Main sewer lines are kept clear, and in working order, by the public works department of the town or city where people reside. Homeowners are responsible for keeping the lines on their property clear and working well. The best way to do that is with proper inspections and maintenance. Having professionals use a small camera to view sewer lines for blockages, tree roots, and any damage to pipes will save homeowners time and money on costly repairs. Extensive damage, major clogs, or invasive tree roots can lead to major repair projects, or replacement of sewer pipes. There are many cost-effective ways to keep those lines clear and free from damage. Maintenance will prolong the life of the system , as well as alert homeowners to any minor repairs that can be made without spending a lot of money.
Inspections of lines are also cost-effective measures to keep lines clear. Tree roots are the biggest problem in yards because their roots can infiltrate lines through small cracks or connection points. The roots are just small at first, but get larger as trees mature. This possibility increases in the spring and summer months with increased plant growth and more moisture from people watering their gardens and lawns. Drain cutters can be used to remove roots and clear the sewer lines without damaging pipes. There are two types of sewer root cutter that are used by professionals. A blade is used with cleaning cable machines, and a hydraulic root cutter is used with a sewer jetter.
Cutting the roots and removing them is more cost-effective than replacing lines, and will also slow or stop regrowth of the roots. Cutting is also more effective than chemical root cleaner, and more environmentally friendly. Using a camera following cutting will ensure that all the tree roots have been removed. It may take more than one round of cutting before removing all the roots. Resistance when using cutters can mean severely tangled roots, or a damaged pipe, so technicians need to proceed with caution to avoid further damage. If there is any question, it is better to take the time to recheck the view and continue when the full situation is reassessed.
Cutters are used under pressure, so safety precautions need to be taken at all times. Follow manufacturer instructions for machinery and components, and adhere to Occupational Safety and Health administration (OSHA) regulations. Protective gear, such as goggles, gloves, helmets, face-shields, and steel toe boots, is recommended whenever using cutters, blades, and machinery in pipes. Homeowners will want to use the services of experienced contractors to find safe, and cost-effective, ways to clear sewer lines that are on the property.
How to use hydraulic and sewer root cutters 