What Causes Drain Clogs in the Tacoma–Seattle Area?

Posted on June 6, 2025 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio

Local Plumbing Experts Share Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

TACOMA, WA – June 6, 2025 – If you own a home in the Puget Sound area, chances are you’ll eventually deal with one of the most common and frustrating plumbing issues: slow or clogged drains. To help homeowners in Tacoma and Seattle avoid expensive plumbing repairs, Jason Hunt, licensed plumber of over 30 years and founder of Hunt’s Services, is shedding light on the most frequent causes of clogged drains and how to prevent them before they start.

Top 4 Reasons Drains Clog in Tacoma–Seattle Homes

1. Tree Root Intrusions
“In older neighborhoods like North Tacoma or Capitol Hill, roots from large trees often grow into sewer lines looking for moisture,” says Jason. “It’s a slow but serious issue that can eventually block your entire pipe.”

Root penetration is most common in homes built before the 1970s when the original clay or concrete sewer pipes remain in place. Both of these materials will crack or get loosened joints where the pipes come together, allowing roots nearby to enter and grow inside. If the roots enter your drain lines, they will create an interlacing structure that traps solids, grease, and other blockages which can ultimately result in completely clogged pipes or even worse pipe failure. Warning indications are regular backups, sluggish drains, and areas of abnormally bright grass over the line.

2. Grease and Food Waste
“Even small amounts of grease poured down the sink can harden inside your pipes, especially in our cooler climate,” Jason explains. “Over time, it traps other debris and causes major clogs.”

People often assume hot water will wash grease away however as it cools in your drain line, it solidifies and sticks to the pipe walls. Add bits of food, soap scum, and hair, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a stubborn clog. Foods like pasta, rice, eggshells, and coffee grounds are also notorious for sticking and swelling in pipes. The best practice is to scrape every bit of food into the trash or compost before washing dishes.

3. Flushable Wipes and Hygiene Products
“Despite the label, most flushable wipes don’t break down like toilet paper,” Jason warns. “They often get caught in sewer lines and lead to backups, especially when combined with tree roots or grease.”

What might seem like a harmless inconvenience can be a plumbing disaster. Wipes, sanitary products, cotton balls, and even paper towels don’t break down easily in water, and when several are flushed at once, they produce dense clogs. These clogs are a leading cause of sewer overflows in single-family residences and apartment or condo buildings.

4. Old Pipes in Older Homes
It is conservatively estimated that the majority of homes built before 1980 in Seattle, Tacoma, and the surrounding areas still utilize outdated drain and sewer pipe materials. Galvanized steel corrodes inwardly, narrowing water flow. Orangeburg, a tar-based soft pipe commonly utilized during mid-century construction, is highly prone to collapse. Clay and concrete pipes are more likely to crack due to ground movement, root pressure, or corrosive sewer gases.

“These aging systems clog easily and can fail without warning,” Jason says. “Many homeowners don’t even know what type of piping they have until something goes wrong.” Tacoma’s damp winters and shifting soils only make things worse, putting older plumbing systems under constant stress.

How to Prevent Drain Clogs: 4 Essential Tips for Homeowners

1. Use Drain Strainers

Catch food scraps, hair, and debris before they enter your plumbing system. Strainers are inexpensive, easy to clean, and highly effective at preventing foreign objects from reaching your main drain lines.

2. Flush Pipes Naturally

Once a month, use a mix of baking soda and vinegar to clear minor buildup. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then rinse with boiling water. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners because they may work temporarily but can corrode older pipes, damage septic systems, and pollute local water supplies.

3. Schedule Annual Inspections

If you’ve noticed recurring drainage issues, or if your home is more than 20 years old, it is recommended that you have an annual inspection by a licensed Seattle plumber who can detect root intrusions, buildup, or early signs of pipe failure. Licensed Tacoma plumbers, such as Hunt’s Services, use sewer cameras to inspect the full length of your drain lines, allowing them to pinpoint small problems before they turn into costly emergencies.

