Slow-moving Drains

Slow-moving Drains | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Petros

When water lingers in sinks, tubs, or floor drains, it’s rarely just an annoyance—it’s a sign that something deeper is happening beneath your home. HEP’s licensed plumbers trace those sluggish drains back to their source, using high-resolution cameras and hydro-jetting technology to pinpoint and clear blockages, root intrusions, or collapsed piping before they turn into costly main line issues. We pair cutting-edge diagnostics with down-to-earth expertise, so you can stop guessing and start enjoying free-flowing water again.

From the first gurgle to the final flush, our Petros team treats your plumbing like the backbone of your household. We arrive on time, explain every step, and back our work with industry-leading guarantees—because peace of mind should flow as smoothly as your pipes. Schedule a visit today and let HEP keep life moving at full speed beneath your floors.

FAQs

What are the most common signs that my slow-moving drain problem is actually a main sewer line issue?

If more than one fixture in your home is draining slowly—especially lower-level fixtures like basement drains, floor drains, or the first-floor toilet—the problem is likely in the main line. Additional red flags include gurgling noises from drains, water backing up into tubs or showers when you flush a toilet, and foul sewer odors coming from multiple fixtures.

What usually causes main line blockages in Petros homes?

Typical culprits include tree‐root intrusion through small cracks or joints, heavy grease buildup from kitchen waste, flushed hygiene products or wipes that don’t break down, and pipe deterioration in older clay or cast-iron lines. In Petros, mature trees and aging infrastructure make root infiltration one of the leading causes.

Can chemical drain cleaners fix a main sewer line clog?

No. Chemical cleaners are designed for small, localized clogs in branch lines like sinks or tubs. They rarely reach the main line, can’t dissolve roots or large obstructions, and may even damage older pipes. A professional inspection and mechanical cleaning (snaking or hydro-jetting) are the safest, most effective solutions.

How do you diagnose the exact location and cause of a slow main line in Petros?

We perform a video camera inspection by inserting a waterproof, high-resolution camera through an access point (cleanout). This shows us the interior condition of the pipe, pinpoints the blockage location, and reveals whether the issue is roots, collapsed pipe, or buildup. The footage also helps us recommend the most appropriate repair—clearing, spot repair, or full replacement.

What repair options are available if my main line is damaged or collapsed?

Depending on the damage, you may choose: 1) Hydro-jetting or mechanical augering for soft obstructions and minor root masses, 2) Pipe relining (CIPP) to create a new, seamless pipe inside the old one without excavation, 3) Sectional spot repair if only a short segment is compromised, or 4) Traditional trench replacement for severely collapsed or offset pipes. We discuss cost, longevity, and disruption for each option before starting any work.

How can I keep my main sewer line flowing freely after it’s been cleared?

Schedule preventive hydro-jetting every 12–24 months, especially if you have large trees on the property. Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or feminine products. Dispose of kitchen grease in a sealed container, not down the sink. Install a backwater valve to protect against municipal backups, and consider root-control treatments or root-resistant landscaping to minimize future intrusions.