Slow Drain
Slow Drain | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Erwin
When every faucet gurgles and the bathtub hesitates to empty, you’re probably facing more than a simple clog—those sluggish drains often point to main line issues lurking beneath your Erwin home. HEP’s licensed plumbers use state-of-the-art camera inspections and hydro-jetting to pinpoint and clear the obstruction fast, protecting your pipes before minor annoyances turn into costly surprises.
From the first friendly hello to the final pressure test, we handle everything with the hometown care Erwin expects and the skill a regional leader delivers. Whether roots have invaded your sewer line, grease has narrowed the pipe, or age has simply taken its toll, one call brings 24/7 response, transparent pricing, and workmanship backed by our “Happy, Effective, Professional” promise. Give your drains the freedom to flow again—reach out to HEP today and leave those slow-moving worries behind.
FAQs
What are the most common causes of slow drains in Erwin homes?
In Erwin we see three main culprits: (1) buildup of grease, soap scum, hair and food waste that gradually narrows the pipe; (2) tree-root intrusion in older clay or cast-iron sewer laterals, which is common because large shade trees thrive in our region; and (3) pipe defects such as cracks, bellies or offset joints caused by ground settling in the Nolichucky River valley. Any of these issues can restrict flow in your main line and cause tubs, showers and sinks throughout the house to drain slowly.
How can I tell if the problem is in a single fixture or the main sewer line?
A single clogged fixture will usually affect only that drain, while faucets and toilets in other rooms work normally. Main line trouble shows up in multiple fixtures at once—e.g., water backs up into a shower when the washing machine drains, or toilets gurgle when you run a sink. You may also notice sewage odors outside near the clean-out or wet spots in the yard. If two or more fixtures are acting up, it’s time to have the main line inspected.
Do I need a sewer-camera inspection, and what does it involve?
A video inspection is the fastest way to pinpoint the exact cause and location of a main-line obstruction. We insert a waterproof camera through an exterior clean-out or pulled toilet and feed it the full length of the line while recording HD footage. You can watch the monitor in real time as we identify roots, grease caps, broken pipe or foreign objects. The process takes about 30 minutes, is completely non-destructive, and gives us an accurate depth reading so you don’t pay to dig up the whole yard unnecessarily.
What methods do your plumbers use to clear main-line clogs?
For soft obstructions like grease or sediment we start with a professional-grade cable machine (rooter) that scrapes the pipe walls clean. For heavy root growth or hardened scale we upgrade to hydro-jetting, which uses water at up to 4,000 PSI to scour the entire diameter of the pipe. If the line is cracked or collapsed we can perform trenchless spot repair or pipe bursting to replace the damaged section with minimal excavation. We always provide written options and pricing before work begins.
How much does main-line cleaning or repair typically cost in Erwin?
Prices vary with the severity of the blockage and the pipe’s condition, but typical ranges are: $195–$350 for standard main-line cabling, $450–$750 for hydro-jetting with an included camera inspection, and $80–$120 per linear foot for trenchless replacement. We offer upfront, flat-rate quotes and waive the service fee when you approve the work the same day. Financing plans are available for larger repairs.
What can I do to prevent future slow drains and sewer backups?
• Keep grease, coffee grounds, fibrous foods and flushable wipes out of your drains. • Install hair catchers in showers and bathtubs. • Have your main line professionally jetted every 18–24 months if trees are present. • Add an exterior clean-out so future service is faster and less expensive. • Consider a root-control treatment each spring; we apply an herbicide foam that stops roots without harming the tree. • During heavy rain, limit water use to reduce the chance of an overloaded municipal sewer pushing water back into your line.