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Category: Sewer

Your home’s plumbing system is a network of hidden heroes, working tirelessly to keep things flowing smoothly. But what happens when one of these heroes, your main sewer line, starts showing signs of distress? It may be time for a main line sewer replacement to prevent frustrating backups, foul odors, and potential health hazards.

If you suspect your main sewer line needs replacement, this blog post is here to guide you through the process. We’ll explore the signs of a failing sewer line, the factors affecting replacement costs, and the steps involved in the project.

Signs Your Main Line Sewer Needs Help:

  • Frequent Backups: This is the most obvious sign of trouble. If your drains are backing up regularly, especially in multiple locations, it could indicate a blockage or damage to your main sewer line.
  • Slow Drains: Drains that take an unusually long time to empty could be a sign of a partial blockage or a failing sewer line.
  • Foul Odors: Sewer gases escaping from a damaged or clogged line can cause unpleasant odors in your drains and even your home.
  • Settling Foundation: A damaged sewer line can cause the ground around it to settle, potentially leading to cracks in your foundation.
  • Soggy or Patchy Lawn: Sewage leaks from a damaged line can cause unusually lush patches or damp areas in your yard.

Before We Dig: Stats to Consider

The cost of a main line sewer replacement can vary depending on several factors. Here are some key stats to consider:

  • National Average: According to the HomeAdvisor, the national average cost for main sewer line replacement is between $3,000 and $10,000.
  • Length of Line: The length of your main sewer line is a significant cost factor. Longer lines require more excavation work, translating to higher costs.
  • Material: The material of your sewer line can also influence the price. Cast iron and clay pipes are typically more expensive to replace than PVC pipes.
  • Accessibility: The ease of accessing your sewer line plays a role. If your line runs under a driveway or landscaping features, the project becomes more complex and expensive.
  • Local Permits and Regulations: Always factor in the cost of obtaining any necessary permits and adhering to local regulations for sewer line replacement.

Planning Your Main Sewer Line Replacement:

Once you’ve determined that replacing your main sewer line is necessary, here’s what to expect:

  • Consultation: A licensed plumber will assess your situation, identify the problem, and provide a detailed estimate for the replacement project.
  • Locating the Sewer Line: Before digging begins, your plumber will use specialized equipment to locate the exact path of your sewer line. This prevents unnecessary damage to underground utilities.
  • Excavation: Depending on the location of your sewer line, trenching or other excavation methods may be used to access the pipe for replacement.
  • Sewer Line Removal: The old sewer line will be carefully removed and disposed of properly.
  • New Sewer Line Installation: The new sewer line, typically made of durable PVC material, will be installed according to local codes and regulations.
  • Backfilling and Restoration: Once the new line is in place, the trench will be backfilled, and any disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition.
  • Inspection and Testing: The new sewer line will be inspected and tested to ensure proper functionality and adherence to codes.

Partnering with a Professional for Main Line Sewer Replacement:

Replacing your main sewer line is a significant project. Here’s why partnering with a licensed and experienced plumber is crucial:

  • Expertise: Qualified plumbers understand local regulations and have the expertise to handle complex sewer line replacements efficiently and safely.
  • Permits and Inspections: They can navigate the permitting process and ensure your project complies with all local codes and regulations.
  • Safety: Replacing sewer lines involves excavation and potential exposure to sewage. Professional plumbers prioritize safety and take the necessary precautions to protect your property and your health.
  • Quality Materials and Workmanship: They will use high-quality materials and ensure the replacement is done to the highest standards.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers resources on proper septic system maintenance. By working with a qualified plumber and following best practices, you can ensure your new sewer line functions efficiently and protects public health.

Investing in a Long-Term Solution

While replacing your main sewer line might seem like a daunting task, it’s an investment in the safety, hygiene, and longevity of your home. With proper planning and expert help, the process can be completed efficiently and minimize disruption to your daily life.

