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plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Signs Of Imminent Plumbing Failure

plumbingDo you recognize the signs of a poor plumbing system? These signs will help you identify when to call a professional.

1. Your house smells

You may have a serious plumbing problem in Myrtle Beach if you smell foul odors in your home when you get up in the morning, or when you return home at night. These signs are indicators of sewer gas entering your home. Sewer gas can be harmful to your health if inhaled for a prolonged period. A gas leak can also be identified by the smell of rotten eggs. To determine the source of the smell, call our plumbers. They will come out to diagnose the problem and then repair it.

2. Your water is discolored

If your water pipes are corroded and leaking, you may see yellow or green water. Your water pipes could be rusty if you see yellow or brown water. Green-colored water is a sign of excessive copper corrosion.

3. There are multiple drains that are slow

A slow drain is usually not a problem. A slow drain can be a sign of a hair clog in a tub or shower. However, multiple slow drains could indicate that there is a partially blocked sewer line.

4. Your plumbing pipes are showing signs of wear

Many homeowners neglect to inspect their basements for visible pipes. However, homeowners should visually inspect every water pipe they can see at least twice per year for discoloration. Copper water pipes with white or green color, especially around seams and joints, are slowly leaking. Galvanized steel and cast iron pipes with red spots are likely to burst.

5. Low water pressure

Low water pressure at home can be a sign of a problem in your municipal water supply or a leak in your main water line. Low water pressure in your home can be accompanied by high water bills, discolored water, or damage to your walls. Call our plumbers in Myrtle Beach to diagnose the problem and repair it.

6. You may see discoloration or deteriorating wallpaper

Water leaks are not usually sudden and overwhelming. They are more likely slow leaks that allow water drip onto other surfaces. A water leak is likely if you notice dark rings or yellow, black, or brown spots on your walls or ceilings. You may also notice peeling wallpaper or bubbling paint as signs of a hidden water problem behind walls.

7. There is an unexplained puddle in your yard

If your yard is dry and you notice a puddle or soft spot, this could be a sign that your sewer pipe has collapsed. If this happens, you’ll need to have your sewer pipe repaired by one of our Myrtle Beach plumbers.

8. There is no apparent reason why your water meter is running

Your water meter should not move or change numbers if there is no water in your home. If water is not flowing in your home, and your water meter shows that it is still running, then you need to call a plumber to repair the leak.

9. Your floor or carpet is wet or sagging

If you notice wet spots on your floor or sagging in your flooring, but no one has poured any water on them recently or taken a bath, this is usually a sign of a slab leak. The slab foundations of concrete homes have drain and water lines that run underneath the slab. Concrete wicks water from your floors and deposits it if one of the pipes leaks. This can cause mold, mildew, or extensive flooding damage. If it continues for too long, the water can cause damage to your foundation.

10. Water bills have inexplicably risen

If you notice an increase in your monthly water bills and have not changed your water usage, it is likely that there is a leak somewhere. If this happens, you should call our plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach to have them come to your house and inspect for any leaks that could be causing your water bills to rise.

Plumbing problems can escalate quickly regardless of how small. Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing today to make sure your plumbing is inspected and repaired as needed.

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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

Tell-Tale Signs Of Failing Plumbing

plumbingYou probably take the plumbing in your house for granted most of the time. Until something goes wrong, your pipes probably aren’t given much thought. Bad plumbing can quickly turn into a disaster. A water leak can cause water damage to your house, higher utility bills, or mold problems. Here are 7 signs you need to have your plumbing repaired immediately:

1. Visible water

You can easily detect a plumbing leak by looking for standing water in your home. The kitchen, basement, bathroom, and utility rooms are the most likely places to see visible water. This is a bad sign as water can come from many sources. The more water you notice, the greater the danger.

2. Leaky faucets

Leaky faucets are another sign you need to call a plumber immediately. A slow drip is a common sign. It is possible to hear a slow drip at night when the house remains quiet. Sometimes it may be easy to spot while standing near the sink, or walking by.

