A drain clog in an individual plumbing fixture, such as a tub or sink, is one thingit's a problem that is usually fairly easy to fix. But it is another matter entirely when you have a main drainline stoppagea clog in the large, main drain line that serves your entire house and delivers all wastewater to the civic sewer system or to a septic drain field. When a main drain clog happens, raw sewage no longer flows as it is supposed to, and it can back up into your entire house with results that can be disastrous. Until the clog is removed no drains in any of your plumbing fixtures can be safely used. It is an unpleasant and potentially very expensive problem.

Clearing a main sewer line stoppage is best approachedfrom a fitting known as the main clean-out. Every house should have one, although unfortunately, some houses don't. It is the best place for you or a plumber to use a drain snake or motorized auger to dislodge the clog in the main drain line and return your house's drain system to proper function.

Finding the main clean-out isn't always easy, though. Its location within a home will vary depending on the house style and the geographic climate where you live. Here are some tips for locating your main drain.

In warm climates where homes are built on slab foundations, the main clean-out fitting is often outside, usually near the exterior walls of the home. Look behind bushes, or in a metal or plastic box recessed into the ground. The main clean-out fitting is usually a large-diameter pipe with a threaded plug in the top. It may be extending above the ground near an outside wall or may be contained inside a ground box covered by a metal cover.

In other homes with slab foundations, the main drain may be located in a bathroom, usually on the floor near the toilet, or in a garage or utility area, usually near a floor drain. In these locations, the threaded plug may be flush-mounted into the floor or may be threaded into a short length of large-diameter pipe extending up from the floor. It can be opened with a large pipe wrench in order to provide access for drain-clearing tools.

Finally, in houses in colder climates where the standard construction practice is to build homes over basements, the main clean-out is usually found in the basement floor, usually near the foundation wall. A threaded plug will fit into a short length of large-diameter pipe that extends up from the floor. If you have trouble finding the clean-out, follow a direct line from the vertical soil stack to the foundation wall, following the shortest paththe main clean-out will likely be located along this line. If not this kind of fitting, there may be a Y-fitting at the bottom of the main drain soil stack where it disappears under the concrete slab.

In larger homes, there may be two or even three clean-out fittings, one for each of the main drain pipes running from separate soil stacks out to the street.

Main drain line cleaning can be done by most plumbers, but there are also companies specializing in this work. An annual inspection and cleaning by a sewer specialist is a good idea, especially if you have a landscape with large trees. Tree roots can easily penetrate sewer lines, and a regular routine of sewer drain line cleaning may prevent a disastrous blockage.

Cleaning the main drain blockage can be done by a homeowner, but it may require special tools, such as a motorized drain auger available for rental at tool centers and major home improvement stores.

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Identifying the Main Sewer Clean-Out in Your House

Cracked sewer pipes can be more than just a costly repairthey can result in extensive and pricey property damage and lead to serious health risks. Sewer line repair is the first line of defense when a sewer line fails. If the sewer line cant be repaired, sewer line replacement is the only other option. Luckily, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is your local source for quality sewer repair and replacement at any time.

You can start by calling our team today at(855) 982-2028 orrequest an estimate online.

In general, any type of piperegardless of the materials its made ofcan break due to extreme inner (water) and outer (ground) pressure.

The plumbing and sewer line repair experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing can assess your sewer pipe cracks and damage. Mr. Rooter Plumbing wants to take steps to avoid sewer line replacement at all costs. While your property layout and sewer system are unique, there may be some basic issues that we can address. These are some of the most common repairs and replacements we perform:

If repair is not possible, it may be time to schedule a sewer line replacement. Fortunately, at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we take the time to explain your options, review the problem, and show you exactly how we are going to fix it. You can trust us to meet your needs and not oversell you on an unnecessary product during any replacement procedure. Our trenchless repair and replacement methods are less invasive than traditional methods and wont tear up your lawn or landscaping. Theyre also more cost-effective than other methods! We have repaired and replaced hundreds of sewer lines and work diligently to save you time and money on sewer line services.

Worried that tree roots may be destroying your sewer lines? Have your pipes begun to leak unhealthy sewage under your property? Dont wait a moment longer to call on the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing! We fix cracked, broken, deformed, and collapsed sewer pipes in a fast and efficient manner. While it may be easy to tell a serious sewer pipe problem has happened in some cases, other cases may not be so obvious.

