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Signs There May Be Trouble With Your Main Water Line

Signs There May Be Trouble With Your Main Water Line

Cold Water, High Bills and Unfamiliar Odors

For every homeowner, it can be concerning to think about potential issues with the main water line. Unfortunately, as with all household infrastructure, your water line isn’t immune to developing problems over time due to normal wear and tear. Knowing the signs that there may be trouble with your main water line can help you catch minor and major issues before it escalates into needing a full replacement of your main water line.

Cold Water and Low Pressure

If you experience consistently cold water or less water pressure than you’re used to, this can be indicative of blockages or a break that has caused supply disruption. Such blockages may be caused by contamination or corrosion over time, which means that no water or only small drips may be coming through.

Generally, this will cause discolored water or a pungent smell. If you hear loud noises coming from your tap or pipes, this could mean that the main water line is under too much pressure, meaning that there is likely a break or overflow somewhere in your plumbing system.

a high water bill.

If you’re noticing unexpected spikes in your water bills, this could mean that a leak has developed somewhere in your main water line.

Higher Than Usual Bills

If you’re noticing unexpected spikes in your water bills, this could mean that a leak has developed somewhere in your main water line. This could be any unseen hole, crack or joint break in the pipes, allowing water to flow unnoticed from the line.

Ideally, this should be investigated immediately and fixed as soon as possible to minimize further water wastage and resulting bills. If you are unable to locate the source of any potential leak, it’s wise to contact a local plumber to assist you in detecting the source of the leak.

a women smelling sewer odor.

If you smell a familiar scent such as sewage or gas emanating from your tap, this is an unmistakable sign that you may have a problem with the main water line.

Familiar Smells

If you smell a familiar scent such as sewage or gas emanating from your tap, this is an unmistakable sign that you may have a problem with the main water line. This could be a sign of either a leak or a buildup of contaminated water within the line, meaning that if you experience this issue you should not use the water or flush the toilet until the issue is resolved.

It’s important to contact a plumber nearby as soon as possible to rectify the problem and to ensure that your water, and the rest of your plumbing system, is safe for usage and the environment.

Conclusion

It’s essential for homeowners to be aware of the potential signs of trouble with their main water line so that they can take proactive steps to avoid bigger problems later on. Cold water, high bills, and unfamiliar odors can all be causes for concern and should be investigated further to ensure that your plumbing is in check. By contacting a professional plumber, it can be the best way to safeguard your home from leaks and contamination.

Noisy Pipes? Our Top Plumber Explains What Could Be Wrong

our top plumber investigating noisy pipes.

It can be alarming when your pipes start making strange noises – the high-pitched whistles or banging sounds can become loud and frequent. You may feel like something is seriously wrong, but it turns out having noisy pipes isn’t necessarily something to be overly concerned about. Our top plumber has some insights into what might be causing the strange sounds in your pipes, and best of all, it may be something you can fix yourself!

Water Hammer

One of the more common causes of loud pipe noises is something called the “water hammer.” This refers to a sudden jolt of pressure that occurs in the pipes when a faucet or valve is shut off too quickly. It causes a banging or thudding sound as a result of the sudden change in pressure.

The best way to prevent this is to install something called a water hammer arrestor. This device is attached to the side of the pipe, and it helps to absorb the shock of quickly-changing water pressure. It can be a fairly easy fix to make on your own, but if it’s something you’re not comfortable tackling, you can call up our local plumber for assistance.

Structural Movements

Another common cause of loud pipe noises is structural movements. For example, if the pipe runs through something like a wall or a floorboard, it can be subjected to pressure when that structure shifts. This could be an issue of settling in a new building, or it could be caused by vibrations from nearby sources — for instance, if your water heater or washing machine is particularly loud, it could be causing the pipes to shake slightly.

In this case, the long-term solution usually involves some sort of bracing or padding around the pipe to reduce the amount of pressure it feels when the structure around it moves. If the vibrations are coming from a particular appliance, try to get it repaired or replaced as quickly as possible.

a plumber tightening loose plumbing fittings.

You can use a wrench to tighten any loose fittings

Loose Fittings

In some cases, the noise could actually be coming from a loose fitting. If there’s a joint that isn’t tightened properly, it may be vibrating slightly, creating a whistling noise in the pipes. Thankfully, this is a fairly easy fix. You can use a wrench to tighten any loose fittings — but if you’re not confident in your DIY skills, our professional plumbers can lend a helping hand.

