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Learn More About Gene's Water & Sewer

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Gene's Water & Sewer has been serving the Twin Cities region since 1977, helping homeowners and commercial clients install or replace water lines , as well as sewer lines. There's more we could tell you, but we'll let this DexKnows video do the talking.

What if I Have Poor Water Flow, or No Water Flow At All?

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It's a scenario no one wants to experience. You turn on the tap to get yourself a glass of water, or you try to fill up a pot of water to cook dinner... and no water comes out. Sometimes, you might be lucky enough to have a slow trickle of water, but nothing near the water pressure you normally enjoy. What could cause such a disruption in your water flow? Usually, a build up of deposits in your piping system is to blame. When such a situation occurs, something has to be done. The water piping will likely need to be replaced so that normal water flow is returned to your home. When replacing water pipes , one of two methods can be used: trench, which involves digging an open trench; or tunnel, in which a pneumatic tool is used to pull a pipe into place. If you're experiencing water flow problems , give us a call! 612-781-3737

Learn More About Nu Flow

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Want to see a demonstration of Nu Flow's potable pipe lining? Now you can. This video goes through the process of Nu Flow's technology and the way the epoxy coating helps to fix failing pipes.

How to Reduce Your Sewer & Water Bill

All over the country, municipalities have or are considering increasing their water and sewer rates. In Allentown, Pa., the mayor has proposed a 5-percent increase , while customers in the North Escambia, Fla. area have been hit with an additional 7 percent in costs and the Sheridan, Ore. city council raised rates 2.5 and 1.5 percent, respectively for water and sewer rates . Why the increase? According to the News of Yamhill County, Sheridan raised rates because of “rising costs for energy, operations and maintenance of the town’s water system.” And this problem is having an impact on more and more localities, and as such, many will opt for raising rates. Luckily, there are things homeowners can do to decrease their water and sewer costs. Many overlook these two utilities when trying to figure out how to save on their bills. Some methods have an immediate effect, while others save in the long term. So, how can you decrease your water and sewer rates? We at Gene’s Water & S...

The Advantages of Trenchless Sewer Line Repair

When you hear the term “ sewer line repair ,” you might think, “Oh no! My yard is going to be dug up!” Luckily, modern technology has provided us with a sewer repair option that doesn’t require your yard to be dug up. Trenchless sewer line repair has become popular in recent years for one big reason: it causes only a small, minimal disruption to your life and yard. If you’re not sold on trenchless repairs, consider the following advantages: Cost Because nothing is being dug up and not restoration is involved, you often save more and don’t break the bank with trenchless repairs. Time Traditional repair methods can take a few days to complete. Trenchless sewer line repairs are often much quicker, and jobs can sometimes be completed in a day or two. An intact yard Your yard won’t become an excavated hole with trenchless repairs. With traditional work, you’d have to worry about your driveway, patio and/or walkway being destroyed. With trenchless repairs, these stay...

Water Line Repair or Water Line Replacement?

Every year, thousands of property owners are faced with repairing their water line or opting to have the entire system replaced. But, how do you decide which path to go? There are a few ways you can decide. First, there’s the material your current main is made from: copper, brass or iron piping. For lines up to 2”, copper is used, while larger mains usually utilize iron. Brass is available on special request, or for 2 ½” lines. If it’s made from lead, you’ll most likely have to replace it as many municipalities do not allow repairs on lead or galvanized water lines. Then, you have to consider the age of the line. The average useful life is around 50 years, and if older, the current main will probably need to be swapped out. Another thing one must think about is that metal becomes brittle as it ages, and connecting to an existing service usually comes with some sort of risk. Unless the water line is only a few years old, replacement is the common recommendation. The final ...

Sewer Line Repair

If you’re looking to have sewer line repairs performed, you usually have the following options: You can have the sewer line relined You can replace the entire pipe However, these are always easy or cheap. To figure out the best option, contact Minnesota sewer repair contractor Gene’s Water & Sewer at www.GenesWaterAndSewer.com . 

