When it comes to things going wrong in your home, a sewer problem is one that is often unexpected.
When it comes to things going wrong in your home, a sewer problem is one that is often unexpected. With most of the parts hidden or enclosed it’s hard to spot trouble before it hits, which is why recognizing sewer trouble from other signs is so important. Repair and replacement for sewer parts can be expensive and messy. When it comes to sewers, regular maintenance is crucial. Knowing what maintenance you need, what the warning signs are, and how to start repairs will take you a long way to better sewer and home safety.
How Often Should You Clean?
One of the best ways to keep issues at bay is to make sure you’re performing regular cleanings. Once every 18-22 months, you should have your sewer lines thoroughly cleaned out by a professional. If any problems persist, these routine cleanings can involve a video camera inspection to identify any backups or points of trouble. Once this inspection is performed a plan of action can be determined.
What Are The Warning Signs?
While many common plumbing problems can have many causes, knowing the warning signs for sewer line issues can save you from more costly repairs in the future. Some of the most significant warning lights include: if your pipes emit gurgling sounds, your drains are slow to empty, if multiple drains are clogged at the same time, if while using the washing machine water backs up into the sinks or showers, or if you notice that raw sewage is backing up into drains, your toilets, or bathtubs.
What Causes Sewer Problems?
While many potential issues can cause your sewer lines to need cleaning more frequently, there are three that are most common. One of the most frequent is if roots from nearby trees grow into the pipes. Second is if a pipe Bellies or sags, this is usually caused by loose soil surrounding the pipe that makes the pipe breaks. Lastly, grease buildup from your kitchen can solidify and cause a blockage, this requires hydro-jetting to repair.
How Do You Clean?
Once an inspection has identified the cause of your sewer troubles, you can begin repairs. In some cases, hydro-jetting can be used to flush out blockages utilizing a blast of 4,000psi water. If tree roots are the cause of the problem, you will need to have the offending root cut away and then killed to prevent it from growing back. A flush of chemicals usually will take care of the problem.
A RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PLUMBING COMPANY YOU CAN TRUST
Alpha Plumbing is a full-service plumbing and contracting company serving the Baltimore and Annapolis metro area with expertise in all aspects of plumbing. We’re family-owned and operated since 1991 from our office in Pasadena. We offer quality plumbing services at reasonable rates in a timely fashion. Our trucks are equipped with GPS systems to ensure we’re prompt and on time. No job is too large or too small! We maintain a fleet of well-stocked trucks and also own and operate our own backhoes for jobs requiring excavation.
For more information and to get a free no-obligation estimate, you can contact us on our website, send us an e-mail, or give us a call at (410) 255-5998.