In Summary

Noisy pipes don’t always mean there’s something seriously wrong — often, it’s caused by something like water hammer or structural shifts. Our head plumber can help you identify the problem and provide advice on how to fix it, but in many cases, it may be something that you can do yourself. A little bit of plumbing knowledge can go a long way towards quieting those noisy pipes for good.

Why Hydro Jetting Could Be the Best Possible Solution for Your Backed Up Drain

Why Hydro Jetting Could Be the Best Possible Solution for Your Backed Up Drain

Dealing with a backed up drain is a common issue for home owners; it can be both inconvenient and expensive if not addressed quickly. In some cases, conventional methods such as snakes and augers are not enough to resolve drainage blockages caused by grease, sludge and other debris. Hydro jetting, a cost-effective, non-invasive process of flushing water through a pipe to clear blockages, is a great option for homeowners dealing with clogged drains. In this article, we’ll take a look at why hydro jetting could be the best solution for your backed up drain.

What is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a process that uses a high-pressure, water-propelled jet to dislodge and remove clogs, as well as other debris such as grease and sludge, from a pipe. The jetting device is inserted through an existing clean-out or access point, and the pressure of the water is adjustable depending on the type of obstruction. Hydro jetting is fast and efficient, and can often clear the toughest blockages in residential and commercial sewer line systems.

Advantages of Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting has many advantages for homeowners dealing with clogged drains, such as:

  • Cost-Effective: Hydro jetting is a relatively affordable way to resolve drainage blockages, compared to other methods due to long-term solutions.
  • Non-Invasive: Hydro jetting uses pressurized water to flush out the pipe and does not require any digging or excavation.
  • Fast and Effective: Hydro jetting is quick, efficient and can be completed in a relatively short amount of time.
  • Long-Lasting: Hydro jetting can also remove build-up and sediment, ensuring that the drain lines remain clean and clear.
a hydro jetting drain cleaning being performed.

Hydro jetting can be a great solution for certain blockages, as it is cost-effective, non-invasive, fast and effective.

Disadvantages of Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting also has some disadvantages that must be taken into consideration. For example, hydro jetting can be more expensive than traditional methods such as a sewer rodding service. Additionally, hydro jetting requires access to an existing clean-out or access point. Lastly, it should be noted that hydro jetting is not suitable for older pipes which may be in disrepair, as the pressurized water can cause further damage to the pipes.

Final Considerations

When it comes to dealing with a backed up drain, homeowners must be aware of all the available methods for resolving the issue. Hydro jetting can be a great solution for certain blockages, as it is cost-effective, non-invasive, fast and effective. However, it’s important to consider the disadvantages as well and be mindful of what your particular situation calls for. If you have a backed up drain, it’s best to contact a professional hydro jetting plumber who can assess the situation and provide the best possible solution. Hydro jetting, when done correctly, can be a great way to restore your drain and keep everything flowing smoothly.

Tips on Finding the Right Plumber Near Me in Chicago

Tips on Finding the Right Plumber Near Me in Chicago

Check Certification and Licensing

Proper licensing and certification should be one of the first things you look for when hiring a plumber. Reputable Chicago plumbers carry certain credentials, such as a state-issued license and qualifications from trade schools and apprenticeships. To ensure that your plumber is licensed, contact the issuing authority in your state.

Check References and Reviews

The best way to find a reliable plumber in Chicago is to ask people you trust. Ask your friends and family who they use and trust. Your friends may be able to give you a personal recommendation or a review of their past experience. You can also check online reviews on sites such as Angie’s List or Google.

Consider Knowledge and Experience

It’s important to hire a Chicago plumber who is knowledgeable and experienced. Make sure they are familiar with the type of plumbing job you need to have done. Ask them if they have experience with a variety of plumbing systems, so you know they will be able to handle any issues that might arise.

Examine their Insurance and Bonding

Before signing a contract with a Chicago plumber, ask to see proof of insurance and bonding. If an accident or damage to your property occurs, you will want to make sure you are covered by a professional liability insurance policy and bonding. This can also protect your financial interests.

Compare Rates and Services

It’s important to compare rates before settling on a plumber in order to find the best value for your money. Ask the plumber for a detailed estimate of the costs associated with the work, including materials, labor and any extras. Make sure you understand all the services that are included in the quote. It’s also important to compare different plumbers to make sure you are getting the best rate and service for your money.