4. Replace Old Drain Lines

Replacing outdated or damaged sewer lines is often the most cost-effective long-term solution. Modern materials like PVC, ABS, and HDPE are stronger, more resistant to corrosion, and have smoother interiors that resist buildup.

Hunt’s Services offers both traditional and trenchless pipe replacement options. Trenchless technology allows technicians to replace underground pipes without digging up your yard, patio, or driveway — making it a great option for homeowners who want a permanent fix with minimal disruption.

“Many emergency service calls come from homeowners with no idea they had old or deteriorating pipes under their home,” Jason notes. “That’s why we recommend regular inspections, especially if your home was built before the 1980s.”

Limited-Time Offer: Free Drain Assessment for Local Homeowners

To help local homeowners prevent drainage issues before the rainy season intensifies, Hunt’s Services is offering free visual drain assessment for the next two weeks. Tacoma and Seattle residents can schedule an inspection online at www.huntsservices.com or call 253-220-4688

This limited-time offer is especially helpful for homeowners who haven’t had their pipes checked in years. Whether you’re concerned about tree roots, grease buildup, or the age of your system, a free inspection can offer peace of mind and catch problems before they escalate into expensive sewer and drain repairs.

About Hunt’s Services
Hunt’s Services is a family-owned and locally operated plumbing, HVAC, and electrical company serving the greater Tacoma–Seattle area. With over 3,000 five-star reviews, Hunt’s is trusted for its quality craftsmanship, honest pricing, and reliable service. The company provides emergency response, same-day repairs, and full system installations.

Media Contact:
Faruk Oyebanjo
Director of Marketing, Hunt’s Services
Phone: 253-220-4688
Website: https://www.huntsservices.com

If Your New Year’s Resolution Is to Buy a New Home, Here’s What You Need to Do

Posted on December 31, 2024 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio

Home Purchase Sewer and Drain Buyer's Inspection

The start of a new year is a time for fresh beginnings, and for many, that includes the goal of buying a new home. It’s an exciting journey, but one that requires careful planning and attention to detail. At Hunts Services, we want to help you make this resolution a reality without unexpected surprises. Here’s a checklist to keep in mind as you work toward purchasing your dream home in Tacoma, Seattle, or the surrounding areas.

1. Schedule a Drain and Sewer Inspection

One critical step that often gets overlooked in the home-buying process is a professional drain and sewer inspection. A thorough inspection can uncover hidden issues like blockages, cracks, or tree root intrusions that could lead to costly repairs. By identifying these problems early, you can address them before they disrupt your plans. If you’re buying a home in Tacoma or Seattle, Hunts Services specializes in inspections tailored to the unique needs of homes in the Pacific Northwest.

2. Uncover Potential Problems

Your dream home might look flawless on the surface, but what lies beneath could tell a different story. An inspection ensures you’re fully informed about the property’s condition, including potential issues with the drains and sewer system, so you can make a confident decision. Hunt’s Services utilizes the latest in sewer and drain inspection technology which include sewer camera video inspections. Not only does this service provide a complete examination of your sewer and drain lines but also gives you a video recording of what was found.

3. Save on Repair Costs

Repairing or replacing damaged sewer lines can be a major expense. By investing in an inspection upfront, you can avoid surprising drain and sewer repair costs and negotiate with the seller to cover any necessary fixes. Tacoma and Seattle homes may have aging infrastructures that require careful evaluation.

4. Ensure Health & Safety

A functioning sewer system is essential for a healthy home. Leaking sewage can contaminate soil and water, posing serious health risks. A professional inspection ensures that your new home is safe for you and your family. Residents in the Seattle and Tacoma areas can benefit from the expertise of Hunts Services in addressing health and safety concerns.

5. Avoid Moving Day Disruptions

The last thing you want after moving into your new home is to deal with clogged drains or sewage backups. Scheduling an inspection before you buy ensures everything flows smoothly from day one, so you can focus on settling in. This is especially important for homes in Tacoma and Seattle, where heavy rains can exacerbate drainage issues.

