Signs You Need a Professional Drain Cleaning Service in Your House

5/20/2023

Drains are an integral component of your plumbing system. Their job is to ensure that the wastewater produced in your house is discharged without delay. Therefore, when your drains have a problem, they will negatively affect the performance of your plumbing system and even put your home and family in danger. The good news is that most drainage problems can be averted by simply ensuring that your drains are cleaned regularly. But if you can’t get your drains cleaned professionally every year, you need to be on the lookout for any signs of dirty drains and call a professional drain cleaning service before the issue can lead to more serious problems. For instance, if your wastewater is not flowing out as quickly as it used to, getting your drains cleaned promptly can resolve the issue decisively and help you avoid the possibility of having to deal with a full-blown drain clog in the near future. Below is a rundown of the signs that should serve as a reminder that you need to call a professional plumber who can help you clean your drains properly.

Foul Odors In Your House

Of course, the smell of your house is unique since your habits are also unique in some way. However, this that not mean that you should tolerate foul odors. Indeed, foul odors can make a living in your house pretty uncomfortable. Besides, foul-smelling odors in your house can leave you embarrassed, especially when you have visitors. Foul odors in homes come from many different areas, but dirty drains happen to be among the most formidable sources. Indeed, if you do not take good care of your drainage system with the help of a professional drain cleaning service, you will have to live with the reality of stubborn foul odors. But why do dirty drains produce foul odors?

In most cases, dirty drains provide a perfect environment for microbes like bacteria and fungi to thrive. Unfortunately, as these microorganisms digest the organic matter in the wastewater, they can produce a disgusting odor that will gradually diffuse to other areas of your home. As a homeowner, you may try to handle this issue by applying air fresheners. However, this solution is not only ineffective but also costly. The good news is that there is an easy way out; getting your drains cleaned professionally. Indeed, foul odors from your drains should serve as a reminder that you need to get your drains cleaned to not only eliminate the unpleasant smell but also improve the performance of your drainage system and prevent other plumbing problems.

Slow Flowing Drains

Of course, you expect the wastewater produced in your house to get out of sight within the shortest time possible. When your drains are in good shape, this should be happening seamlessly. Therefore, if you have noticed that the wastewater is hanging around your sinks and bathtub for way too long, you have a legitimate reason to be concerned. Of course, you can try to speed things up using a plunger, but this is definitely not how things should be. If your drains are too slow, it might be an ideal time to call a professional plumbing contractor to help you clean them up. This is because failure to clean your drains promptly could force you to deal with drain clogs, which might cause serious inconveniences and cost you more to fix. On the other hand, getting your drains cleaned on time will help you keep your drains running optimally and avoid plumbing emergencies by thwarting drain clogs in their earlier stages of development.

Frequent Drain Clogs

Drain clogs occur when materials like food particles, hair, soap scum, and greases combine to create a substance that gradually sticks to the drains and eventually prevents the flow of wastewater through the drains. It is not something out of the ordinary to deal with drain clogs from time to time, and in some cases, you can easily remove them using a plunger. However, if you have noticed that you need to use a plunger too frequently, there could be something more serious going on. Unfortunately, drain clogs seem to put your pipes under unnecessary pressure, and therefore, frequent drain clogs could put your drains at risk of sustaining serious damage. When you notice that drain clogs have become too frequent in your house, you need to call a professional drain cleaning service. They will get your drains cleaned before the drain clogs can cause any damage to your plumbing infrastructure.

