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Plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Are Plumbing and Pipe Leaks Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

PlumbingA homeowners insurance policy should cover any unexpected and sudden water damage brought on by a plumbing problem. The majority of home insurance coverage does not include home damage caused by

  • constant and slow leaks
  • damage that occurred because of flooding.

Some home damage, such as mold, could be excluded from your regular insurance policy depending on its cause. However, there are other insurance coverages that can be added to existing premiums.

Water Damage from Pipe Leaks

Your home insurance policy should cover accidental and sudden water damage caused by a plumbing failure, such as a ruptured water heater or burst pipe.

If your home has water damage, there are three clauses in the homeowners insurance policy that could provide you with coverage:

Dwelling coverage: This clause insures your home’s structure, including the floorboards, walls, and roof. If a covered leak has damaged a section of your home or you had to get rid of a part of your wall to repair a leak, your home coverage should reimburse you. Your dwelling insurance will also cover any built-in appliances in your home if they are damaged.

Property coverage: This coverage will reimburse you for

  • any damaged personal property
  • clothing
  • furniture
  • TVs

These may have been destroyed after a plumbing problem wreaks havoc in your home. However, luxury items such as jewelry will be covered, but with a $2,000 limit, unless you added extra coverage to your policy.

Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage: This type of coverage will reimburse you for your travel, hotel, and food expenses if you were displaced from your house temporarily.

For instance, if water begins to pour out of your washing machine while you are not at home, it may cause buckling on your wooden floorboards. Additionally, the water may leak through your floors and damage your walls or the ceiling of the floor underneath. In such a case, an insurance adjuster will assess the damage to your home.

What Plumbing Damage Cannot Be Covered by Home Insurance

Although burst pipes and plumbing malfunctions are covered under water damage, you need to know that there are some situations or types of damage that are not covered. When you file a water damage claim, your insurer will send out an insurance adjuster to evaluate the cause and cost of the damage. They will assess:

  • The source of the damage or the location of the affected pipes
  • Whether the damage occurred due to a new leak or an old one
  • Whether there were signs of deterioration that may have indicated future leaks
  • Whether the leak is the result of old age or deterioration

The insurance adjuster will use these assessments to determine if you could have prevented the leak. If they believe you could have prevented it, they will not provide you with coverage.

PlumbingLack of Maintenance

Water damage resulting from normal deterioration or insufficient plumbing maintenance won’t be covered. Insurers also deny claims for burst pipes during winter, a common claim made by several homeowners.

Sewage Backup

While a leaking toilet could be covered by homeowners insurance policies, a backed-up or flooded sewage system will not be covered. Even if it could overload your plumbing system. Fortunately, many home insurance companies offer sewer or water backup insurance as a cost-effective rider that can be added to an existing policy. It’s a great idea to include this optional coverage because sewage damage can be hazardous to your family’s health and can cause costly damage to your home and property.

Flood Damage

Damage resulting from a defective pipe or utility is usually covered. Flood damage occurs when heavy rains, overflowing water bodies, or snowmelt raise water levels to the point of accessing your house and overloads the plumbing system. This damage is not included in your homeowners insurance policy, but you can purchase flood insurance coverage from your insurer if they participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Mold Damage

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover mold damage. However, insurance firms do offer varying levels of protection against mold damage if it is due to a covered leak. You must carefully read your policy to fully understand your coverage. If covered, your insurer will reimburse you for up to $10,000 for mold remediation, but the amount will depend on certain factors.

You should regularly clean, dehumidify, and ventilate areas susceptible to mold growth to prevent its spread. These areas include the crawl space, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, and cabinets under sinks.

If you notice a water leak, take immediate steps to prevent further damage. Stop the flow of water by shutting off your main water valve. Call an emergency plumber to help you fix the leak.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC if you have problems with water leaks at home.

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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

plumbing emergency
Author Sue White Posted on

What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

plumbing emergencyWhenever a plumbing emergency arises, it’s crucial to address it promptly – a fact well understood by homeowners. However, reaching out to an emergency plumber on holidays, weekends, or late at night can come with a hefty price tag. It’s essential to discern when immediate action is necessary and when professional assistance is the right call.