3. Frozen pipes

This can be a major problem in the winter when temperatures outside can cause damage to your plumbing. Small leaks and flooding can be caused by frozen pipes. It is important to ensure that your pipes are properly insulated.

4. Low water pressure

Good water pressure is another luxury most people take for granted until it suddenly disappears. Water pressure is dependent on the steady flow of water through your pipes, pushing water from your sink faucets and shower head. The water flow from these fixtures will drop to a trickle if the water pressure has dropped.

5. Dirty water

It is possible that your water suddenly appears less clean or clear. This could be a sign of a deeper problem. If your water is brown or dirty, it could be an indicator that there is an iron problem or that your hot water heater has problems. If you see blue or green water, it could be an indication that copper pipes are corroding and need to be replaced.

6. Sinks draining slowly

If your sink drains slowly or stops working, it is likely that you have a clog. Although there are many products that can help clear or loosen a clog quickly, hiring a plumber in Myrtle Beach is the best way to ensure that it is not caused by something that is more serious and could lead to further damage.

7. Noisy Pipes

Your pipes should be visible and not heard. Although this may sound obvious, you might be surprised at how many people become used to the noise of pipes in their homes and ignore them.

However, rattling or noisy pipes can be an indication of a leak. This is especially true if the pipes make noise even though no one is using the water. You should immediately call an emergency plumber if this happens.

If you find yourself in a plumbing emergency, remember to keep calm, and call Blue Ribbon Plumbing 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

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Plumbing Tips – Are Burst Pipes Covered By Homeowner’s Insurance?

plumbingA homeowners insurance policy often covers accidental water damage that results from an unexpected plumbing issue, such as a burst pipe. A homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers the cost of cleaning, repairing, or replacing wood flooring, drywall, or furniture damaged by water from a burst pipe. If you ignore a leak or other long-standing problem, your claim may not be covered.

Does home insurance cover frozen pipes?

Your homeowner’s policy typically covers water damage and cleaning costs due to a burst pipe. Your claim may not be covered if you turn off your heat while you are away from your home for a few days. This could have caused the pipes to freeze when outside temperatures dropped. You can prevent a freeze-related catastrophe by taking smart steps to protect and maintain your pipes. When you are away from home, replace the thermostat’s battery. Set your thermostat to a minimum temperature of 55 degrees. Consider asking a friend or relative to inspect your home and ensure that the heat is working properly if you are away for a long time. Winterize your home if you plan to be away for the winter. This involves draining all of your home’s plumbing system and shutting off the water supply.

Is Homeowners Insurance able to cover water line breaks?

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover water line damage unless the line has suffered severe, sudden damage. Plumbing repairs and cleanup may be covered if you accidentally damage the water line that runs from your meter. Your regular coverage doesn’t cover water damage caused by age, regular wear and tear, poor installation, shifting soil, pests, or tree roots invading your property.

Your city or town will fix a water main break. However, you are often responsible for the repair or replacement of the water main supply lines that connect to your home. Your municipality and your insurance company should be contacted if your home is damaged by a public water main break.

What coverage do you need for broken pipes?

Water damage can often be covered under dwelling coverage, personal property coverage, and/or loss-of-use coverage. Talk to your agent to ensure water damage is covered under each component of your home insurance policy.

Insurance for your home

A home insurance policy should include dwelling coverage. It can pay for the repair or reconstruction of your home’s physical structure in the event of a fire, water damage, severe weather, vandalism, or other covered loss. Your dwelling coverage limits will be determined based on the cost of rebuilding your house. It is a good idea, especially after any improvements, to check with your agent about the replacement cost of your home. Even small improvements can have an impact on the cost of rebuilding your home.

Property coverage

Personal property coverage covers your belongings such as furniture, clothing, and electronics in the event that they are damaged at your home, apartment, or anywhere else in the world. If accidental water damage occurs due to a burst pipe, this covers professional cleaning and replacement of personal belongings. Many policies cover personal property at actual cash value, not replacement cost. You might be able to increase your policy by adding full replacement cost coverage.

