If you have a water leak near Northridge, CA, and that leak is coming from one of your underground pipes, you might qualify to receive trenchless sewer repair. This revolutionary pipe lining technology is cutting the cost—and the time—of lengthy and pricey pipe repairs.

If your piping is cracked or degrading, your plumber might recommend one of two types of trenchless repair methods. The first method, pipe lining, uses an epoxy to line and essentially transform your old pipes into new pipes. After digging one hole, the plumber will insert a balloon of sorts into the pipe and feed epoxy resin along the damaged pipe. This coats the pipe, and the plumber waits for it to cure—typically 2-6 hours—and you have an almost brand new pipe.

The second method, pipe bursting, requires two holes. A new pipe is fed through the old one, causing the old one to fracture. Pipe bursting may not be a feasible option for every pipe. Talk to your plumbing and heating company about the best option for your pipes.

If you’re a homeowner, or are thinking of buying a home, and you need a sewer line replaced , consult an emergency plumber near Northridge, CA. Common causes of sewer line damage include tree roots breaking into the sewer line, shifts in soil and foundation, and sewer lines made of less reliable materials. When you call your plumber about replacing your sewer line, he or she will typically ask about these three cost-influencing, issues.

Finding the Main
When your plumber asks you to “find the main,” he means the city sewer line that connects to individual houses’ sewer lines. Typically, you can find the main by locating a manhole cover on the road outside your home. Depending on where it’s located on the road—your side, opposite side, or middle—the price to replace your sewer line may be affected.

Finding the House Trap
Next, your plumber will ask you where your house trap is. This pipe is usually in the shape of a U and will be located in your yard or basement. You should be able to spot it by one or two visible caps that connect to the actual trap, which is deep underground. Keep in mind, if the trap is located in your basement, your repair cost might go up in price.

Finding Obstructions
Finally, you’ll look for major obstructions around the line. Trees and concrete porches are the most common culprits for obstructing sewer lines.

Once these few details have been found, your plumber can recommend a course of action. Typically, a plumbing company will offer a free consultation with reputable references. Once you’ve agreed on a price, your plumber might use a sewer camera to determine the exact problem area. Also, ask your plumber about trenchless sewer repair. If your plumbing problem presents as a qualified candidate, your plumber can repair the problem in a few days rather than a week or more, and spare your yard from more damage than necessary.

Garbage disposals and trash compactors are two separate appliances; unfortunately, they’re often used the same. But using your garbage disposal the wrong way can result in clogged drains, chipped blades, and other problems. Watch this video to learn the right way to use your garbage disposal, including information on what you can and can’t put down the garbage disposal.

If you’ve been using your garbage disposal wrong, it’s likely your kitchen drain is full of debris and materials that can be slowing the flow of water out of your sink and into the sewer line. Now that you know how to properly use your garbage disposal, schedule professional drain cleaning with a plumbing services company in Northridge, CA to get your drains clear of clogs and buildups. You might also think about replacing your garbage disposal at the same time to get a fresh start in your kitchen.

Some plumbing issues are unavoidable, but the good news is that most of the common “problems” homeowners will experience are more of an annoyance than a real plumbing emergency. However, that doesn’t mean a major plumbing problems isn’t on the horizon. That’s why homeowners should be diligent in preventing the plumbing emergencies they can control. Although clogged toilets and slow-draining sinks are to be expected at times, here are some things you can do to avoid an expensive plumbing emergency. Even with these tips in hand, it’s still a good idea to have the number of a plumbing services company in Northridge, CA on hand in case a sudden and unexpected emergency does arise.

Watch What You Flush
Toilet back-ups are among the most disgusting and unsanitary plumbing emergencies a homeowner can experience. One of the best ways to keep your sewage flowing in the proper direction is to make sure nothing gets flushed down the toilet that belongs in the trash can instead. Floss, cotton swabs, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products are examples of everyday household items that can build up over time and cause a sewage backup.

Keep Your Drains Clear
Even if you are careful about what you flush down the toilets and pour down the drains, it’s possible that your pipes can develop clogs and buildups over time. Although drain clogs can start out as minor inconveniences, they have the potential to cause major flooding and result in expensive water damage. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule drain cleaning on a regular basis as part of your home plumbing maintenance routine so you can prevent clogs from developing in the first place.

Replace Old Plumbing
If you live in an older home, consider having your plumbing system replaced or your pipes relined. In either case, investing in pipe replacement or restoration now can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in plumbing repair and water damage renovation costs in the long run. And if your home has galvanized pipes, new pipes can also improve your water quality and water pressure.