Frequently Asked Questions

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How Do I Shut Off My Main Water Line?

The main water shutoff valve stops all water flowing into your home. Turning it off quickly can prevent severe water damage if a pipe bursts or leaks.

Homeowners in Atlanta, Marietta, and nearby areas should know where this valve is located before an emergency occurs.

Steps to Shut Off Your Main Water Supply

1. Locate your water meter

Water meters are typically found in one of these locations:

  • A ground-level meter box near the street or sidewalk
  • Inside a basement or crawl space
  • Near the water heater or utility closet
2. Identify the main shutoff valve

The main line usually has one of two valve types:

  • Gate valve – requires several turns to close
  • Ball valve – turns a quarter turn to stop water flow
4. Turn the valve to stop the water flow
  • Turn a gate valve clockwise until it stops.
  • Turn a ball valve perpendicular to the pipe to close it.
Why should I shut off my water before leaving town?

Turning off the main valve during extended trips reduces the risk of catastrophic damage from burst pipes or hidden leaks.

What if the valve is stuck?

Old gate valves often seize over time. A professional inspection can replace the valve with a modern ball valve for easier operation.

What Are Trenchless Pipe Repairs?

Trenchless pipe repair is a method of fixing underground pipes without digging long trenches across your property.

Instead of excavation, technicians repair pipes internally using advanced tools such as sewer cameras, hydro jetting systems, and epoxy lining technology.

For homes and businesses across Atlanta and nearby communities, trenchless repair offers several advantages:

  • inimal disruption to landscaping, driveways, and flooring
  • Faster repair timelines
  • Lower restoration costs after repairs
  • Durable pipe rehabilitation that can last decades

At The Pipe Medic, we specialize in trenchless pipe repair methods for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal clients throughout the Atlanta region.

Is trenchless repair reliable?

Yes. Many municipalities across the United States use trenchless rehabilitation techniques for sewer infrastructure because they extend pipe life and reduce excavation.

When is excavation still necessary?

If a pipe has completely collapsed or shifted out of alignment, partial excavation may still be required before repairs can be completed.

What Is Hydro Jetting and When Is It Needed?

Hydro jetting is a drain cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to remove blockages inside pipes.

The equipment produces a concentrated stream of water strong enough to break apart grease buildup, mineral deposits, sludge, and tree roots.

What Happens During a Hydro Jetting Service?

For properties in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and nearby areas, our hydro jetting process typically involves:

  • Performing a sewer camera inspection first to evaluate pipe condition
  • Inserting a specialized hydro jetting hose into the drain line
  • Spraying high-pressure water jets to clear debris and restore pipe diameter
  • Rechecking the line with a camera to confirm the blockage is gone

This method is often more effective than mechanical drain cleaning because it removes buildup along the entire pipe wall.

Is hydro jetting safe for pipes?

Yes. Pressure levels are carefully adjusted depending on pipe material and age.

What types of clogs can hydro jetting remove?

Grease buildup, soap residue, sludge, scale deposits, and moderate root intrusion.

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

A sewer camera inspection is a diagnostic procedure that allows technicians to examine pipes internally using a waterproof camera.

The camera is attached to a flexible cable and guided through the plumbing system while transmitting live video to a monitor.

Why Sewer Camera Inspections Are Important

For homes and commercial buildings throughout Atlanta and Marietta, this technology allows technicians to:

  • Identify cracks, corrosion, or collapsed pipes
  • Locate tree root intrusions
  • Diagnose recurring clogs
  • Verify pipe condition before trenchless repair

The inspection allows us to recommend the most effective repair method without unnecessary digging.

How long does a sewer camera inspection take?

Most residential inspections take 30 to 60 minutes depending on pipe length.

Can the camera locate the exact problem area?

Yes. The equipment includes transmitters that help pinpoint the pipe’s position underground.

What Are the Most Common Signs of Pipe or Drain Clogs?

Pipe clogs typically develop gradually and produce early warning signs before a complete blockage occurs.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your Atlanta home or business, a pipe inspection may be necessary:

  • Gurgling sounds from drains or unusually slow drainage
  • Water backing up in another fixture, such as a shower filling when the toilet flushes
  • Sinkholes or unusually green patches of grass near underground pipelines
  • Sudden drops in water pressure from faucets or showerheads

Tree roots are a common cause of underground pipe clogs in Georgia, especially in older sewer systems.

Young master of household maintenance service consulting one of clients

Need Pipe or Drain Help in Atlanta?

If you suspect a leak, clog, or sewer problem, The Pipe Medic can help diagnose the issue quickly. As the trusted name for pipe repair services in Atlanta, GA, count on us for:

  • Sewer camera inspections
  • Hydro jetting drain cleaning
  • Trenchless pipe repair and lining
  • Root removal and pipe descaling

Call 770-545-6982 to schedule an inspection or speak with a member of our team today.