Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions

Get to know your pipes – you have questions about sewers, plumbing, water service, trenchless pipe repair, and Pipe Spy has answers. See the FAQs below or call with your specific questions about your plumbing system.

Pipe Spy is your professional plumber in Oakland and the East Bay.

What is Sewer Compliance?

Sewer Compliance is a local program with the intent of fixing leaking sewers in an effort to improve the Bay Area water environment. Sewer Compliance is regulated by EBMUD (East Bay Municipal Utility District) or your local city.

How do drain lines work?

Drain lines work by taking advantage of the natural principle of gravity. All of your home's water pipes are designed to take advantage of this, but there are several factors that could impact your sewer drain line's functionality, including improper slope, broken and aged pipes, impact or ground shifts, or even tree root infiltration.

How long does a sewer line last?

The lifespan of a sewer line is influenced by many factors, including installation, ground impact, and sewer surroundings. HDPE pipes, such as the ones installed by Pipe Spy, should last 100 years or more, while clay and iron pipes last approximately 50-100 years.

Sanitary sewers vs. storm sewers

There are two completely separate underground sewer systems: storm sewers and sanitary sewers. Storm sewers help collect rainwater and return it to local waterways. Sanitary sewers collect water from the plumbing fixtures of homes and takes it to be treated at the municipal treatment plant. After being processed and treated, this water is safely discharged back into local water environments.

How do I shut off water in my house?

Your water line can be shut off by locating the shut-off valve. The shut-off valve is located where the water pipeline from the water meter enters your home. Turning clockwise will close or turn off your water line, and turning counter-clockwise will open or turn on your water line.

What is causing the sewer smell?

Smells coming from your sink or drain? It may not be a sign of something broken, but it could mean part of your system isn't functioning correctly. Infrequent use is the most common reason for sewer smells, but fixture vent blockage, loose or damaged P-Trap, or a problem in the sewer line could also be reasons for sewer smells coming through to your home.

How can I prevent a sewer backup?

Sewer line backups can be caused by a variety of factors, including damage to your line or issues resulting from the city main sewer. Experienced sewer plumbers can install a backflow relief device to help prevent future indoor backups from occurring.

What is HDPE pipe?

HDPE pipe is the safest and most efficient sewer pipe replacement option. HDPE pipe is long-lasting (100+ years), low-cost, makes for a faster repair, and causes less impact on sidewalks, street and property.

What does it mean to be Diamond Certified?

Each Diamond Certified company has been independently rated Highest in Quality in Northern California's most rigorous - and accurate - customer satisfaction research of local companies.

What is a sewer cleanout?

Located above the ground, a sewer Clean Out connects to your sewer line for access for clearing or inspecting the line. Your Sewer Clean Out can be located near or next to your home close to a bathroom, your sidewalk, or property lines. Depending on the area, the Clean Out may also be located in a crawl space or basement.

Why is my toilet flushing slowly?

A slow-flushing toilet is most commonly caused by some type of internal blockage, especially when the problem is occurring on the second floor of your home. If your neighbors are having similar problems, it could be an issue with the city sewer main.

What not to flush down the toilet

Sanitary water lines are specifically designed to handle water, human waste and toilet paper; any other materials and objects could cause blockage. But one of the biggest and most common drain line problems is "F.O.G.": fats, oils, and grease.

How to check your sewer line after an earthquake?

It's incredibly important to check for problems following an earthquake. Common things to look for include: issues with your toilets, sink holes, rodents, sewage smell, an over-worked sump pump and sewage backup.

What makes the Pipe Spy team different?

One of our guiding principles is that we want to be the sewer repair company you'll recommend to your friends and neighbors. This mission has led our team to develop the expertise, depth of experience, and knowledge of local sewer compliance that you require. Along with the best in professionalism, certification, licensing and overall quality of work, Pipe Spy offers the best service you can find in the San Francisco Bay Area.