You can start by calling our team today at(855) 982-2028 orrequest an estimate online.

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Sewer Line Repair & Replacement | Mr. Rooter Sewer Repair

Sewer gas is a complex mixture of toxic and nontoxic gases produced and collected in sewage systems by the decomposition of organic household or industrial wastes, typical components of sewage.[1]

Sewer gases may include hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, methane, esters, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Improper disposal of petroleum products such as gasoline and mineral spirits contribute to sewer gas hazards. Sewer gases are of concern due to their odor, health effects, and potential for creating fire or explosions.

Sewer gas is typically restricted from entering buildings through plumbing traps that create a water seal at potential points of entry. In addition, plumbing vents allow sewer gases to be exhausted outdoors. Infrequently used plumbing fixtures may allow sewer gas to enter a home due to evaporation of water in the trap, especially in warm weather. The result is the most common means of sewer gas entering buildings and can be solved easily by using the fixtures regularly or adding water to their drains. One of the most common traps to dry out are floor drains such as those typically placed near home furnaces, water heaters and rooms with underfloor heating. Infrequently used utility sinks, tubs, showers, and restrooms also are common culprits. Trap primers are available that automatically add water to remote or little used traps such as these. Blocked plumbing vents, typically at the roof, also can cause water seals to fail via siphoning of the water.

Exposure to sewer gas also can happen if the gas seeps in via a leaking plumbing drain or vent pipe, or even through cracks in a buildings foundation. Sewer gas is typically denser than atmospheric gases and may accumulate in basements, but may eventually mix with surrounding air. Individuals who work in sanitation industries or on farms might be exposed on the job if they clean or maintain municipal sewers, manure storage tanks, or septic tanks.

In buildings with HVAC air handlers that admit outside air for ventilation, plumbing vents placed too closely to air intakes or windows can be a source of sewer gas odors. In some cases airflow around buildings and wind effects may contribute to sewer gas odor problems even with appropriately separated vents and air intakes. Increasing vent heights, adding vent pipe filters, or providing powered dilution and exhaust can help reduce occurrences.

During the mid-1800s, when indoor plumbing was being developed, it was a common idea that disease was caused largely by miasmas, or literally "polluted air."[2] (Malaria, a disease spread by mosquitoes that breed in marshy areas, got its name from the Italian words for "bad air" because people initially blamed it on marsh gas.) Originally, traps in plumbing drain pipes were designed to help keep this bad air from passing back into living spaces within buildings. However, during the Broad Street cholera outbreak in London, in the Summer of 1854, physician John Snow, among others, worked to prove that polluted water was the culprit, not the foul smells from sewage pipes.[3][4] Subsequently, even as the germ theory of disease developed, society was slow to accept the idea that odors from sewers were relatively harmless when it came to the spread of disease.

In most homes, sewer gas may have a slightly unpleasant odor, but does not often pose a significant health hazard.[5] Residential sewer pipes primarily contain the gases found in air (nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, etc.).[6] Often, methane is the gas of next highest concentration, but typically remains at nontoxic levels, especially in properly vented systems. However, if sewer gas has a distinct rotten egg smell, especially in sewage mains, septic tanks, or other sewage treatment facilities, it may be due to hydrogen sulfide content, which can be detected by human olfactory senses in concentrations as low as parts per billion. Exposure to low levels of this chemical can irritate the eyes, cause a cough or sore throat, shortness of breath, and fluid accumulation in the lungs. Prolonged low-level exposure may cause fatigue, pneumonia, loss of appetite, headaches, irritability, poor memory, and dizziness. High concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (>150 ppm) can produce olfactory fatigue, whereby the scent becomes undetectable. At higher concentrations (>300 ppm), hydrogen sulfide can cause loss of consciousness and death. Very high concentrations (>1000 ppm) can result in immediate collapse, occurring after a single breath.

Sewer gas can contain methane and hydrogen sulfide, both highly flammable and potentially explosive substances. As such, ignition of the gas is possible with flame or sparks.[7]The methane concentration in open sewers is lower (7 to 15 ppmv) than the closed drains (up to 300 ppmv) in samples collected 2 cm above the level of sewage.[8]

Fully vented sewer gases contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Septic vent pipes can be fitted with filters that remove some odors.[citation needed]

Sewer gas can be used as a power source, thus reducing the consumption of fossil fuels. The gas is piped into a cleaning system and then used as a fuel to power a generator or combined heat and power (CHP) plant.