Drain Pest in Your Home

The wastewater usually hangs around dirty drains longer than it should. Unfortunately, this means that it can provide the sources that drain pests need to thrive in your drains. In other words, failure to get your drains cleaned on time will have the effect of inviting drain pests to your house. Unfortunately, drains pests can sometimes carry parasites that could expose you’re your family to the risk of getting seriously ill. Therefore, when you notice the presence of drain pests like cockroaches and fruit flies in your kitchen, you need to act swiftly by seeking the immediate attention of a professional drain cleaning service. In addition to eliminating the dangers associated with having drain pests in your kitchen and improving your family’s health, getting your drains cleaned on time will go a long way in helping you prevent many other plumbing problems in your house.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, your drainage system needs to be cleaned professionally regularly. But even if you forget to clean it annually, there will be plenty of signs to remind you. If you are looking for a dependable drain cleaning expert to help you keep your drainage system in good shape, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice. We have been taking care of residential drainage systems for many years, and we are a household name in our community. Call us for more about our company and services.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Risks Associated with Green Substance in the Drains And How Drain Cleaning Service Can Help

Have you noticed any green substance in the drains? You might not even look at it, but it poses several risks to your health and the environment. These green substances, typically caused by algae growth, are commonly found in pipes, sewers, and drains and can cause various issues, from foul odors to flooding. They can also cause blockages that can be difficult to clear. Fortunately, with professional drain cleaning, you can eliminate this issue quickly and safely. This article will discuss the green substance’s risks and how professional drain cleaning services can help.

What Is the Green Substance In Drains?

Green substances in drains are typically caused by a buildup of algae. Algae can form on any damp surface, including the insides of pipes and drains. It grows quickly, forming thick mats that block water flow and create overflows or backups. This can cause numerous problems, such as foul odors and flooding. The green substance might look harmless but can pose health risks and damage the environment.

What Are the Risks Associated With Green Substances in Drains?

Safety Hazard

The green substance in your drains can cause slip-and-fall accidents, especially in the bathroom and kitchen, with a higher risk of water spillages. The substances that contribute to this buildup can make the floor slippery. This can be especially dangerous for children and older people, who are more prone to falls. Don’t wait until you or your family members get injured; contact a professional drain cleaning service to prevent such accidents. They will be able to clear the green substance before it causes any further trouble.

Health Hazard

When the green substance builds up in your drains, it can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi, including E. coli and salmonella. These microorganisms can enter your home and cause various health problems, including infections, allergies, and respiratory problems. The presence of this green substance usually also indicates a buildup of mold and mildew, which can potentially cause respiratory issues and other health problems. It’s best to ensure that the drains are cleaned regularly and disinfected. You don’t want to any chances with your family’s health. It is something that should be taken seriously, and drain cleaning professionals can help you with this.

Plumbing Issues

Homeowners know the annoyance of dealing with plumbing issues. From clogged drains to leaky pipes, it can be a headache to maintain a working plumbing system. Taking immediate action is important if you have noticed a green substance forming in your drains. Not only is it unsightly, but it could also be a sign of plumbing issues that can lead to bigger problems, such as blocked drains. These mold and algae mats can form thick layers, blocking water flow and causing overflows. This can quickly lead to extensive damage in your home. Preventing and fixing plumbing problems is not only crucial for the functionality of your home, but it can also save you money in the long run. Hiring professional drain cleaning services is the best way to ensure your drains are cleaned and maintained properly.

Environmental Hazard

Algae growth in drains can be an environmental hazard as well. The green substance contains nutrients that, when released into rivers and streams, can cause excessive algae blooms. These blooms use up the oxygen in the water, making it difficult for aquatic organisms to survive. It can also reduce visibility in the water, making it difficult for wildlife to find food or navigate. Furthermore, algae blooms can produce toxins hazardous to aquatic and human life. These substances can also lead to blocked drains and sewer lines, creating backups and overflows that cause long-lasting environmental health hazards. Play your part in preserving our environment by ensuring that your drains are regularly serviced and cleaned.

Foul Odor

The mere thought of a foul odor emanating from the drains is enough to make anyone cringe. However, it’s not just an unpleasant smell that you need to worry about. The formation of green substances in your drains can pose a serious risk too. These substances, often caused by bacteria and other organic matter buildup, can release harmful gases into your home. Inhaling these gases can cause various health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Plus, they can aggravate existing conditions like asthma and allergies. To avoid these risks, keeping your drains clean and unclogged is important. Call a drain cleaning service provider immediately if you notice a foul odor or see green substances forming in your drains. Better still, you should get your drains serviced regularly to keep them in good condition to avoid a buildup of these substances.

