Common Sewer Problems to Keep in Mind

Sewer problems are a common issue for many Arlington and greater DFW homeowners. From clogged drains to tree root intrusion, sewer problems can cause a variety of messy problems that can be difficult and expensive to fix.

Sewer problems can range from minor inconveniences to major disasters. Recognizing the early signs of these issues can help you avoid inconvenient plumbing disruptions and costly repairs in the future.

What Is a Sewer Line and How Does It Work?

If you live in a developed area, such as Arlington, your home is likely connected to the public sewer system via a sewer line. In Arlington, as in most places, the homeowner is primarily responsible for breakdowns, repairs and replacement of the plumbing lines (water and sewer) connecting their home to the public system.

A sewer line is a network of underground pipes that carry wastewater from your home to a municipal sewage treatment plant. Each home usually has their own line that connects to the main sewer line below the street, which carries wastewater to the treatment plant. The wastewater is then treated to remove all contaminants and released back into the environment and reused for various purposes.

Unfortunately, your home’s sewer line is susceptible to various problems, including pipe corrosion, blockages and pipe breakages. If you suspect a problem with your sewer line, don’t wait for matters to get worse. Contact a professional plumbing company as quickly as possible.

What Are Some Common Sewer Line Problems?

Clogged Drains

If your drains are clogged, it’s typically because there’s a buildup of debris, such as hair, soap scum, personal hygiene products and grease that have accumulated over time. If left untreated, these clogs can lead to pipe damage, foul odors and even flooding.

You also want to avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain as doing so is the easiest and fastest way to create blockages.

If you find yourself with a minor clog, you may be able to use DIY methods to break up the blockage. If these methods are ineffective, you may need to call a professional plumber who can clear the blockage using professional tools.

Some at-home remedies, like powerful chemical cleaners and snakes, are abrasive enough to damage certain types of pipes (especially if they’re older). Working with a professional can help ensure the cure isn’t more problematic than the drain clog itself.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots can easily infiltrate your pipes, causing them to crack, break or become blocked. When this happens, you’ll likely need costly repairs and even complete replacement of the damaged pipe. Tree root intrusion is most common in areas with shallow soils and high-water tables. If you suspect your trees’ roots may be encroaching on your plumbing system, take immediate action.

Regularly pruning your trees can control its growth, including the growth of roots, which may help reduce the risk of root intrusion.

Additionally, installing a physical barrier such as a metal sleeve around the pipe can help protect it from root intrusion. If tree roots have already infiltrated your pipes, you may need to use a chemical treatment to kill them off before they cause further damage.

In many cases, any tree root intrusion will compromise a sewer line and necessitate immediate replacement. There’s unfortunately no effective alternative once the damage has been done.

Pipe Corrosion

Pipe corrosion is a common and often inevitable issue with sewer lines in both industrial and residential settings.

Pipes made from active metals will corrode faster than those made from less active ones. This is because active metals, such as copper and aluminum easily oxidize or corrode in the presence of air and water. For example, copper pipes will corrode faster than stainless steel pipes when they are both exposed to water.

To prevent pipe corrosion, it’s best to use materials that are resistant to corrosion such as stainless steel or plastic pipes.

You should also invest in professional maintenance to detect early signs of damage or wear and tear on the pipes. If any damage is found, it should be repaired immediately before it leads to further problems down the line.

Do You Need Your Water and Sewer Line Replaced or Repaired?

If you’ve got a problem with your sewer line that you haven’t been able to fix, the highly trained technicians at Tom’s Mechanical, Inc. are here to help. Call 972-388-3669 to learn more about our sewer and water line services or browse our website for more information.