Sewer & Main Drain Repair in Robinson, TX
Recurring sewer backups? Broken drain line? Roots, offsets, or damaged piping found during a camera inspection?
Hardison Heat, Air & Plumbing provides sewer & main drain repair throughout Robinson, including homes along U.S. Highway 77 and Moonlight Drive, the Peplow Park area, and the surrounding McLennan County countryside. We serve properties across the city and nearby country areas in McLennan County. Call Hardison to schedule service at your property.
A clogged sewer line does not automatically mean the pipe needs to be replaced. We first determine whether the problem can be corrected through cleaning or whether the piping itself has a condition that requires repair.
If repair is necessary, we’ll explain what we find, discuss the available options, and help you determine the most practical solution.
Jason's Tip:
Don’t replace a sewer line just because it clogged.
A main drain can stop up from roots, debris, grease, paper, or other buildup without the pipe itself being structurally bad.
Before spending money on a major sewer repair, find out why the line is backing up and what condition the pipe is actually in.
When possible, a camera inspection after the line has been cleared can provide valuable information about whether the problem is buildup—or damage to the piping itself.
Signs Your Sewer Line May Need Repair
Recurring sewer problems can sometimes indicate more than a simple blockage.
Signs that the piping should be investigated include:
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Main drain backups that repeatedly return
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Frequent sewer cleaning
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Root intrusion that keeps coming back
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Broken or cracked piping seen during inspection
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Significant pipe offsets
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Standing water inside the drain line
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Collapsed or partially collapsed piping
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Deteriorated sewer pipe
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Sections that do not appear to drain properly
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Persistent sewer odors
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Unexplained wet areas outside
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Drainage problems that cleaning does not fully correct
A recurring stoppage does not automatically confirm pipe damage, but it is a good reason to investigate further.
Professional Sewer & Main Drain Diagnosis
Before recommending a sewer repair, we want to understand what is actually happening inside the drainage system.
That may include evaluating:
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How frequently the line backs up
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Which fixtures are affected
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Previous cleaning history
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Location of the stoppage
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Condition of accessible cleanouts
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Results of drain cleaning
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Sewer camera findings
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Signs of root intrusion
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Standing water or improper drainage
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Visible pipe damage
The goal is to separate a cleaning problem from a structural piping problem.
Sewer Camera Inspection
A sewer camera can provide important information when a main line repeatedly fails or damage is suspected.
Camera inspection may reveal:
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Cracked or broken piping
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Root intrusion
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Pipe offsets
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Collapsed sections
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Heavy deterioration
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Foreign objects
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Standing water
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Areas associated with recurring stoppages
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Changes in pipe condition or material
A camera is a diagnostic tool. The findings should be considered together with the symptoms and history of the system before recommending repair.
Sewer Leak Testing
Not every sewer problem causes an obvious backup.
A damaged drain or sewer line may leak beneath the home or underground without immediately causing a complete stoppage. When there is reason to suspect a concealed sewer-line leak, testing can help determine whether the drainage system is holding properly.
Sewer leak testing may be recommended when there are concerns such as:
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Suspected leaking drain or sewer piping
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Unexplained moisture around the foundation
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Sewer-related problems without an obvious blockage
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Older or previously repaired drain lines
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Conditions discovered during a plumbing evaluation
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The need to confirm whether a section of drain piping is leaking
If testing indicates a problem, we’ll explain what was found and discuss the appropriate next step for locating and repairing the affected area.
Smoke Testing for Sewer Odors
Persistent sewer smells can be difficult to track down because the source may not be visible.
Smoke testing can help identify openings in the drainage and vent system where sewer gases may be escaping.
During a smoke test, non-toxic test smoke is introduced into the plumbing system. If smoke appears where it shouldn’t, it can help identify possible problems such as:
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Cracked or damaged drain piping
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Loose or failed plumbing connections
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Open or damaged vent piping
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Improperly sealed penetrations
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Missing or failed traps
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Hidden openings in the drainage system
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Sewer-gas pathways inside the home
Smoke testing does not automatically mean a major repair is needed. It is a diagnostic method that helps us narrow down where sewer odors may be entering the home so the actual problem can be addressed.
Jason's Tip:
Don’t try to cover up a sewer smell with air fresheners and assume it’s gone.
A persistent sewer odor usually has a source. It may be something simple like a dry trap, or it may involve a vent, drain connection, or concealed piping problem. Finding where the odor is entering the home is the first step toward fixing it correctly.
Most Common Thing We See in the Field:
Repeatedly paying to clear the same main drain when the pipe itself has a problem.
Cleaning is often exactly what a clogged sewer needs.