Taking Action: Next Steps for Main Line Sewer Replacement

If you suspect a problem with your main sewer line, don’t hesitate to take action. Here are some steps to get started:

  • Schedule a Consultation: Contact a reputable plumbing company for a consultation. A licensed plumber can assess the situation, diagnose the problem, and provide a detailed estimate for the replacement project. Ask questions about their experience with sewer line replacements, the materials they use, and their warranty policies.
  • Gather Information: Do some research online to understand the average costs associated with sewer line replacement in your area. This will help you compare estimates and make informed decisions.
  • Get Multiple Estimates: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Obtain estimates from several qualified plumbers to compare pricing and services offered.
  • Check Credentials and Insurance: Ensure the plumber you choose is licensed, insured, and bonded. This protects you in case of any unforeseen issues during the project.
  • Read Reviews and Ask for References: Read online reviews from previous customers and ask the plumbers for references. This can give you valuable insights into their work ethic and customer service.

Contact Action Plumbing for Main Line Sewer Replacement

While replacing your main sewer line might be an unexpected expense, it’s a necessary investment in your home. A working sewer line is important for your plumbing system, property value, and health of your family. By choosing a qualified plumber and following the steps outlined above, you can navigate this project with confidence and ensure a long-lasting solution for your home’s plumbing needs.

Call us at (801) 255-3343 or visit us for a free consultation and learn about our promotions.

A functioning sewer system is often taken for granted until the unthinkable happens – a sewer backup emergency. Raw sewage flooding your basement is not only a disgusting mess, but it also poses a serious health hazard. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses.

If you find yourself facing a sewer backup emergency, don’t panic! Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is here to help you navigate this stressful situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prioritize safety, minimize damage, and get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety

Sewage contamination poses a significant health risk. Before taking any action, ensure the safety of yourself and your family:

  • Evacuate the area: Immediately evacuate the flooded area and keep children and pets away.
  • Turn off the water: Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn off the water supply to your home. This will prevent further sewage from entering your basement.
  • Open windows and doors: If safe to do so, open windows and doors to promote ventilation and reduce lingering odors.
  • Wear protective gear: If you must enter the flooded area, put on protective clothing like rubber boots, gloves, and a face mask to protect yourself from harmful bacteria.

Step 2: Contain the Spill

Once you’ve ensured safety, focus on minimizing the spread of sewage:

  • Block drains: If possible, use sandbags or towels to block drains to prevent sewage from backing up into other areas of your home.
  • Contain the spill: Use towels, blankets, or plastic sheeting to create a barrier around the flooded area. This will help prevent sewage from spreading to other parts of your basement.

Step 3: Assess the Damage

Once the situation is under control, take a moment to assess the damage:

  • Document the damage: Take pictures and videos of the flooding and any damaged belongings. This documentation will be crucial when filing an insurance claim.
  • Identify the source: If possible, try to identify the source of the backup. This could be a clog in your sewer line, a problem with the main sewer line, or tree root intrusion.
  • Discard contaminated items: Porous materials like carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture that have come into contact with sewage should be discarded.

Step 4: Call a Professional Plumber

Sewer backups are complex issues best handled by licensed professionals. Here’s why calling Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is the best course of action:

  • Expertise: Our experienced plumbers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to diagnose the cause of the backup and provide a lasting solution.
  • Emergency Services: We offer 24/7 emergency services to address your sewer backup quickly and efficiently, minimizing damage and downtime.
  • Safe Cleanup: Properly cleaning and sanitizing a sewage backup requires specialized equipment and training. Our team can safely remove sewage and ensure your basement is thoroughly disinfected.
  • Preventative Measures: Our plumbers can also assess your plumbing system and recommend preventative measures to reduce the risk of future backups.

