WHAT IS A PLUMBING EMERGENCY?

The plumbing system in your home may not be visible or apparent. You should not ignore a problem until it is obvious. You don’t really pay attention to your plumbing system until there’s a problem. During a plumbing emergency, you need to call an expert.

Problems such as a clogged toilet or sink drain can lead to serious consequences. These tips will help you decide if your plumbing is an emergency or if you have options.

Signs Of A Plumbing Emergency

Is there a way to stop the flow of water?

Shutting off the water supply to a leaky toilet or sink can immediately stop it from leaking and enable you to schedule an appointment with a professional plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach.

Is The Leak A Flood or A Trickle?

To catch any drips, grab a bucket. Call a plumber and have the professional fix the leak.

Is there a health problem?

Water is essential, especially for those with compromised health.

These situations can be considered emergencies if water access is restricted by a problem with the plumbing or a malfunctioning heater.

Broken toilets or clogged sinks can be annoying. You can mark them as “out of order” until you have a plumber inspect the problem.

Do you have a burst pipe?

A burst pipe could cause major flooding and water damage to your home.

If you cannot stop the water supply to the burst pipe, or if the water supply needs to be shut off to the whole house, you should call an emergency plumber.

Are you smelling gas from your water heaters?

If you smell gas, it is important to deal with it right away.

Water heaters can explode if the water pressure drops too low or the relief valve becomes damaged. Seek professional assistance.

Is your hot water heater leaking?

Turn off your power supply and the water supply to the water heater.

Drain the tank and then call a professional plumbing contractor like Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC to schedule a repair appointment.

Are your toilets backed up at the same time?

A blocked main sewer line can lead to multiple backups at the toilet. Raw sewage can be forced to move back to your home if it is not treated.

This is a serious emergency and should be addressed immediately.

Do you have a malfunctioning sump pump?

You can program sump pumps to automatically turn on when there is too much water. If they aren’t maintained correctly, they can fail.

Except in extreme flooding, this is considered an emergency situation. To perform maintenance tasks, you can turn the pump off.

Do you hear a lot of banging or knocking coming from your plumbing system?

Pipes and plumbing can make odd sounds that could scare you but are not an emergency. Nevertheless, it’s best to call an expert.

Knowing the difference between a plumbing problem and a plumbing emergency can be very helpful. Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC will help you decide if you should address the issue immediately or if you can schedule a more convenient service call.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need help in fixing 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

COMMON PLUMBING MYTHS: THE TRUTH

There are some myths that you may have believed when you were younger, such as the fact that you can flush ice down your toilet and that wearing your pajamas inside out will guarantee a snowstorm. As time passed by, you have learned the truth behind these childhood myths, but there may be some plumbing myths that you still believe now.

We have some advice for you on seven common plumbing myths.

1. Ice cubes help sharpen the blades of your garbage disposal.

False. Ice cubes are able to help you get food off of your garbage disposal blades but they won’t make them any sharper.

2. Flushable wipes are toilet friendly

False. Flushable wipes are not safe to flush. They can cause serious plumbing problems in your system.

The wipes are not like traditional toilet paper and won’t dissolve in the system. This can cause a problem with your plumbing.

3. Bricks in the toilet can help cut costs.

False. Leakage can be caused by bricks stuck to the back of your toilet. Additional flushing and leaks can increase your water bill.

4. Water heater will explode whenever they rumble.

False. Your water heater may make other sounds to indicate sediment buildup, or other problems with the heater. It is unlikely that the sound is a sign that your water heater is about to explode. However, it could be an indication that your heater needs repairs.

Call a professional plumber to inspect your water heater and determine the source of the problem. Routine maintenance can extend the life of your water heater.

5. It’s safe to take a shower or bath during a lightning storm

False. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is best not to shower or bathe during lightning storms. Although it is unlikely, lightning can travel through your plumbing system.

6. Hot water down the garbage disposal will break up grease

False. Although hot water can help to dissolve grease, grease that has reached the cold pipes further down your plumbing system will solidify. This grease buildup can attract other substances down the pipe. It is also why grease should never be poured down the sink.

7. Liquid drain cleaners can safely clear clogs in your plumbing system.

False. Many liquid drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals and abrasive chemicals that can damage your pipes.

Although there are natural ways to clear clogs naturally, we recommend calling a professional plumber in Myrtle Beach if you have stubborn ones. Clogs that are stubborn and won’t clear up can indicate larger plumbing problems.

