Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Plumbing System Overview
  • 2.1 Mobile Home vs. Site-Built Plumbing
  • 2.2 Materials & Codes in Florence, SC
• 3. Water Supply Lines
  • 3.1 Common Pipe Types
  • 3.2 Identifying Shutoff Valves
  • 3.3 Checking for Leaks
• 4. Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) System
  • 4.1 How DWV Works
  • 4.2 Trap & Vent Basics
  • 4.3 Preventing Clogs in Florence’s Hard Water
• 5. Common Plumbing Issues
  • 5.1 Low Water Pressure
  • 5.2 Leaky Faucets & Showerheads
  • 5.3 Slow Drains & Clogs
  • 5.4 Frozen Pipes in Winter
• 6. Essential Tools & Maintenance
  • 6.1 Basic Plumbing Toolkit
  • 6.2 Routine Maintenance Tasks
  • 6.3 Water Heater Care
• 7. Winterizing Your Plumbing
  • 7.1 Florence Temperature Considerations
  • 7.2 Insulating Pipes & Skirting
  • 7.3 Preparing for Occasional Freezes
• 8. Upgrading Fixtures & Faucets
  • 8.1 Choosing Water-Saving Fixtures
  • 8.2 Installing a New Faucet
  • 8.3 Replacing Showerheads
• 9. DIY Minor Repairs
  • 9.1 Replacing a Shower Cartridge
  • 9.2 Fixing Pinhole Leaks with Epoxy
  • 9.3 Clearing a P-Trap
• 10. When to Call a Professional
  • 10.1 Signs You Need a Licensed Plumber
  • 10.2 Finding Florence SC Plumbing Experts
• 11. Frequently Asked Questions
• 12. Additional Keywords

1. Introduction

Maintaining a mobile home’s plumbing in Florence, SC requires understanding unique characteristics: limited underbelly access, tight pipe runs, and susceptibility to seasonal temperature swings. Whether you’re a first-time mobile homeowner or simply want to sharpen your DIY skills, mastering plumbing basics can save money, prevent damage, and ensure reliable water service year-round. In this guide, Faith Mobile Home Solutions shares in-depth insights on systems, common issues, and practical maintenance tailored to Florence’s climate and water conditions.

2. Plumbing System Overview

2.1 Mobile Home vs. Site-Built Plumbing

Unlike traditional homes, mobile home plumbing often features narrower pipe runs, plastic PEX or PVC lines, and underbelly access protected by skirting. Supply lines frequently run between floor joists, and drains use corrugated ABS piping. Code requirements in Florence, SC balance affordability with freeze prevention. Understanding these differences helps you troubleshoot effectively and select compatible replacements.

2.2 Materials & Codes in Florence, SC

Florence County follows South Carolina plumbing codes, emphasizing anti-scald valves, proper venting, and protected water lines. Common materials include:

• PEX Tubing: Flexible, easy to install, resistant to freezing.
• CPVC Pipes: Used for hot and cold water lines inside walls.
• ABS & PVC Drains: Corrugated ABS drains are standard under mobile homes; PVC is more common in site-built residences.

Always verify local permit requirements before major alterations—most DIY enthusiasts can handle fixture swaps, but rewiring vent stacks or rerouting major drains often requires professional permits.

3. Water Supply Lines

3.1 Common Pipe Types

In Florence, mobile homes typically use PEX tubing for both hot and cold runs. PEX’s flexibility allows easy routing around floor joists without many fittings. Older homes may have copper or CPVC lines; inspect any visible metal lines for corrosion, especially if your water is slightly acidic.

3.2 Identifying Shutoff Valves

Key shutoff valve locations include:

• Main Water Valve: Usually located near the water meter or entry point under the home.
• Fixture Shutoffs: Small quarter-turn valves beneath sinks, toilets, and behind washing machines.
• Water Heater Supply Valves: On the cold inlet and hot outlet of the heater—use these to isolate the heater for maintenance.

3.3 Checking for Leaks

Regularly inspect under-sink cabinets and underbelly access points. Common leak signs:

• Damp insulation or pooling water under the home.
• Discolored drywall or ceiling stains near plumbing fixtures.
• Dripping sounds in quiet areas.

Small PEX pinhole leaks can be temporarily sealed with plumber’s epoxy putty. For permanent fixes, replace the damaged section with a PEX coupling and new tubing.

4. Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) System

4.1 How DWV Works

The DWV network carries wastewater away while vent pipes allow sewer gases to escape and prevent negative pressure in drains. In a mobile home, black ABS pipes connect sinks, tubs, and toilets to the main stack, which vents through the roof. Proper slope—1/4 inch per foot—is crucial to prevent standing water.

4.2 Trap & Vent Basics

Each fixture has a P-trap that retains a small water seal, blocking sewer odors. If a trap dries out, you’ll notice unpleasant smells. Vent stacks, often visible on the roof, ensure drains flow smoothly by equalizing pressure. In Florence’s humid climate, vents can become blocked by debris; inspect annually.

4.3 Preventing Clogs in Florence’s Hard Water

Florence tap water is moderately hard, causing mineral buildup inside pipes and fixtures over time. To minimize clogs:

• Install a simple faucet aerator filter to catch sediment.
• Use a water softener system if hardness exceeds 7 grains per gallon.
• Flush drains monthly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
• Avoid pouring grease or coffee grounds down the sink—use strainers in showers and tubs.

5. Common Plumbing Issues

5.1 Low Water Pressure

Factors causing low pressure include partially closed valves, clogged aerators, or sediment-laden pipes. Check the main shutoff is fully open, then remove and clean aerators on faucets. If pressure remains low, inspect the underbelly PEX runs for kinks or pinch points—especially near support brackets.

5.2 Leaky Faucets & Showerheads

Drips often stem from worn O-rings or cartridges. For compression faucets, turn off water to the fixture, disassemble, and replace the rubber washer. For single-handle models, replace the cartridge. Florence’s mineral content can degrade seals; consider installing a sediment filter at the main supply to extend faucet life.

5.3 Slow Drains & Clogs

Hair, soap scum, and grease accumulate in P-traps. To clear a clog:

• Remove the P-trap under the sink and clean it in a bucket.
• Use a drain snake to gently break up deeper blockages in ABS pipe.
• Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners—use enzymatic cleaners safe for ABS and PEX.

5.4 Frozen Pipes in Winter

Florence winters rarely drop below freezing, but prolonged cold snaps can freeze underbelly lines. Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves and add heat tape to vulnerable areas. If you suspect a freeze, open cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation, and gently thaw pipes with a hair dryer—never use open flames.

6. Essential Tools & Maintenance

6.1 Basic Plumbing Toolkit

Every Florence mobile homeowner should keep these items on hand:

• Adjustable wrench and pipe wrench for tightening fittings
• Basin wrench for hard-to-reach sink nuts
• Pipe cutter (for PEX and PVC) and tubing reamer
• Plumber’s tape (PTFE) and thread sealant
• Plunger and small drain snake for minor clogs
• Bucket, rags, and rubber gloves for cleanup

6.2 Routine Maintenance Tasks

Preventative maintenance in Florence’s warm, humid environment includes:

• Monthly Filter Checks: Clean or replace faucet aerators and showerheads to maintain flow and prevent mineral buildup.
• Biannual P-Trap Cleaning: Remove and flush traps under sinks before summer humidity spikes mold growth.
• Annual Vent Inspection: Check roof vents for debris nests—birds often build in vent caps during spring.

6.3 Water Heater Care

Most mobile homes use propane or electric water heaters. In Florence:

• Flush the tank annually to remove sediment, improving efficiency and lifespan.
• Test the T&P (temperature and pressure) relief valve each year—lift the lever and listen for a hiss of releasing water.
• Insulate the first few feet of hot and cold water lines to minimize heat loss and prevent minor freezes.

7. Winterizing Your Plumbing

7.1 Florence Temperature Considerations

While Florence rarely experiences extended freezes, cold nights below 32°F can occur. Protecting underbelly pipes and external fixtures ensures you avoid burst pipes and costly repairs.

7.2 Insulating Pipes & Skirting

Install closed-cell foam insulation around PEX and PVC lines in the crawl space. For extra protection:

• Heat Tape: Apply UL-listed heat tape to pipes in the coldest areas—say under the bathroom or near exterior walls.
• Skirting Vent Covers: Close off skirting vents temporarily to retain warm air under the home but ensure minimal ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
• Crawl Space Heaters: Small thermostatically controlled space heaters can keep underbelly temperatures above freezing—use sparingly due to energy costs.

7.3 Preparing for Occasional Freezes

If a deep freeze is forecast:

• Open cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow interior heat circulation.
• Let faucets drip slightly overnight—the flow of water helps prevent freezing.
• Shut off exterior hose bibs and drain residual water from lines.

