Common Water Heater Issues

1. Introduction

Water heaters are essential home appliances, providing the hot water necessary for showers, cleaning, and cooking. A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt daily life, making it important to recognize and address common issues early. From no hot water to strange noises, understanding these problems can save you time and money.

2. No Hot Water

When you turn on the tap and find that there’s no hot water, it can be incredibly frustrating. This issue could stem from several causes:

• Electric Water Heater Issues:
  • Tripped circuit breaker
  • Faulty heating element
  • Broken thermostat
• Gas Water Heater Issues:
  • Pilot light problems
  • Gas supply issues
  • Faulty thermocouple

Troubleshooting Steps: Start by checking your circuit breaker or gas supply. If these are functioning correctly, it may be time to inspect or replace the heating elements, thermostat, or thermocouple. In many cases, calling a professional water heater repair technician from Golden West might be the safest option.

3. Inadequate Hot Water Supply

If your water heater produces some hot water but not enough, several factors might be at play:

• Thermostat Settings: Your thermostat might be set too low. Adjusting it to a higher temperature can often solve this problem.
• Sediment Build-up: Over time, minerals in the water can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, reducing the heater’s efficiency and lowering the amount of hot water available.
• Water Heater Size: If your household demand exceeds the water heater’s capacity, it may not be able to keep up. Upgrading to a larger model could be necessary.

4. Water Temperature Fluctuations

Experiencing inconsistent water temperatures can be annoying. Common causes include:

• Thermostat Problems: A faulty thermostat can cause the water temperature to fluctuate, leading to either too hot or too cold water.
• Water Heater Element Issues: The heating elements in electric water heaters might be malfunctioning or have loose connections, causing the water to heat unevenly.

5. Discolored Water

If you notice brown or rusty water coming from your taps, it could indicate:

• Corroded Anode Rod: The anode rod in your water heater is designed to attract corrosive elements, preventing rust in the tank. Over time, it can wear out and cause water discoloration.
• Tank Corrosion: If the tank itself is corroding, it could lead to rusty water. Replacing the anode rod or, in severe cases, the water heater might be necessary.

6. Strange Noises from the Water Heater

Unusual sounds like popping, rumbling, or banging can be unsettling. These noises are often caused by:

• Sediment Accumulation: Sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank can cause the heater to overheat, creating popping sounds as the water heats and bubbles through the sediment.
• Faulty Heating Element: If the heating element is failing, it might cause noises as it struggles to function properly.

7. Leaking Water Heater

Leaks can lead to significant damage if not addressed quickly. Common causes include:

• Pressure Relief Valve Issues: If the pressure inside the tank becomes too high, the pressure relief valve may release water to prevent an explosion.
• Loose Pipe Connections: Over time, connections can loosen, causing leaks around the pipes.
• Tank Corrosion: A corroded tank can lead to small holes, resulting in leaks.

8. Foul-Smelling Hot Water

If your hot water has a rotten egg smell, it’s likely due to:

• Bacterial Growth: This odor is often caused by bacteria reacting with the anode rod, particularly in water heaters that are infrequently used or have a low temperature setting.
• Flushing the Water Heater: Regularly flushing the tank and possibly replacing the anode rod with a more resilient type can eliminate the smell.

9. Pilot Light Problems (Gas Water Heaters)

For those with gas water heaters, the pilot light can sometimes go out:

• Thermocouple Issues: A faulty thermocouple may cut off the gas supply, extinguishing the pilot light.
• Gas Supply Problems: Ensure that your gas supply is steady and that there are no issues with the gas line.
• Relighting the Pilot Light: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely relight the pilot light, or consult a professional if you’re unsure.

10. High Energy Bills

A spike in your energy bills could indicate an inefficient water heater. Common reasons include:

• Inefficient Heating: As water heaters age, they become less efficient, requiring more energy to heat the same amount of water.
• Insulation Issues: Poor insulation around the tank or pipes can cause heat loss, leading to increased energy consumption.

11. Water Takes Too Long to Reheat

If your water heater is taking longer than usual to reheat it could be one of the following or time to looking into a tankless water heater:

• Sediment Build-up: As sediment accumulates, it insulates the water from the heating element, slowing down the reheating process.
• Heating Element Problems: A malfunctioning heating element may not be working at full capacity, leading to slower water heating.

12. Low Water Pressure

Experiencing low water pressure can be frustrating, especially when it only affects hot water:

• Pipe Issues: Narrowed or corroded pipes can restrict water flow, reducing pressure.
• Water Heater Malfunctions: A build-up of sediment or a partially closed valve in the water heater can also lead to low pressure.

