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 when the technician comes out, ask a few questions about how clogged the sewage lines were and what you can do to prevent clogs in the future. Maybe you need to have the pipes cleaned more frequently, or maybe there is someone in your household who is flushing items they shouldn’t be. Sometimes, sewage lines get backed up because of invasive tree roots. You can buy root killing products, or you can invest in some landscaping that can help prevent these tree roots from invading your sewage system and causing more problems later on down the road. 

We here at Gene’s Water and Sewer want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! And for all of your sewage pipe repair needs, you can call us at (612) 781-3737 or contact us online for a free estimate.

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 of the shut-off valve, and how to turn it off, can save precious time and help avoid water damage.  

The shut-off valve may be located in the basement, in a utility closet, near a shower, under the kitchen sink, near the hot water heater or even under the house in a crawlspace.

If you find it, turn it to the off position to protect your Twin Cities water system. Then attempt to turn on each of the faucets in your home; if no water comes out, you’ve found the main shut-off valve!  Once you locate the main shut-off valve to your Twin Cities water system, mark it so everyone in the household can locate it should an emergency crop up.

Be Certain You Have it Covered
This isn’t too difficult a concept but often homeowners with Twin Cities water systems overlook this. Cover exposed pipe areas with something to protect the water systems from the elements, nomatter how large or small the piping. Keep the garage door closed if you have a slab foundation. Some water pipes are located under concrete floors in the garage.

Are you in need of Twin Cities water system repairs? Give us a call today at 612-781-3737 or contact us  online.

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 small holes, and place a new pipe where the old one was. The pipe will be one piece, meaning no joints and no infiltration or exfiltration of your new pipe.

For water lines, we’ll use a pneumatic tool to pull into place the pipe. This will minimize the amount of digging we need to do, and saving you from spending more on labor and restoration costs. Also, you won’t experience as much disruption with your service as you would with a traditional trench job.

Most of these jobs can be done in a day’s time. We also provide repair and traditional trench services for projects that can’t be solved by trenchless work.

End the nightmare now. Call us at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Estimate.

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 pipes from freezing.

Another winter tip for your sewer pipes is to use them regularly! This works out just fine if you live in your Twin Cities home year-round, but it could present a problem if the house is a vacation home and used sporadically. So be extra careful if you’re at your vacation home and haven’t regularly used the sewer lines.

Finally, be sure your sewer pipes are draining properly. Be sure the lines don’t dip next to or above the septic tank, and make sure all sewage drains out of the pipe from a pump line. Also, make sure there is no cold air entering the sewer pipes. Make sure all risers, inspection pipes and manhole covers are capped and closed.

Of course, you still might be a bit confused, even after reading all of these tips. Never fear! Gene’s Water & Sewer can help. Contact us today at (612) 781-3737 or get a free estimate online if you’re having problems that you’re not sure how to fix. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and let the Twin Cities experts do the work.

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 flushed, but also a buildup of smaller objects that can eventually cause a complete blockage. If your sewer pipes are old and corroded, you may be dealing with a break in your sewer pipes. Try your best to monitor what you and your family are flushing.

No Maintenance

If you don't keep up with proper maintenance, your sewer pipes may deteriorate quicker than necessary. If your sewer pipes are old, you may need to have them inspected and relined before an emergency occurs. If you're not sure about the current condition of your lines, have us come take a look. We can provide you with an analysis and recommendations for proper repairs.

Are you in need of sewer pipe repair in the Twin Cities? Give us a call today at 612-781-3737 or request an estimate online.

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 of project. Even if you are a pretty good handyman, accidents happen. You don't want to create an even bigger problem you would have to call a professional for anyway. Not to mention, you'd be out of a working sewer line until someone can come to help.

Insurance Issues

If you try completing do it yourself repairs on your sewer line, your insurance may not cover the work. Many insurance companies have very specific policies about not covering damage that occurs at the hand of a homeowner. Make sure you're covered and call a professional sewer repair company at the first sign of trouble.

Are you in need of Minneapolis sewer repairs? Give us a call today at 612-781-3737 or contact us online.

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 the perfect time to do it. The ground is softer, days are longer and people are more flexible. Our team can schedule an appointment at a time that is convenient for you to complete the repairs.

If you don't know your sewer lines are going to need replaced, which happens often, don't dread that phone call! Technology has improved greatly in the past decades. Our team of Minneapolis trenchless sewer line replacement experts will come out and fix any sewer line emergencies.

To schedule a sewer line replacement appointment, call us today at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Estimate.

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 the repairs will cost you.

Repair

At the end of it all, we finally get our hands dirty and repair your system. We can do this a number of ways, depending on the type of repairs that are necessary. We can perform a traditional repair that requires digging or a more modern type of repair. We offer semi-trenchless and trenchless sewer repair as well, which does not require much digging.

To have our team of Twin Cities sewer repair experts look at your lines, call us today at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Estimate.

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 by video equipment. The whole procedure is trenchless; therefore, your yard can continue to look pristine. This should also be a relief to those who have electrical, water or gas lines running near their sewer lines. All of them can be left undisturbed.

Saves the Hassle

By letting us, your local Minnetonka trenchless sewer repair company, handle your sewer problems, you can be at ease. We are skilled at trenchless sewer line repair, so you don't have to worry about a thing. We will handle the whole process and have your problem fixed in no time! Save our number before you need us.