Pay Attention to Red Flags

When interviewing potential plumbers in the Chicago area, look for signs that should give you pause. Are they on time? Are they unprofessional? Are they able to answer your questions? Red flags should be taken seriously, as they can be indicative of a plumber who is not knowledgeable, reliable, or trustworthy.

Check the Warranty

Most reputable plumbers will offer a warranty on their work. This will help ensure that if your plumbing system needs to be repaired, the plumber will honor the repair and take responsibility for any problems. Be sure to ask what is covered under the warranty, including parts, labor and any additional services that may be needed.

Get Everything in Writing

The best way to protect yourself when hiring a local plumber in the Chicago area is to get a signed contract for the work that needs to be done. This should include details such as the type of job, the materials used, the cost, the timeline, and any warranties or guarantees. Make sure to read and understand the contract before signing it to make sure you are getting the services you are expecting at the price you agreed upon.

When it comes to finding the right plumber in Chicago, it’s important to do your research and choose a reliable and experienced professional. Make sure you check references and reviews, compare rates, and ensure they have the proper licensure and insurance. Additionally, be sure to get everything in writing before signing a contract. By following these tips, you can rest assured you are getting the best plumbing service for your Chicago area home.

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In need of plumbing services in the Chicago area? Feel free to contact us at 773-599-9181 or by form below!

7 Essential Questions to Ask When Hiring a Local Plumber

Essential Questions to Ask When Hiring a Local Plumber

When it comes to finding a qualified and trustworthy local plumber, it can be a difficult and overwhelming process. With so many different service providers out there, it can be difficult to narrow down the right candidate. When making a decision, it is important to ask the right questions in order to get the best service. Here are 7 essential questions that you should consider when hiring a local plumber.

What Is Your Level of Experience?

One of the top questions you should ask when looking for a local plumber is what their level of experience is. Some plumbers are generalists and take on all types of plumbing projects, while others specialize in particular areas. Make sure that you ask the service provider about their experience in the particular type of work you are looking for. Make sure to request the specifics, such as how long they have been in the business, and how much experience they have had on similar projects.

Are You Insured and Bonded?

This is another critical question to ask, especially when it comes to bigger projects that could warrant certain legal liabilities. The service provider should have an insurance policy that covers any accidents or damage that could occur on the job. Additionally, they should also have a bond in case anything goes wrong with the project and they don’t deliver their services as promised. Asking this question upfront can help you save a lot of time and energy in the long-run if anything goes wrong.

What Is Included in Your Services?

Knowing exactly what services are included in the service provider’s agreement is another essential question to ask when hiring a local plumber. For instance, some service providers provide plumbing installation services, but do not include the cost of materials in their total fee. Make sure to ask the provider about their services and what it includes in order to have a detailed understanding of their offer and make sure that it aligns with your expectations.

Do You Provide Any Guarantees?

Another important question you should ask a local plumber is whether they offer any sort of guarantee for their services. Some service providers offer warranties for their work, so you can be certain that any repairs that are made correctly will remain in place. This can be beneficial in both the short-term and long-term, since you will be able to rely on the service provider if anything goes wrong with the project.

How Long Will the Project Take?

You should also ask the plumber how long they estimate that the job will take. Depending on the scope of the project, this can vary significantly. Some plumbers may be able to complete small tasks in as little as one day, while others may need up to a week or more. Knowing how long the project will take can help you plan ahead and make sure that you don’t become overwhelmed with the process.

What Will the Cost Be?

Finally, it is important to ask the local plumber about their pricing and the cost of the job. Be sure to ask for an itemized list of all costs associated with the project so that you can compare it to other bids and ensure that you get the best deal. Also, make sure to ask about potential plumbing coupons or discounts or incentives that could help you save a bit of money in the long run.

Do You Have Any References I Can Contact?

This final question could prove to be especially beneficial when looking to hire a local plumber. Asking the service provider for references can help you gain an understanding of their work ethic and the quality of their work. It is important to contact those references and get an idea of what it was like working with the same service provider that you are considering. This could be especially valuable when making a final decision.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, there are many essential questions that you should ask when looking to hire a local plumber. Asking the service provider about their level of experience, their insurance policy, the services that they provide, any guarantees that they offer, the duration of the project, the cost of the job, and any references that you can contact can help make the process go more smoothly and ensure that you work with the best plumbing service provider for your needs.