Gases present in sewerage can strongly impact materialdurability due to the action of microorganisms. The most deleterious one is associated to hydrogen sulfide that can result in biogenic sulfide corrosion or microbial corrosion. In worst cases, it may lead to the collapse of the structure with significant cost for its rehabilitation.

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Sewer gas - Wikipedia

A sewer drain clog can be a serious problem that may qualify as a plumbing emergency and a potential health concern. Without a route to the main sewer system or septic field, wastewater may have nowhere to go but to back up into your fixtures or up through floor drains. When faced with a sewer line drain clog, you should not use any of the plumbing in the home until the stoppage is cleared out.

Homes with city sewer service have a single horizontal sewer drain pipe running underground from the house to the street. The drain pipe is usually 4 inches in diameter but can be as small as 3 inches. This main sewer drain pipe under the yard is connected to the main drain inside the house, which accepts the wastewater from the individual branch drains serving each plumbing fixture, including sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets, as well as the washing machine. These branch drains are smaller pipes, usually 1 1/4 to 2 1/2 inches in diameter. If the main sewer drain is clogged, it can eventually back up all of the drains in the house, which is why such a clog can be so serious. At the very least, a clogged main sewer drain pipe may cause wastewater and raw sewage to back up through a floor drain into the basement or floor of an hour home.

Here are some signs that you may be facing a clog in the main sewer drain line.

Multiple Fixtures Are Clogged

Anobvious sign of a sewer drain clog is when more than one plumbing fixture backs up at the same time. Toilets are often the first fixture to experience problems,but any other low-lying fixture can also be involved, such as a shower or bathtub on the main level of your home. If you suspect that you have a sewer drain clog, start by checking the toilet, followed by other fixtures.

Unusual Reactions When Using Fixtures

Check for odd sounds or behavior at the following fixtures, starting at the lowest level of the house. The main sewer drains usually become clogged somewhere between the house and the street, and because backups start at the clog and move up, so the lowest drains and fixtures are usually the first to back up.

A drain clean-out is a special fitting or a short pipe attached to a drain pipe. It usually has a round threaded plug with a square, nut-like stub on the end. It can be located at the bottom of the large vertical soil stack or is sometimes mounted on the floor at the point where the horizontal main drain pipe runs out to the sewer main. Gripping the nut with pliers or a pipe wrench allows you to unscrew and removethe plug to access the inside of the pipe. Most homes have at least one clean-out on their main drain or main sewer line. They are usually located in the basement or crawlspace or in the yard. If your problem will require assistance from a sewer specialist, this is the fitting he will use to attempt to clean the main drain.

However, be very careful before removing a clean-out plug in the basement or crawlspace. If your main drain is backed up into the house, there may be a lot of wastewaterand pressurein the pipe; any water and waste in the pipe above the clean-out fitting will gush out as soon as the plug is removed. If you begin to see wastewater seeping out as you loosen the plug, it's a sign you should put the plug back.

If your clean-out fitting is outside the house, you can attempt to remove the plug, but be careful. If water oozes out while you're loosening the plug, tighten the plug and call a plumber or drain specialist. If you can remove the plug without a spillover, look into the drain with a flashlight; any water in the pipe indicates a clog in the main sewer drain pipe.

Don't run the water or flush the toilet! If you don't add water to your drain system, you can't make the problem worse (that is, if the clog is in your line and not the city's main; see below). As an added precaution, you can shut off the main water supply to the house so that no one runs the water by accident. Tell everyone in the house not to use water, then call a plumber or drain specialist to have the drain cleared. These professionals have special equipment, including motorized augers, to quickly and effectively remove large clogs in the main sewer drains.

If you live in an established community rather than in a rural area, your home's sewer drain connects to the city sewer main under the street. If your house main drain is backed up, chances are the clog is in your own sewer drain line, but it's possible the city sewer main has a major blockage. Either way, your home's drains will behave the same way, although sometimes city backups have enough pressure to actually force raw sewage into home drains, flooding bathrooms.