Step 5: Dealing with Your Insurance Company

If your sewer backup caused significant damage, you may need to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance. The documentation you collected in step 3 will be helpful in this process:

  • Contact your insurance company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and explain the situation.
  • File a claim: Follow your insurance company’s instructions for filing a claim. Be prepared to provide details about the incident and the extent of the damage.
  • Work with your adjuster: Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be sure to cooperate and answer any questions they may have.

Preventing Sewer Backup Emergency: An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

While sewer backups can be stressful, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

  • Avoid flushing non-flushable items: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Grease, coffee grounds, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene products can clog your sewer line.
  • Treat your garbage disposal wisely: Don’t overload your garbage disposal with greasy or fibrous materials.
  • Regular maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance of your sewer line by a qualified plumber.
  • Invest in drain guards: Use drain guards in your sinks and showers to catch hair and other debris that can contribute to clogs.
  • Be mindful of tree roots: Tree roots can invade sewer lines and cause blockages.

Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric: Your Partner in Sewer Backup Emergencies

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we understand that a sewer backup emergency are a stressful and unpleasant experience. That’s why we offer comprehensive solutions to help you navigate this emergency situation:

  • 24/7 Emergency Response: We have a team of experienced plumbers available 24/7 to respond to your emergency quickly.
  • Expert Diagnosis: Our plumbers will use their expertise to diagnose the cause of the backup and recommend the most effective solution.
  • Safe and Efficient Cleanup: We use advanced equipment and techniques to safely remove sewage and thoroughly disinfect your basement, minimizing health risks.
  • Insurance Assistance: We can help you navigate the insurance claim process by providing detailed reports and documentation.
  • Preventative Maintenance: We offer preventative sewer line maintenance services to identify potential problems before they escalate into backups.

Don’t Let a Sewer Backup Emergency Ruin Your Day!

A sewer backup can be a daunting experience, but with the right help, you can get your home back to normal quickly and safely. Don’t hesitate to contact Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric at the first sign of a sewer backup. Our team of experienced plumbers is here to help you every step of the way.

Contact us today for emergency services or to schedule a preventative sewer line inspection:

Remember, a prompt response to a sewer backup can minimize damage and prevent health risks. With Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric by your side, you can face this challenge with confidence.

Sewer systems quietly remove wastewater, keeping our communities clean and healthy. They are important for modern sanitation. But did you know that not all sewers are created equal? At Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric, we explain the different types of sewers and help you understand how they are different. If you own a home, business, or property, knowing about sewer systems can help you in maintaining, repairing, and upgrading them.

Understanding sewer systems is important for making informed decisions about maintenance, addressing problems, and enhancing the system. It is beneficial to be knowledgeable about sewer systems to make wise choices when it comes to upkeep, repairs, and upgrades.

Types of Sewers

1. Sanitary Sewers

Sanitary sewers carry wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, and drains to treatment plants. They are also called foul sewers or wastewater sewers. These sewers carry “greywater” – water that comes from sources other than toilets – as well as “blackwater” – water containing human waste. Sanitary sewers are typically separate from storm sewers to prevent contamination during heavy rainfall or flooding events.

2. Storm Sewers

Storm sewers, as the name suggests, are dedicated to managing excess rainwater and surface runoff. They collect rainwater from streets, parking lots, and other paved surfaces, directing it away from buildings and into natural bodies of water or stormwater management systems. Unlike sanitary sewers, storm sewers do not handle wastewater from sinks or toilets. Instead, they focus solely on mitigating the risks of urban flooding and water pollution caused by stormwater runoff.

3. Combined Sewers

Combined sewers are a hybrid system that integrates both sanitary and storm sewer functions into a single network. These sewers collect both wastewater and stormwater runoff, transporting them to treatment plants or discharge points. While combined sewers offer cost savings by consolidating infrastructure, they can pose environmental challenges during heavy rainfall or snowmelt, leading to sewer overflows and contamination of waterways.

