5 PERKS OF WATER HEATER MAINTENANCE

Although scheduling water heater maintenance might not be on your priority list, there are many good reasons to do so. Homeowners can enjoy many system benefits from professional water heater maintenance that they won’t get otherwise. Continue reading to learn about the many benefits that you are missing if routine water heater maintenance is not scheduled with a plumber.

1. Keep manufacturer warranty active

To keep your warranty active, you must maintain your system annually. You could lose your warranty if you don’t follow the maintenance plan outlined in your owner manual. If your system fails to function within the warranty period you will not be eligible for any plumbing repairs unless you can show that your unit was regularly maintained.

2. Improve system energy efficiency

Minerals will settle over time at the bottom your water heater making it more difficult to heat hot water. This will eventually reduce the water available for heating, which can lead to a decrease in hot water supply, especially if your heater is a traditional tank system. Your plumbing professional will clean out any mineral buildup in your water heater. Your water heater will run more efficiently if it is free of sediment.

3. Identify your repair needs early

Your residential plumber will not only remove excess sediment from the system but also identify any repair needs. This will allow you to anticipate future water heater repairs and help prevent system failure. By understanding the current health of your water heater, you can plan financially to meet your system’s future needs.

4. Reduce water cost

Professional water heater maintenance has the best benefit of reducing your water costs. Your plumber will remove excess buildup in your system to increase efficiency. This will translate into lower operating costs throughout the year because your unit won’t have as much work to produce hot water. Your water heater costs will drop as your plumber can identify and fix small issues before they become major problems.

5. Improve system longevity

Your water heater will last as long as 20 years if you maintain it properly. This depends on what type of system is used. This longevity can only be achieved by maintaining a regular maintenance schedule. Annual maintenance is essential to ensure that your system does not fail.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now and let our team of expert plumbers make sure that your water heater is maintained accordingly.

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

TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR DRAINS FOR HOLIDAYS

The holiday season can be stressful. Do not let plumbing problems add stress to your holiday season. These are some tips to ensure your drains are holiday-ready.

Tips To Prepare Your Drains For The Holidays

Use your garbage disposal as needed. Do not wait until your drains are full of food. While you are cleaning or prepping, run your garbage disposal.

Shotgun showers. Although guests may be eager to get a hot shower as soon as possible, it is important to ask others to wait at least 15 minutes so that the drains can clear.

The sink is your best friend. Don’t be too ambitious in your kitchen. Allow grease from pans to solidify before you can scrape it into a container or trash bin. This will reduce the amount of grease that runs down your kitchen drain.

You can set a trap. To put a physical barrier between your guests and whatever it is that they can put down on your drain. You can use a sink trap. Sink traps that can be removed automatically capture the food from the naughty menu and rinse it into the sink. If there’s a problem, you can always hire a plumber.

Avoid getting into a sticky situation. Make sure your showers are equipped with drain screens and hair-trapping tools to limit hair that is being sent down the shower drain.

Perform a dry run. Checking your plumbing system is ready to handle holiday drain issues can help you avoid them. Small leaks or slow drain problems can quickly become major issues when holiday drains are being tasked with large jobs. To ensure that your system is up to the task, do a pre-holiday plumbing inspection. Call a plumbing contractor if you see slow drains.

It’s best to throw it away. You shouldn’t flush things like cotton balls, baby wipes, and sanitary products down the toilet. It’s easy for guests to dispose of them by putting trash cans in every bathroom.

Take a look at the outside temperature. Frozen pipes and freezing temperatures can put a damper on a holiday party. To keep water flowing in pipes, make sure you disconnect exterior water lines.

Don’t hesitate to take the plunge. This is the perfect time to invest in a new plunger. You might consider putting one in every bathroom to allow guests to take a quick plunge without having to have embarrassing conversations.

On Auger on Blitzen. It’s not Santa’s new reindeer. An auger can be used to remove a clog near the surface. You should always have one in case of a plumbing emergency.

Although your bank account might feel empty at the end of the holiday season, your plumbing system should be able to withstand the stress.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now and let our team of expert plumbers make sure that your plumbing system is ready for the holiday season.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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/

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.

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

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.

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