When to Summon a Pro For Plumbing Emergency?

Generally, it’s advisable to make that after-hours call if:

Risk of Flooding: Instances like burst pipes, failed sump pumps, malfunctioning water shut-off valves, or sewer backups exemplify plumbing emergencies that may lead to flooding if not resolved promptly. Flood damage could compromise structures, posing safety hazards. Thus, swift action is paramount.

Sewer Backup: A backed-up sewer line retains sewage at its backup point, potentially causing health issues. This dire situation restricts water usage and facility access, making living conditions challenging.

Lack of Water: A lack of running water raises safety concerns. Similar to sewer backups, this issue impedes facility usage and basic tasks such as cleaning and cooking.

No Heating in Winter or Cooling in Summer: The absence of heating during cold seasons or cooling amid hot summers can escalate problems. This is particularly critical if vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, pregnant women, or children reside in the household.

When Heating or Cooling Fails

plumbing emergencyFurthermore, lacking cooling when temperatures soar can result in heatstroke – an emergency situation. In either scenario, reaching out to a Myrtle Beach emergency plumbing contractor is vital.

Remember, preventive maintenance carries significant advantages, especially when done by a Myrtle Beach plumber. Regular maintenance can avert air conditioning or furnace breakdowns, especially during periods of dire need.

Dealing with a Burst Pipe

Frozen pipes can lead to flooding and prevent water access. A frozen pipe obstructs water flow, and as it thaws, the risk of flooding increases due to expansion and cracks. It’s essential to know the location of water shut-off valves.

When to Exercise Patience

If the problem is not pressing, it doesn’t qualify as an immediate plumbing emergency. Evaluate the additional costs and determine if the call is justified. Keep in mind that even rapid arrival doesn’t guarantee that the emergency plumber possesses the necessary components for the task. Waiting until a regular business day has the advantage of ensuring access to suppliers for required items, like replacement parts.

Embracing Regular Maintenance

Always remember to establish a routine plumbing maintenance schedule for your plumbing system. Plan ahead for inspections, remodeling work, and appliance installations.

If you’re in search of an emergency plumber, reach out to Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC without delay.

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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

toilet
Author Sue White Posted on

Common Mistakes That Can Damage Your Toilet When Attempting to Unclog It

toilet Picture this: you flush the toilet, expecting everything to disappear smoothly, but the water starts rising instead of draining away. It’s a clogged toilet situation, and you’re in a hurry to fix it. You’re not alone!

Many homeowners find themselves in this predicament, and their attempts to unclog the toilet can sometimes lead to costly blunders. To ensure you don’t fall into this trap, let’s explore three ways you could unintentionally damage your toilet while attempting to clear the clog.

1. Misusing Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners seem like a convenient solution to unclog drains by breaking down blockages through chemical reactions. However, the heat generated during this process can result in porcelain cracks, ultimately necessitating a complete toilet replacement.

Moreover, if the drain cleaner proves ineffective and the clog persists, you’ll end up with a toilet bowl filled with harmful chemicals. Plunging in this scenario could potentially splash these toxic substances onto your skin and eyes, causing burns.

toilet Professional Myrtle Beach plumbers strongly advise steering clear of drain cleaning chemicals and instead reaching out to a skilled plumbing contractor for assistance.

2. Overzealous Plunging

When dealing with a clog, homeowners can sometimes get carried away with their plunging efforts, inadvertently causing damage. Excessive force can lead to cracks in the bowl. The key is to plunge correctly. Begin by placing the plunger in the toilet bowl, ensuring that water seals the plunger’s lips.

Gently press down, eliminating any trapped air to achieve a secure seal. With this set-up, pull up the plunger briskly. Repeat the process until the clog clears, or consider enlisting the help of a professional plumber, such as Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC, for expert assistance.

3. Incorrect Use of Plumber’s Snake

While drain cables or plumbing snakes are effective for sink clogs, they can spell trouble for your porcelain toilet bowl. If plunging doesn’t yield results, opt for a toilet auger, also called a closet auger. This specialized plumbing snake features a protective sleeve that safeguards your toilet bowl from harm while effectively removing the obstruction.

