Plumbing problems can cause a lot of hassle. But not every plumbing issue is difficult to fix. In fact, some plumbing issues don’t even require a plumber.

Continue reading to discover three quick plumbing fixes that every homeowner should know. Remember, for all your plumbing needs, you can trust the Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC team.

Easy plumbing hacks for the average homeowner

Leaky Pipes – While there is no easy way to fix a leaky pipe, you can do a few reliable things when an unexpected leak occurs. Find the nearest shut-off valve, and turn it counterclockwise until no water is flowing. This is the small knob under the connection for pipes connected to sinks or toilets.

The valve is usually located on the other side of the wall. It’s a good idea to keep this in mind for both large and small leaks since it will give you time to minimize the damage until the Myrtle Beach plumbing contractor arrives.

Locate your main water line if the leak does not occur in a single pipe. It is usually located outside the house or in the basement. Turn off your entire home’s water supply. Bonus: You can try to temporarily stop a leaky pipe by using a pipe clamp or, if it’s a loose connection issue, a rubber repair sleeve.

Porcelain Cracks: You may think that a crack on your porcelain sink, toilet bowl or bathtub is a sign of impending disaster. It doesn’t need to be that way!

Plumber’s putty can be purchased at your local hardware shop to prevent the leak from worsening, causing much water damage. You should squeeze the putty as tightly as you can into the crack. Then, apply caulk over it to create a double seal.

Call a plumber in Myrtle Beach, preferably for an emergency. Even if the appliance needs to be replaced in the end, you can still ensure that it’s functional and won’t leak.

Malfunctioning water heaters: Have you heard strange noises coming from your water heater lately? Or has it taken longer for your water to heat than usual? Water heater issues can be very frustrating and require professional help. However, you should not make any assumptions.

The problem with your water heater can often be traced to sediment that has accumulated in the bottom tank. This sediment needs to be flushed. Turn off your water heater and run the tap for 10 minutes. Then, find a cold water supply on top of the tank and turn it off. Attach a garden hose on the drain valve, and allow the water to drain into the nearby floor drain. After this, turn on the cold water supply, but don’t close the drain valve or disconnect the hose. Lastly, watch the water drain until there is no sediment or discolouration.

If your unit is clogged with sediment, it will work harder to heat the water and increase your bill. If you are having sediment problems, it could be due to a corroded rod, which is part of your heater that helps reduce mineral and sediment accumulation. You can easily fix this problem yourself by buying a new anode rod in your local hardware store or online.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC, 843-267 9733 or use our online contact form to get more plumbing advice and tricks or to schedule a service.

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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

A contractor provides contractor services, including building roads, dams, and other new structures. They also offer services that involve the repair or modification of existing ones. There are different kinds of contractors based on the type of construction project that they handle. For example, when you want to build a new house, you need the services of an electrical contractor, building contractor, remodelling contractor, landscaper, and plumbing contractor. A plumbing contractor is an expert in plumbing works like fixing plumbing fittings and installing pipelines.

Hiring A Plumbing Contractor

You should get the services of a plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach when building your new home and maintaining your plumbing system. Constructing a house involves extensive plumbing work, so you need to hire a professional. You can talk to your main building contractor about this or hire a plumber on your own. Remember that the plumber should work closely and coordinate with the building contractor and other experts working on your new home. The plumber you choose must also have a good idea about the foundation and layout of your new home so you can create a correct foundation for its underground plumbing system.

In case the plumbing work needed is extensive, it is recommended to appoint a reputable plumber to supervise the whole plumbing aspect of the construction of your house. However, finding a reliable plumbing company is not that easy. You need to consider many factors before you finalize a contract with a plumbing contractor. Always remember that you should not sign a contract with the first plumbing company you encounter. You must hire the services of a Myrtle Beach plumber with a good track record and several years of experience in the field.

How can you find a good contractor? There are two ways. First, you can search in your local area or surf the web. You will find countless online directories listing hundreds of plumbing service providers including Blue Ribbon Plumbing, their addresses, and their contact details. Get in touch with them and ask about the services they offer and their rates. You can talk to them in person, or you can give them a call.