13. Water Heater Turns Off Unexpectedly

If your water heater keeps shutting off:

• Electrical Issues: For electric heaters, a tripped breaker or faulty wiring could be the cause.
• Overheating: If the water heater overheats, it may shut down as a safety precaution.

14. Preventative Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is key to preventing many common water heater issues:

• Flushing the Tank: Remove sediment by flushing the tank at least once a year.
• Checking the Anode Rod: Inspect the anode rod every couple of years and replace it if it’s heavily corroded.
• Annual Inspection: Consider having a professional inspect your water heater annually to catch any issues early.

15. When to Replace Your Water Heater

Knowing when to replace your water heater can save you from sudden breakdowns:

• Signs of a Failing Heater: Frequent repairs, leaks, and inadequate hot water are signs that it might be time for a new water heater.
• Life Expectancy: Most water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. If yours is nearing this age, it may be more cost-effective to replace it than to continue with repairs.

16. Conclusion

Water heaters are vital, but like any appliance, they require regular care and attention. By understanding common issues and knowing how to address them, you can extend the life of your water heater and ensure it operates efficiently. Remember, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements.

17. FAQs

• What is the average lifespan of a water heater? The average lifespan of a water heater is 8-12 years, though this can vary based on usage and maintenance.
• How often should I flush my water heater? It’s recommended to flush your water heater at least once a year to remove sediment build-up.
• What size water heater do I need for my home? The size depends on your household size and water usage. A 40-50 gallon tank is usually sufficient for a typical family.
• Why is my water heater making a popping noise? Popping noises are typically caused by sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank. Flushing the tank can help eliminate this issue.
• Can I repair a leaking water heater myself? Minor leaks can sometimes be repaired by tightening connections or replacing the pressure relief valve, but significant leaks often require professional assistance.
• What should I do if my water is discolored? Discolored water could indicate a corroded anode rod or tank. Replacing the anode rod or flushing the tank might resolve the issue.

Investing in a new boiler and having it installed is a pretty big process. Getting a new boiler can be a relief, especially if you depend on it for heating your home or for hot water. It’s important to be prepared for the project. Below are a few things that you should do before having a boiler installed in your home:

• First, ask the installer what to expect. Companies use different processes and protocol. You should ask if they will provide exact dates and times for work, or if you will simply be given a window for installation. Find out if they will need to access specific parts of your home or if they need access to utilities. You want to properly prepare in advance. By understanding the needs of the installer, and how they plan to approach the job, you can make sure the job is handled more efficiently and effectively. It also brings some peace of mind when you have the correct expectations for the job.
• You will need to clear the area. Make sure that the hallways and access doors to the boiler room are cleaned out so the installers have plenty of room to work. You need a clear path to the boiler room as well. You don’t want to delay the installer, and you want them to be able to easily access the area and get the new boiler and parts in there with ease.
• You will not have basic utilities like water and electricity  during the removal of the old boiler and the installation of the new one. You should be prepared for this before work is started. This means you should be showered or bathed, your meal prepared, and so forth before the installation experts arrive. It is also recommended that sensitive electronics, such as computers be shut down before power is cut. Make sure everything that could be damaged by a sudden power outage is properly turned off before the utilities are shut off.
• If your space is tight, or if you have concerns about damage to your landscaping, you should create a staging area for the technicians. This could be an area that has been cleared out or a drop cloth laid out on the lawn to protect the area. The installer will need space to lay out tools. Drop cloths are helpful between the boiler room and entrance door. Be sure to tape down any drop cloths so they are not fall hazards. Sometimes the staging area is in a carport or on a driveway. It just depends on where your boiler is located and how it will be accessed.

Hire a Company with Boiler Experience

Your boiler is a stand-alone appliance connected to an existing system in your home. The most important part of having a new boiler installed is hiring a licensed and experienced technician who is skilled in boiler repair and installation. Take the time to ask the technician any questions that you may have regarding the installation process and the boiler itself.

Your technician will visit your home before the installation and check the entire system. At that time, your technician will be able to recommend the right kind of boiler and determine how to approach the job. That way, he or she can properly plan the installation process. Your technician will make sure that your new boiler is more effective and more efficient.

This process may involve the primary and secondary piping. The thermostat may also be relocated. Because heat rises, having a thermostat on a top floor can leave the lower levels cold. But if your thermostat is on the lower level, the upper levels can get too hot. Your technician will know the best approach to take and where to put the thermostat for optimal results.

