all functioning. The possible causes of this plumbing problem include a handle that is too loose or too tight, a broken or bent lift arm, and a busted or out-of-adjustment connection between the lift chain as well as the lift arm.

Toilet Will Not Flush All The Way

If you notice that your toilet is not flushing all the way, you need to check three things. Check if the tank has a low water level, if there is too much slack in the lift chain if the flapper used is the correct model, and if it is correctly installed.

In case you don’t know what to do and you think you need a professional that offers toilet repair services, be sure to get in touch with a reliable plumber. But don’t just hire anyone. You need to find a Myrtle Beach plumber who is licensed and insured. He must also provide a fair price and possesses experience in toilet repair.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing if you need help fixing your toilet problems.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

Bathroom Remodel
Author Sue White Posted on

Remodeling Ideas For A Small Bathroom

Bathroom RemodelMany people have a small bathroom, and if you have one, it can be hard to come up with a great idea for remodeling. Many times the bathroom looks very cramped; however, if you use the right bathroom remodeling ideas, you can turn your small bathroom into a beautiful area. You need to come up with some ideas that will result in a bathroom that looks a lot bigger.

Bathroom Remodeling Suggestions For Small Bathroom

Select a small vanity as well as sink

It could be tough to work around a big vanity and sink in your little washroom, so try to avoid them. Try choosing a small vanity that will not use up excessive space, given that the area in your bathroom is restricted.

The most common vanity is one placed in the corner or you might opt for a free-standing sink for your bathroom.

Opt for a round shower or a corner shower

If you have a limited space in your bathroom, you will want to conserve space, especially when it involves installing the shower. You will discover that much of the standing showers available could use up a good deal of space. So, try to either a circle shower or a corner shower to help save on space. When you pick a corner shower, you ought to prevent choosing one that is nontransparent. Rather, choose one that is constructed from a clear product. This will provide the shower room an impression of being bigger than it actually is.

Select the right styles and also color styles

Choosing the appropriate design and color of the bathroom is also a crucial part of the bathroom remodeling project. The shades that you pick need to be light, although dark shades are fantastic for accents throughout the washroom. Any kind of accessories or shower room furniture that you use needs to be structured and should have the modern look. Too much furniture or complicated designs could mess up the bathroom and make it look smaller.

Make sure to include some mirrors too, given that they could offer depth to the space and make it look like there is more room. So, make use of the designs and shades intelligently.

Yes, it could be tough to renovate a smaller sized bathroom, however with these suggestions, it ends up being a lot easier. Put these suggestions right into action and you will likely get a bigger looking bathroom with spending less.

For more bathroom remodeling ideas and plumbing solutions, call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC.

Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733
https://www.blueribbonplumbingmb.com/

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

bathroom remodeling
Author Sue White Posted on

A CHECKLIST FOR YOUR BATHROOM REMODELING PROJECT

bathroom remodelingOne of the best ways to boost the value of your home, apart from kitchen renovations, is a bathroom remodel. It does not really matter whether it is a minor or major project, as long as it is done right, it can make your home sell higher if ever you decide to place it on the market. Also, even if you have no plans of selling your property anytime soon, a bathroom remodel can make your life and that of your family easier and more enjoyable.

So why do you need a checklist for your bathroom remodel? Even if it is not a necessity, it can be of great help. Before you start with your renovation project, creating a checklist will help you put all of your ideas in just one place. It will help you estimate the cost, time, and effort required for the project. Once the project commences, your checklist will assist you in moving from one task to another smoothly.

The contractor that you hire may or may not be using a checklist as they carry out a project. In case you have created one, you can ask the contractor to use it. It will help you keep your project within your budget. Your checklist will be your game plan and help you finish the project in a timely manner. Please be informed that the bathroom remodeling checklist that is provided below may be different from the others. However, you can always customize it according to your needs. You can create two lists, one for your necessities and another one for the optional things that you want your bathroom to have.

