Sewer Scope Inspections: What You Need to Know Before Winter

Introduction

Hey there, homeowners! As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, it’s time to think about preparing your home for winter. One often overlooked but crucial task is getting a sewer scope inspection. Why, you ask? Well, those chilly temperatures can really do a number on your sewer lines, potentially leading to some not-so-fun issues like blockages, backups, or costly repairs. By getting a sewer scope inspection now, we can spot any brewing problems before Jack Frost makes them worse and harder to fix.

Common Sewer Line Issues in Winter

Tree Root Intrusions

You might not realize it, but those beautiful trees in your yard can be secret troublemakers for your sewer lines. Their roots are always on the hunt for moisture, and your sewer pipes are like an all-you-can-drink buffet for them. When winter rolls around, these roots can expand as they freeze, causing blockages that’ll have you saying “Oh no!” instead of “Ho ho ho!”

Pipe Cracks or Breaks

Just like how our bones can get a bit creaky in the cold, your pipes can suffer too. Older pipes or ones that are already a bit weak might not be able to handle the stress of freezing temperatures. This can lead to cracks or even breaks, which means leaks and blockages. Trust me, dealing with a broken pipe in the middle of winter is not how anyone wants to spend their holiday season!

Clogs and Debris

We all tend to hunker down and spend more time at home during winter, especially around the holidays. This means more cooking, more showers, and more… well, you know. All this extra water usage can exacerbate any existing build-up in your pipes. And let’s be honest, no one wants to deal with a backed-up sewer while they’re trying to enjoy their holiday feast!

Sewer Scope Inspection Process

What Inspectors Look For

When we come out to do a sewer scope inspection, we send a tiny camera down your sewer line to check for any signs of trouble. We’re on the lookout for sneaky tree roots, any cracks in the pipes, blockages that might cause issues, and any corrosion that could lead to problems down the line.

Getting this inspection done before winter hits is like giving your sewer system a health check-up. We can spot small issues before they turn into big, expensive problems during the coldest months of the year. It’s always better to deal with a small issue now than a big one when it’s freezing outside!

Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Preventative Cleaning

Scheduling regular cleanings for your sewer system can help remove any build-up of debris, grease, or those pesky tree roots we talked about earlier. It’s a small step that can save you from big headaches later on.

Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items

I know, I know, we’ve all been tempted to flush things we shouldn’t. But trust me, your sewer system will thank you if you stick to just flushing what it’s designed for. Maybe have a friendly chat with your household members about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain. Your pipes will appreciate it!

Monitor Water Usage

Winter can be tough on your sewer system, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Try to be mindful of how much water you’re using. Spacing out showers, laundry loads, and dishwasher runs can help prevent overwhelming your system. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.

Conclusion

Getting a sewer scope inspection before winter isn’t just about avoiding problems – it’s about peace of mind. Knowing that your sewer system is in good shape means one less thing to worry about as you cozy up for the winter months. So why not give us a call and schedule an inspection? Your future self (and your pipes) will thank you when you’re enjoying a stress-free winter!

Book us online at cityhomeinspectors.com