The best way to tell whether the problem belongs to you or the city is to check with your close neighbors. If they also have problems, there is a good chance the problem lies with the city sewer main. If city utility workers come out to investigate, they are allowed to repair only problems with the main sewer line; they can't handle problems with your individual main sewer drain pipe. Be aware, though, that you and your neighbors may be assessed and billed to pay for repairs to a sewer main problem confined to your neighborhood.

In rural areas, wastewater and sewage does not flow to a municipal sewer system but instead flows out to a septic tank and drainage field in your yard, where the water gradually seeps down into the soil and raw sewage safely decomposes beneath the ground under bacterial action. The main drain backup in these systems sometimes occurs when the septic tank or drainage field becomes full or saturated, at which point it can no longer accept additional wastewater. Such a situation often occurs during localized flooding conditions, or if the septic system is undersized for the needs of the home. Such problems with a septic system will require help from a professional service, whose response may be to pump out the septic tank. Severe and recurring problems may require major work, involving digging up the yard to make modifications to the system.

Link:
Symptoms of a Sewer Drain Clog - thespruce.com

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Sewer and septic tank pumping and maintenance is a necessity.

When your tank is clean and your septic system is in good repair and working right, you probably don't spend much time thinking about sewer and septic system cleaning and maintenance.

So, yes, thinking about septic pumping is our job and something we work hard at getting right, every time. We provide both residential and commercial septic services, from small tanks and systems to large ones.

We offer pump-outs, grease trap pumping, and repairs. And you can count on us for PVC pipe, trouble shooting, yearly maintenance, drain field assessment, failure repair, and more.

We strongly recommend annual inspection and cleaning of your septic system, because that way you can avoid any sudden (and nasty) surprises. Let's face it, a failing septic system stinks! We inspect your tank and your leach field, as well, to be sure it's all working properly. We get down and dirty...so you don't have to.

And when it's an emergency, we'll be out ASAP! Call us at417-326-4330.

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Sewer and Septic Tank Pumping- Sewer and Septic Services ...

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We offer high pressure hydro jetting services to keep your sewer lines open and clean. From grease clogged restaurant lines to root infiltrated septic and sewer lines, we will keep your waste water going in the right direction.

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There are many fail-safes in modern plumbing to help prevent sewer issues. From drain traps to sump pumps and vent pipes, your home is well-protected against sewage backups. One very important component to this systemwhich you should be aware of is the sewer clean out.

Despite its innocuous appearance, having one or more clean outs may have a major effect on both your homes sewer line health and on your bank account.

The sewer clean out is a capped pipe located on or near your property line which connects to the lateralsewer line. A lateral sewer line is the pipe which connects your homes sewer lines to the municipal sewers or your septic tank.

When the lateral clogs, it can cause sewage to back up into the drains, creating both a mess and health hazard. Having a sewer clean out enables you to keep the lines clear and drain water if a backup occurs.

The sewer clean out is a small capped pipe jutting above the ground. Unfortunately, locating it is not always simple. To make matters more complicated, many homes have multiple clean outs and, in some rare cases, may actually have the clean out located inside. The following steps should help you find the clean out more easily.

Older homes may not have a sewer clean out. This is especially true if one is not required by local or state plumbing codes. In such cases, it is generally best to have one installed.

There are also some instances where your home has a clean out which has simply become covered by dirt. If you believe the home has one but were unable to locate the cap, you may choose to do some light digging along the ground where you believe the clean out should be.

Alternatively, you may pay a plumber to run a camera through the line to locate the clean out from inside the pipe and pinpoint where to dig.

While having a sewer clean out is required by law in some states, you might be lacking one if you have an older home or are in a state where they are optional. However, there are several benefits to having a clean outinstalled on your property:

The clean out allows direct access to your propertys sewer lateral. This means a plumbing expert can monitor the water flow from each tap in your home individually to ensure there are no blockages or other pipe issues during their regular maintenance visits.

Normally, a plumber would have to remove your toilet or even go onto the roof in order to clean your sewer lines. By having a sewer clean out, they will have easy access to the sewer lateral. The savings in time and effort equate to a smaller bill for you.

One benefit which becomes apparent only in an emergency is the fact that the sewer clean out can help prevent the need to dig up your yard in the event of a major clog.

Unlike many of the pipes inside your home, the sewer lateral is located completely underground and therefore cannot be examined for wear or damage without excavating it. The sewer clean out provides an access point through which your lateral may be more easily inspected.

