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10 Common Plumbing Problems | Beverly Plumbing

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 20:31:07 GMT

1. Dripping Faucets

To fix a dripping faucet, start by turning off the water supply under the sink. Remove the handle to access the internal components. Replace the worn-out washer or O-ring to stop the drip. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on to check for leaks.

2. Clogged Drains

For unclogging drains, start by using a plunger to create suction and dislodge the blockage. If that doesn't work, try using a plumbing snake to break up and remove the obstruction. You can also use a chemical drain cleaner following the manufacturer's instructions. Regular maintenance like flushing with hot water can help prevent future clogs.

3. Running Toilets

A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water. To fix it, check the flapper and fill valve inside the toilet tank. Adjust the chain or replace the flapper if it's not sealing properly. You may also need to adjust the fill valve to regulate the water level in the tank.

4. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be due to mineral deposits clogging the aerator or showerhead. Remove and clean the aerator by soaking it in vinegar to dissolve the deposits. Check for leaks in the pipes and repair any damaged sections. If the pressure is still low, you might need to call a professional to assess the issue.

5. Leaking Pipes

If you notice a leaking pipe, turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. Locate the source of the leak and tighten the fittings or joints with a pipe wrench. For larger leaks or burst pipes, you may need to cut out the damaged section and replace it with a new pipe and fittings.

6. Water Heater Issues

Water heater problems like inadequate hot water or strange noises can be caused by issues with the thermostat, heating elements, or sediment buildup in the tank. Adjust the thermostat settings, inspect and replace faulty heating elements, or flush the tank to remove sediment and improve performance.

7. Sewer System Backup

A sewer system backup can be a serious issue that requires professional assistance. Contact a licensed plumber to inspect the main sewer line, identify the cause of the backup, and perform any necessary repairs or maintenance to ensure proper drainage.

8. Sump Pump Failure

If your sump pump is not working correctly, check the pump for any visible issues like clogs or debris blocking the intake screen. Ensure that the discharge pipe is clear of obstructions and that the pump is receiving power. If the pump still fails to operate, it may need to be repaired or replaced by a professional.

9. Water Leaks

When dealing with water leaks, it's crucial to locate the source of the leak and shut off the main water supply to prevent further damage. Tighten any loose connections or fittings causing the leak. In case of significant leaks, consider replacing damaged pipes or fixtures to resolve the issue permanently.

10. Slow Draining Sinks or Tubs

Slow drains can be cleared by using a drain snake to remove hair, soap scum, or other debris causing the blockage. Chemical drain cleaners can also dissolve the clog, but use them cautiously as they can damage pipes. Additionally, check the P-trap for clogs and clean it out to restore proper drainage.

Energy Saving Plumbing Solutions for a Green Home

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:41:19 GMT

In today's world, where environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important, homeowners are seeking ways to make their homes more eco-friendly. While plumbin g may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about energy efficiency, it plays a significant role in creating a greener home. In this blog post, we will explore energy-saving plumbing solutions that can help you reduce water waste, conserve energy, and make your home more environmentally friendly.

I. Low-Flow Fixtures:

One of the easiest and most effective ways to conserve water is by installing low-flow fixtures throughout your home. Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets are designed to use significantly less water without sacrificing performance. These fixtures can reduce water consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional ones. Upgrading to low-flow fixtures is a cost-effective solution that not only helps the environment but also lowers your water bills.

II. Water-Efficient Appliances:

Another plumbing solution that can contribute to energy savings is opting for water-efficient appliances. Choosing appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, with a high Energy Star rating ensures that they use less water and energy with each use. These appliances are designed to operate efficiently while still providing excellent performance. Upgrading to water-efficient appliances not only reduces your environmental footprint but also helps you save on your utility bills in the long run.

III. Efficient Water Heater:

Your water heater can account for a significant portion of your overall energy consumption. To improve energy efficiency, consider installing a tankless or on-demand water heater. These systems heat water only when it is needed, eliminating the standby heat loss associated with traditional tank-style heaters. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, reducing energy waste and ensuring you never run out of hot water. Additionally, insulating your water heater and pipes can further improve energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss.

IV. Greywater Recycling:

Greywater recycling is a sustainable plumbing solution that involves reusing water from sinks, showers, and laundry for non-potable purposes such as irrigation or toilet flushing. By diverting greywater, you can significantly reduce water consumption and minimize the strain on freshwater resources. Implementing a greywater recycling system requires professional expertise, but it can offer substantial long-term benefits for both the environment and your water bills.

V. Rainwater Harvesting:

Harvesting rainwater is an effective way to conserve water and reduce reliance on municipal water supplies. Installing rain barrels or a more elaborate rainwater harvesting system allows you to collect rainwater from your roof, which can then be used for outdoor irrigation or other non-potable purposes. Utilizing rainwater reduces the strain on municipal water sources during dry spells and contributes to water conservation efforts.

VI. Regular Maintenance:

Regular plumbing maintenance is essential for maximizing energy efficiency and preventing water waste. Inspect your plumbing system for leaks, dripping faucets, or running toilets and fix any issues promptly. These seemingly minor issues can waste significant amounts of water and increase energy usage over time.

Conclusion:

By implementing these energy-saving plumbing solutions, you can create a greener and more sustainable home while also reducing utility bills. Consulting with a professional plumber for advice on low-flow fixtures, water-efficient appliances, and other eco-friendly options tailored to your home's needs is highly recommended. Embracing these energy-saving plumbing solutions not only benefits the environment but also enhances your comfort, lowers your expenses, and contributes to a more sustainable future.

Why You Shouldn’t Flush Flushable Wipes Down Your Toilet

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 16:44:15 GMT

The term "Flushable Wipes" is a bit of misnomer...

When it comes to maintaining a healthy plumbing system, knowing what can and cannot be flushed down your toilet is crucial. While the convenience of flushable wipes may seem appealing, it is important to understand why you should never flush them down the toilet. In this blog, we will shed light on the reasons behind this, with valuable insights provided by the experienced professionals at Beverly Plumbing.

Misleading Claims of "Flushable"

Flushable wipes are often marketed as safe to flush down the toilet, leading many consumers to believe that they will break down similarly to toilet paper. However, this is not entirely accurate. While they may be designed to disintegrate more easily than regular wipes, they are still not well-suited for the plumbing system. Unlike toilet paper, flushable wipes do not dissolve quickly enough, putting strain on your pipes, sewer lines, and the municipal sewage system.

Potential for Blockages

Despite their "flushable" claims, many flushable wipes do not disintegrate fully when flushed down the toilet. They can get caught in the pipes, leading to clogs and blockages. Over time, these blockages accumulate and can cause serious plumbing issues, leading to costly repairs and inconveniences. Beverly Plumbing advises against flushing flushable wipes down the toilet to prevent these blockages from occurring. They recommend disposing of these wipes in the trash instead.

Environmental Impact

Flushable wipes can also pose environmental concerns. While toilet paper is designed to break down easily in water treatment systems, flushable wipes are not. They contain synthetic fibers that do not decompose as quickly. This can contribute to clogs in sewage pipes and create problems at water treatment facilities. If these wipes manage to make their way into bodies of water, they can harm aquatic life and damage ecosystems. By choosing not to flush flushable wipes, you can contribute to protecting the environment and preserving the health of our water sources.

Alternatives to Flushable Wipes

As an alternative to flushable wipes, Beverly Plumbing recommends using toilet paper, which is specifically designed to disintegrate quickly and cause minimal strain on plumbing systems. Additionally, for a more thorough cleaning, consider using a bidet or wet wipes that are specifically labeled as safe to flush.

Conclusion

While the idea of flushable wipes may seem convenient, it is important to remember that they are not truly flushable and can cause significant issues in your plumbing system. By choosing to dispose of flushable wipes in the trash, you can prevent blockages, protect the environment, and avoid costly plumbing repairs.

The experts at Beverly Plumbing strongly advise homeowners to avoid flushing flushable wipes down the toilet and to consult with a professional plumber for any plumbing-related concerns. Taking proactive steps to educate ourselves on proper disposal methods can go a long way in maintaining a healthy plumbing system and a sustainable environment.

If you've accidentally flushed these wipes down your toilet, and as a result need the help of a professional plumber, don't wait- reach out to our team at Beverly Plumbing today!

Benefits of Hiring Professional Plumbers for Your Home

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:16:13 GMT

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The Dangers Of Flushing Paper Towels Down The Toilet

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 18:24:51 GMT

It's a simple rule: if it's not toilet paper or natural waste, it shouldn't be flushed down your toilet

Many of us have experienced the frustration of a clogged toilet. Whether it's due to excessive toilet paper usage or accidental flushing of non-flushable materials, it c an be a bothersome problem to deal with. One common mistake that people make is flushing paper towels down the toilet, without realizing the potential dangers it can pose. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why flushing paper towels down your toilet is a bad idea.

(H2) Paper Towels’ Absorbency Can Cause Problems If Flushed

Firstly, paper towels are designed to be highly absorbent. Unlike toilet paper, which is specifically engineered to disintegrate upon contact with water, paper towels are made to retain their strength even when wet. This makes them much more resistant to breaking down in the pipes and sewage system. As a result, they can lead to clogs and blockages that are difficult to clear.

Due to their composition, paper towels can tangle and accumulate in plumbing pipes, gradually blocking the flow of water. Their larger size and denser fibers make them less likely to dissolve or disintegrate like toilet paper. Flushing paper towels down your toilet regularly can contribute to the accumulation of debris and eventually cause a complete blockage, leading to costly repairs.

(H2) It’s Terrible For The Environment

Secondly, the negative environmental impact of flushing paper towels down the toilet cannot be overlooked. Unlike toilet paper, which is biodegradable and breaks down quickly in sewage systems, paper towels are not designed for this purpose. When flushed, they end up in sewage treatment plants or, worse, in our oceans and waterways.

Paper towels take much longer to decompose compared to toilet paper. In a landfill, they can take weeks or even months to break down, increasing the amount of waste that clogs landfills. When they enter the waterways, they contribute to water pollution by releasing harmful chemicals as they decompose.

Moreover, the excessive use of paper towels can lead to deforestation and habitat destruction. The production of paper towels involves cutting down trees, which affects the ecosystem and reduces valuable carbon-absorbing resources. By flushing paper towels down the toilet, we indirectly contribute to this problem and harm our environment.