Installing a new boiler can improve your home’s overall comfort level and your utility expenses. If you think it is time to upgrade your home’s boiler, call Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning and we’ll be able to help you out!

Hot water is a comfort that many people take for granted. You realize how important it is when your hot water heater stops working. It’s seemingly effortless to turn on the water taps and adjust the hot or warm water as needed. The supply of heated water in most homes comes from a traditional tank-style water heater. Some homes are equipped with tankless water heaters as well.

Regardless of the type of water heater installed in your home, it’s important to know its current age and what the average lifespan of the unit is. If you didn’t purchase and install the existing water heater in your home, you may be able to determine how old it is based on the serial number. Most manufacturers include the manufacture date and year of the water heater in its serial number or there may be an installation sticker in place.

The average lifespan for a tank style water heater is between 8 and 12 years. If you’ve determined your tank style water heater is between the 8-12 year range, you may want to have plans for a replacement in the near future in case it fails. A failed water can cause more damage to a home instead of just no hot water. If corrosion or rust has damaged the tank to the point where it leaks, it could result in water damage to the home. This is one of the biggest causes of major water damage to a home.

Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years. It is important to understand that they too are susceptible to the same problems as tank style heaters. They can be damaged by corrosion caused by the thousands of gallons of water circulating through them.

As your water heater ages, there will be signs that it is deteriorating. Once you know there is a problem with your water heater, it may be time to call a trusted plumbing company to install a new water heater for you.

There are many other signs that a water heater is ailing. A few are listed below.

• Water that smells foul or looks discolored when hot water is running could indicate a problem.
• There is a pool of water around your water heater. This is an obvious sign of a leak.
• Yellowish or red water could be a sign of rust.
• Noise coming from the water heater could indicate the buildup of sediment in the bottom of the tank. When this occurs, the layer of sediment can harden and then causes the heater to become noisy when it’s in use.
• If you notice you’re running out of hot water sooner, or water is not very warm, this is also an indicator the water heater is in trouble.

What shortens a water heater’s life span?

In today’s market, consumers are often concerned with functional obsolescence of products, as it seems like some things seem deliberately constructed to fail after a certain period of time. Tank-style water heaters aren’t necessarily designed to fail, they just begin to give out when there is build-up or corrosion on its components and on the inside of the water tank.

Many factors can shorten the life of a water heater. The interior lining of standard tank water heaters are protected by an anode rod. This is a metal core that attracts corrosive particles present in the water through electrolysis. When it becomes corroded, the tank of the water heater is no longer protected and the corrosion and rusting will then spread to the water tank itself. Corrosion will destroy a water heater tank and once it’s begun, the entire water heater must be replaced. Anode rods can be replaced in some models of water heaters to extend the life of the unit but not all of them have that option.

It’s possible to extend the life of your tank-style water heater by completing regular maintenance. The water heater can be flushed, meaning the water at the bottom of the heater (where most of the sediment and corrosive particles build up) is drained out. Naturally, this has to be done with great care since the water in the tank is hot. In areas where the water is very hard and full of minerals that cause buildup and lime scale, water heaters don’t last as long, so maintenance is important. Use of a lime-scale build-up inhibitor can also help protect the water heater. Not only does corrosion damage the water heater over time, it reduces its efficiency and costs you more in utility costs. So even if your water heater is still going strong, after ten years or so it may be running far less efficiently than it did when it was new and cost savings can be realized with a replacement.

Golden-West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning has replaced thousands of water heaters. We happily service anyone in the Denver metro area. Feel free to give us a call!

A garbage disposal is a great asset to your kitchen, but if it gets clogged, it can become a real hassle to fix. You need to know how to properly and safely unclog a garbage disposal and also know what to do in order to avoid a clog.

Avoiding Garbage Disposal Clogs

By being proactive and watching what goes down the drain, you can reduce the risk of a garbage disposal clog.

• There are several items that you should never put down your drain. Manufacturers indicate that you should not let fibrous products, starchy products, eggshells, grease, or oil go through a garbage disposal.
• When you use a garbage disposal, let the water continuously run through to clear any debris.
• When you are disposing any food waste, be sure to do so in small batches.
• Clean your garbage disposal on a regular basis. You can use a combination of vinegar and baking soda to clean the garbage disposal.