Pest Infestation

Having a green substance forming in your drains can be an unsettling experience, especially when it comes with an added risk of pest infestation. Unfortunately, the two often go hand in hand. The slimy, algae-like substance that grows in drains provides a perfect environment for pests like cockroaches and drain flies to thrive. Not only can these pests be a nuisance, but they can also pose health risks. Cockroaches, for example, carry bacteria that can cause food poisoning, while drain flies can cause respiratory issues in some people. Therefore, it’s important to take action as soon as you notice any signs of green substance forming in your drains to avoid exposing your home to pests and potential health hazards.

Let Us Help

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach, we understand the importance of having clean and well-maintained drains. Our team of experienced professionals can provide reliable drain cleaning to effectively remove any buildup of green substances in your drains and keep them free from blockages and overflows. We also use quality eco-friendly products to ensure that your drains remain clean and safe without causing any harm to the environment.

For more information on our drain cleaning and maintenance services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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The Importance of Regular Drain Cleaning Service in Maintaining a Healthy Home

It’s essential to live in a clean, healthy environment. While most homeowners regularly clean and maintain visible surfaces, such as floors, countertops, and furniture, they often overlook the importance of maintaining their home’s plumbing system. Specifically, regular drain cleaning service is crucial to maintaining a healthy home. Drains may clog with soap scum, food particles, and other debris, leading to unpleasant odors, slow drainage, and even more severe plumbing issues.

The Benefits of Regular Drain Cleaning

Regular drain cleaning is essential to maintaining a healthy and efficient plumbing system. It helps prevent clogs, foul odors, and costly repairs, ensuring your home or business runs smoothly. By investing in routine drain cleaning, you can enjoy a hassle-free plumbing system and avoid the inconvenience of unexpected issues. Regular drain cleaning service has the following benefits:

Prevents Clogs

Regular drain cleaning helps to remove debris, grease, and other buildup that can lead to clogs. By keeping your drains clear, you can avoid the inconvenience of slow-draining sinks, showers, and bathtubs. This not only makes your daily routine more efficient but also helps to prevent more severe clogs that can cause damage to your plumbing system.

Reduces Odors

A clean drain is less likely to emit unpleasant odors. Over time, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in your drains, leading to foul smells. Regular cleaning helps to eliminate these odor-causing substances, ensuring that your home or business remains fresh and inviting.

Extends the Life of Your Plumbing System

Keeping your drains clear can help extend your plumbing system’s life. Clogs and other issues can strain your pipes unnecessarily, leading to leaks, cracks, and further damage. Regular maintenance helps to prevent these problems.

Improves Drain Flow

A clean drain allows water to flow more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of standing water in your sinks, showers, and bathtubs. This not only makes your daily routine more convenient but also helps prevent mold growth, which may cause harm to your health.

Protects Your Home From Water Damage

Clogged drains can lead to overflowing sinks and toilets, which can cause significant water damage to your home. You can avoid these costly and inconvenient issues by keeping your drains clean and clear.

Reduces the Risk of Pest Infestations

Clogged drains can create a breeding ground for pests such as flies, cockroaches, and rodents. Regular drain cleaning helps to eliminate these potential infestations, keeping your home or business clean and pest-free.

Improves Overall Plumbing Performance

A well-maintained plumbing system is more efficient and reliable. Regular drain cleaning helps ensure your system functions at its best, reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues and breakdowns.

Prevents Sewer Backups

Regular drain cleaning helps prevent sewer backups, which can be costly and hazardous. Keeping your drains clear can avoid the inconvenience and potential health risks of sewage backups.