Following some plumbing myths can cause serious damage to your home’s plumbing system. Get plumbing advice from experts like Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC. We have years of experience, not myths or fables to ensure that your plumbing system is working properly.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need the help of a plumbing contractor.

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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

ARE FLUSHABLE WIPES SAFE TO FLUSH IN YOUR TOILET?

Do you recall the first time you used a moist wipe to replace toilet paper? You weren’t sure what to think at first. But after several trips to the toilet, you became a fan! They are not the heroes we expected them to be when we first purchased them. These wipes are labelled “flushable,” but is it really safe to flush them down the toilet?

What is the truth about flushable wipes?

You’d think that wet wipes would be safe to flush down the toilet. They are advertised as being “flushable and septic-safe.” Wrong! These wipes eventually do break down but they take longer than toilet paper to do so. Clogged pipes and blockages are more common because wet wipes don’t break down as quickly. You could be paying a lot of money for the repair of your plumbing system if you put your home at risk for severe clogs.

What causes toilet clogs?

These so-called flushable wipes can become mixed up with other items in your sewer line after they are flushed. Toilet paper, toilet cleaning pads, cotton swabs and dental floss are all common items that can cause toilet backups and clogs.

Combining these items with wet wipes can cause a blockage called “ragging”. If this happens, find your phone and search for a plumber in Myrtle Beach.

What can I do to keep my family safe?

Manufacturers offer test results that state flushable wipes have been tested safe for flushing. However, evidence supports that flushing these wipes can lead to clogged sewer lines and the need to pump septic tanks more frequently. Wipes may seem like the best invention since sliced bread but you should not use them. The only thing you can flush is toilet paper.

What to do if your toilet is clogged?

Don’t believe everything that other people say. The same applies to your beloved “flushable”, bathroom wipes, and their misleading packaging. There is an underlying problem if your home experiences frequent clogs, regardless of whether you use wet wipes.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need a plumber to remove clogs from your toilet.

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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/

REASONS TO INSTALL A TOUCHLESS FAUCET

The new touchless faucet technology helps to conserve water, free your hands, and keep your faucet handles clean and free of germs and dirt.

What is a Touchless Faucet?

Touchless faucets eliminate the need to manually turn a handle to activate water. Motion sensors are used to turn on the water flow and then shut off the faucet. You need the help of a professional plumbing contractor to install it.

The Benefits

Here are seven reasons that touchless faucets make a great choice for your home.

Water conservation: Touchless faucets save water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, faucets account for 15% of household water consumption. Because it automatically switches on and off, a touchless faucet can reduce this usage.

The touchless faucets are better for hygiene. Germs can still live on traditional faucet handles. Touchless faucets are less likely to spread germs or collect dirt. This means that you can wash your hands after you have finished cleaning them and you won’t touch a faucet handle that is dirty to turn off the water.

Convenient touchless faucets: Are your hands full of dishes? It’s no problem. It’s easy to use the sensors when your hands are full.

Touchless faucets are easier to clean: Traditional faucets take less time to clean because grubby hands don’t grab at knobs or levers.

Touchless faucets protect you from scalding. Touchless faucets have a temperature setting so that you are able to feel safe.

Touchless faucets allow for independence: Because the faucet is motion-activated, anyone who has mobility problems or struggles with grip and hand issues can use it without assistance.

Pre-set flow is a feature of touchless faucets. There is no wasted water when a faucet is opened to its full capacity. This automatic feature helps conserve water.

What do I need to install a touchless faucet?

Some faucets can be powered by batteries, while others are plug-in. You will need an outlet to power the plug-in model.

Your touchless faucet would not work if there was a power cut unless it has a battery backup.

Our plumbers can answer all your questions regarding hands-free faucets, and help you choose the best one for you.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you’re ready to make the switch to touchless faucets for your 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

HOT WATER HEATER LEAKING? HERE ARE THE BEST TIMES TO CALL A PLUMBER

Hot water heaters are one of the most important household appliances. It should be checked regularly to ensure there aren’t any problems. A minor hot water heater leak can cause damage to your floors, walls and personal property.

Regular inspection of your hot water heater is important to avoid any serious issues in the future. Here are steps you can take to repair your hot water heater before it causes damage and expensive repairs.