(H2) Flushing Paper Towels Is Bad For The Sewer System

Additionally, flushing paper towels down the toilet can have a significant impact on the infrastructure of our sewage systems. The accumulation of non-biodegradable materials like paper towels can lead to the deterioration of pipes and sewage treatment facilities. This results in costly repairs and potential disruptions in wastewater management, impacting public health and sanitation.

To avoid the dangers associated with flushing paper towels down the toilet, it is essential to dispose of them properly. Proper disposal involves using a waste bin specifically designated for paper towels. This ensures that they end up in landfills, where they can decompose at a controlled pace and pose less harm to the environment.

In conclusion, flushing paper towels down your toilet may seem like a convenient option at times, but the potential dangers and negative consequences are evident. From pipe blockages to environmental pollution and infrastructure damage, the risks are too high to ignore. It is crucial to educate ourselves and others about the proper disposal of paper towels, aiming to mitigate these risks and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future. So let's break the habit and think twice before flushing paper towels down the toilet.

Why Is My Toilet Making So Much Noise?

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 19:37:34 GMT

What's that noise, and what should I do about it?

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Items That Shouldn’t Be Flushed Down the Toilet

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Fri, 05 May 2023 19:37:21 GMT

There are common everyday products that some decide to flush down their toilet. You’ll often a sign in a public restroom that lists out items to not put in the toilet. There is an abundant list of items that should never be flushed, this article goes over a handful of every day and the most common ones.

“Flushable” Wipes

Flushable wipes are advertised as flushable but this is incorrect. These wipes that claim to be flushable don’t break down quickly and can get stuck in drains, causing a clog. It’s best to place any wipes in a lined trashcan kept in the bathroom vs flushing down the toilet.

Paper Towels and Tissues

Same with “flushable” wipes, paper towels and tissues should also never be flushed down the toilet because they do not break down quickly and get stuck in drains. You should throw away paper towels and tissue in a trash can to avoid clogs.

Feminine Products

Feminine products are a common item that gets placed in the toilet and should be absolutely avoided. Menstrual products are meant to absorb water, not break down in it, therefore they will only expand when flushed down the toilet.

Too Much Toilet Paper

You should avoid flushing too much toilet paper. Using too much toilet paper is wasteful and bad for the environment. It is simply not good for your plumbing. You should only use what you need, if you buy good quality toilet paper a little bit can go a long way.

Cotton Balls, Rounds, and Swabs

Although these items are small and may not seem like a big deal to flush down the toilet, they can lead to clogs. These products do not break down in the water and can build up in the pipelines eventually leading to a clog.

Dental Floss

Dental floss is another one that may not seem like a big deal if flushed down the toilet but it doesn’t break down easily in water and can lead to clogs. Mix dental floss with other items being flushed down the toilet and it may end up tangling with other items creating large clumps.

Simply don’t flush anything down the toilet that isn’t a reasonable amount of toilet paper.

How to Prepare Your Plumbing System For a House Party

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:58:59 GMT

The warm seasons are among us! Spring starts March 20, 2023, and kicks off the cookout season. Before you have a party celebrating the warm weather, make sure your plumbing system is prepared.

Make Sure to Place a Trash Can Near the Toilet

Many products are used in the bathroom that should not be flushed down the toilet, such as feminine supplies, napkins, and baby wipes. Make sure your guests have a place to put their trash so that they don’t try to flush it down the toilet. Make sure there is a trash can visible near the toilet for guests to throw away their trash.

Keep a Plunger Near

Clogs can start small but turn into big problems. If left unchecked, one guest can clog the toilet and other guests can follow after causing soiled water to overflow onto the bathroom floor. Every flush can cause water damage and push the clog further into the pipes, making the problem worst. Keep a plunger near the toilet so they have easy access to it in case a clog happens.

Allow Guests to Use Multiple Bathrooms

If you live in a multiple-bathroom home, try to give guests access to more than one bathroom. If you’re having a house party with a handful of people, one-bathroom access can be tough on your plumbing. One toilet might not be able to handle constant use. Constant use is more likely to cause a clog because it can’t keep up. As well as, more than one guest may need to use the facilities at one time. Your toilets, plumbing, and friends/family will appreciate you in the long run.

Scrape Dishes Before Putting In the Sink

A house party or springtime cookout is the perfect time to serve food or have guests bring items for a putlock. If you plan on using reusable dishes, have a trash can or 2 available for guests to scrape food into when they are done eating. Do not rinse food into the disposal because fats, oils, and grease can clog your plumbing.

How To Brush Your Teeth Without Wasting Water

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 16:34:34 GMT

There are many benefits to conserving water. Letting your water run while brushing your teeth may not seem like it has a big impact on water conservation. If you think about the two times you are supposed to brush your teeth every day seven days a week at 2-3 minutes at a time. the amount of water builds up. If you turn off your faucet while brushing your teeth you save on average 64 cups of clean drinkable water. Conserving water is important because although our earth is covered in 70% water, only 1% of it is drinkable and water is a limited resource. Conserving water is not only important for the environment but also beneficial to your finances. The less water you use, the less your water bill costs. Actively trying not to waste water while brushing your teeth is simple.

Don’t Run The Water While You Brush

The first way not to waste water while brushing your teeth is not to run the water while brushing your teeth. This is the simplest way to conserve water while brushing. If you brush your teeth while the water is running, over time you waste gallons and gallons of clean water. On average, a person who brushed their teeth 2 times a day and runs their water while brushing can waste 2,400 gallons of water a year.

Don’t Let the Water Go

Another tip to conserve water is to save the water you do run. Some of the clean water you run while brushing your teeth can be used for your dog or cat's water bowl. The water can also be used to water your plants. It might sound excessive, but keep in mind that running water adds up and any way to reuse it is better than it going down the drain.

Use a Reusable Cup

If you’re the type of person that cups your hands to fill with water so you can rinse after brushing consider switching to a reusable cup. This reduces the waste of water that would otherwise go down your drain.

Check Plumbing

Brushing your teeth is a great opportunity to check your plumbing. Turn your faucet off while you brush to ensure the faucet isn’t dripping. This time also allows you to quickly check under your sink to make sure your pipes are not leaking.

Renew Your Plumbing

Consider how old your plumbing is. It’s a good idea to replace your old faucets with new ones. Newer faucets are built with more water-friendly faucet heads.

How to Increase Your Water Pressure

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 17:46:28 GMT

Poor water pressure can be frustrating. It can cause a less than steller shower, make washing dishes difficult, and flushing the toilet hard. Changes in water pressure may happen suddenly or gradually over time. Although it makes some time to figure out why you are having low water pressure, it is a fairly easy problem to fix and luckily inexpensive.

First, Check Water Pressure Throughout the Entire House

Is the pressure low throughout the entire house or is it isolated to one shower head or faucet? To find out you should buy a Water Pressure Gauge if you do not have one and attach it to a hose bib, like the one on an outdoor faucet. When you open the bib’s valve the gauge should read between 40 and 60 psi. If doesn’t the issue is probably throughout the entire home, and if it does the issue is probably isolated to the problem area.

The Problem is Isolated

If the problem is isolated either remove the shower head or the facet bib and see how much water collects in a bucket in 10 seconds. You should get a little over a gallon, and if you do your shower head or faucet bib are clogged.

The Problem is Throughout the Entire House

The first thing you should try is adjusting the pressure-reducing valve. Look on the main supply pipe near your water meter for a conical valve that has a bolt sticking out of the cone. Once you find the valve turn the bold clockwise after loosening the locknut to raise the pressure. Make sure you keep an eye on the gauge to make sure the pressure is within bounds, once you’ve raised the pressure then retighten the locknut.

Lastly, if the adjustment doesn’t help, then the city or town’s water pressure is inadequate. Ask your neighbors and see if they are having issues. If their pressure is good then ask the water company to check the shutoff valve out by the street. If their water pressure is low as well a water pressure booster may need to be installed. This consists of an electric pump that feeds water to a tank that keeps the water at the desired pressure.

Signs of a Sewage Backup

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 18:46:14 GMT

Sewage backups are most common during the rainy season. When a heavy rain storm occurs the shared sewage lines can become overwhelmed and backup. As a result of the water becoming backed up, it has nowhere to go and flows back to your home. The backup coming through your home's pipes can either be wastewater from rain or sewage backup that brings actual human waste. Sewage backup can be a danger to your household due to it being a biohazard and emitting physical and airborne contaminants into your living areas as well as vapors. There are several signs you may have a sewage backup. Continue reading to learn more about the signs so you can be prepared if you experience a sewage back.

Foul Odors

A bad smell is an early sign of a sewer issue. Smells to look out for are mold, sulfur, or even waste. Not all bad smells in the household equal sewer problem, but if you can’t find another source of the smell, it may be the sewage. If you suspect the odor is coming from your sewage it is a good idea to be proactive and have a professional come and look at it.

Slow Drains

If you suspect your drains are moving slowly and not at the rate that they should you may have a problem. Slow drains are another sign there may be sewer issues. Water draining slowly can be a sign that debris, materials, or other waste is building up in your sewer line. When this problem occurs many homeowners typically turn to chemical drain cleaners, but this is a bad decision. The harsh chemicals can cause more damage to your pipes and are generally ineffective.

Clogged or Overflowing Toilets

Toilets clogging are a common issue and is typically easy to fix with a plunger. A toilet getting clogged now and then doesn’t mean there is a sewage problem. However, if your household is experiencing clogged toilets consistently, this is a concern. A toilet that is getting backed up regularly is a sign there is a sewage backup and needs to be fixed by a plumber. Don’t try to force it down with flushing if the toilet is clogged, this could cause flooding. If it isn’t going down with a plunger leave it and call a plumber as soon as possible.

These are the three main signs you may have a sewage backup. Keep in mind, when in doubt call a plumber . Don’t ignore the signs that you may have a problem, flooding and pipe bursts can happen if the issues are not addressed.

Potential Causes of a Continuously Running Toilet

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 18:50:04 GMT

A toilet that continuously runs can squander hundreds of gallons of water. It is an important problem to address because it won’t fix itself. Fortunately, fixing the issue is usually relatively easy and pretty inexpensive to fix. Though many beginners may have trouble with the toilet assembly. For that reason, this project is better suited to individuals with some plumbing experience.