Tips for Selecting a Drain Cleaning Professional

Selecting a drain cleaning professional is an important decision that can significantly impact the functionality and longevity of your plumbing system. A skilled and experienced professional can efficiently resolve drain issues, prevent future problems, and ensure the overall health of your pipes. Here are tips to consider when selecting a drain cleaning professional:

Research Local Professionals

Start by researching local drain cleaning professionals in your area. Look for companies with a strong reputation, positive customer reviews, and a history of providing quality service. This way, you can create a list of potential candidates to consider. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach is a reputable company known to clean the drains of local clients.

Verify Licensing and Insurance

Ensure that the drain cleaning professional you choose is licensed and insured. Licensing indicates that the professional has met the requirements and standards set by the state or local government. Insurance protects you from any potential liabilities or damages during the service.

Check Experience and Expertise

Look for a professional with extensive experience and expertise in drain cleaning. A seasoned professional will have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle various drain issues, ensuring your problem is resolved efficiently and effectively. Professionals at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach have years of experience and skills for effective drain cleaning.

Inquire About Equipment and Techniques

Ask potential professionals about the equipment and techniques they use for drain cleaning. Modern tools and methods like hydro jetting and video inspection can provide more effective and long-lasting results than traditional methods.

Request References

Previous clients can help you gauge the quality of the professional’s work. Ask them about their experience with the professional, including their satisfaction with the service and any issues that may have arisen.

Compare Pricing

Obtain quotes from multiple professionals to compare pricing. Cost is not the main factor, but you should receive a fair and competitive price for the drain cleaning. Low charges may indicate poor services, while extremely high prices signify exploitation.

Assess Communication and Professionalism

Evaluate the professional’s communication skills and overall professionalism. A reliable professional should be responsive, courteous, and ready to answer your queries regarding the quality of the professional’s customer service. Evaluate their willingness to address your concerns and clearly explain their services and processes.

Consider Availability and Response Time

Inquire about the professional’s availability and response time, especially when dealing with an urgent drain issue. A professional who can promptly address your problem is preferable. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach has dedicated personnel who respond quickly to customer needs.

Ask About Ongoing Maintenance Services

Some professionals offer ongoing maintenance services to help prevent future drain issues. Inquire about these services and consider whether they may benefit your plumbing system.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy home and are committed to helping our customers achieve this goal. Our team of experienced plumbers offers professional drain cleaning services that can prevent clogs, improve drainage, and reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies. Don’t wait until you have a plumbing issue to schedule a drain cleaning service. Contact us today and experience the benefits of regular drain cleaning. Let us help you maintain a healthy home and peace of mind.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Every Faucet Is A Bottle Filling Station With Our Water Filtration Systems

You may think of water filtration systems as protecting your plumbing in areas with hard water, but there’s a lot more that they can do for you. They’re especially helpful if you love to hydrate, drink plenty of water, and want your body to get the best. If you’ve seen the popular water coolers with filtered bottle-filling capability, you can turn every faucet in your home into a similar convenient source of great-tasting water. Different types of filtration address contaminants to different degrees, with reverse osmosis or RO providing the highest quality, a term you’ll see on some bottled water labels. From cooking and making tea and coffee to providing fresh water for your pets, managing the quality of your tap water has many important benefits. For many families, fewer cases of plastic bottles to manage and recycle is one of those. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach can help!

Consolidate Your Hydration Filtration And Drink Up!

If yours is like many families, you have a collection of filtration pitchers, water bottles with filters, and faucet attachments that you use to get better water from the tap. It’s a great idea, but keeping up with filter replacements can be frustrating. You might also have bins of plastic bottles headed back for recycling that contained spring or reverse osmosis (RO) water from the store. Let us recommend a way to simplify your life considerably and provide great water from every tap. For both well water and city water, there are always concerns that you may have which aren’t addressed by the water coming into your home. We can provide testing and suggest the right choice from our water filtration systems to meet your needs. Ongoing care is simple, and these long-lasting units are installed in your water line by our plumber so you’re covered everywhere, even if you drink from the hose outside.

