Your sewer and water lines are a critical part of your plumbing system. They are designed to safely transport wastewater from your home or commercial building to a septic system or a municipal sewage system, allowing us to live in a healthy, hygienic environment. However, like any other system, sewer and water lines are susceptible to damage.

The technicians at Ward Plumbing, Heating, and Air understand that things like excessive heat, underground water, contents in the pipes, and shifting of the soil are some of the most common risk factors.

5 Common Sewer and Water Line Issues

Tree Root Intrusion

To find moisture, trees will extend their roots into the ground. Sometimes, they come across underground water and sewer lines. Deep roots may cause significant damage to the pipes. Over time, this could cause the pipes to collapse, especially if worn out and/or cracked. When the pipes collapse, it causes a blockage in the line- which can result in sewage overflowing around your property.

This can be extremely inconvenient and unpleasant- not just for you but also for your neighbors. You can prevent this issue by knowing where the pipes are when you plant trees or by using a chemical to kill the roots of existing trees.

If tree roots have already damaged your sewer and water lines, you’ll need a professional plumbing service, such as Ward Plumbing, Heating, and Air.

Clogs

Clogs are a common issue in sewer and water lines and are typically the result of solid materials that cannot drain properly. This often includes things like wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, and other things that are flushed.

Some of the common signs that you have a clog are water backup, slow drains, or gurgling sounds in your drains and toilet.

The best way to avoid a clog is to dispose of solid waste reasonably instead of trying to flush it. If you have a clog, the team at Ward Plumbing, Heating, and Air can help clear it and help you take steps to prevent it in the future.

Corrosion

Sometimes, chemicals in the wastewater harm sewer and water lines, especially if they are metal. Over time, the pipes will corrode, resulting in leaks. We can use a camera to detect corrosion in your pipes.

Damaged Pipes

Over time, sewer and water lines become brittle and weak, which can cause problems if not replaced. Some of the factors that can damage one or more of your sewer or water pipes include the following:

Cracks/Holes

Old/weak pipes can be impacted by the substances that go through them. Over time, old and worn-out pipes may develop cracks or holes. If not replaced, they may eventually collapse.

Sagging

Over time, due to the shifting of the soil, the pipe bedding becomes uneven. This can ultimately cause the pipes to drop below where they belong and cause issues. This is called a “bellied pipe”.

Inadequate maintenance

Regular, routine maintenance on your pipes can help you monitor the condition of the pipes. If you don’t properly maintain them, you increase the chances that the pipes will become damaged, and the problem will escalate.

Failure of Sewer System

Over the years, pipe materials such as steel, iron, or asbestos weaken and break down. This can cause pipes to collapse or corrode and the pipes to ultimately burst. Old plumbing systems must be inspected and monitored by a plumbing expert. The property owner is responsible for the inspection and maintenance of the sewer line on their property that connects to the main. Local utility services are not responsible for those.

If you need sewer and water line inspection and maintenance, contact the professionals at Ward Heating, Plumbing, and Air. We have been serving the citizens of Western North Carolina for more than 40 years. We have the experience and expertise to handle a variety of HVAC and plumbing issues, including problems with your sewer and water lines.

Give us a call at 828-586-WARD to schedule your service or estimate.