Your Refill Tube is Malfunctioning

If the refill tube is too long and isn’t positioned properly in the overflow tube it can constantly pump water into the bowl. The refill tube malfunctioning causes the toilet to run because the refill valve will create a suction effect that pulls water out of the fill valve.

Flapper Problems

The most common reason for a running toilet may be an old flapper that needs to be replaced. When flappers get old, they don’t seal the way that they should and it allows water to pass constantly from the toilet tank into the bowl. You’ll want to drain the water from the tank before you replace it. As well as shut off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to drain the water. If the chain is too long on the new flapper, you may have to shorten it. Remove the old one by detaching the chain and taking the flapper off the pins on the side of the overflow tube. To attach the new one connect the chain and attach the sides to the pins.

Worn Gasket

The worn gasket is the seal between the tank and the bowl.

Problems with the Float Ball

The float ball is a small ball that sinks when the tank empties with a flush and opens up the inlet valve on the fill tube. When the tank is filling, the float ball rises, which closes the valve and stops the filling process. If the float ball is misaligned or malfunctioning in any way, it might not allow the valve to close completely and the water will continue to run.

The Flush Valve Chain Is the Wrong Length

The chain is what is used to pull open the flush valve and allows fresh water into the tank as the used water is flushed out. If the chain is too long or too short then it may interfere with the ability of the flush valve to properly close.

What damage does pouring old grease down your drain do?

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 17:10:29 GMT

Grease should never go down your drain. Even a small amount of bacon grease or used cooking oil can cause plumbing problems. Every homeowner should know, simply do not pour grease down your drain. The smallest amount of grease over time can cause a big problem.

Grease and Pipes Do Not Mix

Even if it is hot and easy to pour out of the pan, it will eventually cool and solidify in your plumbing. The truth is, pouring hot grease while running hot water and dish soap after is a misconception. Over time, pouring grease down your drain will cause a clog that could bring your drains to a standstill.

If the grease does make its way past your home's plumbing system it can wreak havoc on your municipal sewer system. Some cities spend millions of dollars a year addressing damaged sewers to clear out masses of solid waste called “fatbergs” that consist of grease and oil. If you never pour grease or oil down your drain you can help prevent clogs and other plumbing problems.

How to Properly Dispose of Grease and Oil

A convenient way and mess-free way of disposing of cooking grease and oil are to put it into an empty container. Wait for the grease to cool and harden in the container and then throw it away in the trash. Depending on the amount of grease you can wait for it to cool down in the pan and use a paper towel to wipe it away.

Already Poured Grease Down the Drain

If you have found yourself here because you're already experiencing plumbing problems from pouring grease or oil down your drain hot water and dish soap are good as a temporary solution. This way may only remove the thickest part of the clog. If you have been disposing of grease and oil down your drain for years you may need a professional plumber. A professional will have the right tools required to unclog your drain so it will flow freely once again.

How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 16:02:06 GMT

Adjusting Your Water Heater

The majority of water heater types are adjusted similarly. Most newer gas and electric water heaters have a thermostat behind an insulated access panel. Electric water heaters often have two thermostats where one is at the top and the other at the bottom. Tankless water heaters often feature a display with a temperature readout and controls for adjusting the temperature.

Keep in mind that you should always test your water before making any adjustments .

H2 Adjusting a Tankless Water Heater

You use the digital control panel to adjust the temperature up and down as needed.

H2 Adjusting a Gas or Electric Water Heater

Some gas heaters feature a dial near the bottom of the unit that can simply be turned to adjust the temperature.

Most newer tank water heaters are a little more involved but still pretty simple.

Start by turning off the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker;
Find the access panel for the thermostat(s) and use a screwdriver to remove the panel;
Peel back the insulation;
Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust the thermostat up or down;
If your water heater has two thermostats, adjust both the same amount. The top thermostat should be a few degrees higher than the bottom.
Replace the insulation and reinstall the access panel;
Restore power to the water heater;
For gas water heaters, you may need to relight the pilot light.

Once you have made the adjustments, wait at least three hours before testing the water temperature.

H2 The best temperature to set your water heater to

Some of us like scolding hot showers! They are so soothing and relaxing, but always a letdown if your hot water goes away too fast. The safety recommendation of where your temperature should be set is 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but 140 is the default setting.

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Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:57:03 GMT

Yet another common debate in the plumbing industry is whether or not flushable wipes are actually flushable. Well, we hate to be the bearer of bad news, but we’re here to tell you that no, flushable wipes really aren’t flushable.

Well, Why Not?!

It might be surprising, and maybe even irritating, that these so-called “flushable” wipes shouldn’t be flushed. While these wipes may make it through your plumbing system, they will end up clogging city pipes and sewers. This is because these products are often made up of synthetic materials that don’t break down in the same way that regular toilet paper does. These synthetic materials will stay in sewage systems, building up over time. When our sewers get clogged, it can result in hazardous risks for sewage professionals and costly risks for your city's pipe and sewage system.

How Are They Advertised As “Flushable,” Then?

The reason why companies are still able to advertise their products in this way is that, technically, their product can be flushed. However, this does not mean that the product will make it through the sewage system without causing any damage or blockage. As a result of this technicality, companies are not restricted from using this verbiage to market their products.

Can I Still Use Flushable Wipes?

Although they should not be flushed down the toilet, you can still use flushable wipes . But when it’s time to dispose of them, throw them away in a trashcan rather than down the toilet. By making this small adjustment, you can reduce the amount of hazardous waste in your sewage system and prevent the incurrence of additional costs to resolve plumbing issues in your city.

So, What Can Be Flushed Down The Toilet?

The short answer is pretty much nothing other than human waste and toilet paper. Toilet paper can completely break down in the sewage system, so it doesn’t result in hazardous waste. Other than toilet paper, you really shouldn’t be flushing anything down your toilet.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today !

How to Remove Calcium Build Up

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 21:04:20 GMT

Do you ever go to turn on your faucet and notice a white chalky substance stuck around it? This is more than likely due to a calcium build-up. The water that comes into your home is hard water, which means that it has a higher percentage of dissolved minerals, such as magnesium and calcium.

There is no need to worry, though, because calcium build-up is pretty much harmless. However, it can make your appliances appear dirty or unkempt, so it’s best to remove them when you notice them starting to build.

What You’ll Need to Remove Calcium Build up

Luckily, the removal process for calcium build-up is pretty simple, and the supplies you need to remove it are easily accessible and affordable. As a matter of fact, you might already have some of these cleaning agents lying around your house.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural and easy way to clean up calcium residue. All you need to do is transfer the lemon juice into a spray bottle, and you’re good to go! This ingredient is especially useful for cleaning metal surfaces such as faucets.

White Vinegar

Chances are you might have this ingredient already in your kitchen as well. White vinegar has many purposes, and one of them is removing hardened calcium deposits. For this ingredient, skip the spray bottle and let the affected surface soak with a white vinegar rag.

CLR

This product is yet another way to remove stubborn calcium build-up and is particularly useful for toilets. Otherwise referred to as calcium, lime, and rust remover, CLR will help to make your affected appliances look shiny and good as new!

Different Methods to Remove Calcium Build Up

As briefly mentioned before, the kind of method you use to remove calcium build-up is dependent upon the ingredients you use. But at the end of the day, a good combination of soaking, scrubbing, and wiping down your faucets and toilets should always work without fail. Feel free to try some different methods with the aforementioned supplies to see what is most convenient for you and what works best for your home.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today !

Why You Shouldn’t Flush Your Feminine Products

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 19:22:32 GMT

“Can you flush a tampon?” While the question might seem simple, you can do a little research and find that this is one of the most strongly debated topics discussed by women. Many women argue the side that it’s completely acceptable to flush feminine products. After all, it is the easiest and most convenient way to dispose of them.

While flushing tampons or other feminine products down the toilet might be convenient and trouble-free at the moment, there’s a high chance that you’ll end up spending a lot of time and money repairing your plumbing system. So, while all women have their own opinions on the matter, experts all pretty much agree that flushing feminine products isn’t advisable and can cause undesirable consequences in the long run. Here’s why.

They Don’t Break Down In Wastewater Systems

Or anywhere, for that matter. Although you might be led to believe otherwise, tampons and other feminine products do not break down the way toilet paper does. On the contrary, they actually can grow up to 10 times their original size since they absorb fluid. Because of this, they have the potential to clog drains and pipes, causing a lot of damage to your plumbing system.

It’s Expensive

If you’re lucky enough to have your flushed feminine products pass through your plumbing system, they’ll end up at the sewage treatment plant. Since they don’t break down, chemical or physical filter systems are used to break them down manually. This is expensive! Breaking down feminine products accounts for about 46 billion dollars in our wastewater treatment annually. Not to mention, if these products do get stuck in your pipes, you incur personal costs required to fix your plumbing system at home. The moral of the story is that disposing of your feminine products properly can save you money.

It’s Bad For The Environment

While saving money is important, saving our environment and ecosystem is too. When you improperly dispose of products that don’t break down, you’re risking the chance of them polluting our environment. Even tampons that are labeled as biodegradable still take several months to fully decompose. Additionally, tampons that get stuck in pipes can cause wastewater to overflow from drains into our streets, rivers, and anywhere else it may end up. At a time when environmental issues are becoming more and more prevalent, it’s incredibly important to minimize your negative impact.

How You Should Dispose Of Your Feminine Products

Enough about what you can’t do with your feminine products. This is what you can do. The feminine product brand Tampax suggests that the best thing you can do to dispose of tampons is to simply wrap them up and throw them in the garbage, because they, unfortunately, aren’t recyclable either. If you are in a public restroom, many of them have waste containers in each stall, in which case you can dispose of them there. If neither of these options sound suitable to you, that’s okay too! Everyone is different and has their personal preferences when it comes to feminine products and hygiene. You can even avoid the issue of flushing or throwing away your tampons by trying one of the various reusable products on the market.

At the end of the day, whatever you decide to do is up to you. But, we do urge you to stop flushing feminine products and instead find an alternative that is more environmentally friendly, more cost-effective, and more beneficial to you in the long run.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today !

Three Possible Ways To Stop Your Running Toilet

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Tue, 17 May 2022 15:53:12 GMT

One of the most financially draining sounds you can hear as a homeowner is the continuous running of one of your toilets even after you haven’t used it. As we’ve previously discussed, running water over a long enough period of time can cost you hundreds- and potentially thousands- of your hard-earned dollars.

