plumbing emergency

What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?

plumbing emergencyWhen you’re jolted awake by the sound of a persistent drip in the dead of night, it’s natural to feel a surge of panic. Is this a plumbing emergency, or can it wait until morning? Let’s navigate through this together and shed some light on what constitutes a plumbing emergency and what steps you should take.

Identifying Signs Of A Plumbing Emergency

Plumbing issues can range from minor inconveniences to full-blown disasters. Here are some scenarios where immediate action is crucial:

Burst Pipes

Whether it’s a sudden gush of water or a slow leak, a burst pipe spells trouble for your home’s integrity. It can lead to structural damage like collapsed ceilings or weakened walls. Shutting off the main water supply is your first line of defense, followed by reaching out to a plumber in Myrtle Beach urgently.

Water Heater Leaks or Failure

A leaking water heater may not be immediately apparent but can cause significant damage over time. Look out for signs such as water pooling around the tank or unusual smells. If you suspect a problem, don’t delay in contacting a professional plumber.

Myrtle Beach plumbingOverflowing Toilets

A clogged toilet is a common occurrence, but when it starts overflowing and shows no signs of stopping, it’s time to seek professional assistance to avoid a messy cleanup.

Sewer System Backups

The smell of sewage permeating your home or gurgling sounds from your drains are clear indicators of a sewer backup. This poses serious health risks and requires immediate attention from a residential plumber in Myrtle Beach.

Sump Pump Failures

Your sump pump plays a vital role in preventing flooding, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. If it malfunctions, your home becomes vulnerable to water damage. Look out for warning signs like unusual noises or irregular cycling and act promptly.

Major Leaks: Even seemingly minor leaks can escalate into major issues if left unattended. Keep an eye out for signs of water damage, such as damp walls or ceilings, and don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you detect any.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re unsure whether your plumbing issue constitutes an emergency, consider the following:

  • Do you require immediate access to the affected plumbing?
  • Can you shut off the fixture to halt the leak temporarily?
  • Are extreme weather conditions exacerbating the problem?
  • Will delaying action lead to further damage?
  • Is resolving the issue within your responsibility, or should you involve utility services?

Next Steps in a Plumbing Emergency

Should you determine that your situation qualifies as an emergency, it’s crucial to reach out to a professional emergency plumber promptly. If time permits, compare quotes from multiple plumbing services and inquire about any additional charges for emergency services.

Upon arrival, the plumber will assess the situation and take appropriate action to address the issue effectively. Remember to remain calm and focused during a plumbing emergency, as swift and decisive action can help mitigate damage and restore normalcy to your home’s plumbing system.

By understanding what constitutes a plumbing emergency and knowing how to respond effectively, you can navigate through unexpected plumbing challenges with confidence and ensure the safety and integrity of your home.

Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC. now if you’re looking for an expert to take care of your plumbing emergency. 

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC.
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733
https://www.blueribbonplumbingmb.com/

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle BeachNorth Myrtle BeachLittle RiverMurrells Inlet/Garden CitySurfside BeachCarolina Forest/ForestbrookConway/Aynor

plumbing

Tips to Keep Your Plumbing Trouble-Free During the Holidays

plumbing As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to get your home ready for the festivities. With more friends and family gathering in your home, your plumbing system is bound to get extra use.

The last thing you want during your holiday celebrations is to deal with plumbing problems like clogged drains, leaks, or a broken garbage disposal. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to ensure your plumbing stays trouble-free during this joyous season.

Why Do Plumbing Problems Happen During the Holidays?

Plumbing problems can happen any time of the year, but the holidays can be particularly challenging for your home’s plumbing in Myrtle Beach. Here’s why:

1. Mind Your Sink Drains:

During the holidays, your kitchen sink can become a bustling hub of activity as you prepare delicious meals and entertain guests. To keep your sink drain trouble-free:

Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG): It’s crucial to resist the temptation to pour fats, oils, and grease down the sink. These substances may flow easily when hot but can congeal as they cool down, forming stubborn blockages in your drainpipes. Instead, pour FOG into a dedicated container and dispose of it in the trash when it solidifies.