Loss of use coverage

Additional living expenses insurance, also known as loss of use, helps you pay for additional housing and living expenses in the event that your house is temporarily uninhabitable due to a covered event. If your home has been damaged by a burst pipe, you may be eligible for this coverage to cover expenses such as lodging and pet boarding while your home is being repaired or rebuilt.

What water damage is not covered by homeowner’s insurance?

Your homeowner’s policy may not cover water damage if it is:

  • Backed-up sewage
  • Sump pump failure
  • Flooding

You can purchase additional insurance policies to protect yourself from flooding, backup, and sump pump failure. Plumbing maintenance falls under the homeowner’s responsibility.

In the event of a plumbing emergency, remember to keep calm. Do what you can to mitigate the damage and call Blue Ribbon Plumbing 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

plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

HOMEOWNERS GUIDE TO BATHROOM PLUMBING MAINTENANCE

Bathrooms are one of the busiest rooms inside a home, thus it needs to be well-maintained. If not, homeowners may need an emergency plumber at the most inopportune time. Everything inside the bathroom, from the toilet to the shower, the sink to the drain pipes, should undergo plumbing maintenance to keep them running effectively.

Bathroom Plumbing Basics

Faucet

Keep your faucet running efficiently by repairing leaky faucets right away. This prevents further damage to your faucet and its parts. Plus, a leaking faucet wastes thousands of gallons of water each year.

Faucet aerators should also be cleaned to maintain normal water pressure. Usually, low water pressure is caused by lime accumulation and sediment obstructing the little openings inside the aerator.

Guide to cleaning faucet aerators:

  1. Thoroughly loosen the aerator from the faucet by turning it counterclockwise.
  2. Remove the aerator or spray head.
  3. Sediment removal can be removed by using a cloth immersed in vinegar.
  4. Screw the aerator back onto the faucet.

Shower

Over time, showerheads develop unequal spraying because the holes end up being obstructed with mineral deposits from the water, according to plumbing contractors.

Guide to cleaning showerheads:

  1. Loosen the swivel ball nut. For this process, an adjustable wrench or channel-type pliers is needed.
  2. Loosen the collar nut from the showerhead.
  3. Outlet and inlet holes of the showerhead should be cleaned carefully utilizing a thin wire.
  4. Flush the head with water.
  5. Put the showerhead back together.
  6. Immerse the showerhead in vinegar to get rid of mineral deposits. Particularly, put one cup of vinegar in a plastic bag and put it over the shower head. Let stand overnight. In the early morning, get rid of the bag and rub out the mineral deposits with a moist fabric.

Toilet

This is where most bathroom leaks originate. Examine the toilet‘s tank water level to ensure that water is not overflowing. Follow these actions to fix the issue:.

  1. In case of water overflow, change the fill valve till the water stops around one inch below the top of the overflow tube. Look for a water level mark stamped on the side of the tank.
  2. Check the flush valve system by putting a couple of drops of food coloring into the tank.
  3. Inspect the bowl after 15 minutes. If the water in the toilet bowl has actually altered color, the ball or flapper is dripping and requires to be changed.

Guide to maintaining toilets:

  • Do not flush facial tissue, cotton balls, cosmetics pads, hygienic items, or diapers as they can block the lines. Keep a garbage container in each restroom and toss these products away.
  • Every week, run warm water down the drain to keep it free-flowing.
  • Repair tubs and showers with strainers that capture hair and soap chips. Tidy the strainers routinely.
  • Prevent putting things down the sink or toilet that do not belong there.

Contact an expert now. When you require support unclogging a toilet or drain, Blue Ribbon Plumbing can be at your house immediately and do the job effectively.

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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

Plumbing Tips – Fixing A Leaky Faucet

You can’t sleep at night if you keep on hearing a dripping tap. Apart from the constant drip, you also have to worry about wasting water. You’ll want to get help from a plumbing contractor as soon as you hear the dripping sound. Luckily, it’s easy to fix a leaky faucet. Here are some tips to fix a leaky faucet at home:

Compression or Washerless Faucet?