Tips For Your Bathroom Remodel Project

Design – before you start a bathroom remodel in Myrtle Beach, you have to spend some time developing the design of your dream bathroom. You will find several digital design software programs that can help you with this task if you ever want to do it on your own. Consider getting the Tuscany or the vintage theme. In case you decide to work with a professional bathroom designer, be sure to work with him on this before you proceed. Check out pictures and samples of paint, fixtures, tiles, and other materials that will be used in your project.

Permits – Once your design is completed, you already know what your plans are for your bathroom remodel. You have to obtain permits from your country or city. In case you’re hiring contractors, all permits needed should be in order before the project starts.

Walls – Does your project involve refinishing or moving walls? In case you need to move walls, add a window, or perhaps move a door, you need to plan very carefully.

Floors– the majority of bathroom remodeling projects usually involve a certain kind of floor work. In case the sink, shower, toilet, and tub have to be moved, plumbing alterations need to be made. New holes are going to be created on the floor, a new subfloor may need to be installed, and so forth. Make sure that you are well prepared.

Plumbing – a licensed professional needs to be hired if you are planning to make minor or major changes to your plumbing system. Don’t attempt to do this on your own if you don’t have the knowledge or skills because you might end up doing more damage than good.

Electrical – Determine if your bathroom remodeling involves working with the electrical system. If it only needs changing a light bulb then that is pretty simple. If the task is more complicated, then you need to hire an electrical contractor.

Decoration – When the floors and walls are completed, electricity and plumbing are rearranged or reinstalled, it is now time to redecorate. Everyone loves this phase and surely, you will find this an enjoyable experience.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC if you are planning to go through a bathroom remodel.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

BASIC SPRING PLUMBING CHECKUPS FOR YOUR HOME

plumbingTo determine the damage caused by the harsh winter weather, it is advisable to perform a plumbing check for the upcoming spring. Provided below are the basic recommendations that homeowners may follow when carrying out a plumbing inspection.

Be On The Lookout For Frozen Pipes and Broken Hose Bibs

One of the most common causes of home plumbing damage is freezing water. Plumbing repair is usually required by several homeowners when water has turned into ice, burst pipes, and other similar concerns. When water changes from liquid to solid, it expands by nine percent. Because of this, you need to turn off and drain your plumbing system to avoid frozen pipes. During the spring season, you need to check all parts of your plumbing system to make sure that it is still functional. This includes the faucets, spigots, and the like. Apart from functionality, be watchful of leaking pipes as well as pooling water. In case you were able to identify ice damage, you need to seek out the help of a plumber. Don’t forget to get several quotes from different plumbing contractors.

Check For Dripping Faucets

Provided that you know what you are doing, you can most likely fix a leaky faucet. The most common cause of this problem is a worn out and cracked gasket. You can easily purchase a new one from any hardware or home improvement store near you. If you are uncertain as to what you should do, you can always get in touch with a local plumbing contractor.

Mineral Buildup

If you think you have problems related to mineral buildup in your plumbing pipes, you may use white vinegar to deal with this concern. Put it in a plastic bag and then hang it on the faucet using a rubber band and soak it for 24 hours. Vinegar has the ability to naturally break down mineral buildup that can hamper the water pressure in the plumbing system.

Clean Downspouts, Drains, and Gutters

You can also prevent problems related to leaks, as well as mold and mildew growth. You also need to check your property for plumbing vents after making sure that your roof’s drainage system is free from any sign of obstruction. If you don’t have the equipment for this task, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumbing company. Plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach does not just deal with plumbing repair, they also offer services that are related to maintaining your plumbing system and preventing potential problems in the future.

Toilet Maintenance

Keep in mind that catching toilet problems at an early stage is better than dealing with a full-blown toilet dilemma. A simple toilet leak can give you huge problems once it starts to seep into your home’s subfloors, which can lead to the weakening of the structural beams and potential collapse. Cracks and water seeping out from the floor through the caulk at the bottom are obvious signs of damage. If you think you have problems with your toilet, call a reliable plumber right away.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing for any concerns you may have with your plumbing system.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

 

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

How to Avoid Common Condo Plumbing Problems

plumbingCondo plumbing systems are more complicated than those in standalone homes or businesses because they have separate pipework for tenants and the public. The pipes in and around the individual units are under the responsibility of the unit owner. However, pipes around public areas are under the responsibility of the property manager or owner.

