Preventative Maintenance Tips
Preventative Maintenance Tips | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Coalmont
Whether you’re nestled in downtown Coalmont or tucked away on the mountain ridges, HEP makes it simple to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly. Our seasoned technicians have seen how unchecked roots, shifting soil, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles can create silent trouble inside buried pipes. By following HEP’s preventative maintenance tips, you’ll spot early warning signs of main line issues long before they turn into costly yard excavations or unexpected backups in the middle of the night.
From scheduling an annual camera inspection to learning the safe way to flush your water heater and dispose of household grease, these small, proactive steps safeguard your property and the environment alike. Trust Coalmont’s hometown plumbing experts to guide you through every preventive measure—so you can spend more time enjoying mountain views and less time worrying about what’s happening beneath your lawn.
FAQs
What warning signs suggest I may already have a main line issue in my Coalmont home?
Common red flags include gurgling toilets, water backing up into a tub or floor drain when another fixture is used, multiple slow-draining fixtures on the same floor, and sewage odors outside near the clean-out. Because Coalmont’s clay soils can shift after heavy rain, you might also notice soggy patches in the yard directly above the sewer lateral. Addressing these hints early can prevent a costly collapse or backup.
How often should I schedule a preventative main line inspection in Coalmont?
For most single-family homes, a camera inspection every 2–3 years is sufficient. If your property has mature trees, older clay or cast-iron pipe, or a history of backups, annual inspections are recommended. Scheduling in late winter or very early spring is ideal in Coalmont, because plumbers can spot root intrusion before spring growth and make repairs before summer visitors place extra load on your plumbing.
Can tree roots really damage my sewer main line, and how can I stop them?
Yes. Tree roots are attracted to the warmth and moisture around sewer pipes; even hairline cracks can let roots in, leading to blockages and pipe deformation. Preventative steps include planting thirsty species (willows, maples, elms) at least 20–25 ft from the lateral, installing a root-barrier fabric, and scheduling annual root treatments with a foaming herbicide. During an inspection, ask your Coalmont plumber about root-resistant PVC or HDPE pipe if you are planning a partial replacement.
What everyday habits will keep my main drain clear and extend its life?
• Use drain strainers in showers and sinks to trap hair and debris. • Collect cooking oils and grease in a sealable container instead of rinsing them down the sink. • Flush only the 3 P’s—pee, poop, (toilet) paper. Wipes labeled “flushable,” feminine products, and paper towels often snag inside the main line. • Run hot water for 30 seconds after each dishwashing session to move soap scum through. • Once a month, pour a kettle of very hot (not boiling) water into the highest drain to help dissolve biofilm before it thickens.
Is it safe to use store-bought chemical drain cleaners to maintain my main line?
Occasional use on a small branch line may be acceptable, but regular dosing can weaken older cast-iron or clay mains and kill helpful bacteria in your septic system if you are outside Coalmont’s municipal sewer district. The heat generated can even warp PVC. Instead, rely on enzymatic cleaners or schedule a professional hydro-scrub; both approaches clear organic buildup without damaging the pipe.
What is hydro jetting, and when should I consider it for preventative maintenance?
Hydro jetting is a service in which a plumber inserts a hose that blasts 3,000–4,000 psi water streams in all directions, scouring the entire pipe interior. It removes grease, roots, mineral scale, and sludge more thoroughly than snaking. For preventative care, Coalmont homeowners typically jet every 3–5 years, or sooner if a camera inspection shows heavy buildup. After jetting, ask the technician for a post-clean video to confirm the pipe is debris-free and structurally sound.