6. Gain Negotiation Leverage

If your inspection reveals issues, you can negotiate with the seller. Whether it’s repairs or a price reduction, this leverage can save you money and provide peace of mind. In competitive housing markets like Seattle and Tacoma, this advantage can make all the difference.

Already Bought Your Home? Consider a Maintenance Program

If you’ve already purchased your home, it’s not too late to take steps to protect your investment. Hunts Services offers the Hunt Care Club Program, a comprehensive maintenance program designed to keep your drains and sewer system in top condition. Regular maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs, extend the life of your plumbing system, and ensure everything continues to function smoothly. Learn more about the Hunt Care Club Program.

Start the New Year Right with Hunts Services

At Hunts Services, we’re here to help you make informed decisions as you work toward your goal of homeownership. Our comprehensive drain and sewer inspections use advanced technology to evaluate the condition of your prospective home’s plumbing system.

If your New Year’s resolution is to buy a new home in Tacoma, Seattle, or nearby areas, don’t let hidden sewer problems derail your plans. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and take the first step toward a stress-free home-buying experience.

What You Should Know about Septic to Sewer Conversions

Posted on December 19, 2024 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio

If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s waste management system, a septic-to-sewer conversion could be the perfect solution. This process involves connecting your property to a city sewer system, which is highly convenient and offers some long-term benefits.

Homeowners often make the switch due to aging septic systems, which can be costly to maintain or replace. Converting might also be wise if you find yourself constantly calling a plumber for a drain cleaning or sewer repair.

Environmental concerns, such as preventing groundwater contamination, and local regulations that phase out septic systems in favor of public sewer systems also drive conversions.

Here’s a look at the benefits, challenges, and process of a sewer line replacement for septic, helping you make an informed decision about this upgrade.

Why Convert from Septic to Sewer?

Switching from a septic system to a sewer line connection is a significant decision, but it has benefits that make it worthwhile for many homeowners.

One major reason is environmental protection. Septic systems, especially older or poorly maintained ones, can leak and contaminate groundwater, leading to health hazards and environmental damage. Sewer systems transport waste to treatment facilities, providing safe disposal and reducing pollution risks.

Another key factor is cost-effectiveness. Septic systems require regular pumping, maintenance, and occasional repairs, and the costs can add up over time. Sewer connections have higher upfront costs but save money in the long run by eliminating ongoing maintenance expenses.

In addition, regulatory compliance is a driver for conversion. In many urban and suburban areas, local governments are phasing out septic systems to align with public health standards and expanding sewer infrastructure. As sewer lines become more accessible, conversions become easier and often mandatory in certain regions.

A sewer system offers peace of mind, reduces long-term costs, and contributes to a healthier environment, making the upgrade worthwhile for many homeowners.

The Conversion Process Explained

Converting from a septic system to a sewer connection involves several steps.

The conversion process begins with an initial inspection and assessment of your property. Your plumber will probably use cameras to examine your current drainage system and recommend a drain cleaning to clear any blockages.

Next comes planning and permitting, where you or your plumber work with local authorities to secure the necessary permits for excavation and connection. This step keeps you compliant with regulations and avoids legal issues.

Once approved, the excavation and connection phase begins. Your technician will dig trenches to connect your home’s plumbing to the municipal sewer line, replacing or repairing pipes as needed. Sewer repair or sewer replacement expertise is necessary at this point to address any structural issues.

Finally, the old septic tank is sealed off or decommissioned, often by pumping it out and filling it up with sand or gravel to prevent future hazards.

You need a professional at every stage to avoid costly mistakes. A skilled plumbing contractor can handle the complexities, installing a sewer connection that meets your home’s needs.

Challenges and Costs of Septic to Sewer Conversions

While converting from a septic system to a sewer connection offers long-term benefits, it comes with challenges you’ll want to prepare for before you begin.

One of the most significant hurdles is the high upfront cost. Excavation, permits, and connecting your property to the municipal sewer line can require a substantial investment, especially if your home is far from the main sewer line.

