Sewer Inspection Los Angeles is a visual examination of pipes that carry wastewater. This is done with a camera that enters the lines through cleanouts. Symptoms of problems with sewer lines may include water backing up in sinks or toilets. Other problems are more serious and can affect the entire home or building.
Clogs
Clogs are the most common problem with sewer lines, and they can happen for a wide variety of reasons. Most of the time, a clog is caused by something that was flushed down a drain or toilet, such as menstrual products, paper towels, or even cooking grease. It can also be a result of dirt or silt that was washed into the pipe, or from roots that have grown into the pipes over time.
A professional plumber has many tools that they can use to remove a clog safely without damaging the pipes or sewer line. These tools include mini sewer line inspection cameras, augers (drain snakes), and professional-strength drain cleaners that can break up or dissolve the clog.
If you suspect a clog, it’s important to resolve it as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your home safe. If you try to clear the clog yourself and are unsuccessful, call in a plumber right away. They will have the tools and experience to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
It’s also important to have regular sewer inspections to catch problems before they cause major issues. Having a clogged or damaged sewer line can lead to serious plumbing problems throughout your home, including broken or cracked pipes, as well as basement flooding and other dangerous conditions.
The first step in a thorough sewer scope inspection is for a certified plumber to locate the home’s cleanouts. There are usually one or more cleanouts located near each drain, with the main cleanout being closest to where the sewer line exits the foundation of your home. The plumber will then connect a camera to the cleanout and insert it into the sewer line to find out what’s causing the clog.
If you’re thinking of selling your home, having a professional conduct a thorough sewer scope inspection can help you avoid costly repairs or maintenance that may be required by the new owners. A professional plumber can also recommend solutions for any problems that are discovered, so you can address them before they become a larger issue.
Broken Pipes
Sewer lines are designed to transfer waste materials from your home to the main line. These pipes are not indestructible, though. They can break and crack due to a number of reasons.
The most common reason for sewer line break is clogging. When silt builds up over time, it reduces the diameter of the pipe. This can cause a break when the high volume of sewage attempts to pass through this narrow space. Other causes of broken sewer lines include erosion, earthquakes, root intrusion, and wear and tear.
A broken sewer line that goes untreated can also lead to extreme problems such as foundation cracks, settlement, and even sinkholes. This usually happens when the leaking water wets the concrete and creates a void that will eventually collapse and damage the structure of your home or building.
If you notice a soggy or smelly spot in your yard, it could mean that your sewer line is clogged with debris and needs to be cleaned. A professional plumber will use a camera to determine the source of the problem and then choose the best way to clean it out.
Another symptom of a broken sewer line is if your toilets and showers seem to drain slower than usual. This is because the clogged or broken line is forcing waste back up through your drains instead of going down the line.
A final symptom of a broken sewer line is when you see patches of mold in your house. Mould thrives on moisture, and seeing it in your house means that your sewer line is not working properly and needs to be repaired. A professional plumbing service can help you resolve the issue and prevent it from happening again in the future. There are several options for fixing a broken sewer line, including trenchless technology. This method involves using a special camera to guide the way and only requires small incisions to repair your sewer line. Trenchless technology is much more affordable and environmentally friendly than traditional methods. It is a great option for homes that don’t want to deal with the cost or hassle of traditional repairs.
Root Invasion
When the roots of trees invading your sewer line clog the drain pipes, you may first notice slow drains and gurgling toilets. If left untreated, the problem will worsen and can lead to serious plumbing and property damage.
Invasive tree roots grow looking for water and nutrients. They penetrate even the tiniest cracks in your piping, drawing on the waste and water that passes through them into the home. Older homes with clay or cast iron piping are particularly susceptible to this type of damage. When the piping bursts, the roots can cause severe and expensive repairs.
If you are considering planting a tree on your property, be sure to ask how close it will be to the sewage line. The best option is to plant the tree at least 10 feet away from the line. If your property already has a large number of trees, have a professional conduct a sewer line video inspection periodically to ensure the roots don’t cause problems.
It is also a good idea to call 8-1-1 or Dig-Safe before starting any landscaping projects, especially those involving digging near the lines. These professionals will be able to map out the location of your sewer line and other underground utilities.
Root intrusion is the leading cause of clogged drains, and it can be difficult to resolve. In many cases, the best course of action is to hire a professional plumber who can use a US Jetting hydro jet to break up and wash away the root mass. Then the plumber can repair or replace the damaged pipe.
While you may be tempted to try DIY solutions like rock salt and foaming root killer, these products don’t work well on most pipes. If the roots have infiltrated a cracked or broken pipe, they will return and soon create a full-on blockage. In addition, chemical treatments are only effective for a short time and require repeated application. A professional plumber will have all the specialized equipment needed to get rid of roots and repair any leaks in your sewage system.
Leaks
A damaged or cracked sewer pipe can lead to leaking sewage, which poses serious health and safety concerns. It can also cause structural damage to your home and create expensive repairs.
A professional plumber can resolve your sewer leaks quickly and efficiently. He will start by inspecting the area for signs of a problem, such as wet or soggy spots in your yard or basement. He will then check the condition of the pipe by pushing a camera scope through the opening. This will allow him to see any cracks, blockages, or other damage that needs to be addressed.
Once the inspection is complete, your plumber will recommend the best course of action to repair the pipe. He may suggest patching the leak with epoxy or using a polyurethane liner to seal the entire length of the pipe. In some cases, the plumber might suggest replacing the entire pipe section.
Leaking sewer pipes can create a damp environment where mold and mildew thrive. It can also attract unwanted pests such as cockroaches and rodents. If left untreated, a leaking sewer can even damage your home’s foundation and lead to costly repairs.
While some homeowners try to fix a clogged drain or sewer leak on their own, it is always better to leave this type of work to the professionals. Without the right tools and training, you could cause further damage to your plumbing system and even worsen the original problem. A plumber will have the right equipment to handle any type of sewer repair job safely and effectively.
When purchasing a new home, getting a pre-purchase sewer inspection is highly recommended. This will give you a clear picture of the state of the sewer, so you can address any issues with the seller before moving in. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help you avoid expensive repairs in the future. Contact a professional plumber to schedule an appointment for a thorough sewer inspection and cleaning. He will inspect all of your home’s drains and sewer lines to find any potential problems that need to be resolved.