WHAT IF MY SEWAGE LINE IS BLOCKED
Many options are now available.
There was a time when this could have been a very time consuming expensive repair. Now, technology and advanced optics and cleaning systems are available. Many times its simply “snaking out” the sewer line however, there are instances when this is not enough. Digging up lawns, removing trees/shrubs or even cutting driveways now is not necessary.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF SEWER BLOCKAGE
There are primarily 2 causes of sewage line blockage, the first being debris in the line and the second is root intrusion. There are other types of sewer line blockages that are not so common but, must be considered. They are settlement in the line which can cause the line to be negatively inverted. Secondly, we must consider that something has penetrated the line and caused an intrusion of dirt into the sewer line. One other is that the pipe which was manually connected at each end has separated also causing intrusion or blockage.
Root intrusion is common where plants, trees, shrubs have been planted to close to the main sewer line and over a period of time these roots find there way into this system.
Although most sewer lines are buried deeper than 2 feet underground, a fence post, new tree, etc can cause the line to be penetrated. Once this occurs, dirt works its way into the line and over a period of time can have the same effect as a towel down the drain.
Finally, a connection between 2 pieces of pipe may separate allowing dirt into the line with the same effect as noted above.
WHAT ARE THE SEWER LINE REPAIR TECHNIQUES
Let’s start out with the “Snake Out” procedure. This is the most common because it is highly effective on the most common types of sewer line blockage. This clearing technique is relatively inexpensive and very reliable. An electric motor turns a housing holding a flexible, high tensile cable. A “Cutting Head” is attached at the opposite end of the cable, as the motor turns, the cable is spun into the drain line thus “cutting" through the sewer line obstruction.
Root intrusion was noted by the EPA as probably the “single most destructive element in maintaining wastewater collection”. Untreated the roots will spread throughout the sewer pipe with complete blockage. Once, the roots are allowed to grow they will cause penetrations in the line and almost certainly requiring removal of the old sewer line and Installation of a new drain line. Mechanical root cutting systems “Temporarily” treat this problem. Eventually the roots will start a vigorous re-growth. Like pruning a tree, this does not resolve the problem.
HOW CAN I PREVENT THIS PROBLEM
Proper regular maintenance is the only sure way to keep your plumbing system inside and outside your home in proper working condition.
Cleaning of traps, drains, water heaters, faucets etc will keep debris which can damage your homes sewer piping.
Also, remember to avoid planting on or near the main sewer drain and not to dig or drive stakes into the ground near the drain line.
General Air & Plumbing
Sewage Block
239.591.2909 - Naples
239.482.0034 - Fort Myers