4. Sewer Laterals

Sewer laterals, also known as service laterals or house connections, are the pipes that connect individual properties to the main sewer lines. These lateral pipes are responsible for conveying wastewater from homes and businesses to the municipal sewer system. Proper maintenance of sewer laterals is essential to prevent blockages, leaks, and backups that can cause property damage and health hazards.

Why Understanding Sewer Types Matters

Understanding the different types of sewers is essential for property owners and managers for several reasons:

  • Maintenance Planning: Knowing the type of sewer system on your property allows you to develop targeted maintenance plans and allocate resources effectively.
  • Risk Management: Awareness of potential sewer issues, such as combined sewer overflows or stormwater backups, enables proactive measures to mitigate risks and protect property and public health.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with local regulations and environmental standards regarding sewer management and wastewater discharge is crucial for avoiding fines and penalties.

Contact Us Today

Whether you’re dealing with a sewer repair, upgrade, or routine maintenance, Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric is here to help. Contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable technicians and schedule a sewer inspection or service appointment.

With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to keep your sewer system running smoothly and efficiently. Act now to prevent sewer problems from getting worse. Make sure your property’s sewer system is working properly.

Your home’s sewer lines are essential for maintaining a clean and functional plumbing system. However, over time, these underground pipes can deteriorate, leading to leaks, blockages, and other costly problems. If you’re experiencing issues with your sewer lines, don’t wait until it’s too late. Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric is here to provide expert sewer lining near me. With our advanced techniques and experienced technicians, we can revitalize your sewer system and restore it to optimal condition.

Understanding Sewer Lining

Sewer lining, also known as trenchless sewer repair or cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, is a modern and non-invasive method for repairing damaged or deteriorating sewer lines.

Instead of digging up the old pipes and replacing them, sewer lining involves inserting a flexible liner coated with epoxy resin into the existing pipes. The liner is placed inside the old pipe and filled with air to harden it, creating a new strong pipe.

This method is known as sewer lining. It is a cost-effective solution for repairing broken or old sewer pipes without the need for excavation. Sewer lining is a cheap and effective way to fix broken or old sewer pipes without digging up the ground.

This process involves inserting a flexible liner coated with resin into the existing pipe, which is then inflated and cured in place. The result is a seamless, durable lining that effectively seals cracks, holes, and other defects in the pipe, preventing leaks and improving overall flow.

At Action Plumbing, our skilled technicians use the latest sewer lining techniques for high-quality, long-lasting repairs. We use state-of-the-art equipment and materials to complete the job quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruption to your home or business. Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a major blockage, our sewer lining services can help restore your plumbing system to full functionality.

Don’t let sewer line issues disrupt your daily routine or cause costly damage to your property. Contact Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric today to schedule professional sewer lining services near you. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will assess your needs, provide a detailed estimate, and get to work promptly to resolve your sewer problems.

Benefits of Sewer Lining Near Me

Opting for sewer lining offers numerous benefits for homeowners, including:

  1. Cost-Effective: Sewer lining eliminates the need for extensive excavation, reducing labor and material costs associated with traditional pipe replacement methods.
  2. Minimally Invasive: With trenchless sewer lining, there’s no need to disrupt your landscaping or driveway. The process is quick, clean, and minimally disruptive to your daily life.
  3. Durable and Long-Lasting: The epoxy resin used in sewer lining creates a smooth and corrosion-resistant surface that can extend the lifespan of your sewer lines by decades.
  4. Versatility: Sewer lining can repair a wide range of issues, including cracks, leaks, root intrusion, and joint separation, making it a versatile solution for various plumbing problems.

Why Choose Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric for Sewer Lining Near Me

When it comes to your home’s plumbing, you need a trusted partner who can deliver reliable solutions and exceptional service. Here’s why Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric is the right choice for sewer lining near you:

  • Experience: With years of experience in the plumbing industry, our technicians are highly skilled in performing sewer lining installations with precision and expertise.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: We utilize advanced trenchless technology and cutting-edge equipment to ensure efficient and effective sewer lining results.
  • Quality Assurance: At Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric, we stand behind the quality of our workmanship and materials. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations on every job.
  • Convenient Scheduling: We understand that plumbing issues can arise at any time. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs and minimize disruption to your daily routine.