Many condos prefer to use one plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach for all plumbing repairs, indoors and outdoors. However, some property managers will work with any licensed plumber in the locality.

Condo Plumbing Problems

Some people prefer the condo lifestyle to homeownership. However, you must be aware of some unique challenges condo owners face. The water is brought into the building by potable water pipes. These freshwater pipes are usually made of PEX, PVC, or CPVC and deliver water to all appliances and fixtures.

All water-using fixtures and appliances, such as sinks and taps, washing machines, shower heads, bathtubs, and dishwashers drain their wastewater through a drainage line that connects to an exhaust and waste stack in order to remove dirty water from the building. Vent stacks are used to ventilate the drain lines and balance system pressure. This ensures that the dirty water is carried uninterruptedly to the main sewer.

The unit owner, property manager, or owner may be responsible for fixing the problem depending on the location. Some common issues include:

Toilets clogged

It is common to have a blockage in your drains, particularly in condominiums. This can be caused by papers or other materials.

Drain lines clogged

The buildup of soap residue, shampoo, grease, and other materials can cause clogged drains.

Frozen pipes

In colder climates, this is the most difficult and dangerous plumbing problem. Extremely cold temperatures can cause the water inside your pipes to expand, causing them to burst. It can cause flooding or water damage depending on the severity.

Pipework and dripping taps

If not addressed by a plumber, this problem can lead to a large amount of water waste and high water costs.

Low water pressure

Aerators that are clogged can cause this problem in condo buildings.

Sewage backups

Clogs can occur in the main sewer lines and/or waste piles. This may affect more than one apartment. It is important to evaluate the problem and determine who will be responsible for fixing it.

Potable water pipes that are corroded

It is inevitable that potable water pipes will deteriorate. Water pressure combined with the chemical composition can cause corrosion, pits or cracks in the pipes, leaks, and even blowouts.

Avoiding Common Condo Plumbing Issues

Many people find it difficult to deal with plumbing issues in their condos, especially when they consider the costs of hiring a plumber. You may have to turn off the water for several units or even a dozen to fix the problem in your unit. You will need to ask permission from the manager of the property and send out a notification to all affected units. If you need to do additional maintenance that involves shutting off the water in multiple units, this may cause inconvenience for residents and delay approval by the property manager.

Avoiding plumbing issues is the best thing to do. Plumbing maintenance can help you avoid plumbing problems.

plumbingHow to prevent frozen pipes and water bursts

You can protect yourself and your fellow residents by running hot and cool water regularly during winter. In the winter, you can have the hot water drip gradually to generate heat in the plumbing system. The water should be flowing to prevent it from freezing in the pipes. The property manager is responsible for fixing the problem if the pipes burst or freeze.

Fix leaks in your water appliances

Leaks in condos are often caused by a lack of maintenance on washing machines and dishwashers. Condominium owners with their own water appliances should check the connection between the appliance and the plumbing as well as the drainage hose. Contact a plumber if you notice any moisture in the area around your water appliance. This could indicate a structural issue in the building.

Showerheads should be cleaned regularly to maintain water pressure

Low water pressure is a common concern for condo owners. This problem can be avoided by cleaning the showerhead. The shower valves can be clogged by debris, particularly in older pipes or after some maintenance or repair work on the plumbing system. You can sometimes improve the water pressure by adding distilled white vinegar to a sandwich bag and then tying the rubber band over the showerhead. Let it sit overnight to clear the showerhead of clogged contaminants. If it doesn’t, ask a professional plumber in Myrtle Beach to help you.

Check hot water tanks for corrosion

If your heater begins to rust you run the risk of reducing not only the quality of the water that enters your home but also the lifespan of the unit. Condo owners can prevent this by inspecting their water heaters annually for leaks or rust. It is a good idea to flush out the system and remove any sediment that has accumulated. This should be performed by a plumber as part of your annual plumbing inspection.