There are two main types of faucets that you will find in your home: cartridge faucets and compression faucets. The process of repairing these faucets is slightly different because they use different components to control water flow. A compression faucet has a rubber washer that holds the valve seat in its place. The washer will wear down as water pressure builds up and forces it against the valve seat.

A washerless faucet, on the other hand, uses a cartridge or ball to replace a rubber washer. It also has a valve seat to regulate the faucet’s water flow. They are more durable than compression faucets but can crack or wear out from normal wear and tear.

Turn off your water

Whatever type of faucet you use, it is important to shut off the water supply valves beneath the sink before you start any faucet repair. To turn the water off, turn both valves clockwise. Once you have done that, open the faucet to let out any water or pressure left in the line. To prevent any essential items from falling into the sink, you will also need to close the drain.

How to fix a washerless faucet

Take out the faucet handle

After the water has been turned off, you can remove the faucet handle. Locate the small set screw at the back or bottom of the handle to do this. Each brand may be different. However, these screws are usually hex screws so you might need an Allen key of the right size to remove them. Once the set screw is removed, lift the handle and take it out. The internal components of your washerless faucet handle might look different depending on which model you have. If you find it difficult to fix a faucet, call on a plumber in Myrtle Beach.

How to fix a compression faucet

Take out the faucet handles

Access the inside of the faucet to fix a dripping faucet. Begin by taking out the faucet’s handles. Next, remove the set screws at the back or bottom of the handles. Next, remove the set screws that hold the handle in place with a screwdriver.

Take out the stem

After the handles are removed, locate and remove the stem nut. Use a wrench to loosen the nut.

Take a look at the O-Ring

Next, remove the stem. You should now be able to see the o-rings and seat washer. You can now examine the O-ring. Replace the O-ring if it is cracked or worn.

Change the washer

The seat washer is located at the bottom of your stem. Sometimes the seat washer may be held in place with a screw. If this happens, you should remove it first. Simply replace the washer with a new one once it is removed. These parts are very affordable. You should replace the O-rings and washers with the same size as the originals. Even the smallest difference could cause a major leak. Contact Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC right away if you notice anything odd with your home’s plumbing. This will save you time and money in the long run.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need professional plumbing services near you.

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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

Common Plumbing Problems Every Homeowner Needs to Watch Out For

Are you tired of hearing your bathroom faucet drip, drip, drip throughout the night? Do you have problems flushing your toilet? Are you having problems with the water pressure in your shower? You will have to deal eventually with plumbing issues if you are a homeowner. You don’t need to panic. There are common plumbing problems that you can handle yourself with the right tools and knowledge.

It’s best to hire a professional plumber if you’re unsure how to solve a problem or if the problem is very serious. You must ensure your safety before you begin any DIY project. You will need to turn off your water supply first for most problems. No matter what the issue, safety goggles or gloves are essential.

These are the common problems that homeowners should look out for when dealing with plumbing.

1. Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet can lead to water waste, which is the most obvious problem. If a faucet drips once per second, that’s 86.400 drips per day. That’s 15.140 drips per gallon. This is a total of 5.8 gallons of wasted water each day. This is more than 2,000 gallons per year. That’s 8 tons of water going down the drain. These numbers are for a single faucet. The waste quickly multiplies if there are more leaky faucets in the home. Even if your faucet is slow-drip, you are still wasting water.

2. Running Toilet

Running toilets are the worse version of a leaky faucet problem. It can get so bad! A small toilet can waste between 20-30 gallons per day. A medium-sized toilet can waste more water per day, while a running bidet can waste 12 tons of water per month. You should call a plumber if your toilet keeps running despite a few quick handles jiggles.

3. Toilets clogged

It can be frustrating to have a clogged toilet. They can overflow. They are very unpleasant. They leave waste all over the floors. Even worse: They can indicate a more serious problem than you initially thought: septic system damage.

