Tuesday, February 24th, 2015

Clogged Sewer? Avoid Costly Mistakes When Choosing A Plumber For Sewer Cleaning/Repair

Absurdly low rates – Be wary of companies charging low, low fees for sewer work. While you may find a reputable plumber dropping rates temporarily as an honest incentive (see our coupon), an unbelievably low rate may only be in place to gain access to your premises, with add-ons sure to follow. Sewer jobs are labor intense, complicated, and occasionally require two men. Don’t let the $89 sewer cleaning offer lead you to a $9,000 sewer replacement.

Using the right tools. Getting cost-effective results – Typically, sewer lines are 4 – 6 inches in diameter. If the plumber has to clear the line, a 6 inch saw blade is necessary to do an effective job. Make sure that the plumber is using either a 5/8 inch or 3/4 inch cable with a 4 inch or 6 inch cutter blade respectively, to fully cut out any roots. Using a smaller cable or smaller cutting blade is not effective. A company using the wrong size cable and/or cutting blade may be trying to get you to pay for a camera inspection so that you can see that their attempt to clear the line was unsuccessful. This is a stage-setter for you to potentially pay thousands more to re-line the sewer or dig it up and replace it. Before you commit your sewer needs to a plumbing company, be sure to ask what size cable and cutters they use for sewer mains. If they are using inadequate equipment, wouldn’t it make you wonder how serious they are to clear your sewer line?

The Allied solution – Use the proper equipment the first time to solve the problem. After all attempts to clear the sewer have been exhausted, you may still have to dig up and replace the line, but we’ll give it a full-hearted attempt to open the sewer line using state of the art equipment before ever expanding the project.

BONUS: USE OUR 20% OFF SEWER CLEANING COUPON
We’re out to earn your business – not give you the business. GET COUPON

Root Removal Highlights:
• Labor level: Complex
• Cost: $230+
• Use online reviews: See what customers are saying
• Recommended tools: 4 or 6 inch cutting saw machine (an auger that chews through clogs)
• Optional tools: Sewer camera, high-pressure water jet
• Sewer Cleaning Cost Calculator: (calculation does not include state sales tax)
http://www.homewyse.com/services/cost_to_clean_sewer_line.html

Be informed: Tree roots are a big culprit in sewer clogs and cracks
In the world of plumbing, trees are like icebergs: Beautiful above ground and treacherous below. Tree roots require a reliable water source and nutrient-rich sewer drainage is a favorite. In Cincinnati’s older neighborhoods, sewer lines are commonly made of cast iron or clay tile sections that fit together in an overlapping manner. Over time, freezing and thawing cycles can cause the joints to loosen and provide an inlet for invasive roots (weeping willow and sycamore trees are common problem trees in this region).

Over time, the roots grow inside the sewer lines and create blockages, causing wet spots in the yard, basement backups, and clogged toilets.

According to The Family Handyman, homeowners have 
three options when roots have invaded the sewage system:

Attempt to self-treat the roots – Use a natural approach such as “blue vitriol” crystals (also known as copper sulfate). Copper sulfate is commonly available from your plumber, usually in 1 pound plastic bags. Purchase the crystals (not the powder), which are slow to dissolve, will remain in your system long enough to eliminate roots in your lines but will not kill your tree. Note: A plumber may be needed to clear the initial clog. Copper sulfate is an excellent preventive maintenance approach. Flush 1 pound of the crystals down the toilet regularly (e.g., 3-4 times/year), as the last flush of the evening (or before going away on a long weekend).

Cut down all your trees – Unrealistic and costly, but effective.

Call a professional plumber, with a sewer machine – Ask if they also have a sewer camera and a high-pressure water jet available too. If needed, they can use the camera to scope the problem, determine the extent of the damage, and recommend an action plan.

Typically, a sound plan includes:
• Commercial auger – Clears the lines
• Damaged line – A reliable plumber excavates & replaces the old line with new (e.g., plastic).
• Chemical treatment – (like copper sulfate) to kill problematic roots (no damage to tree).

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of any plumber performing work at your home or business. The best ones will appreciate your curiosity and will be very willing to explain the work to you. Satisfied customers are always the goal.

Water You Waiting For? If you suspect tree roots are blocking your outbound sewage, call Ray today for an instant sewer cleaning quote that you can trust. His skilled and trustworthy team of plumbers has state-of-the-art equipment and the professional skills needed to clear or replace your sewer lines, typically in less than a day. Call 513-396-5300 for a free consultation.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service