Luckily, not every case of a toilet running nonstop is going to require you to call for professional help. In some instances, you can actually fix the problem yourself. (Side note: if you can’t fix the issue yourself but would like to at least stop the water from running while you call for a plumber to limit the damage to your water bill, simply turn off the water power until a professional arrives.)

Here are three things you should try yourself before calling for a plumber to stop your toilet from running.

Check The Fill And Overflow Tubes

The overflow tube is often the source of toilets running non-stop. Pull the lid off the tank of your toilet and find the fill tube, which serves as a gateway between the fill valve and the overflow tube. Its main job is to provide more water to the toilet bowl in order to refill it after someone flushes the toilet. But if the fill tube has become displaced, and is no longer supplying water to the overflow tube, the next flush could be insufficient, and the water could keep running- this is the toilet’s attempt to fill the bowl up with water for the next flush.

Check Your Flapper Chain

The flapper chain connects the inside of the flush handle to the flapper itself, and it has to be just the right length or else problems could arise. If the flapper chain is longer than it should be, it could keep the toilet from flushing properly; if it isn’t long enough, the flapper will not fully shut, and the toilet could leak. Oftentimes, the length of a flapper chain is adjustable simply by adding or removing links to the chain. If the length of the flapper chain is indeed the source of the issue, adjust it so that the chain is mostly, though not completely, taut.

Replace The Flapper

If all else fails and you aren’t able to stop the flow of water from your toilet, there’s one more thing you could try before calling for a professional plumber. The flapper itself may be defective and need to be replaced. If this is indeed the case, you’re in luck- replacing a flapper is not too overbearing of a task for even novice DIY-ers. When you go to purchase a new flapper from the store, be sure to bring the defective one with you so that you can get the closest thing to an exact replica to replace the old one.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today!

Four Essential Tools For DIY Plumbers

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 22:13:47 GMT

If you live in the same place for a long enough period of time, the chances are that you’re going to stumble upon some problems with your plumbing system. In some cases, unless you’re a professional plumber, you won’t have a choice- you’re simply going to have to call a professional to fix the issue (or issues). But in many cases, if you’re good with your hands and you have the right tools, you might be able to fix the problem yourself and therefore save yourself from paying a hefty plumbing bill.

Here are four of the most important tools (or sets of tools) you’re going to need in order to be a “Do It Yourself” plumber.

Safety Equipment Is Essential For DIY Plumbers

As always, safety first . You never know what could go wrong while trying to fix your house’s plumbing, and you never want to find out. Two pieces of safety gear you’ll absolutely have to have are gloves to protect your hands and goggles to protect your eyes. You might also want to invest in a heat shield to protect equipment around you if you’re using materials that give off heat or fire.

A toilet plunger is one of the most commonly used tools for DIY plumbers

Perhaps the most common plumbing issue that most people find themselves dealing with is a clogge d toilet, and the first line of defense against a clogged toilet is a plunger. Toilets can clog for any of a wide variety of reasons, but unless there are enormous amounts of blockage in the pipes that simply cannot be freed without going directly to those pipes, a toilet plunger is going to be your best friend. It may take a good bit of practice to learn the optimal angles and placement of your plunger, but once you do, you’ll be able to unclog the majority of stopped-up toilets that you encounter by yourself.

Pliers Always Come In Handy For DIY Plumbers

Pliers are considered to be very useful plumbing t ools because their smaller, more nimble jaws can fit into smaller spaces and grab hold of nuts or bolts that larger, more bulky wrench jaws cannot. Professional plumbers use pliers on a daily basis, and in order to be more efficient, DIY plumbers will use them quite frequently as well.

A Variety Of Wrenches Are Needed For Many DIY Plumbers

Using wrenches to tighten and loosen the various nuts throughout your plumbing system might take some time and practice to learn how to master, but if you’re able to do so, you can fix a lot of problems by yourself. Among the wrenches you’ll most likely need are a faucet key, a basin wrench (also known as a sink wrench), a pipe wrench, and a torque wrench.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today !

Yes, Dripping water Can Cost You Money!

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 14:45:02 GMT

It might be second nature for some people to see water dripping from their sink, from a nozzle, or from a pipe, and think, “well, let’s shut that off, because dripping water will probably cost me some money on my water bill… but it can’t possibly cost that much, can it?”

The answer is yes, it sure can. So if you notice a sink faucet or a showerhead dripping with water, don’t just figure that you’ll remember to shut it off later. Do it immediately.

The short explanation is that if you discover a faucet that is dripping or a pipe that is leaking, the chances are that water didn’t just start to drip five seconds before you found it that way. Alone, one or two drops of water that leak from a faucet isn’t going to kill you on your utility bill, but if that number of drops is in the hundreds or even possibly the thousands, you might be looking at not only your pipes or faucets leaking water, but your bank account leaking money.

How Much Water Does A Dripping Faucet Lose?

It’s impossible to calculate with certainty how much water you could waste via a dripping faucet, as each faucet and plumbing system is different. That said, the USGS has estimated that approximately 15,000 drips of water mean one gallon of wasted water. Some quick calculations show that that number is actually pretty easy to reach: one drip of water every six seconds equals ten drips of water per minute, ten drips of water per minute equal 600 drips of water per hour, and 600 drips of water per hour between the time you step out of the shower one day and step into it the next day can bring you pretty close to that 15,000 drip benchmark right there. (To be precise with these calculations, it would take 25 hours, or one full day plus one hour, to reach 15,000 drips of water, and thus approximately one gallon of water, at that rate.)

How Much Can Dripping Water Cost You On Your Water Bill?

How To Correctly Clean Your Kitchen Sink

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 16:43:30 GMT

Cleaning your kitchen sink is one of the easiest things you can do to prevent plumbing problems. The fact of the matter is that if you clean your sink on a regular basis- and properly- you significantly decrease the risk of the types of contents that don’t belong in your drain finding their way into your drain. What’s more, failure to properly clean your sink could lead to a buildup of unhealthy bacteria that could pose serious health risks.

So with that said, here are a few tips on how to correctly clean your kitchen sink, keep everyone in your house healthy, and spare yourself the displeasure of having to foot a hefty plumbing bill.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Use mostly hot water and some liquid soap to keep your pipes clean

Hot water has a particularly nasty effect on grease and bacteria that might be building up inside your drain. An act as simple as pouring a pot full of hot water directly down your drain can inflict a lot of damage onto the things you don’t want in your plumbing system, which in turn means that it can do a lot to keep your pipes clean and healthy. The hot water has a way of melting grease that may have slipped down your drain while you were washing dishes, and what residue the hot water isn’t able to get rid of, a squirt or two of liquid soap should take care of.

Clear out your sink when you’re done washing things

Oftentimes, when you wash your dishes, the grease that you scrub off doesn’t do substantial damage to your plumbing system because it’s accompanied by soap and hot water on its way down the drain. However, if you leave your dishes in the sink after washing them, and you missed a spot, that grease that was left unwashed could draw bacteria to your sink, where they could then more easily spread to your drain and pipes than if they were left stacked in the drainer.

When a sponge looks old and greasy, replace it

A general rule of thumb with your sponge is that if it looks as though it has seen better days, it probably has- and that’s the point in time at which you should get a new one. Bacteria have a way of building up on old, overused sponges, and using that sponge to scrub plates and silverware could become a real health hazard to your kitchen sink- not to mention anyone who uses it. In fact, according to one study your kitchen sponge could accumulate more bacteria than your toilet. You most definitely do not want to be using such an item on a regular basis, so when in doubt, get a new sponge for your kitchen sink. Your plumbing system and your immune system will both thank you.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today !

Five tips to keep your pipes from freezing over this winter

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 02:17:55 GMT

January, February, and March are three of the coldest months of the year, and as such, we are entering the time of year where the pipes in your plumbing system are liable to freeze over if you aren’t extremely attentive and careful. Of course, the converse of that paints a much less gloomy picture: simply show some attention and care to your pipes during the winter, and they are much less likely to freeze- and cause a whole host of problems.

So, what do you have to do to keep your pipes from freezing?

Keep your house temperature at 65 degrees or warmer to help heat your pipes

Even if your thermostat is set several degrees above 32 (not that anybody keeps their house at 40 degrees anyway), the temperature inside your walls- where your pipes are- are always going to be significantly colder than the rest of the inside of your house, and that means your pipes are almost certainly going to freeze over anyway. So you need to keep your temperature substantially higher than 32 degrees to make sure that you compensate for that.

Keep your garage door closed to keep pipes from freezing

In the dead of winter, your garage is your gatekeeper against the cold. A garage typically doesn’t benefit from the warmth a thermostat can provide, so keeping it as warm as possible is a must. This goes double for garages that have water pipes running through them. Make sure that the garage door remains closed at all times (unless of course a car is actively entering or leaving it).

Apply heating tape to ensure your pipes don’t freeze

Heating tape , as its name would suggest, is an excellent way to provide the heat directly to your pipes so that they do not freeze. You have two ways to go with this option. One, automatic heating tape, which senses when your pipes are in need of a heat boost and turns on by themselves. Two, non-automatic heating tape, which you need to manually plug into an outlet and apply whenever it gets cold enough to merit it.

Let the water run (occasionally) to keep pipes from freezing

We’re not saying that you should allow water to run continuously throughout your house while nobody is using it, because that’s quite wasteful. But on the other hand, simply turning your faucet on and off every so often to allow even a trickle of water to run can be all your pipes need to keep from freezing over. The running, non-frozen water can do a little bit to impress its non-frozen temperatures upon the pipes it passes through. Just make sure not to turn up the temperature of the water too much, as extremely hot water can have its own set of adverse effects on your pipes.

Have you noticed an issue with your plumbing system recently? Are you in need of professional help to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here for you. Contact us toda y !

How to be nice to your plumbing system during the holiday season

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 20:51:42 GMT

The beginning of the month of December means many things for most Americans. The weather cools off, the year is ending, and the mood turns jolly- because the holidays are just around the corner. And that, in turn, means family gatherings.

When you’re at a get-together with friends and relatives, the chances are that your plumbing system is going to be working much harder than it ordinarily does because there are more people in your house. As such, everyone needs to work together to be nice to that plumbing system, and not overwork it.

Here are three ways you can do so.