4. Slow Drainage or Blockage

Slow drains are one of the most common problems that people need to call on a professional plumber. These problems can often be caused by the same reasons as clogged toilets. It is not known what debris can clog your pipes. Don’t flush anything down your drain, just like you do with the toilet.

5. Water heater not working

Problems with water heaters might need the attention of a plumber, a natural-gas expert, or an electrician, among other professionals. These are some of the most common problems:

  • The water heater floods the surrounding area because the valves are loosening.
  • Corrosion and rust affecting water circulation in the tank
  • The bacteria invading your tank will make your water smell horrible.
  • The most common problem with water heaters is their inability to live up to their name. They either provide too much hot water or not enough.

6. Leaky Pipes

When it comes to calling a plumber, leaky pipes are often the first thing that people think about. You could have a leaky toilet pipe or a leaky pipe under your sink. Leaky pipes such as dripping faucets can cause water waste and damage to your home. Water can cause wood to rot, metal to corrode, and pool up to become breeding grounds for bacteria and insects that transmit diseases.

7. Low water pressure

Even if you aren’t in the shower, low water pressure can be a problem. Low water pressure can also be caused by the utility. A pressure gauge is a good tool to check this. You may also have problems in your home. Sometimes it’s as simple as trying too many things at once. Your shower may not be as great if you also run the dishwasher and water your lawn. You might also have blocked pipes. Check different areas to determine if low pressure is present throughout your home.

8. Breakage or Leakage of Main Water Line

Breaks in the main water line can occur in two ways. The first is the possibility that the public delivery line could be cut. The second possibility is that the water delivery line to your home from the public main could fail. Water main leaks can be just a little less severe, but they still need immediate attention. They can lead to water main breaks if left unattended. They also require digging and heavy equipment. These are the most difficult jobs a plumber will ever have to tackle.

9. Sewer Line Problems

Sewer lines bring water back to you while water mains bring it. Although sewer lines aren’t likely to burst with an Old Faithful geyser, related issues can be quite… unpleasant. Most sewer line problems are simply blockages. A sewer clog can occur if you flush anything down the toilet, even the misleadingly called “flushable wipes”. Even if it isn’t, a professional plumber might still be needed to clear the lines.

10. Expensive Water Bill

There are many reasons why your water bill suddenly increases. One faucet drip can add up to 6 gallons per day. A family of four uses 200 gallons per day. That’s 6,180 gallons instead 6,000 over the course of a month. And that extra 180 Gallons adds up quickly. Weather can have an impact on your bills. Dry weather increases water consumption as you try to keep your lawn healthy. Water usage will increase if there are more people in your home.

11. Downspout Issues

Although fixtures and pipes can cause issues at ground level, faulty downspouts can pose a problem both below ground and above. Water can seep around the foundation if they are disconnected, or the connections become damaged or stressed. This can lead to foundation damage and sweating walls. A wet basement will be caused by sweating walls and water seeping out of the foundation.

12. Water Spots on the Lawn

Standing water and wet spots on your lawn may be either minor or major. Puddles can be caused by minor grading issues. If the grade slopes towards the house, it isn’t dangerous. Leakage or damage to septic systems, leaking mains, or leaking water mains are all major problems. These problems should be addressed immediately to avoid becoming utter disasters.

13. Overflowing Gutters

These and the poor downspouts mentioned above can lead to not only wet spots in your lawn, but also foundational issues. To protect your foundation, you can install drainage tiles to divert water from the house. To ensure that your gutters drain water away from your home, it is important to clear them of any debris or trash. To keep leaves, twigs, and other debris out of their gutters, many people put wire mesh on them.

14. Mildew in the Attic

Although most attics do not have plumbing, some may. Any attic located behind a wall with a clogged gutter or overflowing gutter could be susceptible to mold and mildew. Attics are drier than other areas of the house, so water damage can go unnoticed. This is especially true if there are additional walls. An expert plumber in Myrtle Beach should be called to evaluate the extent of the damage to the attic due to faulty water systems.