Another challenge is the potential disruption to landscaping or property. Excavation often involves digging up yards, driveways, or gardens, which may need restoration after completion.

In addition, old pipelines may require thorough inspections to determine if they need repairs or replacement. Issues like corrosion or leaks can increase project complexity and costs.

The overall cost of conversion varies widely based on several factors. The distance from the municipal sewer line plays a significant role, as longer distances mean more digging and higher costs.

The complexity of the excavation is another key factor, as working around existing structures or addressing unexpected issues can add to the expense.

Despite these challenges, the investment is worthwhile for many homeowners because a sewer system improves property value, reduces maintenance needs, and is a more environmentally friendly waste management solution.

Call the Pros at Hunt’s Services

When the time comes to decommission your septic system and connect to your local sewer, you’ll want an experienced contractor by your side. Hunt’s Services offers expert septic-to-sewer conversions in Tacoma, Seattle, and many other locations in the Pacific Northwest.

Call us at 253-533-7500 to learn more or book your appointment in King, Kitsap, Pierce, and Thurston counties.

10 Signs Your Home Needs a Sewer Line Replacement

Posted on June 1, 2023 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio | Leave a Comment

Leaking Sewer Line in need of Replacement in Tacoma, WA

A home’s sewer line plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system, carrying waste and wastewater away from your home. Over time, however, these underground pipes can deteriorate, leading to a range of issues that require immediate attention. Recognizing the signs early gives you a chance to address potential problems before they escalate into costly and disruptive emergencies.

1. Frequent Clogs

Frequent clogs in a home’s plumbing can end up being annoying and inconvenient. While a single clog may not necessarily indicate a larger issue, reoccurring or persistent clogs throughout your home can be a red flag for a larger problem. You may also notice that multiple drains in your home experience frequent clogs. When many separate drains experience clogging, that usually means that there is a blockage in the main sewer line. Many factors, like the buildup of debris, grease, hair, or tree roots, can cause frequent clogging of pipes in your home. These reoccurring issues can mean that you need a sewer line replacement for your home if there are extensive repair needs or the line is unrepairable.

2. Slow Draining

One of the ways to be able to tell if your home needs a sewer line replacement is the issue of slow drains. If your home has persistent slow drains, which is when water takes longer than usual to drain from sinks, bathtubs, or toilets, then it could mean that there is a significant problem with the sewer line for your home. When there is a major obstruction in a sewer line, then you will usually notice a slow drain. Cracks, breaks, or tree roots may cause serious blockages in a sewer line, causing slow draining. If your attempts at clearing clogs and getting drains to work better haven’t worked, it is time for a professional to inspect your sewer line to see if it needs repairs or a replacement.

3. Foul Odors

A good sign that you could have major issues with the sewer line for your home is that you smell sewer odors in your home. These odors indicate that there’s a problem with the plumbing system in your home. If you detect persistent sewer smells in your bathroom, kitchen, or basement, it is a clear indication that there is a problem, which could lead to needing a sewer line replacement.

4. Multiple Plumbing Issues

If you’ve noticed that you regularly have multiple plumbing issues, there is a potential need for a sewer line replacement if there is a broken line causing the issues. A combination of odors, clogs, and slow drains, probably means there is an issue with the sewer line for your home, and an immediate inspection is essential. Multiple plumbing issues are a sign that you may need to repair or replace your sewer line if it isn’t completely intact.

5. Sewage Backup

When sewage backs up into a home or yard, it is essential to have an inspection right away. Sewage backing up, typically, means that there is a major problem with the line, which could mean that it is just clogged or there is a broken pipe. Seeing or smelling a sewage odor in your yard is a sign that it is leaking from the sewer line and it’s a hazard that needs immediate attention.

