Sewer lines fail. That’s just something you need to plan for as a homeowner, because nothing lasts forever, especially when it’s used as much as your plumbing system. It’s also buried in the ground, where the effects of water and organic matter take their toll over time. But it’s not just normal wear and tear sewer lines can be clogged by other things, too, like excessive grease buildup, sanitary items that should never be sent down the toilet, other foreign objects that block the line, and extreme temperature changes that involve freezing and thawing.
When something like this happens, you will probably notice right away. Drains and toilets will be slow or completely backed up, and might even start overflowing in a horrific mess. Or, if the clog affects a different part of the system, you may see a lot of standing water in your front yard in the area of the sewer line.
If you need dependable septic repair services Powell’s Plumbing & Air is the name you can trust. Our skilled technicians perform thorough evaluations, efficient installations, and expert repairs to keep your septic system in top condition. Don’t let minor problems turn into costly issues contact our septic service team today to schedule an appointment and maintain a comfortable home all season long.
Recognizing a sewer line issue early can save you from a major 2025 cleanup. Common indicators in Norfolk, VA homes include multiple slow drains throughout the house, gurgling noises from toilets, and sewage odors near floor drains. If you notice wastewater backing up into your bathtub when you flush the toilet, you likely have a main line obstruction. Powell's Plumbing & Air specializes in identifying these deep-line issues using advanced video camera inspections. Since 1989, our technicians have helped Norfolk homeowners differentiate between a simple local clog and a serious main sewer line failure, ensuring we provide the most cost-effective and permanent solution for your property.
Yes, we prioritize minimally invasive solutions whenever possible. Trenchless sewer repair is a modern alternative to traditional excavation that allows us to fix or replace underground pipes without digging up your entire yard or driveway. Powell's Plumbing & Air utilizes specialized technology to address pipe corrosion, root intrusion, and minor collapses. This method is particularly valuable for historic Norfolk neighborhoods where preserving landscaping and original structures is a priority. Our team will assess your line's integrity to see if a trenchless "no-dig" solution is viable for your specific 2025 project. We pride ourselves on using high-quality materials and expert workmanship to ensure these repairs last for decades to come.
Hydro jetting is a powerful cleaning method that uses high-pressure water streams to blast away heavy grease, mineral scale, and tree roots from your sewer lines. Unlike traditional snaking, which only creates a hole through a clog, hydro jetting restores the pipe to nearly its original diameter. Powell's Plumbing & Air often recommends this for Norfolk restaurants and homes with recurring drainage issues. It’s an essential preventative maintenance tool that clears the entire internal surface of the pipe. As a member of our "Blue Duck Club," you can even receive priority scheduling for these specialized services, ensuring your sewer lines remain clean, quiet, and out of sight, just the way they ought to be.
In most of the Norfolk and Hampton Roads region, homeowners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the sewer lateral—the pipe connecting your house to the city's main line, typically located under the street or sidewalk. If a break occurs on your property or within your lateral, the repair costs fall to the owner. Powell's Plumbing & Air provides transparent assessments to help you determine exactly where a leak or break is located. We offer upfront pricing and honest recommendations to help you navigate these often stressful repairs. We also suggest checking your 2025 homeowner's insurance policy, as some offer endorsements specifically for external sewer and water line failures.
Tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients inside sewer pipes. Even a tiny crack in an older cast iron or clay pipe can allow roots to enter, where they grow rapidly and create massive blockages. In the coastal climate of Norfolk, VA, this is a very common issue. Powell's Plumbing & Air uses hydro jetting and specialized cutters to remove these intrusions without necessarily needing a full pipe replacement. However, if the roots have caused the pipe to collapse, we may recommend a more permanent repair. Our goal is always to provide a solution that fixes the problem right the first time, preventing roots from returning to the same spot.
A sewer line transports wastewater from your home to a municipal treatment plant, while a septic system is an onsite treatment facility that processes waste directly on your property. Powell's Plumbing & Air (formerly Norfolk Plumbing) is uniquely equipped to handle both. We offer routine septic pumping, cleaning, and inspections for properties not connected to the Norfolk city sewer. Whether you are dealing with a city line blockage or a septic tank backup, our expert plumbers provide efficient, cost-effective solutions tailored to your system's specific requirements. We ensure your system—sewer or septic—runs reliably and safely, protecting both your home and the local Hampton Roads environment.
Foul odors are a major red flag that sewer gases are escaping into your living space. This is often caused by a dried-out P-trap, a cracked vent pipe, or a broken sewer line under your foundation. Powell's Plumbing & Air uses professional diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact source of the smell. In 2025, we continue to lead the way in Norfolk for odor detection and resolution. Our background-checked technicians will treat your home with respect while they investigate, ensuring the water keeps flowing everywhere it’s supposed to—and the smells stay where they belong. Don't let a "sewer smell" linger; it can be a health risk as well as a nuisance.
Absolutely. A sewer backup is a true emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent property damage and health hazards. Powell's Plumbing & Air offers fast turnarounds and same-day services throughout Norfolk, VA, and the surrounding areas. Our fleet of fully stocked trucks is ready to respond to your call, with real local folks answering the phone to help you find a time that works for your schedule. Since we’ve been serving this community for over 35 years, we know the local infrastructure inside and out. If your home has a plumbing or septic emergency, give Powell's a call today—we’re only one call away! Quack Quack, Powell's can fix that!
To keep your Norfolk sewer lines running smoothly in 2025, follow the "Three Ps" rule: only flush pee, poop, and (toilet) paper. You should never flush "flushable" wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or grease. These items do not break down like toilet paper and are the leading causes of sewer blockages and lift station failures in the Hampton Roads region. Powell's Plumbing & Air frequently encounters clogs caused by these materials. We recommend properly disposing of grease in the trash and using a hair catcher in your shower. Proactive care and mindful usage are your first lines of defense against expensive sewer repairs and unpleasant backups in your home.
Choosing Powell's Plumbing & Air means choosing 35+ years of professional excellence and local trust. Formerly Norfolk Plumbing LLC, we have a deep commitment to our customers, offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our work. Our team is composed of rigorously vetted, highly skilled technicians who arrive in pristine service vehicles ready to solve your challenges on the first visit. We prioritize clear, candid communication and upfront pricing so there are never any surprises. Whether you need a simple drain cleaning or a complex sewer line replacement, we deliver effective results that guarantee enduring comfort. Experience the difference that neighborly service and technical expertise can make for your Norfolk home or business.