To have Minnetonka trenchless sewer repair experts visit your property, call today at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Estimate.

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 & worn out pipes

Sewer Repair
Most of the matters listed above are repairable. There are new technologies available today that make sewer repair much less of a hassle. If you have a hole in your pipe, we can perform a trenchless or semi-trenchless sewer repair which requires minimal digging. Your sewer pipes may just require a section be replaced or patched. This can be done by us, your local Golden Valley sewer repair company.

Sewer Replacement
Some of the previously mentioned sewer concerns are not repairable and may require a sewer replacement. If your sewer lines are very old or crushed, you may need to have your sewer lines replaced. We will do our best to repair what we can, but overall it may be best to replace the system.

If you need a Golden Valley sewer repair company, call us today at 612-781-3737 or Click Here to Request a Free Estimate.

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 damage. For the residents of Plymouth, sewer lining repair is perfect solution to those experiencing sewer line issues.

Lasting Results

Sewer lining is an extremely durable and long-lasting solution. Not only will your sewer line repairs be complete, but they will last you for many years. We are confident this type of repair will work for your system. Call us, your local Plymouth sewer lining repair experts, to get working on your sewer lines today.

To have sewer lining repair performed on your Plymouth MN lines, call us today at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Estimate.

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 sure the compound flows through the sewer. Never pour it down a sink or shower, as it can harm your home’s plumbing. It’s recommended by many manufacturers to leave your home for the day after treatment.

Does copper sulfate harm the tree?

No. It does not harm the tree or plant that is causing the problems. It does destroy organisms that are growing around the pipe, which helps to lessen intrusions into your sewer systems, but it does not attempt to harm the tree or plant.

What’s the benefit?

A 15 lbs. bag of copper sulfate can cost an average of $15. Replacing sewer lines can cost thousands of dollars. Therefore, you’ll save greatly by preventing the spread of tree roots and not needing a Plymouth sewer repair company.

Questions about our Plymouth sewer repair services? Call us now at 612-781-3737 or Click Here to Request a Free Estimate.

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 sign of needing Edina sewer repair is smells and sounds that are strange, unusual or strong. If your toilet is gurgling or a sewage sinkhole shows up in your yard, get in touch with an Edina sewer repair professional.

Water damage at the foundation level

If you’re seeing extra moisture leaking through to your home’s foundation, this could be a sign of sewer damage. Call our Edina sewer repair experts when you notice cracking around your home’s foundation or moisture on your basement walls.

Basement drain staining

Another indication of needing Edina sewer repair experts is staining around basement drains. When you notice this, please get in touch with Gene’s Water & Sewer by calling us at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Sewer Repair Estimate.

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 of repairing or replacing a sewer pipe is to excavate the area, take out the broken piece, replace it and fill the area back in. Then, you’re left to rebuild your landscape.

Trenchless sewer repairs, on the other hand, are all done under the ground. First, your lines will be evaluated with underground cameras. We’ll then clear the lines and pull the liner into place. Finally, you’re left with a pipe within a pipe that is smooth and seamless.

How is this new pipe better than a metal or PVC pipe?

The biggest advantage to the new pipe is that it’s jointless, so roots will be unable to physically get through it. Also, calcification can no longer occur as deposits will be unable to stick to the new pipe’s inner walls. The best part, though, is that all of the work is done above ground, so your landscape and other areas aren’t impacted by the need for sewer repairs.

Have questions about trenchless sewer repairs in Maple Grove? Give us a call at 612-781-3737 or Request a Free Estimate.

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 the existing pipe. Because this is a less invasive process than traditional sewer repair, many people are opting for this method when it is necessary to have sewer replacement done. But, is trenchless sewer replacement right for you?

• Trenchless sewers do not damage your yard, nor will your sidewalk, patio or any other lawn elements need to be moved or uprooted.
• It is safer and quicker to accomplish than traditional sewer replacement methods.
• Trenchless sewer replacement can be done in any geographic location.
• Should it be necessary to revisit a trenchless sewer system for a repair, it is easily accomplished and there is minimal- if any- damage to the yard. In fact, the sewer replacement company is better able to check the lines and determine where the problem is, saving time and money.
• Pipe rehabilitation can save on your water, electrical and gas lines because it does not need to be turned off or re-installed due to digging a new drain line.
• Any future repairs are easily made via the two small access points at either end of the pipeline, meaning that it is not necessary to uncover the entire system.
• When done correctly and then maintained properly, a trenchless sewer can last up to 50 years!

Sewer replacement is not something that most homeowners want to think about, but unfortunately, it is something that must be dealt with on occasion.

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. Tree roots can find their way into the smallest leaks in their quest to find water. Tree roots can be eliminated with a power router that cuts them off inside the pipe. This sewer repair will fix the immediate problem, but if nothing further is done, they will grow back again.

The worst problems occur when there is actual damage to the pipes. Older pipes that have deteriorated may collapse, or shifting of the earth may shear or bend the pipe. When there is serious pipe damage, your sewer repair will likely involve digging a trench to replace the damaged pipe.

In between the easy fix with the plumber’s snake, and digging a trench to completely replace a sewer line, is the process of installing a sewer lining. This Maple Grove sewer repair is often the most economical, and it can add 30 to 50 years to the life of the sewer line.