But if the same line continues backing up in the same area, there may be something causing the blockage to return.
Roots, damaged piping, offsets, deterioration, or poor drainage can repeatedly catch debris and create another stoppage.
At some point, continuing to clear the symptom may cost more than addressing the underlying problem.
That’s why recurring sewer backups deserve a closer look.
- Jason Hardison
What Causes Sewer Line Damage?
Underground sewer and drain piping can deteriorate or fail for many reasons.
Possible causes include:
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Age of the piping
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Tree-root intrusion
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Ground movement
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Soil conditions
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Pipe deterioration
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Failed joints
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Improper installation
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Pipe offsets
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Cracks or breaks
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Excessive settlement
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Long-term corrosion
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Previous repairs
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Heavy external loads
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Sections with improper slope
Sometimes the problem involves one isolated area.
Other times, multiple sections of the sewer may show deterioration.
Tree Roots and Sewer Lines
Tree roots are a common cause of recurring sewer-line problems.
Roots are naturally attracted to moisture and may enter through:
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Cracked piping
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Failed joints
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Loose connections
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Damaged sections
Once inside the sewer line, roots can collect paper and debris and gradually restrict wastewater flow.
Cutting roots out may temporarily restore drainage, but if they are entering through damaged piping, the underlying opening still exists.
Sewer Line Repair Options
The appropriate repair depends on the location and extent of the damage.
Possible approaches may include:
Localized Sewer Repair
If one section of pipe is damaged while the surrounding line remains in reasonable condition, repairing or replacing that specific section may make sense.
Replacing a Damaged Section
A longer section may need replacement when deterioration, offsets, roots, or damage extend beyond one small area.
Accessing Underground Piping
Some sewer repairs require excavation to access the damaged section.
Before work begins, we’ll explain what area needs to be accessed and what is included in the repair.
We do not recommend replacing more piping than the condition of the system reasonably supports.
Jason’s Recommendation
Base the repair on what the camera and the history of the line are telling you.
One damaged section doesn’t necessarily mean the entire sewer line should be replaced.
But if the line has multiple failures, extensive deterioration, or years of recurring problems, repairing one small section at a time may not be the best long-term investment.
I recommend looking at the location of the damage, overall pipe condition, previous repairs, and history of backups before deciding how much of the line should be repaired.
Spot Repair vs. Larger Sewer Replacement
A Localized Repair May Make Sense When:
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The damaged area is isolated
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The surrounding piping is in good condition
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There is little history of recurring problems
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Only one section has failed
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The repair can reasonably restore dependable drainage
A Larger Repair or Replacement May Deserve Consideration When:
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Multiple sections are damaged
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The piping is severely deteriorated
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Significant offsets exist in several areas
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Root intrusion is widespread
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Previous spot repairs continue to accumulate
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The sewer continues failing in different locations
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The overall condition of the line is poor
Our goal is to explain what we see so you can make an informed decision.
Sewer Cleaning vs. Sewer Repair
These are two different services.
Sewer & Main Drain Cleaning
Cleaning removes blockages and restores flow when the piping itself is still serviceable.
Common cleaning problems may involve:
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Paper and debris
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Grease buildup
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Certain root intrusions
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Foreign material
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Accumulated residue
Learn About Sewer & Main Drain Cleaning
Sewer & Main Drain Repair
Repair addresses a physical problem with the piping itself.
Examples include:
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Broken pipe
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Cracked piping
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Significant offsets
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Collapsed sections
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Severe deterioration
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Failed joints
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Other structural conditions
We diagnose first so we don’t confuse a clogged pipe with a failed pipe.
What Happens During a Sewer Repair?
Every sewer repair is different, but the process may include:
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Confirming the location of the problem
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Reviewing camera findings when applicable
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Determining the appropriate repair area
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Explaining repair options
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Providing pricing before work begins
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Accessing the affected piping
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Removing the damaged section
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Installing appropriate replacement piping and fittings
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Restoring proper connections
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Testing drainage
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Inspecting the repaired section
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Cleaning the work area
The exact scope depends on the location and condition of the sewer line.
Why Sewer Problems Shouldn’t Be Ignored
A damaged main drain can lead to repeated backups and unsanitary conditions.
Continued problems may contribute to:
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Sewage entering the home
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Flooring or drywall damage
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Contaminated materials
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Unpleasant odors
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Repeated emergency plumbing calls
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Yard or soil saturation
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Continued deterioration of damaged piping
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Addressing a confirmed structural problem can help prevent repeated failures.
What Should You Do If Your Sewer Is Backing Up?
