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Showing posts from 2013

Merry Christmas! Are Your Sewer Pipes Clean?

Christmas is upon us, and the last thing you want to deal with when you have all of your family and friends over is a backed up sewer line. Gene’s Water and Sewer can help if you have any sewer problems , but what can you do in the meantime to prevent sewage back-ups? Regardless of how old your home is, it’s important for you to remember to not put harmful items down your drain. A few examples of these harmful items are animal fat, grease, oil, coffee grounds and egg shells. When your guests are over, ask them to avoid flushing items like diapers, cleaning wipes, sanitary napkins, paper towels or a huge amount of toilet paper. Ask the same of your immediate family members too. Take the time to find your sanitary sewer line to see where the sewage exits your home. Usually you will find it in the basement or crawl spaces. Note the flow direction so if you do need to call in the experts, like Gene’s Water and Sewer, you can tell the technician where the sewage line is. And wh...

Winter Pipe Maintenance

When the mercury takes a nosedive, water in your pipes can freeze, causing them to rupture. Next thing you know, your Twin Cities water systems are all flooding your home, ruining your furnishings, and you have to pay to have it all repaired and replaced. It’s expensive and problematic. But you can avoid this for your Twin Cities water system by following these valuable tips from Gene's Water and Sewer.  Wrap Up for Winter If exposed, wrap your Twin Cities water system with insulating material. Pipes under kitchen sinks, in crawl spaces, near windows or in unheated basements are areas especially vulnerable to sub-zero hazards. Be sure to look at any point a pipe leaves/enters the home.  Locate Your Shut-off Valve Find the inside water shut-off valve for your TwinCities water system now! (Actually, when you’re done reading this.) The shut-off valve controls all of the water coming into your home. If a pipeline bursts, knowing the location...

The Horrors of Broken Sewer Pipes & Water Lines

You notice it first when water or sludge ponds begin to form. Maybe you become aware of it in your home when water pressure is at a premium. You begin to shudder, wondering from where this nightmare could be emanating. Your mind wanders, and you think to yourself, “What could be causing this?” Then you realize it’s the result of a broken sewer pipe or water line. However, the nightmare can end for you. All it takes a phone call to Gene’s Water & Sewer. Our Minneapolis-based company specializes in repairing and installing new water lines and sewer pipes. Have fears your front lawn will be torn up in order to make the necessary repairs or installations? Fear not, for many jobs don’t require trenching to be done. Trenchless Sewer & Water Line Repairs The word “trenchless” means exactly what it sounds like. We won’t have to dig a trench in your yard in order to fix the problems plaguing your water and sewer systems. Instead, for sewer pipes, we’ll dig one to two sma...

Make Sure Your Sewer Pipes are Ready for Winter with These Tips from Gene’s Water & Sewer

Old Man Winter is rearing his chilly head, so you want to be sure that your sewer pipes are ready for the deep freeze that’s about to hit us here in the Twin Cities area. Here are a few winter tips for your sewer pipes , but if you have any other questions or concerns, you can always contact Gene’s Water & Sewer . Our experts are here to help! First off, and this might sound counterintuitive to you, but snow can actually be a good thing to help keep your sewer pipes in working order during the winter months. Uncompacted snow can serve as an insulating blanket over the pipes and can help keep the heat created by the sewage and the treatment of the sewage in the soil. If there isn’t any snow, the frost can go deeper into the soil, which could potentially create some problems. This issue can be solved with the help of vegetative cover, so be sure to have some plants or grass planted on top of your sewage pipes. This is a natural and ecologically friendly way to keep your pipe...

Preventable Sewer Pipe Repair

We make sewer pipe repairs every day that could have been prevented. There are some simple things you can do to keep your sewer lines working at maximum efficiently throughout the years. If you live in the Twin Cities, sewer pipe repair is inevitable, but there is some of it that can be prevented. In this blog, we're going to cover just a few of those things. Tree Roots Tree roots growing into sewer lines are a common reason for sewer repair. When a tree root grows into your lines, it not only causes a leak, but also causes a blockage. This can cause a backup into your home or lawn. If you're planting a tree, be sure to take into consideration where your sewer lines are. Don't plant a tree too close. If you are concerned about a current tree in your yard interfering with your sewer line, call us today. Flushed Objects Another common reason for sewer repairs is flushed items causing a blockage. You don't only have to worry about one large object being flus...

Leaving Sewer Repair to the Experts

Are you considering fixing your sewer line yourself? We would advise against that. If you live in Minneapolis,sewer repair is best left to the experts at Gene's Water & Sewer. We have an experienced team, ready to take on your project. In this blog, we're going to cover some of the reasons you should come to us with your sewer repair needs. Dangerous Situations Repairing your own sewer lines may be more hazardous than you think. There are a lot of dangers you may not think about. You would have to be concerned with all the effort of digging to reach your sewer line in the first place. Then you would need to figure out exactly where the problem is and fix it. There is health risks associated with dealing with sewage waste. To be safe, stick with the experts. Create Further Damage When trying to complete a sewer line repair on your own, you may end up causing further damage. Without the proper tools, techniques and equipment you may be ill prepared for this type...

