If you’re like most homeowners in Elizabethtown, you rely on a sewer line to keep your home plumbing system intact. You may begin to notice when something isn’t right with your sewer line when water begins to back up into your sinks or your toilet starts to make a gurgling sound when it’s flushed.
Sewer lines get clogged over time due to inappropriate things being put down the sink or flushed down the toilet, which leaves a whole list of problems for your home. You’ll see dirty water, wastewater, and grease backing up through your drains. A thorough inspection of your sewer line can pinpoint the source of the problem and determine the solution to your woes.
Reasons to Get a Sewer Line Inspection
The reasons to get a sewer line inspection should not be only due to plumbing problems. Getting a sewer line inspection should be part of preventive plumbing maintenance. A good sewer line inspection can catch problems before they worsen. Below are some detailed reasons to get a sewer line inspection.
Your Home Is Old
Most homes built around the early 1900s used vitrified clay to build sewer pipes. The pipes were made using salt and clay during the firing process to produce smoother pipes. Some of these pipes are still in use today but have grown old and worn. Some may even have tree roots in them, which can cause cracks and blockages. A sewer line inspection can help determine if you need new pipes for your sewer line.
Your Plumbing Emits a Stinky Odor
Foul odors that come from your toilets or sinks are two of the most common signs that it’s time to get a sewer line inspection. A methane odor could mean that your sewer lines are clogged or are not ventilating properly. If you notice these things, call your plumber immediately.
A drop in Your Water Levels
Low water levels are usually a sign that your sewer lines need attention. The answer could be a clog, a tree root, or an issue with a pipe. A sewer line inspection can diagnose the problem.
Sewage Backup
If you notice excessive backup or clogging, your sewers could be to blame. It’s most likely due to a sewer line clog. You can take some basic prevention measures, such as not flushing anything down that isn’t waste or toilet paper. But if you start to notice wastewater or severe backflow, call a plumber immediately.
Problems With Your Septic Tank
Wastewater from a broken sewer pipe can form pools in your yard. This causes some health risks and can damage your home’s foundation. If you notice any standing water in your yard, it’s time to call the plumber. A sewer line inspection can uncover the source of the issue.
Measures to Take to Prevent Sewer Line Problems
If you take good care of your sewer line, it will take good care of you. There are some measures you can take on your own, such as not flushing anything other than solid waste or toilet paper down the toilet. Grease and solid foods should never go down your drain. These can lead to drain problems in the short term, but in the long run, they can contribute to a sewer line clog.
Blueprint for a Sewer Line Inspection
The following blueprint should give you an idea of what to look for in a sewer line inspection. Below are some tips to follow when getting a sewer line inspection.
Find Someone Who Has Experience
An experienced plumber has enough knowledge to detect any problems in your sewer line. You need someone with knowledge and a good reputation for fast, courteous service. Your provider should be able to perform a thorough inspection and pinpoint the problem in your sewer line.
Do Research on the Technology Used By the Company
The types of tools and technology being used have an impact on the type of inspection being done. Most companies use a flexible borescope camera that allows them to record videos and take pictures of the problem. Do some research on the brand name of the camera and find out if it provides accurate, real-time footage of the problem. Also, ask if you can get a detailed report of the issue in your sewer lines.
Check Licensing and Certification
All plumbers should be licensed and certified. This ensures that they are trained and qualified to provide the services needed for your sewer line. A good company should have solid insurance coverage to protect you and your property if damages are done while the professional is on the job.
Consider Level of Customer Service
Good customer service that’s reliable and accurate is a top priority. Since anything can happen with your sewer lines, it’s important to look for a company that provides 24-hour service. This includes emergency service from knowledgeable professionals when you need it.
Shop Around and Compare Prices
Saving money is a goal for most of us. Therefore, it’s important to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth when it comes to home repairs. When shopping for a company that provides sewer line inspections, consider the cost. Think about how much money you want to spend to get an inspection on your sewer line. With a little research, you can find a good price and still get quality service. If you’re unsure of a company’s reputation, do a Google search. Star ratings and customer reviews have a lot to say about quality.
Research the Company
Ask your friends, family, and neighbors about a specific company. Popular social media sites like Facebook are another excellent way to ask for recommendations. You can also do a Google search. Take note of star reviews and read what other customers have to say. This should give you an idea of the quality of service you’d get from a specific company. Shop around and make comparisons with other providers.
What Else Should You Know About Sewer Line Inspections?
A sewer line inspection takes time and preparation. The first thing you should do is clear a space around your sewer line. Pick up branches, remove debris, and move all other items away from the area. Allow the technician easy access to the area so they can start the inspection immediately.
Furthermore, you should turn off faucets, fixtures, and appliances that use water to prevent further water backup. This helps keep everything clear during the inspection.
A sewer line that’s in working order is good for your indoor plumbing. Your sewer line protects your water quality by taking dirty water from your home and moving it into a septic tank or treatment facility. At Absolute Services, we serve the Louisville, Lexington, and Elizabethtown, KY metro areas. We offer a variety of services other than sewer line inspections. We provide heating, cooling, plumbing, garage door repair, and electrical repair services. Contact our sewer line inspection professionals today.