Contact Us Today

Don’t let damaged sewer lines disrupt your home or drain your finances. Trust the experts at Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric for professional sewer lining near me. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced technicians and take the first step towards restoring your sewer system to optimal condition. With Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your plumbing is in capable hands.

 Give us a call today for a free estimate! (801) 255-3343

In the realm of home maintenance and protection, there are certain measures that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. One such crucial element is the sewer shut-off valve.

Understanding the importance of maintenance in your home can prevent disasters and expensive repairs in the future. It may not be exciting, but it is necessary for saving money and avoiding problems. At Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric, we want to help protect your home. Installing a sewer shut-off valve is a smart choice to keep your property safe and secure.

What is a Sewer Shut-Off Valve?

A sewer shut-off valve, also known as a mainline backwater valve or a mainline sewer gate valve, is a mechanical device installed in the main sewer line of a property. It stops sewage from coming back into your home if there’s a blockage or sewer overflow. Essentially, it acts as a barrier, automatically closing when it detects a reverse flow of sewage, thus preventing costly and unsanitary damage to your property.

Why You Need a Sewer Shut-Off Valve

Imagine coming home to find your basement flooded with raw sewage due to a city sewer backup or a blockage in your main sewer line. The damage caused by such an incident can be catastrophic, resulting in extensive property damage, health hazards, and expensive cleanup and repair costs. However, with a sewer shut-off valve in place, you can significantly reduce the risk of such disasters.

Here are some compelling reasons why investing in a sewer shut-off valve is a smart decision for any homeowner:

  1. Property Protection: A sewer shut-off valve provides an extra layer of protection for your home, preventing sewage from entering and damaging your property.
  2. Cost Savings: The cost of installing a sewer shut-off valve is minimal compared to the potential expenses associated with sewer backup cleanup and repairs. It’s a small investment that can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
  3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home is equipped with a sewer shut-off valve offers peace of mind, especially during heavy rainfalls or when you’re away from home for an extended period.
  4. Compliance: In some areas, installing a sewer shut-off valve may be required by local building codes or municipal regulations. By ensuring compliance, you not only protect your property but also avoid potential fines or penalties.

Why Choose Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric?

At Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric, we understand the importance of safeguarding your home against unforeseen plumbing emergencies. With decades of experience serving homeowners in [Your Location], we have earned a reputation for excellence in plumbing services, including sewer shut-off valve installation.

When you choose us, you can expect:

  • Expertise: Our team of licensed plumbers is highly skilled and knowledgeable in all aspects of plumbing installation and repair, including sewer shut-off valves.
  • Quality Products: We only use top-quality materials and products from trusted manufacturers to ensure the reliability and longevity of our installations.
  • Exceptional Service: Customer satisfaction is our top priority. From the initial consultation to the final installation, we strive to deliver outstanding service and exceed your expectations.

Contact Us Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your home and your investment with a sewer shut-off valve from Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plumbers and take the first step towards securing your property against Utah plumbing emergencies. With Action Plumbing Heating, Air & Electric, you can rest easy knowing that your home is in good hands. Reach out today!

There are a few possible plumbing issues in your home or building that may require both immediate action and some long-term care approaches, and a good example here is a concern no one wants to deal with: A toilet that’s overflowing water. There are some early steps you should take here to prevent immediate risks like flooding and water damage, but once you’ve managed to stop the actual overflowing from happening, there are also a few general steps – including those involving professional plumbers – that are required to fully remedy the situation.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to help. We offer not only a wide range of toilet repair services from the best plumbers in Salt Lake City, but also 24/7 emergency plumbing services in cases of toilet overflow or other forms of water damage you’re having trouble mitigating. Whether on your own or with the assistance of our plumbers, what are the basic steps to stopping a toilet that’s overflowing, plus what should you do once you’ve managed to stop the overflow effect? Here’s a primer.