If you have specific demands, be sure to discuss them first with the plumbing company in Myrtle Beach that you are considering hiring well before signing a contract with them. Ideally speaking, a good plumbing contractor will customize their services to suit the needs and preferences of their client and will never force their client to follow their recommendations. Furthermore, the plumbing contractor must be able to secure all of the hardware requirements at better prices. An experienced plumbing contractor has worked well with several hardware dealers. Because of this, they have higher chances of getting bulk orders at better prices.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC if you are looking for a reliable plumbing contractor.

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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 problems can be caused by heavy rain. It is important to check your plumbing during storms and regularly to ensure there are no problems. Heavy rain can cause a number of problems for your home’s plumbing system.

Broken Pipes

Pipes can break when it rains because the ground can move. Lines can burst because the soil and rocks can shift due to the saturation of the ground. Dirt in the water can be a sign and discolored or bad-tasting water. Dirt or debris may be present in your water.

Sewage Backing up

After heavy rains or flooding, sewage can back up from the city limits into your home. Rain can push debris and leaves from your gutters and into drains, causing them to become overloaded. Check your drains outside before a storm to ensure they are not already clogged. Keep gutters and curbsides clean to prevent debris from collecting in these areas.

Clogged Pipes

Heavy rains may cause your pipes to clog completely. Clogging occurs when debris is pushed into the pipes, preventing water flow. Debris can cause sewage back-up but also damage your home. If the pressure is too high and you don’t clean your line as soon as possible, it can lead to a ruptured pipe.

You should call a plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach immediately if you notice water not flowing properly down your drains after heavy rain.

Contact Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC immediately if you are experiencing plumbing problems due to a storm.

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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

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

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

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

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

What is the impact of hard water on your plumbing?

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

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

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

Common signs that you have hard water

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

Drinking water of low quality

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

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

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

Soap Scum On Fixtures

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

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

Problematic Appliances

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

Stiff or Rough Fabric

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

Water Bills

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

Recurrent Plumbing Repairs

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

How can you fix the hard water problem?

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

• Water softener investment
• Installing reverse osmosis systems

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

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

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

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

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

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

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

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

What is hard water?

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

How does water become hard?

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

Common Plumbing Problems

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

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

What does it do to plumbing?

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

Test for Hard Water

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

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

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

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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

Nothing is worse than needing to call an emergency plumber at night or during a busy time of day. A burst pipe can be expensive, unpleasant, and even dangerous to you and your family. It’s good to know that most plumbing emergencies are preventable with the right installation and maintenance.

We’ll share 7 tried-and-true tips in this article to help you maintain your plumbing system and avoid future costly problems. Continue reading to find out more.

What are some common plumbing problems?

Unfortunately, most plumbing problems are the result of negligence and bad habits. The system is not at fault. It can be a game changer to know what bad habits you have and how to avoid them.

Keep your plumbing system in good shape with these 7 tips:

1. Don’t misuse your garbage disposal

Avoid pouring grease, or fibrous material (cornhusks and onion skins) into the garbage disposal. This can cause a blockage in the garbage disposal. Do not push large quantities of waste into the garbage disposal at once. Instead, dispose of them gradually while running cold water.

2. Pour no oil down the drain

Even though warm oil or grease might seem fluid and soft, it will cool down and harden. It will then stick to your pipes. Over time, the problem will worsen and can clog your sink pipes and sewer lines.

3. Use DIY cleaners with caution

Most Americans use DIY cleaners for their plumbing to avoid clogs. Although DIY cleaners are generally safer for your pipes than harsh chemicals, they can still cause damage with time. Always use pipe cleaners in moderation to be safe. If you’re not sure, hire a plumbing contractor in Myrtle Beach.

4. Avoid DIY approaches

It is notoriously hard to diagnose and repair plumbing issues without the right training, equipment, and experience. If you are not a trained plumber, it is best to leave plumbing issues to the experts.

5. Avoid flushing flushable wipes

Even though flushable wipes decompose slowly in water, flushing them in large quantities can cause a blockage to your septic tank and pipes. Do not flush anything other than toilet paper.

6. Don’t postpone repairs

Over time, plumbing problems tend to worsen. Even a simple slow drain or clogged pipe can lead to a ruptured pipe, a leak or a catastrophic sewage back-up. Call a plumbing contractor as soon as you notice any signs of a problem.