6. Soggy Patches in the Yard

If you notice soggy patches in the yard or property around your home, it may be more than just a nuisance. The soggy ground can indicate a big problem with your home’s sewer line that requires a possible replacement. When you notice areas of consistently damp or mushy ground, this is a clear indication that something is wrong beneath the surface. Sewer line lakes or breakages can result in water seeping into the surrounding soil, leading to the formation of these soggy patches. The leaks might be due to pipe deterioration caused by age, tree roots, ground shifts, or physical damage. These patches may appear in various areas of your yard, particularly in proximity to the sewer line. You may notice them near the main clean-out or along the path of the underground pipes. It is important to know that these patches may not always be visibly wet, but the ground may feel soft or mushy when stepping on it.

7. Lush Areas on the Property

Instead of soggy areas in your yard, you may notice lush or overly green patches. These patches are also an indication that your home’s sewer line could require replacement. While greenery is generally desirable in a yard, specific lush areas could be a result of an underlying problem with your sewer line. When a sewer line begins to deteriorate or develops leaks, it releases water, waste, and nutrients into the surrounding soil. The sudden influx of moisture and organic matter acts like a fertilizer, promoting vegetation growth in concentrated areas. As a result, you may notice patches of grass or plants that appear healthier and greener compared to the rest of the greenery in your yard.

8. Depressions or Sinkholes

A depression, or a sinkhole, is where you might notice that there is an area of your yard that looks like it is uneven and unnatural. This ground movement could mean there is an issue with the sewer line for your home because it has moved or the ground around it has shifted. When this happens, a sewer line can develop a crack or break, causing it to leak. Sewer line repairs or a replacement is possible when this happens.

9. Aging Infrastructure

The passage of time takes a toll on various aspects of a home, fairground infrastructure that often goes unnoticed, like sewer lines. As homes age, so do their plumbing systems, and sewer lines are no exception. If you’re home has an aging infrastructure, it is crucial to consider the possibility that the sewer line might be due for a replacement. Over the years, sewer lines can deteriorate and become vulnerable to a range of issues. The increasing frequency of plumbing issues is a good indication that your sewer line may need replacing.

10. Pests or Rodents

The presence of pests and rodents in and around your home may be an indication that you need a sewer line replacement. While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering sewer line issues, these welcome visitors are often attracted to damaged or compromised sewer lines because of water and nourishment. When sewer lines deteriorate or develop cracks and leaks, they can create an environment that is enticing to pets and rodents. If you notice an increase in pest activity around your home or yard, it is crucial to consider the possibility of a damaged sewer line.

Contact Us Today!

At Hunt’s Services in Tacoma, Washington, we provide piping, water filtration, and sump pump services for your home. Our friendly team also provides gas line piping, electrical, and HVAC services. Contact Hunt’s Services for more information today!

Using Trenchless Technology to Replace Your Orangeburg Pipes in Western Washington

Posted on May 17, 2022 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio

What are Orangeburg Pipes?

Depending on your home’s age, there’s a chance your sewer line is made from a material called Orangeburg which was prevalent between 1945 and 1972.

This material doesn’t corrode because of its tar paper composition. However, it’s also extremely light and brittle, leading to premature deterioration. Homeowners should know that Orangeburg pipe absorbs moisture at a higher rate than clay or cast iron sewer pipes, too, which can lead to distortion or layers of the pipe bubbling and causing blockages.

Although manufacturers claimed Orangeburg had a 50-year lifespan, it starts breaking down at about 30 years. And since homebuilders stopped using the material about 50 years ago, you’re well overdue a new sewer line if you have this under your home.

If you believe you have Orangeburg sewer pipes, here’s what you should do.

How to Tell If Your Orangeburg Pipes Need Attention

Orangeburg was a popular building material until 1972 because it was easy to make. In short, it’s a bituminized fiber pipe made from wood pulp, a water-resistant adhesive, and hot pitch that gets its name because it was mass-produced in Orangeburg, New York.

So, how do you tell if your Orangeburg pipe is due for replacement?

The most obvious sign of a pipe problem is an indent in your front yard along your main sewer line’s path. You’ll clearly see an issue in your yard when this occurs, and you’ll want a plumbing technician to address the problem immediately.