What to do in a Plumbing Emergency

First, don’t panic. Try to identify the source of the emergency as soon as possible. Use absorbent materials such as sheets and towels to stop water from escaping and call a professional plumbing contractor. It is crucial to act quickly once an emergency occurs. Don’t delay.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need help 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

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Author Sue White Posted on

BUSTING THE MOST COMMON PLUMBING MYTHS

We may never know where it all started but the fact remains that a rumor, whether it is a “she said” or “he said” story can easily make a plumbing misconception a plumbing reality.

Provided below are some of the most common plumbing myths and the reality behind all of them according to professional plumbers.

Water Heater Is About To Explode

You are in your living room just sitting around and relaxing on a quiet evening when suddenly your water heater starts. You hear a loud banging and rumbling sound. A lot of homeowners who encounter this are often afraid, thinking that their water heater will explode.

The reality is that the sound you are hearing is caused by sediment that has accumulated in the tank. It is made of loose minerals, the majority of which is calcium, from hard water. It goes to the spot where the heating element is found and that is at the bottom of the tank. Once the burner is switched on for water heating purposes, the sediment hinders the heat from properly rising and the expansion of the bubbles created is the cause of the noise.

A Leaky Faucet Is Not A Problem

Numerous homeowners consider a leaky faucet as just a drip and do not need fixing. Always remember that leaks are a big deal. It can cause you a lot of cash and negatively affects the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency said that 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted annually because of household leaks. That is equal to the total amount of water used by more than 11 million homes every year.

A single leaky faucet can result in higher water bills as well as water shortages in other parts of the country. Another thing to consider is that a leak can wear out the faucet and stain the fixtures, which means you may have to spend more cash on Myrtle Beach plumbing repairs or plumbing replacements. If you notice any sign of leaks, be sure to have it fixed as soon as you can.

Other Plumbing Lore

Many people believe that ice cubes can sharpen the blades of a garbage disposal unit. This is not true. However, the ice cubes can clean the blades. If you notice that your sink is beginning to smell, you can use ice cubes to get rid of the stench. There are also those who believe that dropping lemon peels down the disposal unit will give it a nice scent. Although this may be true, lemon peels can clog the drain and lead to expensive repairs by a plumbing contractor from Blue Ribbon Plumbing. As an alternative, you can try pouring white vinegar into the drain. It has natural cleansing properties and it will clean up your disposal without having to worry about clogs.

A few homeowners believe that putting a brick at the rear of the toilet tank will help save water. Always remember that bricks deteriorate as time passes by and may cause other problems. Your intention of saving water can backfire and too much water is displaced, therefore, requiring you to flush twice.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC if you have plumbing concerns.

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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 to Avoid a Holiday Plumbing Disaster

The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year. It allows people to join together and spend time with the ones they love, while meditating on all that they’re thankful for. But if you’re hosting guests, you’ll want to know how to get your home ready for the holidays, including your plumbing system.

While you’ll probably clean your home and fix any nagging household issues, you should consider your home’s plumbing. You might be wondering, “How do I prepare my house for holiday guests?”

When it comes to your plumbing system, there are a few steps you can take, and that’s what this article will cover.

Holiday Plumbing Tips

Test your toilets and drains

Before you have any guests over to your home for the holidays, go around to all the toilets and drains in your home, and make sure that they’re draining correctly. For toilets, try flushing them and watching the water drain and refill; if there’s any sort of hesitation or malfunction, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. For your sinks, run the water for several seconds and see how quickly they drain. If the sink is clogged or draining slowly, have an expert take a look at it.

Enforce a toilet paper-only rule

One of the leading causes of clogged toilets is people flushing items that shouldn’t ever be flushed down the toilet. These include cotton balls, baby wipes, wrappers and feminine hygiene products. Your own family might know not to flush anything other than toilet paper, but your guests may not. You could either tell your guests not to flush anything but toilet paper down the toilet or put a small sign in the bathroom to gently remind them not to send anything down that might cause a clog.