Potato Peels and Starchy Foods: Potatoes, rice, and other starchy foods can be a sneaky culprit in clogging your drains. As they break down, they can turn into a glue-like substance, sticking to the inside of your pipes. Dispose of potato peels and similar items in the trash.

Garbage Disposal Considerations: If you have a garbage disposal, be cautious about what you put down it. Items like vegetable peels, bones, eggshells, coffee grounds, and pasta are challenging for garbage disposal blades to handle. Over time, these items can cause your disposal to jam and even damage the motor. It’s best to toss them in the trash instead.

2. Care for Your Toilets:

With more guests in your home, your toilets will see increased use. To prevent toilet troubles:

Flush Only the Right Stuff: Educate your guests about what should and should not be flushed down the toilet. Encourage them to flush only toilet paper and human waste. Items like feminine hygiene products, sanitary napkins, baby wipes, paper towels, wrappers, cotton balls, and other non-dissolvable materials should go in the trash, not down the toilet.

plumbingFriendly Reminder Signs: Consider placing friendly reminder signs in your bathroom to help guests remember what’s flushable and what’s not. A simple sign can prevent accidental clogs and backups.

3. Check for Leaks:

Before the holiday season kicks into high gear, take some time to inspect your plumbing system for any existing leaks. Here’s why this is important:

Water Conservation: Fixing dripping faucets and running toilets not only prevents water wastage but also lowers your water bill.

Preventing Damage: Leaks, if left unattended, can lead to more extensive and costly damage over time. Addressing them promptly can save you from more significant plumbing issues down the road.

4. Adjust the Water Heater:

If you’re expecting a house full of guests, it’s a good idea to adjust your water heater’s temperature to ensure everyone has access to comfortable and consistent hot water. However, be cautious not to set it too high, as this can be a safety hazard.

5. Be Prepared:

Lastly, being prepared can make a world of difference in handling unexpected plumbing emergencies during the holidays:

Emergency Contacts: Keep the contact information of a trusted local plumber handy. In the event of a plumbing emergency in Myrtle Beach, you’ll be able to reach out for quick assistance.

Basic Plumbing Tools: Have some basic plumbing tools and supplies readily available in your home. A plunger can come to the rescue for minor clogs, and a pipe wrench can be useful for tightening loose fittings.

By following these tips and taking a proactive approach, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains in top shape throughout the holiday season, allowing you to focus on creating cherished memories with your loved ones. Enjoy a worry-free holiday season!

Take action now to protect your plumbing and enjoy a worry-free holiday season! Call Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC. now.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC.
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733
https://www.blueribbonplumbingmb.com/

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle BeachNorth Myrtle BeachLittle RiverMurrells Inlet/Garden CitySurfside BeachCarolina Forest/ForestbrookConway/Aynor

plumbing

Plumbing Problems That Need Quick Help

plumbingWhen it comes to plumbing issues, acting fast is really important. That’s why Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC is here to provide emergency plumbing services 24/7. We understand that unexpected plumbing problems can happen at any time, day or night.

But how do you know if your situation qualifies as a plumbing emergency?

Of course, you wouldn’t call a plumber in the middle of the night for a simple clogged drain. Let’s delve into more detail about urgent plumbing problems that require immediate attention. And for all your regular plumbing needs, including drains and sewers, remember to contact Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC.

The Top 5 Plumbing Emergencies

Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can occur due to various reasons. Sometimes, a blockage builds up in the pipe over time, causing it to burst under pressure. In other cases, high water pressure can lead to pipe bursts. Regardless of the cause, a burst pipe is a serious issue that demands swift action.

Water gushing from a burst pipe can create extensive damage to your property. If the burst occurs in your basement, it might even result in a flooding situation. Whether it’s day or night, contacting a residential plumber in Myrtle Beach immediately is crucial when dealing with a burst pipe.

Overflowing Toilets

Dealing with an overflowing toilet is both unpleasant and frustrating for any homeowner. Similar to burst pipes, an overflowing toilet can cause significant water damage.

plumbingMoreover, it’s unhygienic and should not be ignored. If you’re unable to stop the overflow on your own, it’s essential to call us to fix the issue promptly. This is especially true if you’re also facing……..

Sewage Back-Ups

Sewage water doesn’t always come out of the toilet. It can also back up through drains due to damaged sewer lines or septic tank problems. When sewage backs up on your property, it’s a severe problem that requires immediate attention.

Sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses, posing health risks to your household. For the well-being of your family and to prevent further damage, treating sewage-related issues as emergencies is a must.

Gas Line Leaks

Gas lines are crucial for appliances like stoves, heaters, and dryers. However, a gas line leak can be life-threatening. Natural gas is toxic in high amounts, so if you suspect a gas leak—indicated by hissing sounds, foul smells, or feelings of nausea—calling a professional Myrtle Beach plumbing contractor and evacuating your home is necessary.

Slab Leaks

While not as immediately evident as other problems, a slab leak is a significant hazard. The concrete slab under your home supports its structure. A leak from a broken pipe within the slab can lead to the shifting of the foundation, potentially causing extensive property damage.

Look for signs like higher water bills, sounds of running water when not in use, damp flooring, mildew, cracks, and water around your house’s perimeter. Although not as obvious as a burst pipe, a slab leak should never be ignored.

To ensure prompt help, contact Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC now.

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733
https://www.blueribbonplumbingmb.com/

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle BeachNorth Myrtle BeachLittle RiverMurrells Inlet/Garden CitySurfside BeachCarolina Forest/ForestbrookConway/Aynor

plumbing emergency

What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

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

When to Summon a Pro For Plumbing Emergency?

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

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

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

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

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

When Heating or Cooling Fails

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

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

Dealing with a Burst Pipe

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

When to Exercise Patience

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

Embracing Regular Maintenance

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

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

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Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC
4201 Carolina Exchange Drive Suite 202
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 267-9733
https://www.blueribbonplumbingmb.com/

Serving all of Horry County including Myrtle BeachNorth Myrtle BeachLittle RiverMurrells Inlet/Garden CitySurfside BeachCarolina Forest/ForestbrookConway/Aynor

emergency plumbing

How To Deal With A Plumbing Emergency

emergency plumbingYou should have information about what to do in case of a plumbing emergency. Plumbers are more likely to be needed in areas with high water pressure and high flooding risk. Plumbers are often called upon to fix a leaking faucet, or clogged toilet, or replace the water heater. These issues can be fixed by scheduling repairs or waiting for an appointment. It is a plumbing emergency if water is gushing from a pipe. Water can quickly cause damage to your flooring, walls, or furniture. It is important to be prepared for an emergency. Learn how to handle major plumbing issues so that you minimize damage and can get the repairs done quickly.

What to do in a Plumbing Emergency

Turn off the water supply

Turn off the water supply, regardless of whether there is a leak in the faucet, toilet, or pipe. This will prevent any additional water from spewing out of control. Find the leak and turn off the shutoff valve that’s probably close by. The water supply to most toilets is from the wall behind them. To stop water from flowing, look for a small handle shaped like a football.

Get in touch with an emergency plumber in Myrtle Beach

After you have turned off the water supply to your home, contact a plumber. Plumbing problems can be common and most professional plumbers provide emergency services. You can search online for a local plumber or consult a phone directory to locate one in your area. You can give them a call to explain your problem. You might get further instructions from them before they arrive.

Assess Electrical Appliances and Outlets

Check to make sure there is no standing water in your home. If the water reaches an outlet, it can cause an electrical shock. To avoid electrical hazards in cases of severe flooding, you should turn off the main circuit breaker. However, you should never go into water that could be electrically charged.

Remove Excessive Water

While you wait for your plumber to arrive, soak up any excess water that is safe to touch. This will not only help to minimize water damage but it will also make your plumber’s job easier. To absorb the water, use buckets, sponges, or towels. To stop water from escaping from a pipe that is leaking, wrap towels or rags around it. Then, tell your plumber about any leaks.

Keep Calm

This is the most difficult step. It’s natural to panic in a crisis. However, panic doesn’t help and can make things worse. Find out where the main shutoff valve is, and which plumber you should call in an emergency. There are ways to cover plumbing repairs as long as you have homeowner’s insurance.

Do not be caught off guard by a plumbing emergency

Unprepared for a plumbing emergency? Knowing the steps you should take will help you stay calm and be able to solve your plumbing issues. It is important to know who to call in an emergency. Blue Ribbon Plumbing LLC is a reliable plumber that provides 24-hour emergency service.