You should also pay attention to what your neighbors are doing. If other houses in your neighborhood are running into issues with their Orangeburg pipes and replacing them, it’s probably only a matter of time until you experience similar problems.

Hunt’s Services can assist with a camera sewer inspection that allows us to see the condition of your Orangeburg pipes and make recommendations based on what we discover.

Why You Should Consider Replacing Your Orangeburg Pipes Soon

Naturally, minimizing your costs as a homeowner is a priority, but it’s essential to look at the big picture. Orangeburg pipes typically last for about 30 years, and since these products have been in circulation for 50 years, yours probably are getting close to the end of the line.

As your pipes approach the end of their lifespan, you might notice symptoms like:

Slow drains
Toilet back-ups
Mold
Indentations in your yard
Sinkholes in your foundation
Sewer odors inside your house

Proactively replacing your sewer line when you notice these symptoms, or at least calling the pros at Hunt’s Services to inspect your system, could save you significant cash in the long run.

How Your Trenchless Sewer Repair Will Work

As you research sewer line replacement options in Western Washington, you should know that traditional dig-and-replace methods are somewhat outdated. While they might be necessary for some scenarios, reinforcing or replacing your sewer line using trenchless technology is often possible.

Trenchless pipe repair can restore cracks and root damage to your pipes without digging up your yard. Technicians can typically complete these repairs in a few hours, and they are less expensive.

Perhaps the most efficient form of trenchless sewer repair is cured-in-place pipe lining. The gist is that the technician will access your sewer line through an existing access point, inserting a liner coated with epoxy into the pipe. The inside of the pipe is coated with resin, which hardens and reinforces your Orangeburg pipes.

It’s possible to get an extra 50 years from your Orangeburg pipes if you complete this repair early enough, although you should know that sometimes the damage is too extensive, and you’ll have to go in a different direction.

Your other trenchless sewer repair option is pipe busting, which is reserved for situations where there’s more extensive damage to the plumbing system.

In this scenario, your technician collapses the existing Orangeburg pipe into the soil without needing to dig it out using steel bursting heads. The new line is also attached to these heads, allowing it to replace the old pipe simultaneously.

The entire job is completed through a small entry point in your yard, so no trench is necessary, and there’s minimal displacement to your landscaping.

While pipe lining is the most economical option, it’s nice to know there’s another trenchless option for situations where your Orangeburg pipes are beyond repair.

Getting the Assistance You Need

If you have Orangeburg pipes in your home, you should know it’s only a matter of time before you experience issues. This material is prone to problems as it ages, and you’ll want to bring in a technician to complete a camera sewer inspection as soon as possible to check on its condition.

From there, your technician will develop a repair plan that works for you.

Contact Hunt’s Services at 253-533-7500 to learn more about our trenchless sewer repair options for Orangeburg pipes in Thurston, Pierce and King Counties.

Don’t Flush Your Wipes: Lessen The Impact of COVID-19

Posted on March 23, 2020 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio

Due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, toilet paper is in low supply and high demand, forcing Puget Sound residents to turn to personal cleansing wipes.

We’re also seeing citizens use disinfectant wipes and paper towels to clean surfaces in their homes, hoping to stop the spread of this virus.

While all of this is fine, and even encouraged, as we fight a global pandemic, we do have to think of our local sewer systems and the effect these items can have on them.

The issue is that we’re seeing an abnormally large percentage of the population using these products, with many choosing to flush them down their toilets to dispose of them. Wipes and paper towels can quickly clog sewer lines, both personal and municipal, causing severe problems for sewer systems in Western Washington and around the country.

Do your part by throwing your wipes and paper towels in the garbage after use to help prevent even more local problems from arising as a result of the COVID-19 virus.

What’s Causing the Problem?

The reason why we’re seeing blockages in sewer lines is because of how these systems operate.

For the most part, our sewers use gravity and water to remove waste from homes and divert it to the main city sewers. From there, the sewage moves to a treatment plant, where it is cleaned before being released.