In the event of a major clog, the clean out acts as an external drain. Uncapping the clean out will allow you to drain the excess water, preventing it from flooding your home. This may also prove useful if there is an issue with the municipal sewer that is forcing water back up into your lateral.

Installation of a clean out is a multi-step process. In some cases, your local municipality may provide programs to help with the cost of installation, especially in cases where having a sewer clean out was not previously required by code. Be sure to check for any such programs or grants, as well as any required permits before starting.

Also, if you do not have experience splicing or installing sections of pipe, it may be best to hire a professional to avoid costly mistakes.

The first major step before beginning work is to pick the type of sewer clean out you wish to use. There are currently three options available:

Double Clean Out The most popular type used for modern installation, the double clean out has two shafts which connect to the lateral pipe forming a U shape. The cap closer to your home provides easy access to the city end while the cap closer to the street allows you to maintain the house end of the lateral.

Single Clean Out This type provides easy access to the municipal end of your lateral, although the 45 degree angle does not allow for access to the full pipe.

Test Tee This T-shaped clean out permits access to both ends of the lateral, but can be difficult to use for clearing blockages due to the 90 degree angle at the intersection.

You will need to locate your lateral and excavate a section of pipe. This may be done with either common tools or rental equipment, being careful not to damage the lateral pipe. Once you have the desired portion of pipe fully exposed, you should measure out the section you will be cutting away. The cutting tools you need will vary based upon the material your lateral pipe is made of.

Once you have removed the unwanted section, you are free to measure, cut, and install the new junction. Knowledge of plumbing is essential here, as you will need to fit and install the replacement section, verify the plumb, and make sure it is waterproof before filling the hole and capping the new clean out.

It is usually best to fit a container box around the cap so that it doesnt become overgrown or buried easily.

Even though cleaning your own lateral line may seem like a cheap alternative, there is always a risk of damaging the pipes.Having a professional plumber do the work is more effective and will be cheaper if they have access through a sewer clean out.

This is because they have more direct access, requiring fewer tools and less labor than if they have to dig up your yard or snake the lateral from a point inside the home.

HomeAdvisor gives a basic estimate range of $99 to $900 with an overall average of $288. This does not include additional fees for using a camera or water jetter.

CostHelper provides more detailed cost breakdowns, estimating the cost of snaking your lateral between $148 and $900 with an average cost of $410. They note that the distance snaked plays a role in your overall cost, making it less expensive to snake the lateral from an external clean out than from an access pointinside the home.

In addition, a camera inspection of the line will run between $100 and $800.

When choosing to have a professional come in, make sure they are certified and have a good reputation. Some plumbing companies will offer a flat rate but pressure you to get additional services to inflate the price. Make sure to shop around carefully for the best balance of quality and cost.

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Sewer Clean Out for Residential Homes 101 Home Reference

Drainage systems make wastewater disappear whenever toilets are flushed or hands are washed in buildings and residential properties. But for all the functions that drainage helps make possibledishes, laundry, showersfew people stop and think about the mechanisms that go into the process. The whole thing basically comes down to two types of systems: sewer and septic.

Sewer systems are more common because they're funded and maintained by local governments. Septic systems, however, are becoming more popular as an affordable, environmentally sound alternative that give homeowners full control over their drainage. The following article examines the facts, pros, and cons of the whole septic vs sewer system debate.

When it comes to the sewer vs. septic system debate, a lot of half-truths and outright inaccuracies persist in the minds of many homeowners. Sewers, on one hand, are generally viewed as the cheaper, easier option because there's no maintenance involved. All you need to do is wash something down a drain or flush it down a toilet and it's gone forever.

While septic systems are sometimes viewed as the more eco-friendly option, many people are apprehensive about the costs and maintenance involved. As a result, homeowners often perceive more resale value in houses linked to sewer lines over those equipped with septic systems. But does the latter really cost more and require frequent maintenance? Read on to learn the benefits of sewer vs septic systems.

In many ways, sewers and septic systems offer the same benefits. Both systems filter out black water the water you flush and grey water, which comes out of sink and shower drains. In terms of sanitation, both systems filter bacteria and pathogens from water before it flows back out into the environment. Basically, the two systems both offer reliable drainage of wastewater from houses and buildings with minimal problems the majority of the time.