A Guide to Catch Basin Repair in Chicago

A Guide to Catch Basin Repair in Chicago

What Is A Catch Basin?

A catch basin is a drainage structure that captures surface runoff and debris and allows it to be collected, filtered, and dispersed into the ground or other drainage system. It works by catching rainwater that runs off rooftops and other surfaces and taking it down to a below-grade catch basin, from which it can be drained into a drainage pipe or other drainage system. The catch basin is usually made of concrete, with a few grates for the water to pass through and a few ports for overflow. The purpose of a catch basin is to protect the water supply from pollution, sedimentation, and other contaminants.

Identifying A Problem With Your Catch Basin

If your catch basin is not functioning properly, it’s important to identify the cause before you attempt to repair it. Common catch basin problems include:

  • Cracks and gaps in the foundation or walls of the basin
  • Leaking of water through the ports or grates
  • Blocked pipes or buildup of sediment and debris
  • Clogged filters preventing water from draining properly

Depending on the severity of the issue, you may be able to address the problem on your own or you may need to enlist the help of a catch basin repair service in Chicago. If the problem requires extensive repairs or replacement, it is best to call in an experienced plumber in the area.

repair of a catch basin in the city of chicago.

Preparing for the Catch Basin Repair

Before you begin the repair, you need to make sure that all the necessary tools and materials are on-hand. This includes a bucket, garden hose, trowel, drill, clean cloths, and repair mortar. You may also need to buy additional tools and materials, depending on the scope of the repair. It is important to know what type of catch basin you have and understand the local regulations for catch basin repair.

In order to protect yourself, you should wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses during the repair process. You will also need to turn off the water supply to the catch basin.

Repairing the Catch Basin

Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials and turned off the water supply, you can begin the repair process. The first step is to clear the area around the catch basin of any leaves, dirt, and debris. You will then inspect the catch basin and identify any cracks, gaps, or other damage. If the damage is minor, you can often fill the cracks and gaps with repair mortar. For more serious damage, the entire catch basin may need to be replaced.

Cleaning the Catch Basin

Once the repair is complete, you will need to have the catch basin hydro jetted by a professional. This is an important step to ensure that the basin continues to function properly, as dirt and debris can clog the filters and pipes and impede the flow of water. Start by spraying the catch basin with a garden hose to remove any debris, then use a brush to scrub the inside of the basin and rinse with the hose again if you wish to do this step yourself.

catch basin cleanout in chicago.

Testing the Catch Basin

Once the cleaning is complete, the next step is to test the catch basin to make sure that it is functioning properly. Start by turning the water supply back on and pouring a bucket of water into the catch basin. Once the water has gone through the basin, inspect the pipes and filters to make sure that the water is draining properly without any leakage. If the catch basin is still not functioning properly, you may need to enlist the help of a professional plumber.

Summing It Up

Catch basin repair is not a complicated process and can often be completed in just a few steps. However, it is important to inspect the catch basin before attempting to carry out a repair and ensure that all the necessary tools and materials are on-hand. If the damage is severe or the repair process is not going as expected, it may be best to call in the Chicago Plumbing Experts so that the repair is completed correctly and the catch basin is functioning properly.

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In need of a catch basin repair or rebuilding services in the Chicago area? Contact us at 773-599-9181 or by form below:

 

Mysterious Leaks in your Plumbing? Time for a Drain Camera Inspection!

Mysterious Leaks in your Plumbing

Drain camera inspection is a plumbing tool for inspecting, locating and diagnosing problems within a drain system without the need for traditional digging and excavation. An important, yet often overlooked, part of home maintenance, a drain camera inspection can help a homeowner identify seemingly mysterious leaks and diagnose blocked drains, helping to prevent costly repairs or damage.

Benefits of a Drain Camera Inspection

Having a drain camera inspection performed gives homeowners several benefits. Firstly, it is a non-invasive method of determining the cause of a mysterious leak or drainage issue. By inspecting the drainage systems with a live video feed, plumbers can accurately identify the problem and provide a viable solution.

Secondly, the process of drain camera inspection is non-destructive. High-resolution footage gathered in the inspection can detect any deficiencies that are found within the plumbing and sewer lines, allowing technicians to make the necessary repairs without having to dig up the affected area using heavy machinery.