If you’re grappling with a clogged toilet, don’t hesitate to contact Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC. They can provide the expert guidance and assistance you need to resolve your toilet troubles without causing further damage.

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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

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Plumbing Solutions for Homes with Concrete Slab Foundations

plumbing Have you noticed damp patches on your floor? Are cracks in your foundation shedding tears? Or an unexpected surge in your water bill? These might be indicators of a plumbing leak, especially if you reside in a home with a concrete slab foundation.

Plumbing issues can be particularly tricky when your pipes are concealed beneath a concrete slab, adding extra complexity and cost to the plumbing repair job.

Don’t fret, though. There are efficient and less intrusive ways to address plumbing problems in slab foundation homes without resorting to breaking through the solid concrete base.

Understanding Concrete Slab Foundations

A concrete slab foundation involves pouring a mixture of gravel, sand, cement, and water into a mold, which then solidifies. Homes with such foundations rest upon this robust concrete block, with no basement or crawlspace underneath. Consequently, the plumbing system is tucked away beneath the slab foundation.

The plumbing lines encased within the concrete slab foundation, also known as under-slab plumbing, may consist of materials like cast iron, galvanized steel, or copper, which are susceptible to wear and tear over time. As a result, these pipes might deteriorate and begin to leak.

During the construction of a slab foundation, pipes are laid within a layer of gravel or sand beneath the slab, making them difficult to access. Modifying plumbing configurations under the slab is no easy task once they’re in place.

In more modern homes, a moisture barrier is often present to shield the concrete slab. Many localities began requiring these barriers as damp concrete slabs cannot naturally dry themselves (the home covers the surface where moisture would usually evaporate), potentially leading to structural issues. If your home predates the 1980s, it might lack this moisture barrier.

plumbingSigns of Plumbing Problems in Slab Foundations

What are the telltale signs that there’s a leak in the pipe underneath the concrete slab foundation?

  • Water stains on the floor
  • Soft spots on the floor
  • Temperature variations on the floor
  • Unexpected spikes in your water bill
  • Reduced water pressure
  • Unpleasant odors
  • Visible damage to the foundation
  • Water pooling or depressions in your yard

Cracks in your home’s walls

A cracked pipe beneath the slab can lead to wet patches on your floor due to the porous nature of concrete. If you suddenly find your socks damp from mysterious moisture while walking around your house, it’s likely a Myrtle Beach plumbing issue within the concrete slab foundation.

Foul odors may arise from mold growth or a breach in the sewer line, and the infiltration of water can cause landscape damage under your yard. Foundation shifts resulting from leaks in the plumbing beneath the slab can lead to cracks in your walls.

It’s crucial to take action! Neglecting signs of leaks or broken pipes under the slab can lead to costly foundation repairs. Water seepage through the foundation can foster mold, mildew, and pests under your flooring, potentially compromising your cherished home.

Plumbing Challenges for Concrete Slab Foundations

plumbingIf your home does have pipes concealed under the concrete slab foundation, certain factors could put them at risk of damage:

Age, particularly with older pipes made of copper, cast iron, or galvanized steel

  • Intrusion from tree roots
  • Shifting within the foundation or the surrounding ground
  • Adjustments or repairs to the foundation

Solving Plumbing Woes in Concrete Slab Foundations

If your plumbing resides beneath a concrete slab foundation, rerouting the pipes around the slab is one of the smartest ways to tackle the issue without going through the ordeal twice.

Repairing pipes and addressing plumbing concerns within a concrete slab foundation can be intricate, messy, and time-consuming, involving equipment like jackhammers, concrete saws, or drilling into the foundation. While the project is feasible, be prepared to cover the labor costs.

A professional plumber can identify the leaky section and relocate your pipes to a more accessible area behind walls or ceilings if you opt for rerouting. If the leak is below your yard, options like trenchless repair might be available.

Need a Plumber for Pipe Repairs?