How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal

Here are a few tips for safely addressing the problem and getting your garbage disposal functioning again:

• Unplug the garbage disposal. For your safety, it is crucial to have your garbage disposal unplugged when fixing it.
• Get a flashlight so you can see inside the drain. You may be able to see the cause for the clog, such as a dropped utensil, a bone, a chunk of food, or something similar. You may be able to get access to the clog and remove it with pliers or a kitchen tool like a  narrow tong.
• If the clog still persists and you’ve safely cleared the drain, you might need a sink plunger. Take a plunger to try to loosen up the clog in the garbage disposal drain. You may need to spend several minutes plunging the garbage disposal drain. Put the plunger directly over top of the sink drain, making sure that the plunger has the drain completely covered.
• Lift the plunger and look to inspect the water flow. If there is still a clog, repeat the process multiple times to try to release the clog from the garbage disposal.
• If the garbage disposal is still clogged, call a professional plumber. A plumber will know how to proceed with the clog removal and has the tools, skills, and equipment needed to get the clog out and your garbage disposal functioning again.

Establish A Relationship With A Plumber 

You should establish a good working relationship with a licensed plumber in your area. A qualified plumber can make sure that your garbage disposal is properly maintained and operating as it should. If you are located in the Denver metro area and your garbage disposal is clogged, call Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning  to schedule a visit. We will troubleshoot your problem and make sure it is properly addressed. Our team is highly qualified and has experience replacing hundreds of garbage disposals each year.

A toilet leaking at the base is a common problem. If you notice your toilet is leaking at the base, you definitely should not use it until it is fixed. Unsanitary dirty water can spill out onto your floor. The water most likely from the bowl.. This water could have an unpleasant odor, and it can be damaging to the floor. To keep the leak from doing more damage, you should turn off water to this commode and call a licensed plumber to get the problem fixed right away.

Negative Effects from a Toilet Leaking from the Base

When a toilet is leaking at the base, it can cause mold to grow. It can also lead to higher water bills and it can cause damage to your flooring and other aspects of your home. You should ensure that the problem is addressed quickly before it gets worse and before you end up having to spend more out of pocket on the repairs and on fixing the other issues caused by the leaking commode.

You should inspect the toilet to make sure that the leak is indeed coming from the bottom of the toilet and not from somewhere higher up. A higher leak could drip down the sides of the commode then pool up on the floor giving the appearance of a leak at the base. There are different causes for leaks at the base, so you need to inspect the toilet closely to determine the cause of the problem.

Common Causes for a Toilet Leak

Here are some things to check and the two leading causes for the base of a toilet to leak:

• The t-bolts used to fasten the toilet onto the floor could need tightening up. Just remove the plastic covers at the base then tighten the bolts, making sure that you don’t over tighten them as that could crack the porcelain base.
• Another reason that the toilet leaks at the base could be because you need a wax ring to seal in the section connecting the drainpipe and toilet. You should shut off the water to the toilet, disconnect the line that supplies water, unscrew the t-bolts, then remove the toilet and lay it on its side. Remove the old wax ring and clean the area before you place the new on the bottom of the toilet and reinstall the commode.

After you have fixed the problem, you will want to make sure you reinstall the toilet properly. As you do so, check it for any other problems. You will need to make sure that the wax ring is pushed in and a seal is created. Make sure the t-bolts are screwed into place, but that they are not too loose and that they are not too tight. Be sure to center and level the toilet.

You will need to reconnect your water line and then turn the valve back on. Flush your toilet a couple of times to make sure that there are no leaks. If there is still a leak, you will want to make sure that you call a professional plumber because it will need additional troubleshooting. A professionally trained plumber will be able to determine what is the cause for the problem and will make sure that the issue is addressed in the most effective and most efficient way possible.

Even what may seem like a minor leak can cause extensive damage, so it requires immediate attention. Since the leaking water is coming from the toilet bowl and is dirty, it can be hazardous to the health of your family. If your toilet is leaking around the base and you are having difficulty determining the root of the problem, call Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning today. We will send out a highly skilled plumber to take care of the problem and to ensure your toilet is free from leaks and any other problems.

Not only does a running toilet sound obnoxious, but it can also waste hundreds of gallons of water. If you notice your toilet running, get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid any unpleasant surprises on your next water bill. How can you tell what’s causing your toilet to run? We’ve covered some of the most common causes of a running toilet, how to fix them, and when to call in the pros.

Common causes of a running toilet

Wear and tear on the toilet flapper
The toilet flapper is the rubber seal that stops tank water from flowing into the bowl. When you flush the toilet, a chain attached to the flapper lifts the seal up, allowing clean water to flow through into the bowl.
Toilet flappers accumulate wear and tear over time. Cracked or worn-out toilet flappers are one of the most common causes of a running toilet. If you push down on the flapper and the toilet stops running, you’ve identified the problem.