Thirdly, a drain camera inspection is significantly less expensive than blindly investigating a mysterious leak. Homeowners no longer have to worry about being completely unaware of what the problem is and spend a large sum of money to dig in order to find out the cause of the leak.

Signs That You Need A Drain Camera Inspection

There are a number of signs that indicate homeowners may need to get a drain camera inspection. One of the most common indicators is if there is an unexplained leak in or around the home’s drainage system. In addition, strange noises coming from pipes or drains can also be a sign of a blockage and could benefit from being checked with a drain camera.

Other signs that may necessitate a drain camera inspection include sewage backups, slow draining sinks and toilets, strange odors emanating from drainage systems and an increased water bill. In any case, it is best to call a professional plumber to properly diagnose the issue.

a plumber performing a drain camera inspection for a customer.

What Happens During A Drain Camera Inspection?

The process for a drain camera inspection is surprisingly simple. A drainage camera is lowered down any pipes or drains that need to be inspected, and captures the footage with the help of a camera attached to the end of a cable. This allows the technician to examine the insides of the drainage system in real-time, making it easier to detect the source of a mysterious leak or drainage issue.

Once the source of the issue has been identified, the technician can advise the homeowner on the best course of action to take. This may involve non-intrusive methods or repair, or replacement of a section of pipe that has been damaged or blocked.

Maintaining Your Drains

Once the cause of a mysterious leak has been identified and the necessary repair works have been completed, homeowners should take a few steps to ensure that the drains and pipes remain in good condition. For example, avoid pouring grease, oil, coffee grounds or other solids down the sink, and avoid flushing non-biodegradable products down the toilet. Instead, homeowners should make sure to use strainer over the sink and shower drains and cover the toilet bowl flusher with a guard to catch potential clogs.

It is also important to be aware of any changes in plumbing or drainage systems, such as an increase in water bills or slow draining pipes. If these signs are detected, homeowners should not hesitate to contact a licensed plumber or arrange for service.

Conclusion

Drain camera inspections are an essential part of home maintenance and can be used to identify and diagnose mysterious leaks and drainage problems. Homeowners who are experiencing symptoms of an issue should not hesitate to call a professional plumber near you to arrange an inspection. Furthermore, homeowners should also be aware of necessary steps they can take to ensure that their drains and pipes remain in top condition.

Basement Flooding Prevention – What Our Experts Would Advise

Basement Flooding Prevention

Basement flooding is a common problem for homeowners, especially during heavy weather events. As flooding can occur unexpectedly, prevention should be a priority for homeowners. While cleaning out gutters and redirecting downspouts can help reduce the likelihood of flooding, there are also a number of additional strategies that our experts would advise to further reduce the chance of basement flooding. In this article, we will review some of the key strategies recommended by our experts to help prevent basement flooding.

Seal Basement Cracks and Walls

Water can easily enter your basement via cracks or small gaps in walls, windows, or door frames. Sealing any cracks or gaps is an important first step in basement flooding prevention as it will help keep water out of the basement. If you notice any cracks or gaps, they should be sealed with caulk or another appropriate sealant.

Install a Backup Sump Pump

Many basements are equipped with sump pumps which help to pump out water that has collected in the basement. A backup sump pump is a great investment for additional protection against basement flooding. By installing a battery backup sump pump, you can ensure that your basement stays dry in the event that the primary pump malfunctions or is overwhelmed by water accumulation during heavy rain or snow melt events.

a person cleaning out a gutter.

Gutters that are not regularly checked and cleared can easily cause water to accumulate near your home and then seep into the basement.

Check Your Gutters Regularly

One of the most common causes of basement flooding is clogged or overflowing gutters. Gutters that are not regularly checked and cleared can easily cause water to accumulate near your home and then seep into the basement. Homeowners should regularly check gutters for blockages and ensure they are securely attached to the home. Additionally, downspouts should always be pointed away from the home to help direct water away from the foundation.

Inspect Your Downspouts

Downspouts are responsible for collecting the rainwater from your roof gutters and directing it away from your home. It is important to inspect your downspouts regularly to make sure they are properly directing water away from the home’s foundation and not pooling near the house. If you notice any water pooling near your house, you should consider extending your downspouts further away from the house or redirecting them to a safe drainage area.