Plumbing problems in condominiums can be costly for both the individual owners and the whole building. Follow the above tips to avoid this, and the inconvenience that comes with regular repairs. Schedule routine maintenance at the very least once a year. In the event of an emergency, it’s important to know the name and contact information of a professional and reliable plumber.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now to learn how to avoid common plumbing problems that occur in condominiums.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Common Plumbing Problems and How to Diagnose Them

plumbingPlumbing problems can be a real pain. Plumbing problems can make it difficult to wash your hands, take a bath, or flush the toilet. Plumbing problems are never in the middle. They can be simple, inexpensive, and cost as much as an entire weekend away.

It’s crucial to avoid plumbing problems when renovating a bathroom or kitchen. It’s important to hire good contractors and avoid bad ones who could be the cause of your plumbing problems.

Even if you have the best plumbers, wear and tear and unintentional mistakes (like pouring grease and oil down the drain) will cause plumbing issues over time.

Plumbing problems can be hard to diagnose or explain to a plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach, over the phone.  Here are five common plumbing issues, what you can expect from the plumber, and how to ask about them.

Problem: Shower Leak

Does the shower head leak? Water is leaking continuously from the tub’s spout. Do you see water on the bathroom floor after you have taken a shower? Is water always on the bathroom floor, even though no one has used it recently?

This is often a sign of a defective shower valve or cartridge. The second type of leak that we encounter is when water starts to soak the wall behind the bathroom shower, or even the ceiling, in an upstairs bathroom. Even if the shower/tub is not being used, a leak may be occurring behind the wall if water starts to drip directly behind or under it.

Your plumber may have to replace your showerhead or replace the cartridge depending on the issue.

Problem: Clogged Drain

plumbingIs there a stoppage in the drain, whether it’s in the kitchen, bathtub, or bathroom? The flow of water is restricted by debris, like toothpaste, hair, food, and grease. The galvanized pipes in your home corrode inside out, and over time the pipe diameter decreases, causing more blockages.

If the plumber is unable to drain a toilet or other fixture, he will need to find out if there is a clog in all drains. The clog in a home that has multiple drains backing up is most likely on the main line. If the clog only affects one drain it’s likely to be in that drain.

Problem: Low-Pressure Water

This will help your plumber to understand the extent of the problem. There is low pressure when I turn on the fixture. The problem could be as easy as a shutoff that needs to be opened. It could be something more serious, such as an old house that needs to have its galvanized pipes replaced. Low water pressure will worsen over time, making it difficult to take a shower, water the lawn or do the dishes.

It may be possible to fix a single fixture by cleaning the aerator or replacing or cleaning the cartridge. You may need to replace or adjust your pressure-reducing valve if the water pressure is low throughout your home. Sewell advises that if the low water pressure is due to a leaky section of the water supply line, the pipe needs to be replaced.

Problem: Lack of hot water

When I turn on the faucet, there is no hot water. Check to see if the problem is with all fixtures or only one. It is most likely the water heater that has a problem. The water heater could need its pilot light re-ignited or it may be necessary to replace the heater. You won’t be able to have hot water if the water heater stops working. You should replace your water heater if it is leaking, or if there is rust at the bottom. Old water heaters are inefficient, and they waste energy.

If you are having plumbing issues, call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

What Is The Impact Of Hard Water On Your Plumbing?

plumbingYou’ve probably heard about hard water. But do you really know what it is and why it’s causing plumbing problems. What does “hard water” mean?

The level of dissolved minerals in water is called hardness. Minerals may be present in varying amounts, but the main minerals are magnesium and calcium. These minerals contribute to the level of hardness or softness of water.

Minerals are not harmful to your health but they can cause problems when they accumulate in pipes or on plumbing fixtures.

Our experts explain the effects of hard water on water systems and the plumbing services and repairs that can be done to fix the problem.

What is the impact of hard water on your plumbing?

The mineral deposits in hard water can clog pipes. The minerals precipitate when you heat the hard water. These mineral deposits are then deposited in your water heater, plumbing system, dishwasher, and washing machine.

This can cause serious problems in your plumbing system. For example, low water pressure, increasing water bills and malfunctioning of household appliances are all possible.

Some plumbing systems can be more susceptible to hard water. Hard water is less damaging to PVC and Copper pipes, but mineral buildup can still cause problems if not addressed.