Lid Removal

Before we dig into the specifics here, we wanted to drive home one big theme: Immediate action is very important when you notice an overflow toilet. This is not an issue that can be left until later, as it risks major flooding and water damage in both the bathroom where the toilet is located and the rest of your home, particularly the areas below that bathroom.

The first step to take when a toilet is overflowing is to carefully remove the toilet lid from the tank. This requires no screwdrivers or nails – all you have to do is lift it up. Simply set it aside in a secured location, but don’t worry about laying it down on towels or any other laborious process, as this will just waste time.

Flapper Valve

Next up, you need to reach down into the toilet tank and press down on the flapper valve. This refers to a rubber piece, usually black or dark-colored, that sits in the bottom-center of your tank. The flapper is what opens and closes to allow water into the bowl – by holding it down, you will be stopping more water from entering and, therefore, overflowing.

Some choose to wear gloves while doing this, but this technically isn’t really necessary. While it’s true that sanitation is always important around the toilet, the upper toilet tank contains clean, sanitary water that has not been exposed to any human waste.

Tank Fill Valve

From here, once your flapper valve is secured and will stay closed, you need to lift up on the float that operates what’s known as your tank fill valve. This is the main water supply to the tank itself, and the water levels inside your bowl will change in coordination with this feature. When this water source is cut off, the bowl should begin to see a slow drop in water level.

If this happens within 60 seconds or so, you can usually release the tank fill valve float and let the bowl refill naturally – the issue is usually solved here. However, in other cases, the water level will not drop here; in this case, you need to continue to hold the float while you use the toilet supply valve – which is near the floor or the wall behind the toilet – to completely turn off the water supply. This is done by turning the toilet supply valve as far as you can clockwise. You may need someone to help you with this, as some toilet supply valves will be far enough away that you won’t be able to twist them while also holding down the float.

Actions Once Toilet Stops Overflowing

Once you’ve managed to get the toilet to stop overflowing, meaning you’ve mitigated the immediate flooding and water damage risks that were present, you can move toward diagnosing the actual issue that caused the overflow to begin with. Again, this is often a concern where homeowners will call on our plumbers to assist them with – but if you’re particularly handy and want to take a shot at this process yourself, here are some basic areas to attend to:

  • First and foremost, stop the use of all plumbing fixtures (sinks, toilets, laundry machines, etc.) while you look to diagnose the issue. You may have solved the flooding concern in the toilet in question, but it’s possible the larger culprit that caused it is still present within your system. Let everyone in the home know they should not use any fixtures for now.
  • One of the most common issues that may cause this sort of overflowing is a blockage somewhere in the drain – for this reason, a first step here is to use a plunger or drain snake to attempt to clear the clog, especially if gurgling noises or other clear signs of a blockage are present.
  • If a toilet clog is not the problem, start moving from fixture to fixture in the home. Start on your fixtures in the bathroom and then work your way upward in the home – if possible, have another person present to see if anything happens on the lower floors while you’re looking at upper-floor toilets and drains.
  • In some cases where these initial methods aren’t solving the problem, you may have a backup in your system drain, a failing septic field, or other issues with your main sewer line. In these cases, you’ll need to contact our plumbers for a more involved remediation.

For more on how to remedy an overflowing toilet, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC services in Salt Lake City, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the common reasons why your bathroom, and specifically your toilet, is letting off foul odors well beyond the normal scope. The toilet doesn’t always smell great based on its common uses, but there are situations where significant odors will linger well beyond their normal levels, even when it’s been hours in between uses, and these often signal damage or other issues taking place.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re happy to offer numerous toilet repair and related services for those experiencing any issues with this vital plumbing fixture. What are some of the other possible causes of these foul sewage odors in or around your toilet, and how can you both be rid of them and be sure they aren’t signaling a larger problem that needs to be remedied? Part two of our series will look at these areas in detail.