Do you suspect a hidden pipe leak within your concrete slab foundation? Waste no time and get in touch with a licensed plumbing expert immediately to address the issue with your slab plumbing. Your home’s foundation will thank you for it!

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now and let our team fix your plumbing problems.

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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

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Blue Ribbon Plumbing: The Best Choice for Plumbing in Myrtle Beach

plumbingFinding a trustworthy plumber can be a daunting task. In Myrtle Beach, there are many options available, but none compare to the efficiency, expertise, and dedication offered by Blue Ribbon Plumbing. Here’s why we stand out as the best plumber to call in the region:

The Best Plumbing Contractor

Experience Matters: With decades of experience under its belt, Blue Ribbon Plumbing understands the unique challenges and demands of plumbing systems in Myrtle Beach. Their team has witnessed every kind of drainage issue imaginable and has effectively resolved them all.

Prompt Response: Plumbing issues can arise at any time, and when they do, it’s crucial to have a reliable plumber who can address them immediately. We pride ourselves on its quick response time, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine.

Advanced Technology: By employing the latest technology, Blue Ribbon ensures that its diagnostic and repair methods are top-notch. This not only helps in detecting issues quickly but also ensures that repairs are durable and efficient.

plumbingTransparent Pricing: There’s nothing more stressful than unexpected costs when you’re already dealing with issues. We offer upfront pricing, ensuring that customers are never taken by surprise.

Highly Trained Staff: The plumbers at Blue Ribbon aren’t just experienced; they are also highly trained and certified. They are dedicated to continuous learning, which means they stay updated with the latest techniques and best practices in the industry.

Local Expertise: Being locally based in Myrtle Beach, Blue Ribbon Plumbing has an in-depth understanding of the area’s infrastructure and common drainage issues. This local expertise translates into faster, more efficient service tailored to the needs of Myrtle Beach residents.

Guaranteed Satisfaction: We stand behind its work. Its commitment to quality means that if you’re not satisfied, they’ll make it right.

Comprehensive Services: Whether you have a minor leak, need a major pipe replacement, or are considering remodeling your bathroom, we offer a wide range of services to cater to all your plumbing needs.

While many plumbers are available to choose from in Myrtle Beach, we stand out for its unparalleled commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

The next time you’re faced with an issue with drainage, bathroom remodel, water heater problems or toilet issues, know that Blue Ribbon Plumbing is the best call you can make.

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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

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Top Plumbing Mistakes You Need To Avoid

plumbingJust like your heating and cooling system, your plumbing plays a crucial role in keeping your home comfortable. You do not pay much attention to your plumbing system until there’s a problem. Provided below are seven common plumbing mistakes and some tips to avoid them.

Keeping The Water On During An Emergency

In the case of a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or some other emergency problem, you have to switch off the water. Your primary water source will have a shut-off valve. You have to turn it off right away until the water stops flowing whenever you notice signs of issues.

The next thing you have to do is call a plumber. A lot of people fail to shut off the water source first. What they usually do first is clean the mess as more water pours out. Switch off the source of the water, take a deep breath, and call your residential plumber before you start cleaning.

Overusing drain cleaners

Whenever homeowners have a clog, they commonly go for drain cleaners to clear it. Drain cleaners are effective in certain situations, but using them too often can cause your pipes to corrode. Chemical drain cleaners function by eating away or breaking down whatever is blocking your drain.

If you use them too often, they will begin eating away not just the clog but your pipes too. There is another alternative to drain cleaners. You can snake out your shower or call in a professional plumber in Myrtle Beach whenever you notice a clog. If you notice that you have been using drain cleaners way too often, your plumbing system might have a much bigger problem that only a professional can fix.

Fixing These Problems Yourself

Even if you are handy, it is better to leave the drainage issue to an expert Myrtle Beach plumber. Plumbing may seem easy to do, but there are certain aspects that can become really complicated.

It is quite easy to turn a small problem into a huge one that’s costly to fix. Unless you are a plumber yourself, it is better to call in a professional to take care of your plumbing problems.