Common signs that you have hard water

These are some signs that your home could have hard water.

Drinking water of low quality

Hard water can cause small particles and debris to accumulate in the water. These particles are collected as the stream travels along your pipes and reaches your faucets, showers, and other fixtures.

The particles found in your water can be trace amounts of iron, calcium, magnesium, and copper. If you do not address this problem as soon as possible the deposits will continue to build up in your plumbing until they clog your pipes.

Regular maintenance can help you to avoid costly repairs to your plumbing system. Ask our professionals in plumbing repair and service for hard water for the best advice on water softeners.

Soap Scum On Fixtures

Scum is the solid deposit created by soap when used in hard water. The insoluble deposit results from charged calcium and magnesium particles reacting with glycerine. The substance is slowly accumulating, but it can cause mildew and mold growth. It may eventually lead to clogged pipes.

Scum can also contain bacteria that could put you and those around you at risk of illness.

Problematic Appliances

Hard water can negatively impact household appliances such as water heaters, washers, and dishwashers. Mineral deposits on household appliances can clog up valves, and cause other problems. This will lead to your appliances deteriorating quickly.

plumbingStiff or Rough Fabric

Mineral deposits can attach to clothing or linen if they are not removed. This will make the fabric feel rough and stiff. These deposits can weaken the fabric and cause discolorations.

Water Bills

Massive deposits of hard water in your pipes can lead to unwanted materials or excess water being trapped. The increased pressure inside the pipe can eventually lead to cracks and leakages. This type of damage can increase your utility bill if not repaired in time.

Recurrent Plumbing Repairs

Mineral deposits can easily corrode water-dependent appliances and pipes. You’ll have to fix your plumbing and other fixtures frequently because of the damage.

How can you fix the hard water problem?

Two major solutions are offered by our plumbing contractors in Myrtle Beach to solve the problem of hard water in your home.

  • Water softener investment
  • Installing reverse osmosis systems

Water softeners are tanks installed between the water source and the plumbing system of your home. The tank is filled with an inorganic, softening substance that’s suspended in a solution of saltwater.

The sodium in the water is displaced by the minerals suspended therein (a process known as ion exchange). This swap removes the hard minerals before the water reaches the tap.

Reverse osmosis involves removing the hard minerals in water using a semipermeable cell. This system traps minerals as well as other impurities in order to purify and soften your water. It is more expensive to buy a reverse osmosis water system than a softener.

Call our experts at Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC if you have questions about plumbing repair and service for hard water.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

Water heater
Author Sue White Posted on

Is it Time For a Water Heater Replacement?

Water heaterYou might be worried about the lifespan of an old water heater. You’re perfectly entitled to ask for a timeline so you can budget for future repair or replacement costs. It is better to replace your water heater at some point than to keep spending money on it.

Most plumbers in Myrtle Beach use three factors to determine if it’s time to replace your water heater. When you call in a plumber to repair your water heater, he will first consider the situation. Some repairs, such as changing an inlet valve are straightforward and logical. Others are more complex such as changing the heating element. It may be better to replace the water heater if it is a labor-intensive job.

The second variable is the cost of the water heater. It is largely determined by the cost of a water heater repair whether or not it’s time to replace your water heater. Just because you can fix something does not mean that you should. It may not be worth investing a lot of money in repairing an old water heater if it will only last you a year or two. You have to weigh all the factors at this point.

The age of the water heating system is the last variable. A water heater that is old simply does not warrant investing much money. You have to decide whether to scrap an old car or stop investing money in an aging heater. It is time to replace your water heater if it has been over 10 years old.

Most people do not want to wait for their water heater to break down before they start thinking about a replacement. Most people would rather replace their water heater before it breaks down so they won’t be faced with a huge leak in the basement or lack of hot water. Here are some of the signs you should replace your water heater if you’re one of those people or just curious if it’s time.

Your water heater’s age

The age of the water heater is a major factor to consider when replacing your water heater. Water heaters are considered old if they have been in use for more than ten or twelve years. Tankless water heaters may last longer than standard water heaters, but they will eventually wear out. As you near the 10-year mark, it might be time to replace your unit. Upgrades to energy-efficient units will likely result in a reduction in your water bill.

