Follow These Three Tips and Reduce Your Sewer Maintenance Costs

Dealing with sewer issues is no one’s idea of a great time. Paying thousands of dollars to repair sewer issues is even worse. The good news is that by following these three tips, you could significantly reduce future sewer repair costs.

1. Have Your Drains Professional Cleaned on a Regular Basis
   One of the most common reasons for sewer line blockage is grease and oil building up. This does include food waste but it includes a lot more, such as soap scum. If you have the professionals regularly clean your drains, this can keep these minor clogs from turning into major problems.
   While drain cleaning is a great way to get rid of this build-up, note that you can avoid it in the first place by not pouring hot cooking grease down your drain. It may seem fine since it is in liquid form, but grease solidifies when it cools and can then turn into a sludge that can collect other debris and eventually lead to a serious blockage in the drains.
2. Do Not Install Landscaping Before Doing Research
   Tree roots can grow silently under the ground, breaking through subterranean pipes and causing serious blockages of sewage flow. This is what roots are made to do – they will naturally seek out whatever the closest source of water is. This may be wastewater within a sewer line. The roots will first problem, then breach, and then result in a serious line blockage.
   To prevent this issue, make sure you are not planting anything close to an area you know has a sewer line. If you are going to plant any type of tree or shrub, choose options that have shorter roots. Trees with smaller root systems include crape myrtles, amur maples, and many others. If you do notice that there is a root blockage, we can trim the roots with serious damage. Signs include slow-flowing drains, changes in water pressure, and clogs.
3. Pay Attention to the Cleanouts
   Your cleanouts are the best way to get direct access to your sewer line. They are generally located right outside a home in the yard – they are those white plastic-capped pipes that come out a few inches from the ground. Regular maintenance on these cleanouts can help keep your yard clean and smell-free. Check them every month or two to ensure they are full of water and that the caps are tight and secure. If you notice any smell, unscrew the cap and pour a small bit of bleach inside.

If you are in need of help with your sewer maintenance or repair contact Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing at (661) 947-2653. With our many years of experience and our full range of services, we can keep your sewer system in good shape for years to come.