Find the origin of the leak

The first step in repairing a hot water heater leak is to identify the source of the problem. Below are the most common causes of water heater leaks:

Broken Drain Valves

Most of the water heater drain valves could be made out of plastic, brass, or composite material. Plastic is the most expensive option but it is also the most susceptible to bursting and leaks. Composite and brass are more durable and can withstand higher temperatures.

Corrosion

Although water heaters are designed to resist corrosion to some degree, eventually water heaters will be more susceptible to corrosion as it ages. Water heater leaks can be caused by corroded tanks.

Connectivity to the water main

Leaks could also occur in the tubes that bring cold water to your hot-water heater, and those that carry hot water out to your sink and shower. The valve must be replaced if it is damaged. Otherwise, the fittings on the pipes can be tightened.

Broken Temperature/Pressure Valves

This horizontal lever is the water heater component. It is located at the tank’s top at the water outlet joint. The expansion of water causes steam to be released. Temperature and pressure valves allow excess water and steam to escape from the hot water heater, preventing it from exploding. It is usually easy to replace a leaking pressure or temperature valve.

Here are some steps you can take if you find a hot water heater leaks

Once you have examined the origin of the leak and determined the reasons for it, you need to decide whether to repair it or buy a new water heater. While some hot water heater leaks can be fixed quickly and without the need for a plumber, others may require more time and money.

Water heaters naturally produce natural condensation. If the hot water tank is damaged or rusty, the heater might not be worth saving.

It is possible that your hot water heater leaks from the temperature relief valve. If this is the case, it should be tightened. It is important to tighten the valve securely, but not over-fasten. Lift the lever to check if the T&V valve is operating. Water should be emitted from the vent pipe that runs down the side of the hot water heater. You can also tighten loose connections to the water lines with a wrench. The tubing could be loose, which can be easily repaired.

If the pressure or drain valve breaks, these can be replaced cheaply. To prevent further damage from hot temperatures, it is safer to replace a leaky plastic valve.

These fixes are easy to do yourself and not too expensive. However, corrosion can require a more complicated repair. Repairs to hot water tanks or valves that have suffered from corrosion or rust will require the services of a plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach.

If your water heater is severely damaged, it is best to have it checked by professionals from Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC. Leaking or heavily corroded water heaters are not problems that you can ignore. Repair or replacement is almost always necessary for such damages.

Schedule water heater repair

You should never take lightly a leaking hot water heater. Hot water heater leaks can cause serious damage to your hot-water tank and lead to mold-growing fungi. Sometimes, the water can seep through walls or under floors and reach unseen areas.

It is best to call a professional plumber or attempt a DIY repair on your leaking water heater as soon as possible. If you see signs of corrosion or rust, it is time to call a plumber. Rust can cause serious damage and will require a complete water tank replacement. An experienced plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach will be able to inspect your hot water heater to determine if you need to replace it.

Are you concerned that your hot water heater is leaking? Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need the help of a professional plumber.

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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

WHY IS MY WATER TAKING TOO LONG TO HEAT?

Nobody wants to wait when it comes to hot water in the house. There are things you can do if your hot water isn’t heating up quickly. Here are some hot water heater tips you need to know.

Hot Water Heater Tips

5 Reasons Your Waiting For Hot Water 

Distance: Hot water will take longer to reach your desired location if it is farther from the shower or faucet where it should flow.

Low volume restrictor: A low volume restrictor can be installed on fixtures like your shower to delay water delivery.

End of Service Life: A failing hot water heater is a heater that has reached the end of its service life. They can fail quickly or be less efficient at heating water. Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC is a professional plumber who can inspect and repair your water heater. They will also determine whether it’s time to replace it.

Sediment buildup. When dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium settle on the tank’s bottom, it can cause a blockage of heat transfer. The tank won’t be able to produce hot water as fast as it once could due to a thick crust of sediment that blocks heat transfer. A plumbing contractor can flush the hot water heater and remove sediment to improve performance and efficiency.

A small water heater: You may have installed a heater years ago, when there were only two of you living in the house. Your family may have grown over the years and your water heater might not be able to keep up with your needs. You might be able to solve your problem by upgrading to a bigger unit.

How Long Will It Take To Get Hot Water?

Storage water heaters have a specific recovery time. This time is how long it takes for hot water to be delivered again from the tank after it has been used up. There are factors that can have an impact on the recovery time:

Tank size: Larger tanks will have longer recovery time.

