Sewer backups are one of the most disruptive and costly plumbing problems a homeowner can face. In Evanston, Illinois, where many homes are older and rely on aging infrastructure, sewer issues are not uncommon. Fortunately, modern technology like camera sewer inspections offers a proactive way to identify and address potential problems before they become major emergencies. This case study examines how a routine camera sewer inspection by J. Blanton Plumbing helped one Evanston homeowner prevent a major sewer backup.
The Problem: Recurring Slow Drains
A homeowner in Evanston began noticing that their sinks and bathtubs were draining more slowly than usual. While it wasn’t an immediate cause for concern, the issue persisted and plunging only provided temporary relief. Given the age of their home and the potential for underlying plumbing issues, they decided to contact J. Blanton Plumbing for a professional assessment.
Evanston Consideration:
Many homes in Evanston are historic, built over 50 years ago, with original sewer systems that may have deteriorated over time. This increases the risk of blockages, root infiltration, or even pipe collapses.
Step 1: The Camera Sewer Inspection
To determine the cause of the slow drains, J. Blanton Plumbing recommended a camera sewer inspection. This technology involves inserting a small, waterproof camera into the sewer line to provide real-time video footage of the inside of the pipes. The inspection revealed a significant buildup of debris, as well as a small crack in the main sewer line that had allowed tree roots to infiltrate.
How It Helps:
Camera inspections provide a clear and accurate view of the problem without the need for digging or guesswork. In this case, the camera allowed the plumber to identify the exact location and nature of the issue, saving time and preventing unnecessary excavation.
Step 2: Identifying the Root Cause
The camera footage showed that tree roots had gradually infiltrated the sewer line through a small crack, causing the slow drainage. The roots had begun to block the flow of wastewater and, if left untreated, would have eventually caused a complete sewer backup.
How It Helps:
In Evanston, where tree-lined streets and mature landscaping are common, root intrusion is a frequent issue. Without the camera inspection, the homeowner might not have known about the root problem until a major backup occurred.
Step 3: Preventative Action
Armed with the information from the camera sewer inspection, the team at J. Blanton Plumbing was able to act quickly. They recommended hydro jetting to remove the root blockage and a trenchless pipe repair method to seal the crack and prevent future root infiltration.
How It Helps:
By addressing the root cause early, the homeowner avoided a potentially disastrous sewer backup that could have caused extensive damage to their home and landscaping. The proactive use of camera inspections and modern repair techniques meant that the problem was resolved without the need for large-scale excavation.
Step 4: Follow-Up and Maintenance
Following the successful repair, J. Blanton Plumbing advised the homeowner to schedule regular camera sewer inspections as part of their home maintenance routine. This would allow them to monitor the health of their sewer line and catch any future issues before they escalate.
Evanston Consideration:
For older homes in Evanston, routine sewer inspections are highly recommended to avoid emergencies. Preventative maintenance is particularly important in areas with large trees or aging plumbing systems.
Conclusion
This case study highlights how J. Blanton Plumbing’s use of camera sewer inspections helped an Evanston homeowner prevent a major sewer backup. By identifying the issue early—tree root infiltration—and using trenchless repair methods, the homeowner was able to avoid costly and disruptive damage. Camera sewer inspections are a vital tool for homeowners, especially in older communities like Evanston, where sewer systems may be more vulnerable to problems.
If you’ve noticed slow drains or suspect a sewer issue, trust J. Blanton Plumbing, your local plumber in Evanston, to provide expert camera sewer inspections and preventative solutions.
Join the No Drip Club Membership to enjoy a free annual sewer camera inspection and regular sewer maintenance services, ensuring your home’s plumbing remains in top condition year-round. Contact us today!
