If you plan on beginning a new do-it-yourself project to fix your sewer soon, make sure you read these tips first.
-
1. Listen to the sounds of your sewer
One of the best ways to tell what could be wrong with your sewer is simply by listening to it. You can check out the various problems and you may be able to diagnose the issue simply by trying to think about what the sound means. One of the most common issues is gurgling in the sink drain, which is a great indicator that you may have a small clog.
2. Get a drain camera so you can get a reliable visual
If listening to the sewer problem isn’t telling you enough information, you can find out more by investing in a tiny, but incredibly helpful drain camera. This inexpensive tool will be super helpful if you are concerned about making the right diagnosis and want a little backup so you can figure out what the problem is.
3. Don’t buy any plumbing fixtures until you know the problem
Before you make any big purchases that could cost you a lot of money, you should confirm that you got the problem right. You can talk to your local expert at the hardware store, or you can consult a professional plumber to review exactly what your diagnosis was and get an opinion from an expert.
4. Try simple fixes first
If your sewer is over 40 years old, then there is a good chance you may need to repair the entire unit, but you shouldn’t assume that this is the best solution without trying some simple fixes first. You might have problems with the kitchen sink plumbing that are extremely easy to fix if they are simply due to a clogged drain. You should definitely check online and talk to some friends to find out what some of the most commonly missed, easily fixed sewer repairs are.
5. Don’t try any risky sewer repair experiments
If you are new to fixing sewer issues and think that the whole experience can be a learning process, you should make sure you don’t go overboard. There are some projects, like replacing your entire sewer system, that will really require a professional. Make sure you don’t take on too much as a beginning plumber, and don’t forget that your local repairman is there to help you when you need it.
6. Consider the money you could save by doing a small repair
There are lots of research studies that have shown that anywhere from 20% to 35% of residential toilets have serious leaks, and this takes a similar toll as a leaky faucet — one drip per second over the course of an entire year can add up to 3,000 gallons of water being wasted. The point is that you should fix a plumbing emergency right away, even if it doesn’t seem time sensitive.
7. Consult a professional if you’re not sure what to do
There’s no one who is more experienced with sewer repairs than professional plumbers, so if you have tried tons of fixes and you simply can’t get to the bottom of your sewer problem, you should call a professional as soon as possible. They are specially trained and will quickly be able to diagnose your plumbing issues and advise you on how to best deal with the problem. Ger more information on this topic here.