Don’t put anything in the toilet that doesn’t belong in your plumbing system

One of the biggest no-nos of plumbing is flushing things down your toilet that absolutely are not meant to be flushed down your toilet. If it’s not your waste or toilet paper, it does not have any business being flushed down into your pipes. That means no paper towels, candy wrappers, plastic silverware, female hygiene products, and so on. But while this rule of thumb is applicable for all 365 days of the year, it’s especially critical during the holiday season, when large crowds of people are gathering. If things that don’t belong in your pipes have been flushed down there, and on top of that your toilet is being flushed more frequently than usual, the problems that are certain to arise are only going to be compounded.

Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain and into your plumbing system

When you’re washing your dishes, it’s understandable that some of the residues from potentially greasy or oily plates and silverware will run down the drain. The key is to not allow excessive amounts of grease or oil to travel down the drain. As the grease cools off, it congeals, which in turn can create blockages inside your pipes. Even worse, if you pour boiling hot oil down the drain, say, from the remains of a frying pan that was sautéing chicken, the rapid increase in temperature could cause the pipes to expand and contract. With all the activity that’s sure to happen in your kitchen sink, limiting the amount of greasy residue that slips down the drain is a must.

Replace any pipes in your plumbing system that look rusty or old

How to detect leaks in your plumbing

Sat, 20 Nov 2021 00:29:51 GMT

If you’re a homeowner with a plumbing system, the chances are that you’re eventually going to have to deal with a leak. It’s simply bound to happen at some point in time, so you might as well be prepared in advance. The first step to doing so, of course, is knowing exactly what it is that you’re looking for.

Here are four ways that you can find leaks in your plumbing system.

Keep tabs on your water usage, and compare it to your bill

There’s no exact conversion chart for drops of water used and the amount you’ll pay in your water bill each month, but if you do your best to keep track of how much water your household goes through in a cycle, you should be able to tell if the water bill at least somewhat matches up. If, however, your water bill seems unusually high, that could be a sign that you have a leak somewhere because this means that more water is required to be pumped out in order to get the amount your faucet or nozzle is actually being asked for.

Check the green-ness of your lawn

Everybody likes to have a pretty, green lawn. But if you have one area of your lawn that’s disproportionately more green than the rest of your yard, it could mean that there’s an underground leak that’s feeding that one patch of grass more water than it needs. In extreme cases, you might even spot puddles of water, or moist grass, in one spot of a lawn that overall does not look like that.

Check all your appliances, fixtures, and pipes manually

The long way to see if you have a leak is to audit your appliances, fixtures, and pipes one by one. By doing so, you’ll be looking directly at every square inch of space that could potentially be the source of a water leak. Check every sink, bathtub, and toilet in your house to make sure that puddles of water haven’t formed in them or on the ground near them, and then do the same with your house’s pipes. Of course, a lot of pipes are underground and not accessible without digging a trench in your yard, but if you have any in your basement, just take a quick jog downstairs to make sure that no water has formed on the floor beneath them.

Keep your eyes and ears open

Sometimes, you can easily tell there’s been a leak without seeing it. A bulging or hanging blob of wallpaper in the form of a sphere almost always means there’s water behind it, and that water likely got there because of a leak. Additionally, if you hear dripping sounds anywhere in your house, and it’s not a faucet someone forgot to shut off all the way, it’s probably a leaking pipe. And if you see or smell mold, you’re likely looking right at a leak- mold requires moisture in order to grow and thrive .

Have you noticed a leak in your plumbing recently? Do you need a professional to fix it? No need to worry, Beverly Plumbing is here to help. Contact us today!

Four tips on preparing your plumbing for winter

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 19:18:29 GMT

Nobody would mistake South Carolina as a frozen tundra, but the temperatures do tend to dip fairly low in the winter in the Palmetto State. The thermometer can still find itself beneath 40 degrees in the early months of the year, and sometimes it even drops below the freezing point of 32 degrees. Either way, suffice to say that it gets cold enough in South Carolina during the winter months to force you to take additional measures to care for your plumbing system.

Here are four things in particular that our team at Beverly Plumbing recommends you do in order to prepare for the winter.

Disconnect and drain all your hoses

If you leave your hose connected to a faucet outside your house, there’s a good chance that some water will still exist somewhere inside your hose. Water, of course, freezes when the temperature sinks to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and if a pipe connected to a faucet contains any ice, the ice could potentially back itself up into the pipes inside your house and cause the pipes to crack. To avoid this, make sure you disconnect all your hoses, and drain them of all their contents onto your front lawn.

Shut off the water if you leave your house for extended periods of time

You don’t need to turn your house’s water source on and off each time you go to the grocery store, or even leave for a day trip. But if you’re heading out of town for more than a few hours, you should make sure to turn off the water at the main shutoff point. This will prevent water from running, reducing the odds that pipes become filled with water, freeze, and crack. Otherwise, you could find yourself returning home to quite a mess- and it’s not as if you’ll need that water while nobody is in your house to begin with!

Buy and activate heat cables

If you think your pipes may be even the slightest bit susceptible to freezing during the winter, heat cables should take care of that. Heat cables come equipped with their own inherent thermostat that constantly measures the temperature of the pipes they’re working with. If the heat cables detect a dangerously low temperature in the pipes, they’ll turn on and keep the pipe from freezing and possibly breaking. Once the pipe temperature has risen to an adequate level, the heat will shut off.

Seal off the area around rim joists

The area between a pipe and the wall it’s going through can be an excellent way to allow cold air into your house. That could chill your pipes, and potentially even lead to them freezing and cracking. Use expendable foam or caulk to plug the rim joists up and ensure cold air doesn’t intrude. Just take care to not actually insulate a pipe from the heat inside the house, as that could lead to some of the same problems you’re trying to avoid.

Three tricks to buying the right plumbing equipment

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 17:25:48 GMT

If you’re a new homeowner, or you’re looking to give your house a facelift, one of your first priorities has to be making sure that your plumbing equipment is all functional. Otherwise, you’ll be making more calls than you’d care to count to your local plumber. But unless you come from a plumbing background, the process of buying new plumbing equipment can be difficult and frustrating.

Not to worry. Here are three quick tips on how to go about shoring up your house’s plumbing.

Get your common items from well-known stores

Local hardware stores are great. We’re all for supporting small businesses here at Beverly Plumbing. But the national chain hardware stores- such as Home Depot or Lowe’s - are more likely to have whatever it is that you may need, and thus, you should be able to purchase all your plumbing supplies in one fell swoop. The other advantage to buying your plumbing supplies from large chain stores is that you’re all but assured to take home the highest quality products. Lowe’s and Home Depot are only going to sell objects to customers that come from supply companies they know and trust, and have done business with for decades. As a result, when you walk out of one of those stores with a hefty sum of plumbing materials, you can rest easy that you’ve just purchased the best quality materials you’re likely to find.

Plan your purchases out in advance

One of the ways that you can save some time at the hardware store, and more importantly, ensure that you aren’t buying things you don’t need? Do your research. When you walk through the front door of the store, you should more or less know what it is you’re looking for. Avoid a second trip back to the hardware store that you don’t need to make- either because you need to return items that you didn’t need or because it turns out that you do need something that you failed to purchase in your first run- and instead spend that time doing more important things!

Ask a professional!

Even if you do take the time to evaluate your house and try to determine what it is you’ll need to buy ahead of time, you still may have some questions. Assuming you don’t hail from a plumbing background, that’s only natural. Luckily, our team of professionals at Beverly Plumbing is here to help! Whether your uncertainty is related to the type of shower head that provides the best water pressure and lasts the longest or the brand of toilet that can flush down the largest amount of waste, a quick email to us can answer any inquiries you might have, and best situate you in your plumbing equipment buyer’s journey!

(Footer) Do you have any questions related to a particular piece of plumbing equipment? We’re here to help! Simply reach out to us with your inquiry, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can .

Three Plumbing Truths You Should Always Remember

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 17:20:08 GMT

We’ve previously talked about some of the more popularly shared myths in the world of plumbing (link to that), but what about the truths? The fact is, there are some things about plumbing that either you may not have known, or you knew but didn’t really think about too much- but should. Arming yourselves with such knowledge can be the difference of thousands of dollars on a plumbing bill- not to mention your peace of mind.

Here are three truths about plumbing that you should safely store away in your head.

Drain products can be pipe-killers

Every once in a while, a small amount of Drain-o isn’t likely to cause too much damage to your drain lines. Using drain products too frequently, though, and in too heavy of amounts, can cause serious problems for your pipes . Drain products create an abundance of heat inside your pipes, which in turn leads to the pipes warping or melting, and thus leading to leaks. On top of that, these types of drain cleaners are terrible for the environment if used in excessive amounts. There may be a time and a place for these types of products, but use them sparingly.

Your garbage disposal is not meant for large amounts of discarded food

Your garbage can is for your garbage. Your garbage disposal is for a quarter of an inch of an orange peel that may have stuck to your shirt, and then fallen in while you were washing your dishes. That’s about the amount of food that your garbage disposal is equipped to handle, and that goes for liquids such as soup and tea just as much as it goes for solid foods. Overusing your garbage disposal by willfully and repeatedly putting things in there that don’t belong there is an excellent way to generate a clog and a corresponding hefty (and unnecessary) plumbing bill for yourself, so remember to keep your trash where it belongs- in the trash.

Do NOT flush anything down your toilet that doesn’t belong there

We’ve heard no shortage of horror stories about things that don’t belong in toilets being flushed down them, which predictably cost homeowners a lot of money. A good rule of thumb: if it’s not toilet paper or your waste, it doesn’t belong there. That includes scraps of food, bottle caps, paper receipts that you don’t care for, and so on. Paper towels, tissues, tampons, and other things that you may use for matters of personal hygiene may seem like they fit the parameters for what should be flushed down the toilet, but sooner or later, they’re bound to lead to a backed-up pipe- and a large amount of wasted money on a plumbing invoice that you could have avoided simply by paying the slightest amount of care.

(Footer) Did something happen that shouldn’t have that’s left you in need of professional assistance? Don’t worry, we live and we learn. In the meantime, we’re here to help you this time, so there doesn’t have to be a next time !