Bacteria Presence

One toilet odor issue that’s a bit less common in Utah due to the dry air, but still may take place at times, is the presence of bacteria that makes its way up through the toilet and into your breathing air. These bacteria are most prone to this effect during humid conditions – this means if you’re able to keep your bathroom relatively dry, like the state itself, you should be able to avoid this concern.

If you determine a humid bathroom space has allowed these bacteria up through your sewer system, bleach is the primary solution. Pour it into the overflow pipe or the flush valve of your system, rather than the bowl itself, as this will ensure it hits the entire system.

P-Trap or Vent Pipe Concerns

Under your sink and/or toilet in the bathroom, there’s a section of piping called the P-Trap. Shaped like a U, this pipe is meant to hold a small amount of water specifically to guard against smells making their way up into your bathroom.

If this water is allowed to evaporate, however, this protective layer vanishes. If this has happened, which is more common for lesser-used toilets where water sits for long periods, either pour water down the drain or flush the toilet to re-fill the P-Trap. If the odor persists, you have a more significant issue and should call our plumbers for repairs.

Sink Overflow

Finally, your bathroom sink actually may be the cause of the odor in certain cases. This can happen if your sink has an overflow mechanism meant to relieve the pressure if the sink is overfilled – but this same mechanism can collect sewage and other buildup, and eventually smell really bad. In some cases you can clean this on your own, while in others you’ll need our plumbers for a full drain cleaning.

For more on how to diagnose the cause of poor odors coming from your toilet area, or to learn about any of our drain cleaning, toilet repair or other plumbing or HVAC services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basic tips for homeowners looking to limit the strain on their plumbing system during the summer. The summer is often the toughest period for a given home’s plumbing system due to increased needs for water and usage of various plumbing fixtures, but you might be surprised how much you can alleviate this stress with some extremely basic tactics.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re proud to offer a wide array of residential plumbing services, from standard plumbing maintenance like summer upkeep to larger areas like trenchless sewer line repair and many others. In today’s part two, we’ll go over a few additional themes to keep an eye on, whether on your own or with the assistance of our handy plumbers for any areas you’re not comfortable managing.

Care While Gardening

The summer is the most popular season of the year for gardening for some relatively apparent reasons, but it just requires some very basic care for those who want to be sure they do not impact their plumbing system in any way. This is especially true for anyone who plans to do significant digging, whether for the purposes of planting, landscaping or something else.

Why is this a concern? Well, because sewer, gas and possibly other utility lines are placed under lawns in residential areas. If you accidentally dig into these, you could be looking at incredibly expensive repairs, not to mention hazards. If you have any significant digging plans, you should find out where your utility lines are before you plant – particularly the sewer line, which can lead to major leakage and related issues if it’s dug into.

Water Heater Temperature

Another theme the summer is generally a common time of year for: Vacations and trips, whether we’re talking cross-country adventures, weekend camping trips with the family or any other variety. One handy plumbing tip for whenever you take such excursions is to turn your water heater temperature down much lower than usual – this will not only limit strain on the system and give it a break for a few days, but will also save you money on your power bill at the end of the month for heating services that you won’t need while out of the house.

Connections and Leaks

Finally, particularly for homes with kids out of school for the summer, appliances like dishwashers and washing machines will see heavy work this time of year. Periodically, be sure to check basic connections and hookups to ensure there are no leaks or other issues forming, concerns that may lead to major water loss and an increase in your monthly bill.

For more on tactics to alleviate strain on your plumbing system this summer, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.

Art of junk in sewer meant to depict risk of causing main sewer line clogs

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the basics on why main sewer line clogs are different from other kinds of drain clogs in your home, plus some of the factors that may cause them. The main sewer line is your home’s entryway into the primary municipal sewer system, allowing your waste to pass into this system in the proper ways.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, our detailed plumbing services include several sewer line maintenance areas, from trenchless sewer line repair to sewer line cleaning and assistance with any other issues you may have in this area. In today’s part two, we’ll go over a few additional potential causes of these clogs, plus some of the signs that may indicate you have such a blockage that needs to be addressed.