Don’t dump grease down the drain

Whether you’re cooking a Thanksgiving turkey, a Christmas ham, or some other delectable holiday recipe, keep the grease out of your drains. You can do this by saving glass jars and dumping the leftover grease you have from any cooking into said jars. Grease is terrible for your drains because it cools, hardens, and eventually coagulates, creating a barrier layer that doesn’t allow your sink to drain properly.

Buy some extra trash cans

Sometimes people dump or flush materials down the drain because they don’t know where else to put them. Purchasing and placing some extra trash cans in your bathroom and kitchen can help to mitigate this dilemma. Instead of food scraps or toiletry products going down your sink or toilet, they can be safely disposed of in garbage cans.

Invest in a drain screen

Hosting the holidays means you’ll be doing more dishes than usual. One way to prevent a clog in the kitchen sink is to use a drain screen. This small piece of stainless steel can be found at most home improvement stores for under $5 and can be placed in your kitchen sink’s drain. It catches larger food scraps and prevents them from going down the drain. When you’re done with the dishes, you can simply pull out the screen and dump the scraps in the garbage.

Call for your plumbing needs today

Now that you know how to get your home ready for the holidays, you’ll no longer have to wonder, “How do I prepare my house for holiday guests?”

For a plumbing inspection and more, call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now. We offer everything from water heater installation to drain repair.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
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Plumbing
Author Sue White Posted on

Showerhead and Shower Drain Repair Tips

Are you annoyed by the leaky showerhead in your bathroom but don’t know how to fix it? Maybe your showerhead leaks even after you turn off the shower faucet. Don’t worry. We have some great plumbing tips to help you fix your leaky showerhead. Not only will it give you peace, but it will also save you money.

Plumbing Tips: What is the Cause of Your Showerhead Leaks?

There are many reasons your showerhead might be leaking. Leakage could be caused by damaged inner seals. Sometimes, however, showerheads leak because the shower washers have begun to separate. It could also be due to a blockage in the showerhead, causing water to stop flowing.

Leakage of a showerhead for too long can lead to water damage and an increase in your monthly bills. It’s best to repair it immediately. These are the steps you need to follow to fix a leaking showerhead.

Turn off the water supply.

To avoid unpleasant surprises, shut off the water supply before you start. This could be as simple as turning off the water from the outside. You can easily remove the showerhead once it’s turned off, but make sure to tell the people in your home about it.

Disconnect your showerhead and hose from the showerhead

If your showerhead is one that screws onto the threaded end, it will be simple to remove. If your showerhead is an older model, adjustable pliers and/or a wrench may be required to take it out. When removing the showerhead, make sure you do not lose the rubber washer or other similar parts. You will need them later when you place the showerhead back.

Clean your showerhead

Have a look at the showerhead. Is there any dirt or grime on your showerhead? This could be the reason water isn’t flowing. Take some vinegar and pour it into a bucket. Then, let the vinegar soak into your showerhead for a while. You should allow your showerhead to soak for at least half an hour.

Verify that the rubber washer is still in good shape.

This is the part that prevents water from leaking between your showerhead hose and showerhead. You should check that your rubber washer has not become worn or damaged as this could cause a leak. It’s best to replace it if it appears damaged. To replace the rubber shower, take it to your local hardware store. Using a high-quality rubber washer is always recommended.

Test the valve

You should also check the valves on your shower taps to ensure safety. Two taps should be connected to your shower. One for hot water and one for cold water. To check if there is any leakage, you should inspect both taps. You should also replace any damaged valves.

Attach the showerhead once more

You will now attach the rubber showerhead. Next, attach the new rubber showerhead. Make sure you attach everything correctly and don’t forget any parts.

Turn on the water

After you’re sure everything is attached correctly, you can turn on the water again. You will see that your showerhead is completely sealed after you’ve done this.

How to Unclog Your Shower Drain?

Did you ever notice that water collects at your feet while you take a shower? That feeling is not something anyone likes. If you feel that way, it may be time for you to clear out your clogged shower drain.

There are many reasons shower drains can get clogged. Shower drains can become clogged for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is hair getting caught in the drain. There are other reasons a drain could become blocked, including minerals from hard water or soap scum.