Three Ways To Save Money On Your Plumbing

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 17:02:56 GMT

Nobody likes having to call a professional plumber to fix a problem that they could have fixed themselves. That’s money that you could have kept for a nice vacation one day, after all, and for something that could have been such a quick fix on your end, it goes without saying that this is not a desirable outcome.

But to be able to save yourself money on plumbing costs, you’ll need to always keep your eyes and ears open for anything out of the ordinary, and not dismiss anything you do detect as harmless, anomalous or something that will work itself out.

Here are three courses of action we recommend you take to save yourself money.

Stop That Water From Running!

We aren’t even talking about letting the shower run for 10 minutes before you step in; that’s an excellent way to run up an enormous water bill, but that requires a conscious act of negligence to turn on the water and leave it on without making any use of it. No, by “stop that water from running!” we mean if you notice a leaky faucet, showerhead, or nozzle that just quietly drips away into the drain, be proactive- do something to stop it. Whether or not you’re not taking an action that tells water to run, namely turning on the water, every drop of water that comes from your property’s plumbing system is accounted for in your water bill. If you ignore a showerhead that continues to drip without the water being turned on, it could cost you in a big way . The first step to take is to make sure that the faucet is turned all the way off- as opposed to 95% of the way off. But if that doesn’t do the trick, it could be a leaky fixture, in which case you should call a professional plumber and get it taken care of- and the sooner the better.

Replace Your Water Heater If it Acts Up

When neglected, a hot water heater could be the source of a lot of problems. Age has a way of causing issues to show up with your water heater, between your hot water coming out as a copper-brown type color (indicating rust), water leaks and irregular sounds coming from it. When you notice such things, a quick repair job could be the end of your problems with your water heater- but if it’s relatively old, it might not be. When in doubt, look at the costs to repair vs. replace your water heater, and if the difference is somewhat negligible, install a new one and put your water heater worries on the back burner.

Take Care Of Your Garbage Disposal

It may appear as though garbage disposals are capable of reducing any matter thrown into them to dust, but the truth is, some items may inflict just as much damage to your garbage disposal. As is the case with your toilet, certain things simply do not belong in your garbage disposal, and if they wind up there anyway, they might be the source of an astonishingly high plumbing bill. No, a single strip of a banana peel may not ruin your garbage disposal- but it absolutely could. Don’t take that chance.

Debunking Three Major Plumbing Myths

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 16:51:36 GMT

Plumbing is one of those things in life where, if everything seems to be all right, chances are that it probably is. The word “probably,” though, is not a guarantee of anything- and if you’re not careful and attentive, a subtle sign of trouble could build up and become a major problem.

With that said, here are three myths in the plumbing world that we’d like to debunk, once and for all.

Every Faucet Is Bound To Leak Eventually

Yes, this is technically true on the surface, but at the same time, that’s not a green light to write it off as a fact of life and simply ignore your faucet when it does leak. Just because a leaky faucet is a natural stage in its life cycle doesn’t mean it isn’t a signal of something wrong with it when it does happen. In fact, the majority of the time, it means your faucet needs to either be repaired or replaced, or else even bigger problems are headed your way.

For starters, allowing your faucet to leak without taking action to stop it means that water is perennially running. That could translate into you paying a hefty sum of money on your water bill. It could also mean that your water pressure is not what it should be, or that the faucet is coming loose, or any other of a wide variety of potential issues. So if you notice a leaky faucet, don’t dismiss it as a non-problem; address it immediately.

If The Product Says It’s Flushable, It Is

Absolutely not. Products such as “flushable wipes” may claim that they’re flushable, and they may wind up going down your toilet bowl. But that doesn’t mean they won’t cause problems for your pipes once they’re out of your sight. They can even harm the local environment .

Non-biodegradable material can get stuck in your pipes, which will eventually lead to a blockage and a clogged toilet. Maybe not the first time, maybe not the second time, and maybe not the third time, but at some point in time, flushing things down the toilet that should not be flushed down the toilet is going to catch up with you. In other words, if it isn’t toilet paper, it doesn’t belong in your toilet.

If Your Shower Is Draining, It’s Working Perfectly

Sometimes, this is true. Other times, it may not be. Defaulting to assuming this could spell trouble for your plumbing- and your bank account- if you fail to take heed of anything that may seem to be out of the ordinary.

If your shower drain is working, but water is draining slower than it usually does, that is usually an indication that something is clogged and in need of being fixed before the problem worsens. Some people may have a desire to chalk it up to the shower drain’s old age, or simply ignore it- and that’s where the problems can start.

Did you believe one of these myths until it disproved itself at your expense? That’s okay, we all learn- and now you know for the future. In the meantime, let’s get it fixed for you .

The Three Most Common Plumbing Problems That Are Out Of Your Control

lcollett@netgalaxystudios.com (netGALAXY Studios) — Thu, 27 May 2021 16:06:07 GMT

Here are three common ones that we've encountered:

The three most common plumbing problems that are out of your control

You’ve probably heard all about the various things to not flush down your toilet, as well as all the various items to not drop down your garbage disposal. And you may think that, if you simply use common sense and logic, you can avoid major problems with your plumbing.

The reality is, there is a multitude of potential issues with your plumbing that you simply cannot control- and that we can help with.

Here are three common ones that we’ve encountered:

Your toilet clogs simply due to frequent usage

Sometimes, a toilet that clogs due to overuse isn’t the result of negligence, but rather its mileage. Naturally, when things that don’t belong in the pipes get flushed down the toilet, the likelihood of a backup (and thus, a clogged toilet) increases, but toilets can sometimes clog as a result of being used to flush what does belong in them too many times.

If you’re having a party with a large number of people over, or if you’re a landlord of an office building, the chances are that your toilets are going to be used quite a bit. Every time that something is flushed down the toilet, there are varying degrees of the likelihood that the flushed contents could potentially get stuck in the pipes.

The likelihood depends on both the nature of the object and the quantity of it that was flushed. But when a large enough amount of the things that were meant to get flushed build up in the pipes in a short enough time span, it could clog your toilet to a point where it simply cannot be fixed with a plunger.

Tap water comes out rusty

One small way to at least help mitigate the possibility of rusty tap water is to perform fairly routine checks on any pipes that may be visible in your basement or outside your house. But this is in no way a bulletproof plan to stop this rather unsightly, and dangerous, occurrence.

In some cases, the rust is caused by something you don’t know about. Most pipes are either underground or somewhere that the common man or woman cannot see on his or her own. Those pipes can rust, too, and they are a frequent cause of rusty tap water.

With that said, there are several potential causes for rusty tap water that don’t involve pipes at all. Sediment in the water could do it. This can be caused by any number of variables, each of which is out of the control of most people. Some type of accidental damage from construction could also do it, or a breach of the water main, and these things are generally not noticeable by a homeowner or landlord.

Low water pressure stemming from faulty fixtures

As is the case with most appliances, fixtures such as faucets, showerheads, or nozzles tend to not perform as well when they’re older and have been used a certain number of times. Sometimes, faulty fixtures simply need to be replaced with new ones, and there’s nothing you can do to avoid that.

On the other hand, sometimes there are quick potential fixes to this.

Sometimes, merely cleaning the aerator or the screen will resolve the issue and result in satisfactory water pressure after just a few moments of manual labor. In these cases, though, if the problem persists, it may still be time to consider purchasing a new fixture, as having to repeatedly try to fix a nozzle or faucet could be a sign that its days are numbered.

Three Plumbing Problems to Look for In Your New Home

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 21:17:21 GMT

Three Plumbing Problems to Look for In Your New Home

Buying a new home is an incredibly exciting time for people. You’re looking to start a new chapter in your life, to get things started in that next step. Buying a new home isn’t without problems though. The home you’re looking at comes with its own assortment of problems and history to deal with. What exactly should you be looking for? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here are three plumbing problems to look for in your new home.

Aging Water Heaters

Replacing a water heater is one of the more expensive plumbing repairs you can undertake. It can actually cost thousands of dollars, so you should know the condition of the water heater before you buy a new home. The average lifespan of a water heater is around ten years, so keep that in mind when taking a look at it. Also, while you can research the common issues online, this is a good time to bring in a professional plumber to help you identify all of the various signs that a water heater is in its last years.

Leaky Toilets

Constantly running toilets are often a simple repair. Replace flappers or chains can clear them up quickly and easily. Sometimes though, they are the sign of something much bigger. You can have leaking tanks, gaskets or a host of other issues than can become major repairs later on. Once again you can look into this for yourself, or contact a professional plumber to help you.

Clogged Drains

These are incredibly common. Probably more common than you would ever think. Most of the time they can be simple fixes, but they can also be indications of something wrong in the sewer line. Just like the other potential problems we’ve discussed, this is one you should have a trusted professional look at. Otherwise you might miss something that could prove costly in the future.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

We know that this is a time of great uncertainty. We also know that plumbing problems never really stop, so our team is doing everything we can to respond to your needs while keeping everyone well and safe. If you have plumbing problems or questions, contact us today.

The Basics of the Plumbing Snake

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 18:21:09 GMT

The Basics of the Plumbing Snake

When you think about plumbing tools a lot of images come to mind. Maybe you think of a plunger or a plumber’s wrench. Maybe it’s a bottle of drain cleaner. One of the most popular plumbing tools is the legendary plumbing snake. It’s also one of the most misunderstood tools in a plumber’s toolbox with many questions and misconceptions about is use. With that in mind, here are the basics of the plumbing snake to better help you understand this helpful guy.

What is a Plumbing Snake?

Commonly referred to as a drain auger or drain snake, the plumbing snake is a length of flexible metal cable that has a rotating cone-shaped bit on the end of it. Both the do-it-yourselfer and professional plumbers looking to get into pipes and remove clogs or blockages use this incredible tool. Basically it’s the next step after the plunger because of its flexibility and the ease with which it let’s you navigate pipes.

How Do You Use a Plumbing Snake?

Using a plumbing snake is a matter of feeding the snake through the pipe until you reach the clog and pulling it out. It’s important to turn the snake as you push, creating a push and twist motion as your feed it into the pipe. The snake should stop when you find the clog, at which point you should pull it out gently, repeating as necessary, and finishing up by running water through the cleared pipe.

When Should You Use a Plumbing Snake?