You never know when you’ll come home to a plumbing emergency. It’s best to know who to call at these times. Remember to stay 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 BeachNorth Myrtle BeachLittle RiverMurrells Inlet/Garden CitySurfside BeachCarolina Forest/ForestbrookConway/Aynor

plumbing emergency

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

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 emergency

When to Call An Emergency Plumber?

plumbing emergencyIt can be difficult to tell if a leak is a serious emergency or something that can wait until normal business hours. You may react instinctively and rush to the phone, rather than calmly assessing the situation. Let’s not lose our cool. These are some questions that you should ask before calling an emergency plumber near to you. This will help you avoid overpaying and allow you to get back to sleep.

1. Are You Requiring to Use the Affected Plumbing Now?

An emergency call is necessary for a flooding basement. But what about a clogged toilet or sink? They might be able to wait until the morning to schedule a plumber appointment. If this happens, let your family know that they will not be using the fixture again until further notice. To avoid forgetfulness at night, tape a note to the wall or completely block the room.

2. Is it possible to turn the fixture off?

It’s not considered a plumbing emergency if you can fix the leakage at the sink. The shut-off valve is located under the sink or behind your toilet. For larger problems, you might need to shut off the main water supply to your house. You will find the main shutoff valve near the water meters on the street side of your house.

You might be able stop the leak for a few hours if the leak is less severe than a trickle.

3. What’s the weather like?

The weather can play a significant role in whether you require plumbing services immediately. It’s dangerous to not have water at your disposal if it is a hot summer day. Call a plumber in Myrtle Beach if the temperature outside drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and your water heater struggles to turn on.

4. Is it possible to do more damage if the problem is left unattended?

To stop a slow leak, you could use buckets to collect water and stuff rags into the pipes. Your leak becomes more serious if one bucket doesn’t suffice to get you through the night. A significant leakage can cause damage to your floor, ceiling, walls, and adjoining walls. It’s time for you to call 911 if the water flow isn’t stopped or the water can cause significant damage.

5. Is it Your Responsibility to Fix the Problem

Sometimes, you may not be able to fix the emergency even if it was urgent. Your water company might offer to send a plumber to fix a problem with your main water line, the sewer main or a blocked sewer. Before calling your plumber in Myrtle Beach, you might try them. You might get city employees to fix problems with your city water supply. City employees may fix problems with city water supplies for free, unless you have to pay for repairs to the main water line.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Broken pipes: Turn off the water supply to a pipe that is spraying water. Move furniture out of the area.

Leakage or failure of a water heater: Call for assistance if the tank is making strange or unusual sounds, leaking, or making a foul-smelling odor. Water heater failures can cause expensive damage quickly.

Other major leaks include Toilet overflows, washing machine hoses and gas line leaks.

Sewer system backups. If you notice a bubbling toilet or water in your shower after flushing the toilet, it could be a sign of sewer system backups. Sewer gases can seep into a basement if it smells like rotten eggs.

What happens if you call an emergency plumber?

It’s a stressful situation. Keep calm and try to mitigate the emergency plumbing situation. Look for the shutoff valve on the fixture. Next, assess the situation and call a trusted professional emergency plumber in Myrtle Beach if necessary.

Professional plumbing repairs can still be expensive. This is especially true if you don’t have a reliable plumbing company on-call. If time permits, call three companies to get an estimate. This will help you determine a fair price.

Even in an emergency, it is important to ask questions. Before you agree to emergency plumbing service, tell the company about the problem and request a cost estimate. This includes the cost of regular service as well as any additional fees for night- or weekend calls.

While the cost of a plumbing problem might go up once the contractor has assessed the issue, it is important to be cautious of companies that refuse to provide an estimate over the telephone, even if you have provided sufficient details.

What is the Average Cost of an Emergency Plumber?

For a holiday, weekend or late-night plumbing repair, expect to pay less than a half hour. For emergency visits, companies might charge a flat fee between $100 and $350. These fees could be added to the usual $70-$400 hourly rate.

The plumbing contractor might be able to manage the problem in the evening and then return with the parts needed later. You might be charged an additional visit and the hourly rate. These details should be discussed with you when selecting a contractor.

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

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