Improper chain length
If the toilet flapper itself isn’t the problem, the chain attached to the flapper might be too long or too short. Check the chain to see if it’s getting trapped under the flapper or if it’s not long enough to seal the flapper.

Float misalignment
There are two types of floats: cup floats and ball floats. Most modern toilets are equipped with ball floats. Floats are also called ballcocks and float valves.
The float regulates the water level. When you flush the toilet, the float rises up to a certain point, causing the toilet to stop running.
If the float is cracked or positioned too high, water will flow into the overflow pipe, causing your toilet to run. If the float touches the side of the tank, it may be misaligned. Unless the float ball is cracked, you can usually fix this problem by adjusting the float arm.

Malfunctioning fill valve
As its name suggests, the fill valve is the mechanism that refills the toilet bowl after a flush. If you’ve checked the flapper and float, the fill valve could be the cause of your running toilet.
If the water is rising too high and running into the overflow tube, you may need to clean or replace the fill valve.

How to figure out what’s causing your toilet to run constantly
The easiest way to tell what’s causing your toilet to run is to look inside the tank. If you’re checking the flapper or float, you won’t need to turn off the water supply. If you’re replacing the flapper or fill valve, you’ll need to turn off the water supply first.
Once you’ve identified the cause, you’ll usually find the supplies you need at your local hardware store. But before you start drawing up a shopping list, make sure you’ve isolated the problem. You wouldn’t want to replace the toilet flapper only to find that your toilet is still running.

Got a running toilet that needs fixing? Call the Denver plumbing pros

Fixing a running toilet could be as simple as replacing a worn-out flapper and as complex as replacing the whole fill valve assembly. If you’re confused just looking inside the tank, give us a call. We’ll have your toilet up and (not) running promptly!
Golden West technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind. No Denver plumbing job is too small. Call us or start a chat with us today to schedule your appointment.

Unlike most things in life, your water bill should be relatively stable and predictable. A sudden spike in water charges could indicate anything from lifestyle changes to a major water leak.

Wondering why your water bill is suddenly so high? We’ll explore 5 potential causes and their solutions later in this article. But first, let’s take a look at average water costs in Denver so you know about how much you can expect to pay each month and year.

How much does water cost in Denver on average?

Compared to other major cities, Denver has some of the lowest water charges in Colorado. The average water bill for a single family living in Denver is around $530 per year or roughly $45 per month as of 2020. The cost of water in Denver varies based on an array of factors, including the type and size of the residence as well as the billing rates of the water provider.

Denver Water is the main water service provider, delivering clean drinking water to over 1 million residents in the Mile High City.

Looking at your water bill can be a little confusing. In addition to a fixed monthly charge, Denver Water charges residential customers different rates based on:

• location: inside city or outside city
• consumption: fixed minimum rates apply per 1,000 gallons of water used
• property type: residential, commercial, multi-unit, or irrigation
• service type: Denver residents living in the suburbs are charged a different rate
• meter size: different meter sizes incur a different monthly fixed charge

Denver Water also implements a tier system that determines the rate per 1,000 gallons. Tier 1 is the lowest rate and applies to residential customers. The rate per 1,000 gallons for Tier 1 will increase to $2.39 in 2021.

Why is my water bill so high? 4 common culprits and what you can do to fix them

Now that we’ve taken a brief look at the fine print of your Denver water bill, let’s investigate why your water bill might be high. Here are 5 common reasons for a high water bill, plus potential solutions.

Changes in water consumption

This one is perhaps the easiest to fix. Long showers, leaving the faucet running while you’re brushing your teeth, and forgetting to turn the sprinklers off are just a few examples.

New appliances like a washing machine or dishwasher can also use more water than you’re used to.

How to fix it: The obvious solution is to be mindful of how much water you use and make an effort to reduce your water consumption. If you’re shopping for a new appliance, choose a highly efficient unit that uses less water. (Look for the WaterSense logo.)

Leaky and dripping faucets

A leaky faucet wastes anywhere from a third of a gallon of water to 90+ gallons of water per day. That probably doesn’t seem like much, but it adds up over time. Especially when you consider the ecological impact of all the dripping faucets out there.

Not only do leaky and dripping faucets waste money, but they also waste precious clean water. The EPA estimates that all the leaking faucets in America waste 1 trillion gallons of water collectively each year.