Hard Water And Chlorine Are Typical Concerns

Hard water, which has higher concentrations of certain dissolved minerals, is a significant problem for many homes that leaves scale behind in appliances and plumbing and causes accelerated corrosion. It also produces less enjoyable showers with itchy skin afterward, and dingier clothes after washing. Fortunately, our area doesn’t generally experience hard water problems, though we can test your water to determine just what you have. If you notice scale or discoloration of sinks and tubs, that’s a good place to start. Chlorine and chloramine are products of public water supply processing, and many homes filter it out to improve their water quality. Chloramine remains in the water unless filtered, while aquarium owners are familiar with the process of letting tap water sit for several days to let chlorine vapors evaporate. No matter what your home’s water supply is, variations in the sources can also affect contaminants, especially if they’re not typically addressed by processing. In our area, several major rivers are common sources. Chemicals from runoff or that seep into the ground, including agricultural chemicals and industrial ones, are one source of contamination of public sources and well water.

Types Of Water Filtration And Softening

Water softeners and water filtration systems perform different tasks for your home’s water supply. Softening the water is addressing the minerals, which is done either by removing them or chemically neutralizing them so they may still provide sediment but not corrosion and other effects. Softeners require occasional restocking with components such as salts that address minerals. Standard filtration types use methods like activated carbon to remove targeted contaminants efficiently, with occasional filter element replacement or servicing. They can be helpful for many chemicals and naturally occurring but undesirable elements like arsenic, lead, nitrate, or copper. Carbon filters are great at removing volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, as well. Other concerns such as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” discussed frequently in the news these days, are better addressed by reverse osmosis, RO filters that provide a very high level of filtration. This is the method used for laboratory water supplies, and you may find your bottled water lists it as the source on the label.

Protection Against Variations In Water Quality

Infiltration due to water main breaks and hydrant use can lead to changes in the water quality in your neighborhood for a while, sometimes resulting in a “boil water notice.” Other changes in the water sources used can also vary the contaminants, some of which are processed by the treatment plant, others considered acceptable. Having your own water filtration systems puts a limit on these quality changes.

Changes In Your Lifestyle From Filtered Water

There’s a certain freedom to being able to go to any tap and fill up your water bottle before a walk, cycling, or exercise and know that it’s quality water you’re happy to drink. You don’t have to migrate to the kitchen or seek out the case of bottles from the pantry and hope some are left. Just fill it as part of your routine, and stay hydrated. You’ll automatically include your pets in your freshwater transformation, too. Even plants can benefit, especially from the lack of chlorine components in the water. As far as maintenance goes, quality filtration systems can last for 15 or more years with regular servicing. Filter components typically are replaced every six or twelve months for some types and every few years for others, such as reverse osmosis. We’ll be glad to outline the recommended schedule and costs for the systems you’re considering. Welcome to on-demand filtered water hydration!

Health and hydration are easier to maintain when you have the experienced professionals at Benjamin Franklin of Myrtle Beach install the right water filter for your family. You can look forward to filling your water bottle or glass, tea pitcher, or coffee maker with great water and drinking it knowing it meets your personal standards. Give us a call today to learn more!

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Essential Tools Used in A Drain Cleaning Service

Drain cleaning is one of the most common plumbing services. Commercial and residential property owners schedule their drain cleaning service at least once annually to get rid of blockages and identify issues with their drainage systems. While you may be tempted to approach this as a DIY project, it’s advisable to leave it to the professionals.

A licensed plumber is equipped with the training and tools needed to get the job done fast and effectively. The success of your drain cleaning depends on the type of tools and techniques employed.

Plumbing Tools Used in Drain Cleaning

Below is a list of tools a plumber uses to clean and unclog your drain.

Pipe Camera

Before getting down to business, the first step of any cleaning exercise is to inspect the drainage system and assess the extent of the work. Armed with a pipe camera, the plumber will conduct a pipe inspection to check for blockage and bursts. Running these checks is part of troubleshooting your drainage system for hidden damages.