Trenchless Sewer Repair

Here are some of the more commonly asked questions we get about trenchless sewer repair : What is trenchless sewer repair? It’s also known as “ no dig sewer repair ,” and allows sewer repairs to be made without trenches or holes being dug. How does it work? There are three main steps: sewer cameras evaluate the lines to determine how to resolve the problem; specialized equipment then cleans the lines; and finally, an epoxy liner is installed within the existing pipe. What are the benefits? A smooth and seamless pipe is created within the pipe, and is better because roots and calcification can’t affect the pipe. Minnesota sewer repair company Gene’s Water & Sewer can help you with all your sewer needs. Contact us today by visiting www.GenesWaterAndSewer.com . 

More Septic Systems FAQs

Here are some more of the septic systems questions Gene’s Water and Sewer gets: How does a septic system work? The system contains a holding tank where natural bacterial action disintegrates human waste into environmentally acceptable components. Do I have to use a certain kind of toilet paper? No. Most toilet papers break down quickly and easily. Tissues, however, don’t easily break down and shouldn’t be flushed into the toilet. How do I know if my system needs repaired? Your septic system will give off clues, like muddy soil or pools of wastewater around the tanks; or sewage smells around the tank or inside the house. Contact a septic system contractor right away. Do I really need to take care of my system? You should if you don’t want smells or to spend a lot of money. Pumping your system costs on average $150 to $200. A new system can cost up to $40,000. How do I find out my tank’s capacity? Check with your local Environmental Health Office to see if they have your system’...

Septic Systems FAQ

Septic system owners ask the Gene’s Water and Sewer staff a lot of questions. Here are the most common: How do I know if I own a good septic system? There are a few telltale signs of bad septic systems . Here are the most frequent: Incorrect Riser and Filter Positioning: Older septic tanks were built without allowing access to risers, as the tanks were buried completely under the lawn. Newer systems were built to allow access risers with an access filter. Cheaper systems are built without the filter. Missing Control Panel: True subpanels should be located within 50 feet of the system and allows access to killing the power should it be necessary. Unfortunately, electric inspectors often skip over septic systems, and some installers know this and install cheaper alarm boxes. Missing Controls: A time counter will tell homeowners how long the system has been running, and some won’t install this, seeing it as a luxury item. The information it provides, however, is critical to diagnosin...

Septic Systems: Problems Explained

You’ve just woken up, cleared your sleepy eyes and are heading to the shower when you see waste from your septic system has overflowed. It’s not a problem you need, but you’ll need to address it as quickly as possible before what could be a minor problem turns into a major one. Clogs Clogs are the most common problem septic systems have. You might assume the worst about your septic tank , but don’t worry until you have cause to. First, try running a plumber’s snake down what you think is the clogged line. If only one fixture, like a sink or toilet, is backed up and everything is in working order, then it’s only that fixture line and not your main one. If you’ve try unclogging every line and are still backed up, you’ll want to call a septic system repair company and have them dig up the tanks to expose the lids. You should never do this yourself as septic systems contain hazardous gases and materials. The contractor should see if the liquid levels are at or above the inlet level. I...

Septic Systems: 5 Tips for Taking Care of Your Septic Tank

Many residents of rural areas don’t have connected water and sewer systems , but wells and septic systems . These systems aren't difficult to take care of, thanks to upgrades present in modern technologies. By following a few easy steps, you can ensure your septic system operates properly for years to come. Watch rainwater A soggy and wet septic drainfield won’t properly handle liquid waste, leaving it unabsorbed and not neutralized. You’ll need to plan things like landscaping, gutters and drains to divert away water from the drainfield. Don’t overload One of the biggest reasons for septic system repairs is an overloaded system. Make sure your system and drainfield aren’t overloaded by checking regularly for leaks from toilets and faucets, and making necessary repairs. Aerators and flow-reduction nozzles on faucets and showers will help lower water consumption, as will reduce water levels for small laundry loads. Keep trees away Another reason to call for repairs is root d...

Sewer Questions - Ask The Expert at Gene’s Water & Sewer

Have questions about water and sewer repairs ? Unsure what’s causing your water and sewer issues? If you have questions, you need to Ask the Expert at Gene’s Water & Sewer . We were asked, “What could be causing waste water flow to be slowed or stopped ("sewage back-up")?” The answer is that this issue is caused most often by a clogged, broken or displaced sewer pipe between the building and the main. To repair, Gene's Water & Sewer will most often suggest an attempt at cleaning followed by a video camera inspection which will identify the cause and help select the best repair option. Once we have the results of our inspection, we will do a cost/benefit analysis and review the results with you before beginning work. The cost of the video inspection will be applied to the repair if we do the work. We are well experienced in all things water and sewer, and want to work for you. Call us today at 612.781.3737 or visit www.GenesWaterAndSewer.com now.  