If you have a clog that the plunger won’t clear then it’s time to turn to the plumbing snake. Whether the clog is in the toilet, sink, or other source like an AC drainage pipe, the snake presents a great middle ground option before turning to a professional drain cleaning. That said, sometimes the clogs you’re dealing with are just too much for you to handle. In the event you are having doubts about your ability to deal with the clog with a plumbing snake, don’t hesitate to call in the pros. Professional plumbers are highly skilled and experienced, enabling them to get that snake to fix clogs that may seem impossible to you.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

What Do Broken Plumbing Fixtures Really Cost You?

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 22:35:55 GMT

What Do Broken Plumbing Fixtures Really Cost You?

We’ve all had one of those nuisance-plumbing experiences. Maybe it’s a faucet dripping through the night. Or a toilet constantly running and keeping us awake. There are a lot of stories of people with seemingly minor plumbing problems who just decide to grin and bear it. The problems don’t appear serious and so we just leave them be. After all, what do broken plumbing fixtures really cost you?

Honestly, you’d be surprised. Here are just a few things that these seemingly minor problems can cost you over both the short and long-term.

Water Bill Woes

Did you know that a dripping faucet can waste 20 gallons of water or more per day? That kind of waste can really add up on your monthly water bill. If you take the time to do the math, you will quickly find that paying a professional plumber the small fee required to fix the problem will be a lot less than month after month of increasingly expensive water bills.

Peace of Mind

There’s a reason we talk about grinning and bearing it. It’s never fun to deal with something like this. Even if it’s just that running toilet, the constant noise can cost you sleep, leaving you irritable and stressed. Over the long term, just like your water bill, it’s just not worth it to save a few dollars today.

Damage Tends to Get Bigger

Small plumbing problems have the troubling tendency to turn into bigger ones over time. Sure these minor complaints don’t seem like much now, but over time you could be dealing with much more expensive problems. Leaking and broken pipes often begin with something very minor. The lesson is simple. Don’t ignore small problems. They will probably get bigger.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

4 New Years Plumbing Resolutions

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:04:33 GMT

4 New Years Plumbing Resolutions

It’s a new year and it’s time for a few resolutions! We all have those things we need to improve on. Maybe it’s our diet or the number of books we read, but no matter what they are it’s always focused on doing something better. What if we didn’t just have resolutions directly related to ourselves thought? What if we decided to be better with our plumbing? We think that’s a great idea and here are 4 New Years plumbing resolutions for you.

Don’t Ignore the Small Problems

A little leak here, a weird noise, or some slight pooling of water can all be indicators of much bigger problems. Plumbing issues are incredibly stressful so we understand why you might want to ignore the little things. But those little problems can become really big ones if you don’t get on top of them. Maybe 2021 is the year you do things just a bit differently.

Respect Your Disposal

Why are we so disrespectful to the garbage disposal? Is it because we think of that piece of equipment as a workhorse that can handle anything? Well, we need to do better. Bones, pits, grease, oils, fibrous vegetables, and so much more can wear down the blades and gum up the works. Make this the year you don’t beat up that poor disposal. You’ll be glad you did.

Be Kind to Your Toilet

Oh, the toilet. That poor catch all in the bathroom that we never treat kindly. Let’s be fair, the toilet was only designed to deal with…well, the specific things they’re designed to deal with. This year, resolve yourself to not flush trash, toiletries, or “flushable” wipes down your toilet. Treat it better and it will be better for you.

Get an Inspection

We’ve all heard about how great an ounce of prevention is compared to the pound of cure so often required. Having a plumber into your home to inspect everything and make sure it’s all working properly is a great annual habit to form. Why not start this year? We’re happy to help.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

Three Plumbing Problems That Need a Pro

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 16:14:17 GMT

Three Plumbing Problems That Need a Pro

No one likes a plumbing problem. The very idea of water intrusions, backed up pipes, or worse make most of us more than a little nervous. For many, simply having to plunge a toilet or clean out a drain can seem like far bigger problems than they really are. Still others think that they can tackle any problem on their own. It can all be a real mess. That’s why we wanted to take some time this month and highlight three plumbing problems that need a pro.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is never an issue that anyone wants to deal with. Honestly, this can be a sign of much more severe problems that need to be immediately addressed by a professional. Some of these problems could be water supply issues, leaks, or even improperly sized pipes. There are a couple of things you can do on your own to troubleshoot this for simpler problems, but if those don’t work you need to call a plumber.

Water Heater Leaks

Water heater leaks will usually go unnoticed by most homeowners. That is until the water and electric bills come in. These types of leaks can be very tricky, usually caused by sediment in the water settling in the heater. If you notice, or suspect, this type of problem, you really need to contact a plumber. They will be better able to identify and deal with the problem the first time.

Multiple Clogged Drains

One clogged drain is definitely a headache. But sometimes that headache can be solved simply. Multiple clogged drains are indicative of another problem though. Usually these are related to a deeper clog in the system, one that will require special tools and professional experience to deal with. Don’t hesitate to call a plumber for this one and save yourself a world of heartache.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

5 Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 20:22:40 GMT

5 Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

We never ceased to be amazed at the new and original plumbing emergencies we encounter. We’re not happy to see them, but they remind us that we still haven’t seen it all. But the thing about plumbing is that the biggest problems aren’t the rare ones. It’s the common problems that cause the biggest headaches. With that in mind here is our list of the 5 most common plumbing emergencies we’ve encountered.

Clogged Toilets

This is easily the most common plumbing emergency on anyone’s list. Nothing is worse than realizing your toilet won’t flush. You push down on the handle, the water rises, but none of it goes anywhere. It just stays there. There are a lot of possible reasons for this one. Too much toilet paper, things that shouldn’t be flushed, and even the waste in the toilet itself can cause serious problems. Often these can be handled at home, but if the problem is severe, or persistent, it’s time to call a plumber.

Burt Pipes

One of the most frightening things for a homeowner is a burst pipe. A sudden rush of water comes from the ceiling or the wall and you start to panic. We understand. This is usually due to old pipes, or to freezing because of weather. Prevention is key here. Keep your home warm in cold weather and regularly check your pipes for integrity.

No Hot Water

Have you ever woken up, hopped in the shower, and been suddenly surprised by the endless stream of cold water from the showerhead? Every once in a while a home will exhaust its supply of hot water, especially if a larger number of activities are being engaged in. But if this happens for a longer period of time, say over the course of a few days, it’s an indicator of a water heater problem and you need to have a professional look into it.

Toilet Won’t Stop Running

There are few sounds in the world that will keep you up at night like a constantly running toilet. Nothing you do seems to work and you just get used to your new background noise. But you will notice the noise much more when you get your water bill. Constantly running toilets are usable, but they consume a large quantity of water and can cost you in the long run. You may be able to fix this yourself, or you may want to call a pro.

Clogged Sinks or Tubs

Clogs happen. No plumbing system will ever be clog free. All kinds of things find their way down the drain and make it difficult to drain the water. This can be a real problem if you’re brushing your teeth or washing your hands. And it tends to only get worse. You may be able to fix this yourself by just digging around, but don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you can’t.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

Can You Put Coffee Grounds Down the Sink?

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 20:06:30 GMT

And Other Scary Plumbing Questions

It’s that time of year when we all think about scary things. Halloween costumes start coming out of the closet and we gear up for fun with our families. But what really scares you? Could be ghost stories. Could be taxes. Could be anything really. For us, it’s scary plumbing questions. So, in the spirit of this season, here are a few of the ones that scare us the most.

Can I Put Coffee Grounds Down the Sink?

Anything can go down the sink drain, right? Wrong. Coffee grounds are one of many food items that should never find their way down your drain. Why? Simple, because coffee grounds bond together in water rather than break apart. If you’ve been putting these down your drain and they combine with, say, oils or fats then you can have a serious clog that will require professional help to fix. So keep the coffee grounds in the trash…or the garden.

Why is there a Weird Smell From My Sink?

Horrid smells from your sink are usually the result of one of two main causes. Rotting food caught in the disposal is one. This can be for many reasons, the worst of which may be the mechanical or electrical failure of the disposal. The other one can be backing up of sewer gas into the main plumbing vent or drain tap. In either of these cases, calling in the pros can help get rid of that smell and get you back on track.

Why Does My Shower Drain Keep Failing?

A shower that doesn’t drain can have a number of causes. Usually this is due to hair and other associated objects forming clogs in the drain. There are a number of ways to fix this, with both professional products and home remedies, but there is something to keep in mind before you try them. How many clogs are there throughout the home? And are the repeating commonly? Multiple clogs happening at the same time can be the result of a larger blockage, and you should call a plumber immediately to prevent damage.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

Post-Hurricane Plumbing Items to Check

info@stingraybranding.com (Stingray Branding) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 21:24:22 GMT

Post-Hurricane Plumbing Items to Check

Let’s face it, September is usually the worst month of hurricane season for those of us here in the Lowcountry. We’ve spent months preparing for storms and we’re only halfway through the season, in the month where we seem to see the worst storms pop up. Preparing for these storms is important, but what do you do when the storm is over? What do you need to look at? Consider this list of post-hurricane items to check.

Flooding

This seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many little details that can be missed. Obviously you need to look at any flooding that has occurred within the home. A water intrusion like that is a sign of serious problems and needs to be addressed immediately. But there is more to look for than what is in the home. Look around your home and see where the water has pooled. Is it draining properly or building up near your home? Identifying these issues can help prevent future flooding today.

Leaks

Look at the plumbing in your home and check for leaks. Believe it or not, these storms can put pressure on a water system and cause damage that you need to be aware of. Identifying leaks early can make a lot of difference when it comes to expense and damage, so don’t be afraid to call in an expert to check if you’re having doubts.

Water Damage

Not every pipe in your home is clearly visible. While looking around after a major storm, take the time and look for water damage to the walls and ceiling. Water damage like this, especially on first floor ceilings in multi-floor homes, can be an indicator of leaks and damage that needs to be addressed quickly. Take the time and check. Better safe than sorry.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 20:37:22 GMT

Answers For Your Plumbing Questions

We’ve been in the plumbing game for a long time. In all of those years, we’ve encountered almost everything you can think of. At least until we see something new. Still, there are some common questions we always get and we thought it would be a good chance to give you some answers to these. You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers, and here they are.

What do I do if my toilet won’t flush?

Most of the time you should be able to solve this problem with a plunger or a bucket of hot water. The most common reason for this is clogs in the plumbing. But there is one other thing to check. Take a look inside the tank and look at your water level as well as the flapper and chain to make sure they are working well.