Both systems, however, can also have their drawbacks. A sewer system connects whole communities to one centralized drain field. Consequently, sewers can sometimes get clogged with grease, hair, and hard elements, all of which can cause sewage to plug up sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. Since sewage systems are paid for and maintained by local governments, residents don't have to handle the maintenance and labor, but they do have to foot the fees.

Septic systems, by contrast, are generally the responsibility of private homeowners. A septic tank should perform without a hitch over expected time spans, providing the tank is pumped and maintained at recommended intervals. If a tank does malfunction, it's likely due to negligence on the part of the homeowner, and therefore its his or her responsibility to call out a service crew and pay for the needed repairs.

A septic system is a steel or concrete tank that's situated under the soil near a commercial or residential property. Wastewater goes in on one side and filters out through the other to a drain field. Most tanks are capable of holding 1,000 gallons of water. Inside the tank, the water splits into three layers. Everything that floats rises to the top, which is known as the scum layer. All the heavy material sinks to the bottom, which is known as the sludge layer. Between the two is a layer of clear water, which contains fertilizing chemicals like phosphorus and nitrogen.

Wastewater is led into the tank through a series of pipes that connect to the toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and laundry machines in a given house or building. As scum is rinsed out of the wastewater, the tank produces rancid gases which are filtered through vent pipes that funnel out of rooftops. With each influx of wastewater, the tank empties earlier loads through distribution boxes that lead to drain fields.

While the considerable costs of septic system repairs are often discussed, what isn't as well known is the fact that municipal sewer systems can also come with some hefty costs. For starters, homeowners can be charged pricey fees for installation and repairs on newer sewage systems. Many communities even impose what are known as Sewer Betterment fees, which can rise into the five figures. As revealed by Hopkinton Mass.-based realtor Bill Gassett, the recent Betterment fee in his town was $16,000.

Debates have been waged between municipal boards regarding the best possible ways to handle sewer development costs, which are known to rise as new pumping stations are constructed. Certain municipalities have even gone so far as to impose liens on homes that haven't paid their fees. Houses everywhere could be subject to such costs, but properties situated in sparsely populated areas stand to pay the highest fees, due to the small number of taxpayers who reside in such areas to share the costs. Even if the pipes and pumps are already in place, there are still fees involved in linking a house to a nearby system, the costs of which can rack up into the thousands on top of maintenance and usage fees.

Sewer fees differ from city to city, but specific localized rates per household include the following:

On the other hand, the cost of having a septic tank is merely down to pumping, which only needs to be done every 3-5 years and generally falls within a price-range $200 to $300. With proper maintenance, some tanks can go for a decade or more between pumps.

Another issue that factors into the pricing comparison is the business surrounding sewage systems, which have become subject to an ever-growing set of complex, costly improvements. Septic systems, by contrast, only need minor touchups to work perfectly over lengthy spans of time. On average, a septic system for a standard-sized household on even land and healthy soil will run anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000. Depending on the type of tank, septic systems generally last for the following lengths of time:

With proper maintenance, septic drain fields typically last 20 years, though some could possibly last for half a century.

As the public becomes better informed about the needs of the environment, septic tanks are becoming a selling point for properties in the minds of younger homebuyers. The reason for this shift in opinion is that septic tanks are reputed to be the green-friendly alternative to old fashioned sewer systems.

With sewer systems, energy and chemicals are needed to pump and treat the water. Concerns have developed over the impact this could have on rivers as the bacteria of sewage stream outward. There are also issues involving the stability of treatment plants, which can overflow in times of intense downpour or overuse.

None of those problems are an issue with septic systems, which pump and treat water without the need for energy or chemicals. Used water is returned to the aquifer, which never overflows if properly maintained. Since such systems are evenly distributed, there's no single point at which treated outflows are run from large communities of houses and buildings. Wastewater, by contrast, is carried away in small, even amounts. In many communities, particularly those that are modestly populated, septic systems are the cost-efficient answer for sanitation and water quality concerns.

Perhaps the most liberating aspect of owning a septic system is the ability to set one up virtually anywhere with healthy soil. For a new house in a remote area, connecting to a sewer system is usually costly and difficult. In some cases, its even impossible due to the lack of nearby sewage lines. For those situations in particular, septic systems are a viable, cost-effective alternative. Furthermore, septic systems don't come with the municipal obligations of sewage lines, so there's no need to worry about pipes, pumping stations, replacements, or infrastructural renovation costs.