Gene's Water & Sewer Shows the Benefits of Nu Flow

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Are you in need of water and sewer repairs ? If so, you’ll want to save your Minneapolis home the trouble of having its lawn, driveway or sidewalk disturbed by a trench being dug. Gene’s Water & Sewer , serving the Twin Cities MN communities, is able to get the work done without destroying your landscape. We specialize in trenchless pipe repairs , using Nu Flow technologies that allow us to do all the work underground. All that needs done to fix a broken pipe or water line is to install a liner that will use the old pipe as a conduit to form a new one. This means adequate savings to you in cost, time and stress! Visit www.GenesWaterAndSewer.com today and click the “ Nu Flow ” tab to watch how these processes. While you’re there, be sure to request a free water and sewer estimate .

Ask The Expert at Gene’s Water & Sewer

Have questions about water pipe repairs or sewer repairs ? Unsure what’s clogging your residential water and sewer system? If you have questions, you need to Ask the Expert at Gene’s Water & Sewer . A client asked us, “What could be causing waste water flow to be slowed or stopped (‘sewage back-up’)?” The answer is sewage back-up is most often caused by a clogged, broken or displaced sewer pipe between the building and the main. To repair this, Gene's Water & Sewer will most often suggest an attempt at cleaning followed by a video camera inspection which will identify the cause and help select the best repair option. Once we have the results of our inspection, we will do a cost/benefit analysis and review the results with you before beginning work. The cost of the video inspection will be applied to the repair if we do the work. We care about what we do. We are experts in all things water and sewer, and want to work for you. Call us today at 612.781.3737 or visit ww...

Get a Free Estimate from Gene’s Water & Sewer

Have a need for water pipe repairs or sewer repairs in the Twin Cities MN areas? Are you looking for specialists in residential water and sewer ? Then it’s time you call Gene’s Water & Sewer ! Before you hire a water and sewer contractor , you want to make sure you’re getting the best price. That’s why you need to take advantage of our Free Estimate . Before you hire someone to work on your commercial water and sewer system, visit www.GenesWaterAndSewer.com and request a free water and sewer system estimate . We care about what we do. We are experts in all things water and sewer, and want to work for you. Call us today at 612.781.3737 or visit www.GenesWaterAndSewer.com now.  

Tools of the Trade: Sewer Repair and Plumbing Tools for the "DIYer"Tools of the Trade: Sewer Repair and Plumbing Tools for the "DIYer"

In order to do a job well, it is necessary to have the right tools. And, while there are some fields where there are multiple tools that can accomplish the same purpose, when it comes to plumbing or sewer related issues , this is not the case. In fact, there is an assortment of tools designed specifically for plumbing related work. Consequently, many homeowners find that it is easier to just call in the plumbing and sewer specialist rather than tackle one of these jobs themselves. Of course, there are some basic tools that should be a part of any homeowner's toolbox. These tools are: Crescent wrench 2 foot level Drill/driver Channel-lock style pliers Screwdrivers Needlenose pliers Utility knife Allen wrench set Caulk gun Flashlight Tape measure Tools designed especially for plumbing , would be a great addition! They are not overly expensive, and once you have them and have learned to use them effectively, you will find there are many jobs you can do yours...

What You Need to Know About Hiring a Septic & Sewer Professional

As a homeowner, there are many home maintenance needs that can occur. It may be the roof needing to be repaired, dryer vents needing to be cleaned, siding to be added and many others, but perhaps some of the most daunting are those related to plumbing or the sewer . After all, while many jobs may be tedious, anytime one has to work with the plumbing there seems to be more things that can go wrong than one would care to deal with. So rather than running the risk of more trouble that originally recognized, many homeowners opt to hire someone else to do the job. However, there's more to hiring a septic contractor than just pulling out the phone book and calling the first one listed. Obviously, if it is an emergency repair, you may not have time to do all of the following; but, if you merely looking for someone to have in case of an emergency, here are 10 things to keep in mind in hiring a septic or sewer contractor . Talk to any neighbors or friends who have had to have...