If sewage or wastewater is backing up:
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Reduce water usage immediately
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Stop flushing toilets
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Avoid showers and baths
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Do not run washing machines or dishwashers
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Keep children and pets away from sewage
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Avoid contact with contaminated wastewater
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Call for professional service
If the problem is a blockage, cleaning may restore the line.
If we discover damaged piping, we’ll explain the next step.
Preventive Sewer & Main Drain Maintenance
Not every pipe failure can be prevented, but recognizing recurring problems early can help.
Keep Records of Sewer Problems
If your main line has been cleaned repeatedly, keep track of where and why the stoppages occurred.
Address Recurring Root Intrusion
Repeated root problems may indicate an opening or damaged area where roots are entering the sewer.
Don’t Ignore Recurring Backups
A main drain that requires frequent cleaning deserves further investigation.
Be Careful What Goes Down the Drain
Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, hygiene products, grease, and foreign objects.
Consider Camera Inspection After Repeated Problems
When a main sewer repeatedly fails, inspecting the condition of the pipe can help determine whether continued cleaning or repair makes more sense.
Why Choose Hardison Heat, Air & Plumbing?
Choosing the right plumber for a sewer repair means more than simply digging up a pipe.
At Hardison Heat, Air & Plumbing, we focus on diagnosing the condition of the line, explaining what we find, and recommending a repair based on the actual problem.
Why homeowners choose Hardison:
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34 years of plumbing and HVAC experience
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Sewer and main drain diagnostics
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Sewer camera inspection capabilities
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Drain cleaning equipment
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Sewer and main drain repair
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Sewer leak testing
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Smoke testing for sewer odors
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Honest recommendations
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Repair based on actual pipe condition
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Upfront pricing before work begins
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No unnecessary upselling
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Financing available for qualifying projects
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Family-owned and locally operated
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Proudly serving Central Texas
Customer Reviews on Google
Selected excerpts from customer reviews of Hardison.
“Jason did an excellent job on drain repair. I am very pleased with his service in Hewitt, TX.”
Mia Moody · 5-star Google review
“He was able to repair our kitchen pipes and get the job completed as quickly as possible.”
Isabel Charo-Frye · 5-star Google review
Areas We Serve
Sewer & Main Drain Repair Throughout Robinson, TX
We provide sewer & main drain repair throughout Robinson and nearby rural properties in McLennan County. These are examples of the areas we serve:
- Homes throughout Robinson
- U.S. Highway 77 and Moonlight Drive residential areas
- Homes near Peplow Park
- Rosenthal Parkway and other Robinson neighborhoods
- Country homes and nearby rural McLennan County properties
We also serve Waco, Hewitt, Woodway, and surrounding McLennan County communities. Whether you’re in a neighborhood or outside town, call Hardison to discuss service at your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my sewer line needs repair instead of cleaning?
If the line repeatedly backs up or a camera inspection identifies broken, collapsed, severely offset, or deteriorated piping, repair may be appropriate. A normal blockage may only require cleaning.
Does tree-root intrusion mean the sewer needs replacement?
Not always. The severity of the roots and condition of the piping should be evaluated. If roots repeatedly enter through damaged piping, repairing that damaged section may become necessary.
Can you repair only one section of a sewer line?
Yes, when the problem is isolated and the surrounding piping remains in reasonable condition, a localized repair may be appropriate.
Does a sewer backup mean my pipe is broken?
No. Many sewer backups are caused by ordinary blockages. The line should be cleared and evaluated before assuming it is structurally damaged.
Can a sewer camera tell you exactly what is wrong?
A camera can provide valuable visual information about the condition of accessible piping, but findings should be considered along with drainage performance, symptoms, and repair history.
Why does my main drain keep clogging?
Recurring clogs can be caused by roots, offsets, damaged piping, deterioration, buildup, improper slope, or other conditions that repeatedly restrict flow.
Do you provide sewer cleaning too?
Yes. If the problem is a blockage rather than damaged piping, Hardison provides Sewer & Main Drain Cleaning.
Do you offer financing for sewer repairs?
Yes. Financing options are available for qualifying plumbing projects.
Can you test a sewer line for leaks?
Yes. When a concealed sewer or drain-line leak is suspected, testing can help determine whether the drainage system is holding properly and whether further investigation is needed.
Can you find where a sewer smell is coming from?
Yes. Depending on the situation, smoke testing can help identify openings or defects in the drain and vent system that may be allowing sewer gases to enter the home.
Related Services
Need a Sewer or Main Drain Repaired?
If your main sewer repeatedly backs up or an inspection has identified damaged piping, Hardison Heat, Air & Plumbing can help determine the appropriate next step.
We’ll evaluate the condition of the line, explain what we find, and recommend repair based on the actual problem—not simply because the sewer has clogged.