How to fix it: The required repair depends on where the faucet is leaking. If it’s from the spout, you might need to change the faucet cartridge or screw/washer. If it’s the base, the O ring is likely worn out or cracked and needs replacing. If the pipes under your sink are leaking, you probably have a loose or cracked pipe.

Running toilets

A running toilet can waste up to nearly 6,500 gallons per day. Although fixing a running toilet is relatively easy and inexpensive, it’s something you should do ASAP to prevent any unpleasant surprises on next month’s water bill.

How to fix it: Open up the tank and take a look inside. The problem might be a worn-out toilet flapper or misaligned float.

Related: Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Water softener issues

A water softener is a handy addition to your home, removing minerals and preventing hard water stains. Unfortunately, it can also contribute to high water bills in certain circumstances.

When a water softener gets stuck in regeneration mode, it cycles continuously and will draw water non-stop. A leak is another, less common issue. Loose connections and worn-out or cracked parts could cause a water softener to leak.

How to fix it: To fix a leaking water softener, first check to see if any parts are loose, cracked, or worn out. If cycling is the problem, a part likely needs replacing. This could be the timer or control switch. Your best bet is calling in a water softener specialist. They’ll be able to quickly identify and install whichever part needs replacing.

Contact us today with your Denver sewer and plumbing repair needs and questions

Worried about your high water bill? Our expert technicians can identify and fix the problem promptly. Call us today with all your Denver plumbing and sewer repair needs.

What is video sewer pipeline inspection? As its name suggests, a video sewer pipeline inspection uses video technology to inspect the condition of an existing sewer pipeline.

This could be the sewer line that connects to the mainline on the street that runs to the local wastewater treatment facility. Or it could be individual pipes within your home, like your kitchen sewer line that connects to your home’s mainline.

A video sewer pipeline inspection identifies the cause of a potential sewer problem, such as a blockage or pipe damage. Let’s take a look at how video sewer pipeline inspections work, plus a few other things homeowners should know about this type of inspection.

How does a video sewer pipeline inspection work?

If you’re having unidentified sewer system issues, first you’ll need to contact a local plumber near you. A technician will schedule an inspection.

On the day, the technician will run a protected cable with a camera attached to the end through the sewer line. The camera will pass through the sewer, searching for any damage and blockages. This cable is fed manually through the pipe.

Once the problem is identified, the technician will leave the camera pointed at the issue, which is usually a blockage. A built-in transmitter will give off a signal, which the technician can detect using a locator.

At Golden West, we use only the best in video inspection technology. Our high-res cameras come equipped with auto-focusing capabilities and bright lights for maximum control and visibility.

When do you need a video sewer pipeline inspection?

If you’re planning big renovations or you’re buying a new home, we recommend booking a video sewer pipeline inspection.

For renovations, a video sewer pipeline inspection ensures your current sewer line can accommodate new plumbing fixtures.

For new homeowners, a video inspection can prevent minor issues from snowballing into major repairs.

Another reason why you might need a video inspection is an unidentified sewer problem. If you have a blockage that a plunger or drain cleaner can’t fix, a video inspection will

Can you perform a video sewer pipeline inspection yourself?

You can — but that doesn’t mean you should.

Drain cameras are available online for anywhere from $300 to $900. Despite the hefty price tag, these cameras aren’t professional quality. Their lead lines aren’t long enough to inspect the full sewer line and usually cap out at 100 feet. Not only are the cameras mediocre, but some don’t even have lights for visibility.

Compare that to professional equipment, which costs tens of thousands of dollars. In addition to high-res cameras and powerful lights, our cameras also have auto-leveling capabilities, which means the video always displays upright. Our cameras are also able to record the inspection, making it easy to play back the video to ensure we didn’t miss anything. Plus, our lead lines can reach in excess of 1,000 feet.

Not to mention that homeowners often lack the training and expertise needed to successfully identify and remove a blockage. In a world where there are so many DIY fixes for common problems, some issues are best left to the pros!

Benefits of a professional video inspection

Aside from saving hundreds of dollars that you might have otherwise spent on inferior equipment, the main benefit of a professional video inspection is accuracy. Video is the best way to identify and repair sewer blockages and root intrusions. It also saves tons of time and labor costs and prevents guesswork and digging to find the issue.

Contact us for video sewer pipeline inspections in Denver and the surrounding area

A video sewer pipeline inspection isn’t your everyday plumbing procedure. But it’s especially useful for certain situations, like renovations, new homes, and stubborn blockages.

If you require a video sewer pipeline inspection in Denver or the surrounding area, call us today.