7. Keep your plumbing system in good condition

Contact a reputable plumbing company and ask them to perform regular maintenance checks on your plumbing system. It will help to identify any problems and address them in a timely fashion, reducing repair costs and preventing major inconveniences.

Where can I find an experienced plumber?

Do you need a company with a solid reputation that offers professional HVAC and plumbing installation, repair and maintenance services? You can’t go far wrong if you give us a call.

Our team is made up of specialists with the necessary skills, equipment, and experience to deal with any plumbing issue. Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now to take advantage of our 24/7 availability and client-oriented attitude.

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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

As the winter thaws and spring blooms, make sure your plumbing is ready! Harsh weather conditions can put your system at risk of freezing – but with adequate maintenance, you’ll be able to prevent any costly damages. Don’t wait until it’s too late; now is the time for some crucial plumbing preparation before warmer temperatures arrive.

What’s wrong with your plumbing?

Leaks and clogs can occur at any time, often without notice – potentially causing costly catastrophes if not addressed before snowmelt arrives. To help protect your pipes from potential damage in the coming season, here are eight common repair solutions you should consider taking advantage of now!

Low water pressure

Low water pressure in your faucets could be pointing to a bigger issue with your plumbing in Myrtle Beach. From clogged aerators and leaks to mainline issues – this common nuisance shouldn’t be ignored as it likely means there is something else going on that should be addressed promptly by an experienced plumber or contractor.

Slow drains

Slow drains don’t have to be a long-term problem, but if not addressed in the winter months they can become especially hazardous. Typically clogs are best remedied with an effective drain cleaning, however for those more difficult blockages deep within your plumbing system – professional help may just be what you need! Licensed plumbers are equipped to identify and repair stubborn sewer lines that won’t seem to clear up on their own.

Running toilet

Your toilet can be your biggest cause of water waste. A constantly running loo might not seem like a big deal, but if left unchecked it could lead to an unexpected spike in the next water bill! There are several potential causes for a run-on toilet – from faulty flappers and fill valves that need repairing to more complex problems requiring the professional help of a plumbing contractor. Don’t wait too long; get an expert’s advice today and save yourself money down the line!

Defective garbage disposal

Ignoring the cost of repairing a damaged garbage disposal now can lead to costly plumbing problems later. Not only that, clogs and pests like drain flies may be lurking in your pipes too! Be sure you take care of those repairs promptly for peace of mind at home.

Dripping faucets

In many cases, ignoring a dripping faucet seems easier; however, the consequences can really add up. A leaking tap not only wastes water but costs money too! Despite needing to leave taps on slightly during winter to avoid freezing – if one starts dripping without warning it’s likely something is amiss with the seal or washer. Fixing this issue professionally and efficiently requires specialized tools that are best left in the hands of an experienced plumber.

Leaky pipes

Winter weather is harsh, and no homeowner wants their house to suffer the consequences of a hidden water leak. Watch out for red flags such as water spots on ceilings or walls, bubbling paint & discolored wallpaper – all indicators that you should act fast! Don’t forget about musty odors – if something smells off it’s best to contact a plumber right away. Catching leaks early can save you from costly damage and potential mold growth in your property down the road.

Defective sump pumps

Don’t let your sump pump be forgotten this winter! A proactive approach to the cold season will help you rest easy, knowing that your basement won’t experience a flood. Check for any damages and test it by filling up its tank with water – if nothing happens, schedule plumbing repairs as soon as possible. Taking these steps now can save you major headaches in the future!

Old water heater

The winter chill can be a reminder that your water heater needs inspecting. If left unchecked, minerals may build up in the tank and cause it to burst – potentially flooding gallons of water all over your basement! To avoid this, care is needed for even those appliances which require little maintenance; making sure you are aware of any potential issues with your home’s hot water system will save time AND money down the line.

As the days get longer and warmer, don’t forget to check your home’s plumbing. Neglecting a clog or leak could spell disaster for your house—from costly damages to an unexpected flood. Don’t wait until it’s too late; have one last inspection by a professional before you set off into springtime bliss! Take precautions now so that later on in the season, all of your pipes will be running great!

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now if you need the help of a professional in dealing with all your plumbing problems.

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

Home – Myrtle Beach Plumber

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