When many people flush wipes and paper towels in a short period, it clogs the lines and prevents the system from working as it should.

The reason?

Wipes and paper towels don’t break down as toilet paper does. Toilet paper’s construction allows it to dissolve very quickly, a feature these other products don’t have.

If you’ve ever experienced a clogged toilet due to using too much toilet paper, you know that it leads to wastewater coming back into your fixture, sometimes overflowing. The toilet paper quickly disintegrates, however, allowing you to use a plunger to remove the clog.

The same thing happens in a city sewer line, as they can get a little backed up from time to time, but the toilet paper breaks down quickly, so the issue can be solved.

When dealing with wipes, it takes far longer for them to dissolve. And once thousands of wipes clump together in the sewers, removing the clog takes significant intervention.

Even flushable wipes aren’t safe because they still take longer to decompose than toilet paper.

This sewer issue is happening in Seattle, Tacoma, and throughout Pierce and King counties right now, putting a strain on our sewer systems and pressure on city and state officials, in addition to our plumbers.

Seattle has about 1,421 miles of sewer pipe, while Tacoma has over 700 miles. This is a lot of line to keep clear, and flushing wipes makes the job exponentially more difficult.

Yes, throwing these items in the garbage is an inconvenience, but it’s necessary as we try to keep people safe during this global pandemic.

It Isn’t Just Wipes

In some places, even wipes are in short supply, so we’re seeing people turn to other alternatives.

T-shirts, newspapers, and napkins are also being used instead of toilet paper, all of which put unnecessary pressure on the sewer systems.

In fact, in Redding, California, one neighborhood saw sewage overflow into the streets because of a resident using a shredded t-shirt as toilet paper.

If you don’t have any alternative but to use a t-shirt, do so, but make sure you throw your waste in the garbage. Avoid flushing it down the toilet.

Safety First

We’re clearly living in a challenging time when some supplies are running low, and stress is running high. At the same time, let’s face it, people still need to use the bathroom and will need to wipe.

If you run out of toilet paper and must use an alternative product, make sure you throw it in the garbage when you’re done with it each and every time.

Everyone will have to do their part in the coming months if we have any chance at containing the COVID-19 virus, and by choosing to throw this waste in the garbage, you can protect your family, neighbors, local plumbers, and city workers from possible exposure.

What to Do About Your Clogged Toilet

Now you know not to flush anything but toilet paper, but what’s the protocol if you’ve already flushed some wipes and it’s leading to problems?

Well, the answer is to bring in a plumber, but at this time, you’ll have to be extremely careful about who you trust.

For starters, your plumbing technician should do everything possible to limit your potential exposure to COVID-19, including washing their hands regularly, avoiding shaking hands, using shoe covers and protective gloves, and keeping a safe distance from all residents in the home.

At Hunt’s Services, we’re following all of the advice put forth by the World Health Organization during this pandemic. We’re practicing social distancing and have compiled a list of safety measures for each of our technicians to follow while working on your home.

If you have any questions or are dealing with a plumbing emergency at this time, call Hunt’s Services at 253-533-7500 for assistance.

We’re all in this together, so do your part by not flushing anything but toilet paper and keeping your social distance, so that local service providers and healthcare workers have the resources needed to keep you safe.

Why Sewer Lines Fail in Seattle Tacoma

Posted on December 27, 2019 | by sitemanagerwpmanagerio

Your sewer line is an essential part of your plumbing system because it’s responsible for removing water waste from your home. You’ll quickly notice if your sewer pipe isn’t functioning as it should because you’ll run into issues flushing your toilets, draining your sinks, or running your washing machine. Hunt’s Services is standing by in the Seattle and Tacoma areas to assist with all of your sewer system needs.

So what causes these sewer line problems in the first place? The reality is that numerous things can go wrong with your sewer system, and in some cases, there isn’t much you can do to prevent the issues from occurring in the first place.