Rating for the first hour: The faster the FHR is, the quicker the water heater will recover.

Type of fuel: It takes twice as long for electric water heaters to heat up than gas models.

Temperature rise: It takes more time to heat cold water than warm water.

It takes an average 80-gallon gas heater approximately an hour to recover.

HOW DO I GET HOT WATER FASTER?

Hot Water Recirculation Systems

Hot water recirculation systems can help reduce water waste while you wait for the water to heat up at the tap. Recirculating systems:

Water moves faster from the hot water heater to your desired tap

You can recirculate your water back to the heater, and keep hot water close by the faucets.

It is activated by a thermostat or a timer

You can mount the recirculation system near your faucet, or attach it to your water heater. Attached to the water heater, this version includes a pump and timer to circulate hot water.

Install a tankless water heater

Another option is a tankless water heater, which can provide hot water on demand. Tankless water heaters provide an unlimited supply of hot water. They don’t require tanks to heat or store water. Instead, the water is heated by heating elements and passed through them.

This results in instant hot water access and lower heating costs. The tank doesn’t heat unused water.

There are point-of-use and whole-house tankless water heating units as well as tankless water heaters. These units can be mounted in a closet or sink cabinet and provide hot water for individual faucets. These units are an excellent option for homes where a hot water heater is not sufficient.

Learn if a tankless water heating system is right for you.

It is vital to choose an efficient water heater system that will also provide hot water. Water heaters can make up as much as 25% of homes’ energy consumption. Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC will help you find the right water heater for your needs.

RESTORE YOUR HOT WATER SUPPLY IN YOUR HOME RIGHT NOW!

Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC offers a wide range of water heater services. Our plumbers are available to help you with any water heater repair or tune-up.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need the help of a professional plumber.

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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

HOW TO DEAL WITH A HOT WATER HEATER THAT LEAKS

If you take care of your hot water heater, electric or gas, they will last between 8 and 12 years.

There is always the possibility that your water heater might leak. The good news is that most water heater leaks are small and can be fixed quickly.

The best part?

To make the process even simpler, there are several things you can do prior to calling a plumber.

Reasons For A Broken Hot Water Heater

Hot water heater leaks are most commonly due to the following:

Broken drain valves could trigger the water to leak from the bottom of the tank. You can easily fix them by replacing the damaged drain valve.

The buildup of sediment can cause cracking and corrosion in the tank’s bottom. It’s time to replace your water heater when this happens.

Leakage can be caused by loose water line connections. The problem can be corrected by replacing or tightening the worn water lines.

Broken pressure/temperature valves: These valves, as their name implies, monitor and regulate water heaters’ temperature and pressure. They can break and cause water leakage from the tank’s sides.

Water heater leaks can be caused by many other factors. Contacting a professional like Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC is the best way to find out what’s causing your leaky water heater and how to fix it.

WHAT TO DO IF A WATER HEATER ELECTRIC LEAK IS FOUND

According to expert plumbing contractors, here are the steps to take if your water heater leaks:

If you discover a hot water leak, you must immediately cut off the power. Turn off the power source that is causing the hot water leakage

Locate your gas water heater thermostat. There should be a small knob with three settings: OFF, ON, and PILOT. To turn off the gas, switch it to OFF/PILOT. This will make the heater safe for use.

Electric water heater: Look at your breaker panel for the breaker marked “water heater”. To turn off the unit’s power, switch it off.

Shut off the water. Locate the cold water line that leads to the heater and turn it off. The line should have a valve. Turn it to the right until the valve closes. This will shut off the water supply and allow you to move on to the next stage.

Drain your water tank: This is essential if you have a tank water heater. This is also the most difficult step. Drain your water heater tank

Attach a garden hose or a drain valve to the bottom of your water heater.

Then, run the hose to a sump pit or floor drain.

Once the hose is in place, you could open up the valve. For an older hot water heater, this may appear like a standard tap; on newer systems, there’s a drain stem that accepts a screwdriver.

NOTE: If you open the drain valve, the water may not flow properly or stop flowing. This is due to a vacuum inside the water heater.

Open any hot water tap in your house to break the vacuum. This will allow air to enter the tank, allowing it to drain faster. The whole tank should drain within an hour after you have established a good flow.

After the water heater has been drained, call a plumber to get a hot water heater repair service. We will quickly locate the source of the leakage and fix it.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need help in fixing your hot water heater or other plumbing problems.

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