Ignoring A Plumbing Problem

plumbingHomeowners love to disregard problems and simply hope they go away over time. A running toilet, for instance, can become a major plumbing issue that can lead to a major water bill. A clanking sound could be a sign of an impending flood in your basement.

Always remember that your plumbing problems won’t resolve themselves. The longer you disregard the issue, the worse it will get. In case you have concerns, obtain an estimate on the required plumbing repair and understand the nature of the problem so you can make an informed decision.

Hiring a Handyman Instead Of A Licensed Plumber

Anybody who touches your sinks, toilets, pipes, showers, or water heaters should be licensed for various reasons. Even though the neighborhood handyman is most likely good at minor repairs, there is nothing you can do if he does a poor job.

Apart from that, warranties will be voided if you do not hire a licensed plumbing contractor. Even though saving a bit of cash is a good thing and offering your neighborhood handyman work, it can be for other things but not your plumbing system.

Turn Off Your Heater In The Winter

If you go on vacation during winter, it can be tempting to turn off the heat to cut back on your utility costs while you are away. It is a good way to save money, in theory. But the truth is, it can cause a lot of major plumbing issues.

Switching off your heat can lead to frozen or burst pipes. Instead of completely shutting off the heat while you are gone, you should turn the temperature down.

Not Booking A Plumbing Service

Ideally speaking, your plumbing system should work without any glitches for the longest time possible. However, things don’t work that way, and this applies to everything, not just your plumbing system. By having your plumbing system serviced, small leaks and other problems can be detected during their early stages.

They can be fixed before they turn into a major headache that will cost thousands of dollars to repair. Additionally, if you would like to sell your house in the future, you will not have surprises during a home inspection.

In case you have a plumbing problem in your house, don’t ignore it. Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC right away.

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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

hard water
Author Sue White Posted on

The Effects of Hard Water on Your Skin: What You Need to Know

hard waterHard water is a particular type of water enriched with high levels of minerals, predominantly calcium and magnesium. Commonly found in regions with limestone or chalk bedrock.  Prolonged exposure to these minerals characterizes this water type.

While it’s safe to drink, hard water can present some unpleasantries such as an odd taste, appearance, or odor due to its dissolved compounds. Additionally, it can influence the durability of your plumbing fixtures and impact the efficacy of substances like laundry detergent.

How Does Hard Water Impact Your Skin?

Your skin might be considerably affected by hard water. With its elevated mineral content, hard water can accumulate on your skin’s surface during baths, potentially blocking pores. This accumulation can trigger dryness, irritation, redness, and even acne outbreaks. Moreover, the natural oils crucial for skin hydration and a healthy appearance can be stripped away by hard water.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of soap can be significantly hampered by hard water. The minerals within hard water can interact with soap ingredients, reducing its lathering ability.

Consequently, more soap might be needed for satisfactory results, which could exacerbate the removal of skin’s natural oils. Furthermore, this interaction can leave behind stubborn residue on surfaces like sinks and bathtubs, requiring extra effort to remove.

hard waterIn certain cases, hard water could exacerbate pre-existing conditions, potentially leading to eczema flare-ups and other allergic reactions like rashes or hives.

Strategies to Counteract Hard Water Effects

Although hard water is a common household concern, solutions are available to mitigate its impact and restore the equilibrium of minerals in your home’s water supply.

For those who rent their space, a couple of approaches to minimize hard water’s effects on the skin include:

  • Opt for soaps and detergents tailored for hard water use.
  • Utilize a point-of-use water softener for your showerhead.
  • Routinely clean showers and tubs using vinegar or specialized cleaners for hard water deposits.
  • Keep shower time in check and avoid overly hot water temperatures.
  • Gently pat your skin dry after showering rather than abrasive rubbing.

If you own your property, you have some additional options to lessen exposure, including:

  • Install a comprehensive whole-home water softener system.
  • Monitor your plumbing fixtures for signs of corrosion or mineral buildup, indicating the presence of hard water, and address repairs as necessary.
  • Schedule periodic professional plumbing maintenance for your water filtration or water softener systems.