8. Upgrading Fixtures & Faucets

8.1 Choosing Water-Saving Fixtures

Florence’s utility rates continue to rise; installing low-flow fixtures reduces consumption:

• Faucets: Look for EPA WaterSense® certified faucets that limit flow to 1.5 GPM (gallons per minute).
• Showerheads: Switching to a 2.0 GPM or less model maintains adequate pressure while using less water.
• Toilets: Consider a 1.28 GPF (gallons per flush) model if your mobile home supports a replacement unit.

8.2 Installing a New Faucet

Steps to replace a standard sink faucet:

1. Shut off the cold and hot supply valves beneath the sink and open the faucet to drain water.
2. Use a basin wrench to disconnect supply lines from the old faucet.
3. Remove mounting nuts and lift out the old faucet. Clean the sink surface of old putty or sealant.
4. Apply plumber’s putty or gasket to the base of the new faucet. Insert the faucet into sink holes and secure from underneath with mounting nuts.
5. Reattach supply lines using PTFE tape on threaded connections. Turn on the water and check for leaks.

8.3 Replacing Showerheads

To swap a showerhead:

1. Turn off water at the bathroom’s supply or plumber’s field valve, if available; otherwise, rely on water usage control.
2. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the old showerhead, wrapping tape or a rag around it to avoid scratching the pipe finish.
3. Clean male threads with a rag, then wrap PTFE tape around threads in a clockwise direction.
4. Screw on the new showerhead by hand, tightening with a wrench until snug—avoid overtightening to prevent cracking.
5. Turn water on and test spray patterns. Adjust angle and check for any drips at the joint.

9. DIY Minor Repairs

9.1 Replacing a Shower Cartridge

A worn cartridge causes leaks and inconsistent temperatures. To replace:

1. Turn off the shower’s hot and cold supply valves or main water valve.
2. Remove the handle and escutcheon plate to access the cartridge retaining nut.
3. Use pliers to loosen the retaining nut and pull out the old cartridge—note its orientation.
4. Lubricate O-rings on the new cartridge with silicone grease and insert in the same orientation.
5. Reinstall the retaining nut, handle, and plate. Turn water back on and test for proper function and no leaks.

9.2 Fixing Pinhole Leaks with Epoxy

Small pinholes in PEX or copper pipes can be temporarily sealed using epoxy putty:

1. Shut off the local shutoff valve and drain the section of pipe by opening a downstream faucet.
2. Clean and dry the area around the pinhole thoroughly, removing any corrosion or debris.
3. Knead the two-part epoxy putty until uniform in color, then press over the hole, molding a patch around 2 inches beyond the leak.
4. Allow epoxy to cure for the recommended time (usually 5–10 minutes for initial set, 24 hours for full cure), then restore water and check for drips.

9.3 Clearing a P-Trap

Clogs under sinks often hide in the P-trap. To clear:

1. Place a bucket under the trap to catch water. Use a wrench to loosen the slip nuts on each end of the trap.
2. Remove the trap and empty its contents into the bucket—hair, soap, or debris.
3. Clean the trap with a brush and hot water. Inspect washers and replace if brittle.
4. Reassemble the trap, making sure nuts are snug but not over-tightened. Run water to confirm the clog is gone.

10. When to Call a Professional

10.1 Signs You Need a Licensed Plumber

• Major Leaks: Burst pipes or significant leaks under the home’s subfloor require professional intervention to prevent structural damage and mold.
• Sewer Line Backups: Recurring backups in multiple fixtures indicate a main line blockage or collapse—outside the scope of standard DIY.
• Water Heater Malfunctions: If the heater makes unusual noises, leaks at the tank seams, or fails to heat effectively, a licensed technician should inspect and service it.
• Gas Line Issues: Any smell of gas around propane or natural gas lines mandates immediate professional response due to explosion risk.

10.2 Finding Florence SC Plumbing Experts

For more complex jobs, seek licensed plumbers with mobile home experience. Look for:

• Local References: Ask neighbors or consult online reviews for reliability and fair pricing.
• Proper Licensing: Verify with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation (LLR) that the plumber’s license is active and in good standing.
• Insurance & Warranty: Ensure the plumber carries liability insurance and offers a guarantee on workmanship—most reputable Florence plumbers provide 30–90 day warranties on repairs.