Frequently Asked Questions
Emergency Service Available
7 Days A Week
Drain Saver
White Plains, NY 10605
914-949-1707
Q. Does everyone's main sewer line back up as often as mine?
A. No two sewer situations are alike. Some homes never have a stoppage, while others may back up two, even three times a year. There are many factors that determine why a sewer line clogs. The two most common causes are roots getting into the line, or a build up of grease (soap) over a period of time.
Q. What causes grease (soap) to cake up in my pipe?
A. Proper drainage is achieved through gravity, or a pipes "pitch". A properly "pitched" drain empties after each use. When a pipe is level or back pitched it holds water in it. This condition causes soap and grease to rise to the top, cling to the pipe, and harden.
Q. If roots are getting into my pipe, does it mean it's broken?
A. Not necessarily so. Roots have a tendency of getting into older clay pipes through hairline cracks or misaligned joints. Usually a good "snaking" by a professional drain cleaner will resolve the problem.
Q. What causes roots to grow in a sewer line?
A. Roots love the humidity, or moisture, which is inherent in a sewer line-it's a perfect environment for them.
Q. Would it be cheaper to replace my sewer line rather than periodic maintenance?
A. If you had your sewer line professionally cleaned once a year for twenty years, maintenance would probably be much more cost effective than replacing it.
Q. What is "video pipe inspection"?
A. A process by which a camera head is pushed through your sewer line enabling you to see any potential problems with your pipe. For example, roots, improper pitch, separations or breaks.
Q. What would be the benefit of a video inspection of my sewer line?
A. Typically one would have their sewer video inspected if they have a chronic problem and are contemplating replacing the line. This would be beneficial in determining how much pipe should be replaced, what type of pipe you currently have underground and how far it goes.
Q. Should I try using a chemical on a slow or backed up drain?
A. Chemicals usually will do one of three things: work; not work; or make matters worse. Caution should be taken to follow directions carefully and never mix different chemicals. Some solid or crystal chemicals can re-solidify in your drain causing a far worse situation than you started out with. Always alert your service technician of any chemicals applied to a drain before work is started.
Q. I need a question that hasn't been addressed here answered. What should I do?
A. Either call DRAIN SAVER at (914) 949-1707 and ask for Guy or Susie, or use the "Contact Us" page on this website.