Improper Garbage Disposal Use

In part one, we went over some of the improper uses of toilet drains that can lead to main sewer line clogs – the garbage disposal is a similar concern in many homes, though often in different ways. Just like the toilet, however, the primary issue here is folks in the home believing the garbage disposal drain is meant for purposes that, in reality, it is not.

For starters, the presence of grease, oils and other cooking liquids in the drain is a big no-no. This will lead to hardening further down in the drain system, often in the main sewer line itself. The same goes for larger food particles – even if you think the disposal would do fine breaking them up, we highly recommend throwing away larger food debris separately and placing less strain on the garbage disposal.

Sewer Line Damage Issues

In other cases, clogs in the main sewer line take place because the line itself has become damaged over time. Cracking, sagging, corroding and general breakage are all possible in older pipes, especially those that have been present for multiple decades. This will not only allow in dirt and other debris, but will also prevent wastewater from flowing properly.

Signs of Main Sewer Line Clogs

Here are some of the primary signs that indicate you may have a main sewer line clog and should immediately contact our plumbers about remedying the issue:

  • Your toilets are all gurgling or bubbling at the same time
  • Smells of sewage and other foul plumbing odors are coming from multiple drains in the home
  • More than one drain in the home is having drainage issues
  • Wastewater begins to back up in one plumbing fixture while another is in use, and vice versa
  • Strange wet patches begin to show up in your back yard above the main sewer line, even when the weather itself is dry

For more on identifying and remedying main sewer line clogs, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today.

Art depicting idea of plumbers working on main sewer line

There are a few different clog or blockage types that are possible within a given plumbing system, and they are not all created equal. And on the more severe end of the spectrum here, at least in most cases, is a clog or blockage in your home’s main sewer line.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, our plumbing services include a wide range of solutions for main sewer line issues, including sewer line cleaning and trenchless sewer line repair. While many homeowners have dealt with a basic toilet clog or some other simple drain blockage issue, the main sewer line is an entirely different animal. This two-part blog series will dig into what makes sewer line clogs different from others, plus what causes them and how you can recognize their potential signs.

Sewer Clog Vs. Standard Clogs

So why are sewer line clogs different from a basic toilet backup or something else you can handle with a plunger? Well, because the sewer line is the central one that connects all the other main plumbing lines in your home.

A single clog in a sink drain, toilet or some other area can usually be remedied simply enough, whether via a plunger, drain snake or some other tool. During main sewer line backups, however, every drain in your home can become blocked all at once as the main system floods, leading to major concerns that typically can’t be solved so easily.

Our next few sections will dig into the common causes of main sewer line clogs and backups, plus how they can be avoided so you don’t run into these issues.

Tree Root Concerns

As the home’s primary feeder to the municipal sewer system, your main sewer line typically runs out of your house and through your back yard in piping below the ground’s surface. In cases where your sewer line is damaged in any way, or even in some situations where it isn’t, tree roots from nearby trees may grow into the area and even directly into the pipes as they reach out in search of water sources. This blocks the flow of wastewater, and the issue only increases with time as the roots expand.

For this reason, it’s important to understand where your main sewer line is and manage tree roots in the area. If you’re considering planting new trees, know your sewer line location and avoid it entirely.

Toilet Usage and Items Flushed

Another possible cause of main sewer line blockage: Materials being flushed down the toilet that do not belong there. This includes literally anything other than human waste and toilet paper, even certain wipes listed as “flushable” on the packaging – you still shouldn’t flush these. Toilet paper is made to break down within sewer lines and avoid clogging risks, which is why it’s the only approved material to flush other than your own waste.

For more on clogs in your main sewer line, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today.

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