Some drain cleaning companies offer a sewer camera inspection service after cleaning your sewer line. The truth is that in order to be 100% sure the line is clear of all roots, only a sewer camera inspection can see inside the line and make that determination. This does add an additional expense however, and is often unneeded, unless there is a problem or recurring problem with the line. Typically, you know that the line is clear if the following conditions are met:
Right Size Blades
Blades are placed on the end of the drain cleaning machine and spin along the full circumference of the sewer line in order to clear it. If 3” blades are used on a 4” pipe, it is likely the roots won’t be fully cleaned out of the line.
Strong Cable
The drain cleaning machine uses a tightly wound cable fed through the line to push the blades through. If the cable is kinked or weak, it will likely miss spots of roots. The longer the cable is threaded through the sewer line, the more weak it becomes.
For example, it will be stronger at 70 feet than at 120 feet. Therefore if you have a long sewer line, it could benefit you to install a clean out mid-line which will allow the drain cleaning machine to reach further with more strength. This is also why a drain cleaner may choose to pull a toilet rather than use another access point- it may allow them to get closer to the clog or further down the line.
Observable Drainage
If the line drains, it means that the blockage has been resolved. Again, because the line isn’t visible without the sewer camera inspection, the main clog may have been pushed through, but can get caught further down the line, or the same problem area can build up again and re-clog.
Garvin’s warranties their work because we understand this happens at times. However, if you are experiencing ongoing problems, a sewer camera inspection may be the best option in determining the cause.
Good Pipe Condition
It is often we see older sewer pipes, or pipes in remodeled homes that aren’t in the best condition. This means they could transition from cast iron pipes to clay ones, have multiple bends or dips or even have damage. The pipe condition can cause roots to not be fully cleared in the line. Every bend and pipe material change can cause a problem for the cleaning machines.
If root regrowth in your sewer line is causing you trouble, contact us today to learn about sewer camera inspection options and to have your line 100% cleaned of roots by our experienced drain cleaning technicians. We pride ourselves on using the right blades, best cable, industry expert knowledge and tools to get you the best results, and we stand behind our work with our 90 day service guarantee (in most cases).
Ask for more information when you call. We look forward to serving your sewer camera inspection and drain cleaning needs!
