As a homeowner in California, it’s important to keep your drains and sewer lines clean and well-maintained to avoid costly repairs and health hazards. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about drain and sewer drain cleaning and maintenance, including common problems, prevention measures, and FAQs.

Common Drain and Sewer Problems

Clogged Drains

One of the most common problems homeowners face is clogged drains. This can happen in sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and other plumbing fixtures. Common causes of clogged drains include hair, grease, food waste, soap scum, and foreign objects.

Sewer Line Blockages

A sewer line blockage can cause wastewater to back up into your home, leading to unpleasant odors and health hazards. Common causes of sewer line blockages include tree roots, debris buildup, and damaged pipes.

Corrosion

Over time, pipes can corrode and deteriorate, leading to leaks and other problems. Corrosion is more common in older homes with galvanized pipes.

Prevention Measures

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the key to preventing drain and sewer problems. This includes flushing your drains with hot water once a week, using a drain strainer to prevent debris from entering your pipes, and avoiding pouring grease down your drains.

Proper Disposal

Proper disposal of household waste can also help prevent drain and sewer problems. Avoid flushing non-degradable items down your toilet, and dispose of hazardous waste, such as paint and chemicals, properly.

Professional Cleaning

Professional drain and sewer cleaning can also help prevent problems. A licensed plumber can inspect your pipes and use specialized tools to remove debris buildup and blockages.

FAQs

Q: How often should I have my drains cleaned?

A: It’s recommended to have your drains cleaned once a year to prevent clogs and other problems.

Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unclog my drains?

A: Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to your pipes and the environment. It’s best to use natural methods or contact a professional plumber for assistance.

Q: How can I tell if my sewer line is clogged?

A: Signs of a clogged sewer line include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, and unpleasant odors. If you suspect a problem with your sewer line, contact a licensed plumber immediately.

Q: Can I prevent corrosion in my pipes?

A: Regular maintenance, proper disposal of household waste, and professional cleaning can all help prevent corrosion in your pipes.  But are they foolproof?  No.   Eventually, things wear out.  The inner surface of a pipe can become rough, and even snag material that creates eventual build up, and even clogs.  There is also the problem of Roots from trees wrapping around a pipe and shifting it or even entering the pipe.  When any of that happens, the solution is to fix it. 

Unlike most other plumbing companies, we have solutions that can clear roots in pipes, descale the inner walls of a pipe to like new.  It’s really something!  Contact us to day about it, we can bring out our sewer camera and film the whole cleaning and clearing process.

Q: What should I do if I have a sewer line blockage?

A: If you have a sewer line blockage, contact a licensed plumber immediately. Attempting to unclog the blockage yourself can cause further damage to your pipes.