For those considering the installation of a water softener system, feel free to call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now. Addressing hard water concerns can significantly improve your skin’s health and overall comfort.

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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

drain cleaning
Author Sue White Posted on

Why Is Drain Cleaning Important?

drain cleaningHouseholds often ignore their plumbing system. Just like any regular household appliance, plumbing pipes should be kept clean as well so they can work properly. Intake pipes rarely encounter problems because they bring only clean water. However, drain pipes and sewers are extremely dirty.

Imagine the amount of dirt that goes into your home’s drain pipes and sewer. To make sure that these pipes are kept clean, you need to seek out a drain cleaning service.

You may not see the dirty pipes but you will notice their awful effects in your house. Among the top considerations is the foul smell. The dirty pipes produce fumes that can make your house smell like a sewer. This foul smell can move from one room to another until the entire house smells awful through the piping system that is interconnected inside your house.

Another concern about dirty drain pipes is germs, bacteria, and mold. They can pose grave health problems that can cause all sorts of illnesses in your family.

Imagine your kitchen sink drain and all of the germs that are present in there. When you prepare food for your family, these germs can easily contaminate your food and that is why you have to keep your drain pipes as clean as possible.

DIY Vs. Pro Drain Cleaning

drain cleaningThere are several simple ways to help you keep your drain pipes clean. Perhaps you are thinking about the chemical products advertised on TV or all the other household cleaners that you may have noticed in your local supermarket.

Although these products are specifically made to clean drainage pipes, they are also extremely caustic. They can trigger rashes when they come in contact with someone’s skin. These products could also cause harm to the environment.

You wouldn’t want to get rid of all those germs but end up having other problems because you are using harmful chemicals. Why don’t you use safer alternatives instead? For instance, you can use homemade cleaners like vinegar or soda.

These basic items have cleaning properties that can help in cleaning your plumbing pipes. They are not only safe to use but also very affordable.

Probably the best method to deal is to seek out a drain cleaning service. Apart from cleaning the drain, reputable plumbers in Myrtle Beach can also deal with other plumbing issues. They use environmentally friendly solutions, specialized equipment like high-pressure jet systems to make sure that the drains are cleaned thoroughly and correctly.

Apart from cleaning the drain pipes, getting a drain cleaning service can also inform you of other lurking plumbing problems such as leaks or water contamination. A plumber in Myrtle Beach can help you make an informed decision as to whether you need to install new sewage tanks or sewer connections.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing if you need drain cleaning services or other professional solutions for your plumbing system.

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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

plumber
Author Sue White Posted on

The Importance of Hiring a Professional Plumber

plumberAs a homeowner, unexpected breakdowns and emergencies can strike at any time, leaving you contemplating whether to handle repairs on your own. While minor fixes may be manageable for anyone, especially with the help of online tutorials, it’s essential to recognize when to call in a professional plumber, especially for significant plumbing issues that demand expert attention.

Trusting a Professional Plumber

Here’s an overview of why entrusting your plumbing problems to a licensed plumber is the wisest course of action:

Preventing Further Damage:

Though your intentions are noble, attempting plumbing repairs without proper training can lead to exacerbating the problem. Ineffectively addressed issues may escalate, and you could end up having to pay for both the original problem and the additional damage inadvertently caused.

Averting Water Damage:

Learning on the go while trying to fix plumbing problems can lead to unintended and substantial flooding, resulting in severe water damage. Mishandling broken pipes, for instance, can cause water to gush uncontrollably, leading to costly consequences.

Ensuring Personal Safety:

Taking on complex plumbing tasks without adequate knowledge can be hazardous. From scalding water in a malfunctioning water heater to potential accidents, the risk of injury looms large. Opting for professional assistance ensures your safety and minimizes the likelihood of medical bills due to avoidable injuries.

Access to Proper Tools:

Plumbing repairs often require a range of specialized tools. Without the proper equipment, completing the job effectively becomes challenging. Professional plumbing contractors arrive fully equipped with the necessary tools to perform the repair accurately and efficiently.