Fix Drainage Issues on Your Property

It’s important to check around the perimeter of your property to look for any drainage problems that could be contributing to basement flooding. Standing water, whether caused by sloped ground or a pipe break, should be addressed promptly. If you identify any drainage issues on your property, it is important to consult with a professional on how best to address the issue.

a french drain installation.

French drains can be installed around your home and help reduce basement flooding by diverting water away from the foundation and directing it to a safe location.

Invest in a Sump Pit Liner and French Drains

A sump pit liner is a great way to help ensure that any water that finds its way into your basement is quickly and efficiently removed. Additionally, French drains can be installed around your home and help reduce basement flooding by diverting water away from the foundation and directing it to a safe location.

In Conclusion

Basement flooding can cause significant damage to your home and belongings and can often be difficult to clean up after the fact. It is important to take preventative measures to reduce the chance of basement flooding. By following our experts’ advice, homeowners can help prevent basement flooding and the costs and hassles associated with it.

How to Detect and Prevent Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line

a sewer cover.

Tree root intrusion into a home’s sewer line is a leading cause of sewer line damage. Keyrenter Knoxville explains this issue happens when tree roots contact the nutrient-dense wastewater inside sewer lines. In a bid to access as much of the water as possible, tree roots can pierce the sewer pipe, causing it to leak and sometimes blocking it completely.

How do you detect, solve and prevent this problem?

How to detect tree root intrusion in your sewer line

The signs accompanying a blocked sewer line are the same signs you can expect when tree roots are growing into your sewer line. These include:

  • Slow drains

Slow drains in your home are not a sign that tree roots have blocked your sewer line unless multiple drains on the ground floor are slow simultaneously. Usually, this problem is more severe with floor drains and drains closer to the floor level, such as toilets. In addition, to slow draining, you may also notice water movement in drains when other drains in the home are being used.

  • Backed-up drains

If drains are slow and the problem is not addressed, it can eventually cause the sewer line to back up. When tree roots initially penetrate a sewer line, they don’t block the pipe; wastewater is still able to pass through. But as time passes and the roots grow larger, they can stop the sewer pipe, leaving wastewater with nowhere to go except back into the home.

  • Sewer odors from your drains

Sewer lines have features that prevent sewer gases from flowing backward into the home. But those features will not work if tree roots block a sewer line. The trapped sewer gases may find an outlet by escaping through one of the home’s drains. One sign that this is happening is hearing gurgling sounds every time you use your drains.

  • Sinkholes in the yard

Sinkholes happen when water soaks into the ground directly beneath the surface. Eventually, the spot above the area will cave in, leaving a cavity or small depression. Tree roots may cause sinkholes if they penetrate a sewer line and force it to release its contents into the soil. Also, if areas of your yard are greener than usual, you may have tree roots with your sewer line.

a sewer cleanout.

The trapped sewer gases may find an outlet by escaping through one of the home’s drains.


What to do if you suspect tree root intrusion in your sewer line

If you see any of the above signs in your home, how can you tell if tree roots are in your sewer line? The best way is to have a sewer camera inspection. A sewer camera inspection is the most efficient, non-invasive, and affordable method for accurately assessing the true condition of a sewer line.

It involves a professional plumber running a video line into your sewer line and monitoring the live feed on a small screen. A sewer camera inspection is the best diagnostic tool for exploring the cause of sewer line issues. It not only helps the plumber detect the location of the blockage, but it can assess the seriousness of the problem.

This method will save you money because it doesn’t take time and does not involve expensive digging in the yard. Once the blockage has been detected via a sewer camera inspection, the next step is clearing the tree roots. This is usually done by hydro jetting the sewer line. Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to remove obstacles inside a sewer line.

a series of sewer pipes.

If you are unhappy with having only grass in the area, you may plant shrubs and small trees with less invasive roots.

How to prevent tree root intrusion in a sewer line

  • Do not plant trees near your sewer line

Planting trees where their roots can reach the sewer line is asking for trouble. If you are unhappy with having only grass in the area, you may plant shrubs and small trees with less invasive roots.

  • Install a sewer barrier

If you don’t want to cut down the trees in your yard, you can install an impenetrable barrier around your sewer lines. Although this approach is somewhat more invasive, it can give you peace of mind.

  • Use chemicals

Periodically spreading chemicals like potassium hydroxide and copper sulfate around the sewer line will protect them from damage by tree roots. Note that these chemicals may also kill your trees.

