A clogged or damaged sewer line can cause serious damage to your home and wallet. It’s one of those plumbing issues that many homeowners overlook—until it’s too late. At Ava’s Plumbing, the fastest licensed plumbers in San Diego, we’ve helped countless homeowners avoid costly sewer repairs with early detection and smart inspection techniques.
Here are expert tips to help you stay ahead of sewer line problems and keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
1. Know the Warning Signs of a Sewer Line Issue
Before you even inspect your sewer line, it’s important to know the red flags:
- Slow drains in multiple areas of your home
- Foul odors coming from drains or your yard
- Gurgling sounds when using sinks, toilets, or tubs
- Sewage backups or standing water in your yard
These are strong indicators that your sewer line may be blocked or damaged and needs immediate inspection.
2. Use Video Camera Inspections
One of the most effective ways to inspect a sewer line is with a video camera inspection. This non-invasive method allows licensed plumbers to insert a waterproof camera into the pipe to see what’s really going on.
Video inspections help detect:
- Root intrusion
- Pipe collapse
- Grease buildup
- Corrosion or cracks
At Ava’s Plumbing, we use advanced camera technology to get a clear, accurate view—saving you from guesswork and unnecessary digging.
3. Check the Age of Your Sewer Pipes
If your San Diego home was built before the 1980s, it might still have clay or cast iron pipes. These materials are prone to cracking, collapsing, or corroding over time.
Knowing the age and material of your sewer line helps determine how often you should inspect it. Older homes typically require more frequent checks—especially if you’ve noticed recurring drain issues.
4. Inspect After Tree Root Growth
Tree roots are one of the biggest threats to underground sewer lines. They naturally grow toward water and can enter your pipes through tiny cracks or joints. Over time, they expand and create serious blockages or breakages.
If you have large trees near your sewer line, schedule a video inspection every 1-2 years, especially during or after heavy rains when roots seek moisture.
5. Pay Attention to Unexplained Lawn Changes
Have you noticed unusually green patches in your lawn or a soggy area that never dries? These could be signs of a leaking sewer line underground. Wastewater leaking into the soil can fertilize your lawn—but it’s a hidden problem that could get expensive fast.
A professional inspection can confirm the issue before your yard turns into a swamp.
6. Be Proactive When Buying or Selling a Home
If you’re planning to buy or sell a home, a sewer line inspection is a smart move. It gives buyers peace of mind and protects sellers from future liability.
Don’t rely solely on a general home inspection—sewer lines are often excluded. Hiring a plumbing specialist ensures this critical system is evaluated properly.
7. Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
It might be tempting to pour chemical drain cleaners down your pipes when things start slowing down, but these solutions can corrode your pipes over time—especially older ones.
Instead, opt for professional drain cleaning and schedule an inspection to understand the root cause. This helps prevent damage and extends the life of your plumbing.
8. Schedule Annual Maintenance Inspections
Even if you don’t see obvious signs of trouble, scheduling a yearly sewer line inspection can prevent surprise repairs. Just like you maintain your car, your plumbing system needs routine checkups to perform at its best.
How We Can Help
At Ava’s Plumbing, we specialize in fast, accurate sewer line inspections across San Diego. Whether you’re dealing with a suspected blockage or just want peace of mind, our expert team is ready 24/7.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Fastest Licensed Plumbers in San Diego
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Uniformed, Professional Technicians
- Free Estimates
- Weekend and Holiday Availability
- Financing Options for Major Repairs
Don’t wait for a sewage backup to take action. Call Ava’s Plumbing today to schedule a sewer line inspection and keep your home safe and clean.