How do you clear a blocked shower drain? These are some simple tips that you can use to unclog your shower drain before calling a professional.

You can use your hands to get rid of any hair clogging the drain. To get any items out of the drain, you will need to take off the drain cover. Removing hair from a dry drainage drain is the easiest way to do so. Wait until you have taken a shower before trying to do this.

You can use a wire hook, a plunger, or a drain snake to help you remove hair from your drain. Flexible and retractable, a drain snake can be found in most hardware stores. To remove clogs from drains, you can insert a wire into them.

After the hair and visible clogs have been cleared, you can pour boiling water down the shower drain to loosen any soap scum. Boiling water can be used to dissolve soap scum and minerals from hard water. This may require repeated steps.

Hot water may not be enough to solve the problem. You can purchase chemical drain cleaners at the grocery store like Drano. However, you can make your own drain cleaner using common household ingredients you already have. You can try pouring vinegar and baking soda down your drain. Let the 3/4 cup baking soda go down the drain. Then let it sit for about a minute. This will allow the baking soda to settle in the drain. Next, pour 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar down your drain. Follow it with 1/2 cup boiling water. The chemical reaction of vinegar and baking soda can break down the buildup in your shower drain.

If none of these methods work, or if there is still a blockage further down the drain, you may need to call a professional.  Plumbers can quickly clear your drains using tools and techniques that you might not have at home.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need help with your plumbing system. Our team is always ready to assist you.

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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

Winter Plumbing Tips to Prevent Your Water Pipes from Freezing

The weather prediction is for temperatures to fall below freezing in the next few days so it may be time to pay closer attention to your home or business’s plumbing system.

While you might have focused on water conservation during the summer, the winter season will require that you think about how to prevent your water pipes from freezing. Although a frozen pipe may seem like an inconvenience at first, it can quickly become a problem. One pipe burst can cause thousands of gallons to flood your home. It is easy to reduce the likelihood of dealing with frozen pipes, so you can enjoy your winter activities.

Plumbing Tips To Avoid Frozen Pipes

Keep an eye on major temperature drops

Plumbers are used to receiving a flood of calls following the first major freeze of the season. Frosty weather can strike at any time. It is possible for certain climates to drop below freezing at night. Make it a habit of checking the weather frequently to see if there are any signs that your plumbing needs to be double-checked.

Insulate exposed pipes

Some pipes are concealed behind walls and are fairly well insulated against cold. Extra insulation may be required for pipes that run along exterior walls. Insulating pipes under cabinets, basements, or attics, can be done as well. These pipes can be kept warm by using foam sleeves, especially if they are susceptible to freezing. Heating tapes can be used to heat pipes on your property.

Pay attention to the Garage

Most garages have pipes running through them. It is possible that your garage is not heated. To retain heat, close the garage door as much as you can during winter. Seal any cracks or holes around the door that might allow cold air in.

Keep your house warm

It is tempting to turn off your heating system in order to save energy when you’re on vacation. This is a common reason for frozen pipes. To keep pipes warm, maintain an even heating temperature in your home. Ventilation in rooms not used often may need to be opened. You might find pipes in guest rooms that freeze when it gets colder.

Open the cabinets

Because they are often near exterior walls, pipes underneath sinks can freeze. Cabinet doors also block heat from the house from reaching the pipes. The pipes will be less likely to freeze if they are open.

Allow the water to drip overnight

Make sure you turn the faucet on when you open the cabinets. This doesn’t require a constant stream of water. A little drip is sufficient. Keep the water flowing so it doesn’t expand when it freezes in the pipes.

These are some useful tips to prevent your water pipes from freezing. It takes only a few minutes to prevent frozen pipes at the start of the season. After you have prepared, you should monitor the weather and make sure to do any last-minute tasks such as opening the cabinet doors. Then monitor your plumbing system. You should take immediate action if water isn’t flowing freely or a drip appears. You can prevent minor issues from becoming major plumbing problems and make sure your pipes are able to withstand the cold winter temperatures.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need help preparing your plumbing system for winter.

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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