  • Replace your sewer line

PVC pipes are less vulnerable to tree root intrusion than metal or clay pipes. Another option is replacing your current sewer line using a non-invasive technique like pipe bursting.

Keeping your sewer line safe from invading tree roots and other dangers requires constant vigilance. The best way to avoid costly damage to a sewer line is to catch problems early. Periodic inspection and cleaning of the sewer line – sewer camera inspections and hydro-jetting – are the best ways to keep your home’s sewer line healthy. 

Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

Your home’s drain system is the primary waste disposal system for all the liquid and semi-solid waste generated. These can include raw sewage from the toilet, dirty bathwater, and of course, used water from the kitchen sink containing tiny food particles.

With all these different types of wastewater flowing into it, the drain system needs to be tough. Homeowners should not have to constantly worry that their home’s drains will break down. Indeed, most of the time, the drain lives up to these high expectations.

But not all the time:

Lyon Property Management explains that is because certain types of waste generated in your home are completely incompatible with the home’s drain system. Even though they are liquid or semi-liquid in nature, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are the thing that should never go into your home’s drains.

Yes, dumping grease and oil into the sink after you finish cooking bacon or sautéing vegetable is an easy way to get rid of these used-up materials. But that simple act can trigger a series of events that may damage your home and cost you tens of thousands of dollars.

Fats, oils and grease (FOG) will not only harm your home’s drainpipes, but they can also undermine the function of the entire municipal sewer system. The effects of pouring grease into your sink drain are not limited to your home, and the cost of fixing those issues is monumental.

a plumber working on a pipe repair

Over time, as the mixture of grease and debris grows bigger, it will slow the wastewater inside the pipes to a point where debris routinely settles around the area.

Why is grease such a big problem for drainpipes?

Why you should never pour grease down the drain

  1. Effects of grease on your main sewer line

Grease is usually runny when you pour it into the sink because it is still warm. But once it reaches room temperature inside the drainpipes, it will solidify into a hard mass that is not easily transported by the water inside the drainpipes.

The now-solid grease can stick to the sides of pipes and trap debris contained in wastewater. If there are materials like wipes, eggshells, pads, condoms or paper towels inside the drain, these will also stick to the grease, making the problem worse.

Over time, as the mixture of grease and debris grows bigger, it will slow the wastewater inside the pipes to a point where debris routinely settles around the area. Given enough time, the entire pipe channel in that location can be blocked completely.

If this happens, your home will start to experience problems with slow drains; drains will be simultaneously slow across the entire home. If the blockage in your main sewer line is not found and removed, it may eventually lead to a sewer backup inside your house. 

Cleaning up a sewer backup in the home will cost anywhere from $100-$900, depending on the severity. This does not include the cost of fixing the damage to your home. The bill for those additional repairs can easily exceed ten thousand dollars.

But all these issues can be averted if you build the simple habit of getting rid of grease properly. Used-up grease should be put into a sealed container, such as a bottle, and allowed to cool before being put inside the trash can.

a sink bowl with water running.

If you accidentally pour a small amount of grease into your kitchen sink, follow it with hot water and a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.

   2. Effects of grease on municipal sewers

If grease finds its way out of your main sewer line into the city sewer line, it can cause even bigger problems. Just as it does inside your home’s drainpipes, grease will solidify when it enters the municipal sewer system.

But this time, the problem is at a massive dimension. That single blob of grease from your home will meet up and combine with blobs of grease from other people’s homes until they form a large hard mass inside the city sewers.

These huge masses of grease break down into fatty acids that combine with the calcium inside the wastewater in the sewer lines to form a soap-like compound known as a “fatberg.” Fatbergs can grow to enormous sizes – over a ton – inside municipal sewer systems.

Once in place, fatbergs will cause sewer backups that affect all the homes in a community. If the sewer backup in your home is due to fatbergs in the city sewers, cleaning your home’s main sewer line will not solve the problem.

Fatbergs can be cleared out of city sewers, but it takes weeks. This does not even consider the amount of damage fatbergs do to sewer pipes or the ecological impact of fat blobs finding their way into surrounding water bodies.

But solving this problem is as simple as preventing it. The way to do it is by making sure grease never finds its way into your home’s drains. You can do that by teaching everyone in your household to always dispose of used-up grease properly.

If you accidentally pour a small amount of grease into your kitchen sink, follow it with hot water and a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. This will not solve the problem, but it can help to reduce the impact of that grease on the drain system and the environment.