Nonetheless, sewer systems do have the power to handle large amounts of wastewater from the collective addresses of cities, towns, and suburbs. Due to the marketability of houses on sewer lines, many homeowners still prefer such properties. Sewer lines are also built to accommodate the largest possible amounts of water; as such, they can take on storms and periods of heavy downpour. Since the management of sewer lines fall on local governments, people often assume that such systems will be better managed in the most well-financed and capable of hands. Furthermore, the thought of having wastewater conveniently sent to one big treatment center is an attractive prospect to any homeowner who has endured a septic system backup.

Given these differences, the preference between one system or the other could largely be based on one's independent mindedness as a homeowner. If you don't mind the municipal obligations that can factor into your dependence on a centralized sewer system, then that might be the adequate option, especially if you're likely to change addresses every few years or less. But if you want independence as a homeowner and are looking to choose a remote or custom-built residence and have personal responsibility for the running of your wastewater, then a septic system would be the more ideal option.

Whenever it comes to existing properties, the choice between a sewer or septic system is usually not even on the table. But if you move into a septic-based community where all the neighbors are lobbying to have a sewer line, the choice would likely be yours to either opt in or stick with a septic tank.

If you're having a home custom built on some remote hill, deep forest, or sparse rural environment, a septic system will likely be your only choice. Within this context, a septic system would be the more suitable option anyway. After all, the independence and responsibility of maintaining such a system would go hand-in-hand with the will to live in a remote, custom-built property. For instance, if you were to buy a few acres of land out in some deep, green, spacious forest area, and then you built a house yourself on that land and proceeded to own it free and clear, owning your own drainage system, independent of local government, would complete the picture.

Problems with septic systems usually come down to the negligence of property owners. When a tank isn't adequately maintained, the outflow can be detrimental to lake water purity and hazardous to the surrounding environment. For example, if wastewater isn't sufficiently treated, it can spread contamination to other water and cause human health threats. As stated by the University of Minnesota Extension (UMNE) in its Septic System Owners Guide, the way to "guarantee effective treatment is to have a trained professional ensure [that] adequate, unsaturated, and suitable soil exists below the soil treatment area to allow for complete wastewater treatment."

UMNE has also linked contaminated sewage to the appearance of hepatitis and dysentery pathogens in tap water. Contaminants, for instance, can infect drinking water with higher levels of nitrate, which can take its toll on people with weak immune systems, as well as toddlers and pregnant women. Increased nitrates are even damaging to the air and water quality of surrounding ecosystems, thereby devastating the flora and fauna of a given area. Furthermore, bugs and rodents that fester in areas with sewage-contaminated wetlands can spread diseases to people, pets, and livestock. With all these things taken into consideration, it's crucial to keep your septic system well maintained throughout the time that you own and reside at a given property. To prevent the sludge layer from rising too high, the system should be cleaned and inspected at least every few years.

Of course, maintenance and pumping of the tank itself is merely half of what it takes to responsibly run a drainage system; a lot of it also comes down to how you treat the pipes that lead to the tank. In order to prevent the pipes from clogging, don't allow grease, hair, or hard particles to slip down your sink or shower drains. Furthermore, don't plant trees or other heavily rooted plants either on or near the area of soil in which the system lies, because roots and bulbs can grow stronger as time passes and ultimately damage drainage pipes. After all, the purpose of having a septic tank is to enjoy good, clean, affordable, eco-friendly drainage for the full span of your time on a given property. When you do decide to sell, a perfectly operating septic system could also add value to your property.

If you're in need of maintenance or pumping on your septic system, contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Syracuse. We provide plumbing repair, drain cleaning, maintenance, and installation of septic systems in the Greater Syracuse area. Call us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. Well send a licensed plumber who is certified by Onondaga County for plumbing leak detection or any plumbing related project.

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Septic vs Sewer: What You Need to Know - Mr. Rooter Plumbing

SAVE MONEY TOMORROW WITH A SEPTIC PUMPING TODAY!

A healthy septic system is clean and flows smoothly, undetected by homeowners and neighbors, which makes it easy to forget about. Staying on top of septic maintenance can help you prevent costly damage due to system failure. Gulliford Septic & Sewer is the top septic pumping company in Central Illinois, serving Champaign, Bloomington, Decatur, Springfield, and the surrounding areas! Speak with us to schedule a septic pumping & cleaning.