Why does my drain clog?

There are a lot of things that can clog your drain. Hair, oils, soap reside, and a number of other culprits can be behind your drain problems. This is why it’s important to be aware of what you are putting down your drain. In the even you need to work through a clog, chemical drain cleaners are usually a good first step.

How do I know if I have a leak in my plumbing?

There are a few solid indicators of a leak. Standing water, higher water bills, low water pressure, and the sound of running water can actually all indicate a leak. Prevention is the best medicine here and having regular inspections by a professional plumber can often identify these problems before they start.

Should I run hot water in my disposal?

This is a pretty common misconception actually. Running hot water when you use the disposal can actually soften or melt fats and greases. Sounds good, right? Except that can allow them to harden further down the pipes where it’s much harder to deal with them. It’s actually better to run cold water.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

Plumbing Lessons from the Founding Fathers

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 02:35:42 GMT

Plumbing Lessons from the Founding Fathers

July is the time when we find ourselves reflecting on the founders of our country, and on the lessons we learned from them. We’ve learned a lot of lessons over our years of experience, and we got to thinking about how those lessons intersected with the ones from our Founding Fathers. So this July we wanted to share some plumbing lessons from the Founding Fathers.

Be Honest About Your Problems

No one likes having a problem. We often seek ways around it, or alternative explanations to wash it away. But our problems don’t go away with convenient explanations. Here’s where we can take a lesson from our Founding Fathers. All of them were renowned for integrity, that honesty that comes out at all times. They knew when they faced problems and they confronted them honestly. Do the same thing with your plumbing issues. Be honest about them and get them fixed right the first time, before they get worse.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

The Founding Fathers were a team. Each one of them took on a piece of the quest for freedom. Why? Because they knew that doing the entire thing they wouldn’t get the job done. When you run into plumbing problems, remember this lesson. Sometimes these issues are more than we can handle, and there’s nothing wrong with asking for some help.

Trust the Experts

What we often forget about the Founding Fathers is that they all brought a great deal of experience and knowledge to the quest for freedom. Washington was a military leader. Adams was a lawyer. Ben Franklin was an entrepreneur, ambassador, and an inventor. That’s how they were able to build a country, by trusting the expertise they brought to the struggle. When it comes to plumbing problems, you should trust the experts too. Give yourself time to do what you do best, and let us handle the rest.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

3 Tips for Hurricane Season

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:37:39 GMT

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There’s no denying it hurricane season has officially begun. With three named storms already having formed we’re all feeling a little tense about what’s in store for the Lowcountry. Very few things make homeowners more nervous than these incredible storms. From the structure of your home to its plumbing, there’s a lot of preparation you need to undertake to be ready. We want to help. So here are our 3 tips for hurricane season to help keep your home safe during the storm.

Inspect Your Drainage

Flooding is one of the most damaging parts of a hurricane. The winds are incredible, but they often leave homes unscathed when the waters rise and work their way into the structure of the home. Take a look at your drainage around the yard and home, such as French drains or gutters. Make sure they’re clean and free of debris as well as in good repair. These items will help move water away from the home and keep you safe.

Check Your Sump Pump

For many homes in the Lowcountry, sump pumps can be the difference between staying dry or a home water intrusion during a major storm. If your pump fails before or during the storm you could find yourself in a precarious position. Take a few minutes to make sure the pump is working and repair or replace it as needed.

If You Evacuate, Don’t Forget to Turn Off the Water

Sometimes we have no other choice but to evacuate. The safety of our loved ones is ultimately more important than property and we’re often forced to take that into account as storms approach. If you’re evacuating take a moment and shut off your home’s main water valve. This can help keep your system safe and clean, while also preventing additional home damage in your absence.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

3 Reasons Not to Wait During a Plumbing Emergency

Thu, 14 May 2020 13:02:53 GMT

Good Reasons to Act Fast

There is nothing more frustrating than finding a plumbing emergency in your home. Whether it’s a broken pipe or bad drainage, these events are inconvenient and extremely problematic. It’s because of these feelings that we become tempted to do a quick evaluation of our emergency and decide if we really need to figure it out now. The problem is that waiting on a plumbing emergency can create some serious problems. You need to act quickly. With that in mind, here are 3 reasons not to wait during a plumbing emergency.

Water Damage

Perhaps the single biggest problem that comes with most plumbing emergencies is the potential for water damage. Nothing is more damaging to the average home that water. It can ruin drywall, flooring, and, over time, even impact the foundation of a home. It’s not something you want to leave unchecked. If for no other reason than this one, you need to have every plumbing emergency looked at immediately to minimize damage that can be really expensive to fix later.

Water Waste

Most plumbing emergencies can lead to a lot of water waste. The waste may not particularly move you in and of itself, but you will be when it shows up on your water bill. This can also reduce water pressure in the home and cause other complications. Bottom line, don’t wait. Get the problems addressed early and save some money.

Mold

Mold is an incredibly nasty problem. Mold growth in your home can cause a variety of health problems. These growths flourish in moist environments and can quickly spread undetected throughout the home leading to potential health problems for anyone in the building. Getting rid of mold can actually be a very costly process, much more costly than handling the plumbing problem. So don’t take a chance and address that problem early.

Your Plumbing Problems Don’t Stop

We know that this is a time of great uncertainty. We also know that plumbing problems never r eally stop, so our team is doing everything we can to respond to your needs while keeping everyone well and safe. If you have plumbing problems or questions, contact us today .

Plumbing Tips for Rainy Weather

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 19:49:16 GMT

Plumbing Tips for Rainy Weather

It’s Spring in the Lowcountry, and that means rain. Lots and lots of rain falling and causing problems. We’re not just talking about spoiling a sunny day or bringing you down, mass rainfall can cause problems for your home and plumbing. So what do you do? The Team at Beverly Plumbing is here with some plumbing tips for rainy weather here in the Lowcountry.

Work to Prevent Flooding

Flooding is nothing new here in the Charleston area, but there are some things you can do to help prevent it. Ensure that spots where water may build up have proper drainage. Check the drainage in your home to make sure it’s not backing up/clogged. Make sure your drywall is well maintained, and, if needed, make use of a sump pump to get rid of excess water. These simple steps can help prevent a water intrusion into your home and save you some money and heartache.

Clean Those Gutters

Your gutters accomplish proper drainage from your roof. If they become clogged, then the water will start to pool in certain places, creating the potential for water intrusion into your home. Whether you are going to tackle this task yourself, or hire a professional to help, make sure those gutters get clean.

Get Your Plumbing Inspected

The problem with plumbing is that we can’t see it. We can see it working, and we can definitely see when it isn’t, but preventative maintenance on it can be tricky. The best advice is to make sure your plumbing gets a regular inspection from a qualified plumber. Well-trained plumbers will be able to pinpoint problems when they’re small, and keep them from becoming much bigger problems.

Your Plumbing Problems

Don’t Stop We know that this is a time of great uncertainty. We also know that plumbing problems never really stop, so our team is doing everything we can to respond to your needs while keeping everyone well and safe. If you have plumbing problems or questions, contact us today .

Plumbing Hacks to Save You Money

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 21:13:45 GMT

Plumbing Hacks to Save You Money

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Debunking 3 Plumbing Myths

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 23:06:14 GMT

Time to Bust Some Myths!

The body It never ceases to amaze us. No matter where we go, or who we talk to, there are always certain myths that just keep popping up. It doesn’t take a lot of research to find out they’re not true. Some of them are harmless, but some of the ones that seem innocent can actually cause a lot of damage to your plumbing. We want to help you, so we decided to set about debunking 3 plumbing myths and keep you a little safer. Let’s take a look at the list. of your post goes here.

1. In-Tank Cleaners

We’ve all seen them. Most of us have probably used them. In-tank toilet bowl cleaners do a great job at eliminating odors and leaving your bathroom fresh. What they don’t do well is deep cleaning. A lot of people believe that dropping one of these will give you the perfect clean, but time can allow build up of residue that can cause serious damage to your pipes. These cleaners are no substitute for a deep cleaning of your toilet.

2. “Flushable” Wipes

The name sounds good, doesn’t it? These biodegradable wipes promise you a product that can be safely flushed, but can they? The simple answer is no. Flushing these wipes is a great way to clog your plumbing and create the need for a major repair. Sure they will break down and are non-toxic, but they will kill your pipes. Don’t flush the “flushable” wipe.

3. You Only Need a Plumber for the Big Stuff

When there’s a plumbing emergency you call your plumber. It’s a simple logic and it’s absolutely true. But it shouldn’t be the only time you reach out. Preventative maintenance, inspections, and cleanings can all help avoid the need for that emergency call. We’re also a great source for answering questions and making sure the right work gets done. So don’t wait for a crisis to call.

We Want to Help You

Our expert team has been in the business for over 25 years. Every member of our team is devoted, skilled, and specially trained to handle all types of plumbing problems, in all settings from residential to commercial. We want to help you with all of your plumbing needs, so contact us today!

4 Tips For Choosing a Plumber

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 02:17:29 GMT

How Do You Choose the Right Plumber?

Hiring a plumber is an important decision. Whether for an emergency, a new project, or any other need, it’s important to find the right person for the job. But what questions should you ask? What should you look for? How much time will it take? To help you out, we’ve put together these 4 tips for choosing a plumber.

1. Are They Licensed?

Plumbers in South Carolina are required to be licensed. This is low hanging fruit for determining if you should work with a legitimate professional plumber or not. If they’re not licensed, move on.

2. Are They Insured?

Plumbers should be insured. It protects both you and the plumber in the event of accidents and unforeseen events. Professionals know this requirement and they will be insured. This is a great way to tell the difference between a pro and someone else. Take the time and verify they are insured. Ask the plumber about it if you need to. It’s good to know.

3. How Long Have They Been At It?

Plumbing, like many fields, is something you learn more about as you spend time doing it. Developing expertise takes time. A plumber with more years under their belt has a track record that you can look at. They also have more experience to draw upon and are more likely to be able to not only solve your problem but also make suggestions on other options.

4. Testimonials

The previous experience of other customers is a great tool when selecting a plumber. There are so many sources of them, from Google to various social media platforms. Take some time and review the plumber you’re thinking of using. Look at the average experience, but also look at how they handled bad reviews. Did they fix it? Deny it? These reviews can tell you a lot.

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