When faced with a plumbing issue, you want expert help—and fast. Master plumber Christian Telford with Hoffmann Brothers, which has been in business for more than 40 years, shares answers to five commonly asked questions about plumbing and sewer systems.
1. How and where do I spot a backup in my sewer system?
Among the first places to check: drains and basements, including “anywhere around your floor drain where you’re seeing water coming up or anywhere normally dry that’s become wet,” Telford says. In addition to moisture, other signs that may require sewer service include noticeable odors or sounds, an increase in pests, or a spike in water bills. “Too many times, we see the water go down, and we think everything is OK. Yet we’re not really paying attention to what caused it,” Telford says. “You really need to see if you have root infiltration, an older line that needs to be rehabilitated or replaced—really what’s causing the problem. When we go to a doctor, we expect to be able to find out what’s wrong; ultimately, your home should be the same way.” Telford’s best suggestion when it comes to sewer service is to find a contractor you can trust with the proper equipment to inspect the issue.
2. What are the most common causes of a backup?
Aging sewer systems are typically most often to blame, especially in the city of St. Louis, where many homes have the original clay piping that’s nearing the end of its life expectancy, Telford explains. The infiltration of tree roots into pipes is another common cause. Self-induced backups, however, are just as common because many people flush items that shouldn’t be flushed, from feminine hygiene products and wipes to toys.
3. What should I expect when a service professional arrives to fix an issue?
For Hoffmann Brothers, it’s important to educate customers and communicate details. Not only will the staff have the tools and technology to assess the issue, but they’ll also guide you through the process. For a sewer system visit, for example, the staff will invite customers to watch the video camera during the inspection of the pipes, so they can educate the customer about what the inside of the pipe looks like, whether it’s clean, and where there may be fractures. “We want the customer to really be able to see what’s going on,” says Telford. “We can try to express it, but it’s much more effective when you can just see the issue for yourself. That education alone can help the customer navigate if something has to be fixed right away or what can be done about it.”
4. My child just flushed something down the toilet. What should I do?
“Regardless of what’s put down the system, if it’s not normally supposed to be flushed, you should always get a professional out there to take a look,” Telford says. You don’t want to continue flushing or running water to try to force something down, he adds, because there’s a chance that the foreign item can be retrieved without excavation.
5. Are flushable wipes really flushable?
Telford ultimately suggests never flushing any wipes, no matter how “flushable” they’re advertised. “Wipes just don’t deteriorate like toilet paper,” says Telford. “But if you do use them, we recommend flushing twice to help carry them down the line a little farther, using them sparingly, or using an extra trash bin or container to dispose of them.”
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Hoffmann Brothers. Have a sewer issue? Schedule service or request a bid from Hoffman Brothers at hoffmannbros.com or by calling 314-373-1828.
