For residences, business, and towns, maintenance is extremely important. This seems like an obvious sentiment, but taking things like utilities for granted is pretty common. Modern life often seems to run itself, whether it’s our electricity, Internet, or plumbing. But the fact remains that all of these systems need regular maintenance to ensure their efficiency and the safety of those using them.
Just recently a sewer line in Macomb County, Detroit has become the subject of a lawsuit due to apparent neglect by the county agency, according to the city of Detroit. In late 2016 the line finally collapsed, creating a large sinkhole that threatens residential property. It’s reported that the sewer line has not been inspected since 2010. This example of a lack of maintenance is larger and more extreme than most cases, but it gets the point across that we need to be responsible with our utilities. When it comes to plumbing and sewer line repair there are a few basic things everyone should know.
1) When to Get Sewer Lines Inspected
The biggest factor in how often one should get their sewer line inspected is how much it’s used. For businesses in big cities, for instance, yearly inspection is recommended. For residences in smaller towns and suburbs, this can be reduced to every couple of years. Town and county governments often send workers to inspect these lines periodically so it’s not necessarily up to the homeowner to do so, though hiring a private agency can be more effective in the long run.
Aside from periodic inspection, there are some telling signs that indicate the need for sewer line repair. Clogged toilets, slow drainage, water build up in the shower, and unusual smells are all signs of a possible problem with your sewer line. While some of these issues might simply require drain cleaning, other situations might require rooter service or something more severe.
2) How to Prevent Sewer Problems
Even better than hiring a clogged drain service or sewer line repair service is preventing these issues in the first place. The best way to prevent sewer problems is to know what kinds of materials and activities cause them most frequently. Greasy materials are the number one culprit in sewer backup. This grease most commonly comes from cooking materials such as oils, fats, and butter. When an excess amount of grease is poured down a drain it eventually cools and congeals, blocking the flow of liquids and small materials meant to travel down the pipeline. Enough of this grease can cause serious damage. Instead of draining grease it’s best to allow it to cool and harden then remove it via garbage bag.
3) Why Sewer Lines are So Important
Sewage systems are certainly one of those things most of us take for granted each day, but they do so much for our health, sanitation, and sanity. Imagine how much effort it would take to manually dispose of all the fluid waste and material we use every day. Indeed, sewer lines make our lives incredibly efficient in this regard, which is why it’s so important to take care of them properly. When these lines are maintained, clean, and clear, we have the peace of mind that comes with knowing our waste will be quickly removed from our homes and businesses and safely handled at a sewage treatment plant far away.
Now you know the when, how, and why of sewer lines. By understanding the value and necessity of these systems you’re better equipped to prevent any potential problems and handle them properly when they arise. This is a great source for more.