What you can do is be proactive when you realize that your sewer line isn’t functioning at its full capacity by getting Hunt’s Services on the job.

Our team of licensed, certified technicians have seen every plumbing problem imaginable in King County and Pierce County so that we can get to the bottom of your issue quickly and efficiently.

Give us a call at 253-533-7500 to start the process right away. From there, you won’t have to worry about your sewer system anymore because Hunt’s will take care of it.

Here are some common sewer line problems in the Tacoma and Seattle areas.

1) Tree Roots

One sewer line problem that we see with regularity in Seattle and Tacoma involves tree roots damaging the pipes in search of water. These roots extend for substantial distances underground, looking for moisture to keep the tree alive. Eventually, the roots can wrap around your sewer line and break through at the joints, causing your drains to slow.

As the roots continue to grow, they weaken the pipe’s joints even further, and wastewater can begin escaping into your yard. Eventually, the entire pipe will collapse, leaving you with a significant cleanup in your yard, and a pipe that needs a complete replacement.

Tree roots are a problematic issue to prevent because the plant doesn’t necessarily have to be on your property to cause problems in your yard. What you can do, however, is make sure the trees on your property have enough water, especially in a period with little rain.

When planting new trees in your yard, make sure you avoid water-loving species like silver maples and weeping willows. Trees that require more water tend to cause more problems with sewer lines. You should also be aware of the location of your sewer pipe and avoid planting new trees close to it.

2) Shifting Ground

Another common sewer line issue in Western Washington is pipe failure because of shifting ground. Your pipes are supported by the soil under your landscaping, and when tectonic activity occurs, the ground can shift.

Even a slight shift puts added pressure on your pipes and can lead to a complete failure over time, complete with wastewater leaking into your yard.

While you can’t prevent the ground from shifting, you can have your pipe repaired as soon as you notice an issue to, hopefully, prevent significant damage from being done to your property.

3) Orangeburg Pipe

Depending on the age of your home, you could run into plumbing problems based on the materials used in your sewer line. Before 1972, homes in this area would use Orangeburg pipe, which is made from wood pulp and asphalt. While these pipes are incredibly lightweight, the material is brittle and prone to breaking because it absorbs moisture.

If you believe that you have Orangeburg pipes in your home, the best thing you can do is have them replaced with PVC. That way, you won’t have to worry as much about breaks and will experience fewer plumbing issues in the future, as well.

Warning Signs of Sewer Problems

There are some warning signs to watch for that can help you call for the plumbing help you need before your property is extensively damaged.

Slow drains – When you notice that your drains are taking longer to empty than usual, it means that something is blocking your pipes. If only one drain is slow, there could be an isolated problem with that particular fixture. Multiple slow drains, on the other hand, could mean that you have a clog or break in your Seattle sewer line.
Clogged drains – If nothing is draining from your fixtures at all, you likely have a significant clog. There are a variety of underlying reasons for clogged drains, as anything from putting grease into your sink to having a broken sewer line could make it difficult for your pipes to drain. Hunt’s offers drain cleaning services, getting your system back on track quickly.
Sewer waste backing up into your home – Have you noticed waste coming back into your fixtures after you flush your toilet or drain your sinks? If so, you likely have a problem with your sewer line that you’ll want to address sooner rather than later. Hunt’s Services offers trenchless sewer repair options, including pipe bursting, which is a non-invasive pipe repair method.
Frequent service calls – When you find yourself making constant service calls, you likely have a severe plumbing problem that should be addressed. Hunt’s
Services will conduct a camera inspection, which allows us to see inside your pipes and identify why you’re experiencing issues.

Call Hunt’s Services Today

If you believe you’re in need of plumbing assistance, give Hunt’s Services a call at 253-533-7500. Our team of certified plumbers is standing by to handle all of your sewer and pipe lining needs, so don’t hesitate to contact us.

We offer discounts to seniors and veterans, and can even deal with your septic to sewer conversion, if necessary.

For more information on our plumbing services, check out our Sewer Repair YouTube video.