Los Angeles is a city rich with character—and that includes its homes. From charming craftsman bungalows in Highland Park to mid-century gems in the Valley, many Angelenos enjoy the beauty and architecture of older properties. But with that charm often comes an aging plumbing system—and one of the most common issues we see is clogged or sluggish drains.
If you live in an older home, here’s why professional drain cleaning in Los Angeles should be on your maintenance checklist.
Aging Pipes Mean More Problems
Homes built before the 1970s often have cast iron, clay, or galvanized steel pipes. Over time, these materials deteriorate, corrode, or shift due to seismic activity, tree root intrusion, or general wear. As a result, clogs and backups become more frequent—and can lead to water damage or even sewer line failure if ignored.
At Sewer Detective, we’ve seen it all: cracked sewer lines in Echo Park, hair and grease buildup in Mid-City kitchens, and root-clogged drains in South LA. The good news? Most of these issues can be prevented or resolved quickly with proper drain maintenance.
Warning Signs of a Drain Problem
Older plumbing systems often give subtle warning signs before a full-blown backup occurs. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to schedule a drain cleaning:
- Water draining slowly from sinks, tubs, or showers
- Gurgling sounds from your drains or toilet
- Foul odors coming from your kitchen sink
- Water backing up into the tub or other fixtures
- Frequent use of over-the-counter drain cleaners (which can damage pipes)
These symptoms often point to deeper issues—literally. Many clogs start in the lateral sewer line beneath your home and require professional tools to resolve.
Why DIY Isn’t Enough
Chemical drain cleaners can offer a temporary fix, but they don’t address the root cause (pun intended). In older homes, buildup from decades of grease, soap scum, and mineral deposits often hardens inside the pipe walls. That’s where we come in.
At Sewer Detective, we use high-powered equipment like drain augers and hydro jetting to completely clear your lines—restoring flow and extending the life of your plumbing system. For tougher cases, we also offer video camera inspections to locate blockages and damage without digging up your yard.
Keep Your Plumbing Flowing
If your home was built before 1980, regular drain cleaning is a smart way to protect your investment and avoid major plumbing headaches. At Sewer Detective, we specialize in serving LA’s older homes with care, precision, and integrity.
Call (323) 812-6303 or email us today to schedule your professional drain cleaning. We’ll keep your drains clear—so you can enjoy your home, not worry about your plumbing.