Using a pipe camera, you can access your drainage line and have an internal view of hard-to-reach areas. These cameras are mounted to a cable and maneuvered through your drainage system to catch images of parts of the piping you can’t reach. The plumber then uses this information to design the best course of action for unblocking or fixing the problem.

Plunger

This is the most common plumbing tool used by plumbers and homeowners. Plungers are relatively easy to use and are often used to clear light clogs in the toilet, sink, and bathroom. Immediately you notice a clog in your drains, the first tool to clear the blockage is a plunger, especially when dealing with materials such as toilet paper, hair, and food particles. Failure to clear the blockage using a plunger is an indication of a heavy clog that requires a specialized tool.

Drain Snake

A drain snake is also one of the most popular tools preferred by a drain cleaning service expert. The plumber can either use the motorized or manual drain snake, depending on the nature of the job.

• Manual drain snake– this is one of the oldest plumbing tools characterized by a long cable and corkscrew end. This tool is attached to a handle used to crank the cable through the drainage system. A manual drain snake is effective when dealing with light clogs, with the plumber placing the end of the cable in the drain’s opening while using the crank to push it through. Once the cable makes contact with the clog, it bores through the blockage till it breaks through to create a passage for other materials. The plumber then pulls back on the cable, which comes out with the blockage, freeing your drain.

• Motorized drain snake– technological advancement has made it easy for plumbers to deal with heavier clogs using motorized drain snakes. These tools work on the same principle as its manual version except that it’s used on larger pipes with stubborn clogs. Plumbers have an option of cordless or wired drain snakes. Unlike a manual snake, the motorized version has an automatic feed that facilitates the movement of the cable. This means you can easily retract the cable as you unclog the drain.

Hydro-Jet

A hydro-jet is one of the specialized drain cleaning tools used to deal with tough clogs. It uses water under high pressure to break down clogs and remove the blockages. Plumbers at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach often use this tool to ensure faster and more efficient drain cleaning. A hydro-jet not only works in clearing clogs, but it also works effectively when cleaning your drain pipes.

Another advantage of using hydro-jet is that they have an option for cold or hot water. This means when you hit a particularly stubborn section, you can turn on the hot water features and clear all the blockage, thus preventing future clogs.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Drain cleaning doesn’t end with removing a clog; you also clean the system to avoid future blockage. Plumbers rely on various chemical mixtures to kill germs, dissolve stubborn particles, and clear your drains. These chemicals are designed to break down organic materials, which are usually the number one reason for drain clogs. Once the chemical dissolves these particles, the plumber flushes the drainage system to clear any blockage.

Chemical drain cleaners are highly toxic and should be used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. It’s for this reason you should contact a drain cleaning service expert with experience handling these chemicals. They know not only the best ratios to mix but also the top brands to use.

Wrenches, Files, and Pliers

For an effective drain-cleaning exercise, you need to make sure every section of your system is cleared out. Aside from the specialized tools for clearing clogs and flushing your drainage system, you need basic plumbing hardware to access certain areas. In severe cases, you may have to dismantle sections of your drainage system to clear the blockage manually, hence the need for tools such as a wrench and pliers.

When the plumber is getting ready to access sections such as the drain traps, they need to have a checklist. Some tools include a pair of standard pliers, pipe cutters, basin and pipe wrenches, files, and tubing cutters.

Explore Drain Cleaning with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach

A clogged drain poses a health risk to your household and, in some cases, may land you on the wrong side of the law. Regular inspection and maintenance through cleaning are excellent ways to ensure your drainage system is operating optimally. While simple DIY projects such as hot water flushing are encouraged, it’s best to call a professional plumber to take care of the job.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach, we pride ourselves on exemplary customer service. We offer a wide range of plumbing services, including drain cleaning services. Contact us for more information and get a quote for your drain cleaning.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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