Save Your Landscaping with Trencheless Sewer Line Replacement

So, it's the middle of the summer, but you're stuck! You need to do a sewer line replacement, yet you've spent so much time maintaining your landscape. Not to mention all the money you spent having it installed. Now, you're going to pay someone else to dig it all up. You can rest easy and call the team at Gene's Water and Sewer to handle the job. Our team of Minneapolis trenchless sewer line replacement experts is happy to dispel this common sewer line replacement myth. Summer Sewer Line Replacement There is no need to fret about having a sewer line replacement completed during the summer anymore. With trenchless sewer line repair, our team can get in and out without much disruption. It only requires a few small holes, as opposed to having to dig out the entire line. This will help to preserve the majority of your landscaping work. Our team is mindful and will treat your yard as its own. If you know your lines are going to need replaced, summer is t...

Twin Cities Sewer Repair Process

Have you begun to notice your sewer lines failing and you're not sure why? Gene's Water and Sewer can help! Our team of Twin Cities sewer repair experts can diagnose and repair your sewer lines to get them flowing again like normal. In this blog, we explore the sewer line repair process from that first phone call through completion. Site Visit It is usually difficult to diagnose the issue causing a sewer line failure over the phone. It will be necessary for our team of Twin Cities sewer repair experts to visit the site of the malfunction and perform an inspection. We can schedule a visit that is most convenient for you to perform a diagnosis of your sewer lines. Analysis Once we are at your site, we will be able to provide a thorough analysis of your system. Our team can tell if your sewer pipes are clogged or broken. At that point, we will provide you with our recommendation for making the necessary sewer repairs. We can also give you a free estimate for what th...

Trenchless Sewer Repair Saves the Day

There's just no experience quite like a sewer line leak. If you've ever had this happen to you, you've probably seen and smelled things you wish you could forget. It could be something as simple as a tree route growing through the pipe that makes for a bad day. If this, or any other type of sewer pipe damage, happens to you, call on Gene's Water and Sewer . We are Minnetonka trenchless sewer repair experts, ready to tackle any job. Saves Time A trenchless sewer repair will save you time. Sewer repair is not as involved as it once was and because of that, the whole process will take less than a day's time. Trenchless sewer repair is handled by professionals who have to only perform minimal digging. Two minor holes in your yard is all it takes for a team to analyze and repair your pipes. Saves Landscape Your landscape will be preserved in the process of trenchless sewer repair. It is now possible to analyze and diagnose the problem with your sewer line b...

Golden Valley Sewer Repair vs. Replacement

As a homeowner, you’re probably used to maintaining your sewer pipes. You know not to stuff large amounts of food down the garage disposal and maybe use you store-bought cleaning products to keep your lines relatively clean. What you may not be used to is sewer line replacement, which is a whole other animal. As an experienced Golden Valley sewer repair company, we are able to analyze your situation and decide whether your sewer lines need replaced or repaired. Whatever sewer work you need done, Gene’s Water and Sewer is ready to tackle the job. Common Problems with Sewers Sewer problems are not uncommon. In fact, as your local Golden Valley sewer repair company, we see it on a daily basis. You may have had to have your sewer lines repaired already. It’s an unpleasant job, but it has to get done! The following are some of the most common reasons for a sewer line malfunctioning: Tree root penetration Collapsed pipe Burst pipe Clogged pipes Oil & grease deposits Old & wo...

Benefits of Sewer Lining Repair in Plymouth MN

Sewer lining has revolutionized the way that we repair sewer lines. This advanced technology has removed the need to do serious digging on both commercial and residential properties. For those living in Plymouth, sewer lining repair is now quicker and simpler than ever before. At Gene's Water & Sewer , we understand what a hassle it can be to have your sewer lines look at and repaired, but it doesn't have to be that way anymore! In this blog, we discuss the benefits of using sewer lining as a repair tactic. Time-Efficient Repair Utilizing this new, updated form of sewer lining repair, is much less time prohibitive than older methods. There is no longer a need to dig up the yard and physically handle the sewer lines to repair them. It only takes a few hours to repair damage to your sewer lines, using this method. We have equipment that pushes the liner through the existing pipe, which then fuses to the old pipe. This creates a new seal on the pipe and repairs any da...

Controlling Tree Roots in Plymouth Sewer Lines

There are few things that Plymouth MN homeowners fear like tree roots in their sewer line. It places the homeowner in a difficult predicament: if left untreated, the problem can continue to get worse. Treating this problem, however, can force a homeowner to seek out costly repairs and replacements. So, what do you do? If tree roots have invaded your sewer lines, then you have no choice but to seek out a Plymouth MN sewer repair company. However, if you’re looking to prevent tree roots from invading your sewer lines, then one of the best ways to do so is with copper sulfate. What’s copper sulfate? It’s an inexpensive compound that can be found at most garden centers and drug stores. When used properly, it can result in spectacular control of root growth. How do I use it? The best way to utilize copper sulfate to offset the need for a Plymouth sewer repair company is to place about 1/2 cup (in small doses) into the toilet bowl and flush the toilet a few times to make s...