Handling Extensive Work:

Major plumbing problems may involve underground repairs and obtaining permits. Undertaking such tasks without the right credentials or equipment can lead to complications, fines, and potential dangers. Professional plumbers possess the expertise, equipment, and permits needed to tackle these complex issues safely.

Avoiding Costly Mistakes:

Attempting complicated plumbing work without adequate experience can result in more significant problems. By hiring a licensed residential plumber from the outset, you avoid unnecessary expenses caused by DIY mishaps.

Experience top-notch plumbing services with Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC! Contact us today to schedule your appointment and let our expert plumbers handle all your plumbing needs.

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
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

plumbing leaks
Author Sue White Posted on

Signs You May Have Plumbing Leaks at Home

plumbing leaksDealing with plumbing leaks can be a real hassle for any homeowner. They can cause serious damage to your house and end up costing you a lot of money if not fixed promptly. Here are the top five signs that you might be dealing with plumbing leaks:

Signs Of Plumbing Leaks

1. Pooling Water or Discolored Water:

If you see water gathering under your sink or on the floor, there could be a broken pipe. This pooling water is never a good sign and should not be ignored. It might be due to a burst or leaking pipe, and if left unchecked, it can lead to structural damage to your home. Additionally, keep an eye out for water pooling around your toilet or shower as this could be an indication of a broken component in your plumbing appliances.

In some cases, you might notice large, moist patches in your yard. This could be a sign of a break in your water or sewer line. Furthermore, if the water in your yard or on the sidewalk appears brown and discolored, it might mean that dirt and contaminants have infiltrated one of your water lines, which should be addressed promptly.

2. Unusual Sounds:

The ideal sound from your plumbing equipment is none at all. Therefore, if you start hearing strange noises, it’s essential to investigate further. Gurgling or banging sounds coming from your pipes could be an indication of a water leak. Whistling or hissing sounds might be signs of a hidden tear or leak in your plumbing lines.

Bubbling sounds can also be a cause for concern, as they could mean you have a burst pipe. Dripping sounds are usually associated with leaks somewhere in your plumbing appliances. Even if these sounds are faint or infrequent, it’s always best to have them checked out by a professional plumber in Myrtle Beach, as even small leaks can lead to significant damage over time.

3. Poor Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be a frustrating inconvenience. If you find that your sinks or tub consistently have poor water pressure, it might be due to a water line leak. This decrease in pressure can affect the efficiency of your daily activities, like taking a shower or washing dishes. Another related sign is a slow-filling washer, which could indicate a clog or blockage in your pipes or water line.

plumbing leaksIf you can’t immediately locate the source of the problem or if the water pressure issue persists, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. They can perform a thorough inspection and identify the root cause of the problem before it worsens.

4. Visible Water Damage and Mold

Water rings on the ceiling or discolored spots on the walls are visible signs of potential leaks between the levels of your house. These water stains should not be overlooked, as they can indicate a hidden leak that has seeped into your drywall. This is a serious issue that should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to your home’s structure.

Mold and mildew sightings are also concerning signs of water leaks. When water accumulates from a hidden leak, it creates a damp and moist environment where mold can thrive. Not only does mold look and smell unpleasant, but it can also lead to health problems and cause damage to your home’s foundation. Therefore, if you notice any mold growth, it’s essential to take action and address it as soon as possible.

5. Sudden Increase in Water Bill

For the most part, your water costs should remain relatively stable from month to month. If you notice a sudden and unexplained spike in your water bill, and you haven’t changed your water usage habits significantly, it’s highly likely that you have a leak in your plumbing system.

To check for a possible leak, turn off the water main and observe your water meter. If the meter still shows water usage when the water main is off, it’s a clear indication that there’s a leak somewhere in your water line. Detecting and fixing leaks promptly can save you money on water bills and prevent further damage to your home.

If you suspect plumbing leaks or have noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s crucial to address them quickly. By calling our licensed and experienced plumbers at Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC, you can ensure fast and efficient leak detection and repair, saving you money and protecting your home from costly damage.

Don’t hesitate to take action and safeguard your home and your wallet. 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
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

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