These signs might mean your septic tank is full:

Dont put off septic maintenance for your home or business. We make it easy to schedule one-time or regular service. All you have to do to schedule a septic pumping is click the the link below!

A septic system is THE most cost-effective household waste water solution, often more common in rural areas or properties on land outside the sewer constraints of local municipalities.

There are a number of different septic systems and designs, but the most conventional system Gulliford Septic and Sewer services consists of three main parts: the septic tank, the leach/drain field and the soil beneath the leach/drain field.

Why Does it Need Maintained?

A regularly maintained septic tank should have good water flow into the tank and good flow out to the drain. The tank level should always be below the inlet pipe (the pipe exiting your house) allowing the toilet drain to have proper flow.

A septic tank that has NOT been properly maintained will have restricted water flow into the tank, the tank outlet may be blocked and the tank level may rise above the inlet pipe, causing the toilet drains to gurgle and not flush properly.

What Do We Do?

Each of Gulliford Septic and Sewers trucks is equipped with a high-pressure vaccum pump and hose, which we use to remove all the sludge, liquid and solids that build up over time in your septic tank.

Regular septic maintenance protects your system from premature failure which can result in THOUSANDS of dollars in repair fees.

How Often Should I Have My Septic Tank Pumped?

Typically, the state of Illinois recommends a septic tank be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the number of people in the household. Heres a chart that can help you decide what the best maintenance schedule is for your system:

What Else Should I Know?

Where is your tank located in your yard? If you dont know, we can probe your yard and locate it, uncover it and then provide you with a drawing for future reference.

Dont like digging up your tank each time Gulliford Septic and Sewer pumps it? We can do it up for you or we can install a riser with a sealed lid that provides ground-level access to your tank for inspection and pumping.

Dont let tree roots slow your maintenance! All of our technicians carry RootX on their trucks for your septic systems protection. RootX is a foaming tree root control solution that kills roots in residential sewer lines and septic systems, restoring proper flow.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? ASK US!

Call us at (217) 337-5996 oremail us!

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Septic Pumping & Cleaning | Gulliford Septic & Sewer

Serving the needs of residential, commercial and industrial customers J&S is a full service contractor handling a wide variety of waste streams. It doesnt matter whether we are pumping your septic tank or diagnosing why it doesnt work, we are here to help from start to finish. Full service means that we have the tools, talent, and experience to bring your problem to resolve without the delays, additional cost, and miscommunication that can arise with sub-contractors. We can lay hundreds of feet of sewer pipe or hydro-excavate around a web of utilities. We are here to provide more than just services, we provide solutions. We can clean car wash settling pits, oil water separators, grease traps, or acid tanks. From permitted confined space entry to decontamination we almost never say no to our customers. Call us today and let us solve your problem.

J & S Liquid Waste Services started in 1980 with one man, one truck, and a dedication to providing for his family through service and integrity. Pumping septic tanks, known as honey dipping back when it was done with buckets, led to a great reputation for service. Great service then led to commercial liquid waste streams such as grease traps. More business comes with greater customer needs like repairing or installing septic systems which led to excavation equipment. In 1998 we began offering Rooter Services which later became its own division and brought with it the capabilities of main sewer line auguring, hydro-jetting, and camera inspection. We have grown to be the only full service septic/sewer company in the area, with the knowledge, tools, and experience to diagnose and fix your problem. From start to finish we are here to do more than just provide services, we solve problems. Call us today and let us put your mind at ease.

24/7 Emergency services available. Bulk liquids transport and disposal including sewage, septic, grease trap cleaning, petroleum products and hazardous waste. Full rooter service including auguring of blocked sewer lines, diagnosis of backed up drain lines and hydro-jetting of plugged lines. Camera inspection of sewer lines, perimeter drains, industrial process lines including line locating. Excavation services including hydro excavation with expertise in sewer line, water line, force main and septic system installation and repair. Hi-vac services to clean catch basins, sediment pits/sand traps, oil/water separators and more. Lift station, grinder station and dosing pump installation and repair including permitted confined space entry. Spill response including environmental remediation, hazardous waste, and bio-hazards. Environmental services for underground storage tank removal including decontamination and soil remediation.

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Plumbing Sewer Fort Wayne, IN- J & S Liquid Waste Services