Edina Sewer Repair: 4 Signs of Failing Pipes

There are three words which can send a shudder up the spine of any homeowner: “sewer line repair.” It’s often expensive, and homeowners are often responsible for the sewer line that runs from the street to the house. Sewer pipes in the street can often be impacted by tree roots, built-up gunk and disintegration. However, you can avoid the heartache – and financial impact – caused by Edina sewer repairs by spotting early indications of failing sewer pipes: Slow draining tubs, sinks and showers It can be a pain to deal with sinks, tubs and showers that drain at a slow rate. While you may want to react to the problem by pouring Drano or another liquid clog remover down the drain, this is not a good solution when dealing with older pipes, as they can be eaten away by these harsh products. Plus, a slow drain is the first sign of sewer pipe issues. Get in touch with an Edina sewer repair expert as soon as possible to take a look at the issue. Strange sounds and smells Another ...

Trenchless Sewer Repair: Why It’s Better for Maple Grove Homes

Nothing can aggravate a Maple Grove homeowner like having to replace or repair their home’s sewer system. Luckily, a new way of doing repairs has made the process much easier on homes and yards. You’ve probably heard about trenchless sewer repairs, but may not know why they are beloved by many. Here’s an overview on trenchless sewer repairs in Maple Grove MN. Why trenchless sewer repairs? There are three basic reasons you should consider trenchless over traditional Maple Grove sewer repairs : 1.        Trenchless sewer repairs do not cause the destruction of your landscape. 2.        You’ll see substantial cost savings with trenchless repairs as compared to traditional repairs. 3.        Trenchless repairs restore the system’s structural integrity, prevent the intrusion of roots and increase your system’s flow capacity. How do trenchless sewer repairs work? The traditional way o...

Be Careful when Dealing with Sewer Repairs

Sewer repairs can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 and beyond. As one article noted: Add to that the inconvenience, damage to one's yard and the need to have people in and out of your home while the sewer repair is being made and you have the ingredients for a less than wonderful time.   In many cases, Twin Cities sewer repair can be avoided just by taking some simple precautions. Be careful using products that say they remove grease.  Don't pour grease or oil down the drain.  Avoid disposing of anythings like cleaning fluids, antifreeze and paints down the drain.  Steer clear of septic lines when planting trees or shrubs.  Read the entire article: " Preventing Sewer Repair Needs ." 

Prevent the Need for Sewer Repairs

We don't really give our plumbing much thoughts until it's too late and we need to call in a Minneapolis sewer repair expert. As one article noted: Of course, when things go wrong, you can bet on it, they will occur at the most inconvenient time possible.  Preventing the need for sewer repairs isn't a difficult task. Simply by having the lines inspected on a semi-regular basis; not flushing down the toilets things that shouldn't be flushed; not pouring grease or oil down the drain; and steering clear of septic lines when planting shrubbery or trees can prevent the need for having to call in an expert. Read the entire article: " Preventing Sewer Repair Needs ."

The Trenchless Sewer: Is This the Answer to Your Sewer Replacement Needs?

There are many modern conveniences that most of us cannot fathom living out. From cell phones to electricity and a variety of travel options to indoor plumbing, most of us view these as necessities without which, life can be difficult. Perhaps, one of the easiest overlooked – at least until something happens and it is not working correctly – is indoor plumbing. Like many things in life, one often does not give much thought to sewer replacement or plumbing needs until there is a problem. And, then not only does the inconvenience of not having it take its toll, but the cost of sewer replacement can be rather expensive! Fortunately, there are now more options in sewer set up that can make sewer replacement issues easier to maintain. One such choice is the trenchless sewer. Roseville MN trenchless sewer repairs use a fiberglass tube coated with epoxy resin, then inserted into the damaged pipe and blown up like a balloon; within just a few hours, the epoxy hardens and forms a pipe within...

Sewer Repair Can Take Many Forms

Sewer repair is never thought of until it is urgently needed. The sewer system serving your home is probably thought about less than any other utility. This is probably because it is completely out of sight except for where waste water is initially drained. But if it stops working, it can be more inconvenient than a power outage. Newer homes with PVC drains may last for a hundred years without any serious problems. However, homes that are more than thirty years old may have sewer pipes that are made of clay. These only have an expected life of fifty to sixty years or less, but in some cases they do last longer. There are quite a few things that can cause problems with sewer lines. The most common and easiest to fix are simple clogs from built up grease on the pipe, or foreign objects that catch on seams or in bends in the line. This type of problem can often be corrected with a plumber’s snake. More serious problems include blockage from tree root intrusion into the pipes...