Water heaterIncreased Utility Bills

Your energy bills are another sign that you may need to replace your water heater. When you start to notice an increase in your water or electricity bills, it could be a sign your water heater no longer works as efficiently. It is in your best interest to begin looking for replacement models. You will feel more comfortable about the cost upfront of replacing your unit when you begin to save.

Check for Corrosion in Your Unit

If you see signs of corrosion, it’s time to replace your water heater. You can hire a plumbing contractor for the job. If you notice rust outside your unit, it is likely to be inside. When rust gets into the tank it will cause rusty water to come out of your pipes. It can damage your clothes and make you sick. You will only have one option at this point: replace the unit.

Recurrent Repairs

If you are constantly having to repair your water heater, it is time to consider a replacement. It may be better to replace the unit if you need to repair your water heater constantly. You will have reliable hot water at home without having to deal with any additional hassle.

Loss of water volume

If you find that your hot water is constantly running out, it may be time to replace your water heater. It’s not necessary to rush to get hot water to fill your bath. Talk to your plumber if you feel like you’re always running out of water.

Do you think it’s time to replace your water heater? Contact Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

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Author Sue White Posted on

How Hard Water Damages The Plumbing System

plumbingMany homeowners find hard water to be a nuisance. It can cause issues with plumbing and appliances. You can determine if you need to do anything about hard water by understanding what it is and what it does to your plumbing.

What is hard water?

Hard water is a term used to describe fresh water that contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. The white stain left by hard water on your faucet is an indication that it’s not soft.

How does water become hard?

Rainwater, although pure, absorbs minerals as it moves from the surface to aquifers. These minerals are primarily calcium and magnesium. The water becomes hardened by this absorption. Hardness is determined by the amount of minerals in the water. Water hardness can be measured by milligrams/liter (mg/L), or grains of minerals per gallon.

Common Plumbing Problems

It can be a problem because hard water reacts with cleaning agents, causes soap buildup, and wears down appliances and fixtures more quickly than soft. Hard water minerals react with soap, causing soap scum and preventing suds. You will need to use more detergent when you have hard water. Over time, the buildup of mineral deposits on dishes and glasses, clothing, and fixtures, can cause damage. Here are some common problems that can arise from hard water. If you notice any of these, don’t hesitate to hire a plumber.

  • The scale buildup in water pipes can restrict water flow
  • The buildup of film and scale on ceramic tiles and fixtures
  • Water heaters are less efficient due to scale deposits
  • Spots on dishes and glasses after washing in dishwater
  • A lack of suds can lead to less effective washing.
  • Wear on clothes increases during washing

What does it do to plumbing?

Hard water is not the only problem. Over time, the minerals in hard water also begin to accumulate inside appliances, pipes, and fixtures. This build-up, which we can’t see, can cause a variety of plumbing issues, including reduced water flow, clogs and increased pressure on fixtures and pipes. Mineral deposits can cause appliances to wear out faster and operate less efficiently. A water heater, for example, has to heat both the water and the mineral buildup in the tank. Hard water can lead to less efficient Myrtle Beach plumbing over time and require more repairs.

Test for Hard Water

Hard water is usually indicated by a white scale on fixtures. You can test your hard water by shaking a small amount of dish soap with water in a sealed container. If you don’t see a lot of suds in the solution, then your water is probably hard. You can get more accurate results by contacting your water provider to request a water testing report. You can have your water sample tested in a local laboratory or by a company on site (just be careful of conflict of interest, for example, if the company is a water-softener manufacturer). You can also use a water-hardness test strip, which is available at hardware and home centers. Simply hold the strip under running water and compare it to a color scale.

There are water-conditioning products that can be used to deal with mildly hard water. The most common and complete solution to treating hard water, however, is the installation of a whole-house water softener. In cases where water is above 3 GPG, installing a water-softener system can be the most efficient and effective solution.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you’re having problems with your plumbing system.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about plumbing services.

Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Murrells Inlet/Garden City, Surfside Beach, Carolina Forest/Forestbrook, Conway/Aynor

 

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