Noticing sewage backups, foul odors, or wet spots in your yard? Pacific Drain & Plumbing provides professional sewer repair throughout San Diego, backed by guarantees that protect your investment. Our local plumbers diagnose sewer problems accurately and fix them right the first time.
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At Pacific Drain & Plumbing, we see the same sewer repair challenges throughout San Diego neighborhoods every week. Many homes in the area were built between the 1940s and 1970s, which means their sewer lines are made from materials that were standard back then but cause problems today. Clay pipes, cast iron, and Orangeburg (a tar-impregnated fiber pipe that was popular post-World War II) all have limited lifespans, and many have now reached or exceeded their useful years.
San Diego’s coastal environment speeds up the deterioration of cast iron pipes. The salt air and moisture accelerate corrosion from both inside and outside the pipe. In older neighborhoods like Mission Hills and South Park, clay sewer lines are especially common, and these pipes are vulnerable to cracking, joint separation, and root intrusion as they age.
The region’s seismic activity adds another layer of stress. Even minor ground movement can shift pipes out of alignment or create cracks that worsen over time. Combined with San Diego’s dry climate, where tree roots aggressively seek out any available moisture source, sewer lines become prime targets for root infiltration. Once roots find their way in through small cracks or loose joints, they grow inside the pipe and catch everything that flows through.
If your home was built before 1972 and still has its original sewer line, there’s a good chance it’s made from Orangeburg. These pipes were designed to last about 50 years, but many start failing after just 30. The material absorbs moisture, warps under soil pressure, and eventually collapses. When that happens, you need more than a simple repair.
Sewer line damage rarely happens overnight. Most problems develop gradually, which is why catching them early makes such a difference. Here are the most common causes we find:
Sewer problems aren’t always visible from above ground, which is why proper diagnosis matters so much. Our plumbers take a systematic approach to find exactly what’s happening in your sewer line before recommending any repairs.
A properly repaired sewer line should serve your home reliably for decades. Modern materials like PVC can last 75 to 100 years when installed correctly. To protect your investment and avoid future problems, keep these recommendations in mind.
Be mindful of what goes down your drains. Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Keep wipes, feminine products, and other items out of your toilets. In the kitchen, dispose of grease and cooking oil in the trash rather than pouring them down the sink.
If you have large trees near your sewer line, consider having the line inspected with a camera every few years. Catching root intrusion early means a simple cleaning rather than extensive repairs. Some homeowners schedule annual hydro jetting to clear roots before they become a problem.
Know where your cleanout is located. In San Diego, property owners are responsible for their sewer lateral from the home all the way to where it connects with the city main, often located in the middle of the street. Quick access to your cleanout makes inspections and maintenance much easier.
Our sewer repair work is backed by our lifetime workmanship guarantee. If any issues arise related to our repairs, we’ll take care of it.
Sewer problems tend to get worse when ignored, and the damage can extend beyond your plumbing to your yard, foundation, and even the inside of your home. Watch for these warning signs:
When sewage backs up into your home or you notice persistent odors, don’t wait. These situations can pose health risks and cause significant property damage if left unaddressed.
Sewer repair is a significant investment, and you need a company that will be straight with you about what’s really going on underground. Our plumbers live and work in San Diego. They understand the clay pipes in older neighborhoods, the Orangeburg that’s failing in mid-century homes, and the cast iron that’s corroding in coastal areas. When they inspect your sewer line, they know what to look for.
We back every sewer repair with our lifetime workmanship guarantee and 100% satisfaction guarantee. No deposit is required to schedule your inspection, and we don’t surprise you with hidden costs. Every plumber on our team is licensed, bonded, insured, and background-checked.
As part of the Mauzy family of companies, we honor the quality standards and guarantees that San Diego homeowners have trusted for years. When your sewer line needs attention, we’re ready to help you understand your options and get the problem solved.
Pacific Drain & Plumbing is a Mauzy brand. The reviews below are from Mauzy customers in San Diego, served by the same team that handles Pacific Drain jobs.
Posted on Lin HomanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Robert was very knowledgeable. he took time to explain everything to me. And he also loved up my dogs. That’s important to me when someone comes in my home.Posted on Wayne PriceTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joe Anbell. He was very professional And knowledgeable. Thank you so much for all your help.Posted on Paul RTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are pleased with our home electrical inspection. Mac D. was very experienced and explained everything to us in an easy to understand manner. We are grateful for the suggestions he presented to us.Posted on benny vargasTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just got my new furnace installed. My technicians Chris and Alejandro were quick with removing the old one and installing the new one. Both were very helpful to help me with my thermostats and explain every part of the process with the new furnace. Im completely satisfied with their service.Posted on Cory WeidnerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Christian was great. explained everything to us and took his time for only the standard fee.Posted on Bruce RametTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent, friendly, efficient service!Posted on Tim CorleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James was very knowledgeable. He fixed the issue 3 others couldn’tPosted on Clyde cainTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Darren Murphy is a super star and a great Ambassador. Keeps the customer informed as to what's happening. Rates T least 11 starsPosted on Brenda RamirezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Mauzy! Their technician Wilber did an amazing job! He was professional from the moment he arrived. He was respectful, knowledgeable and very thorough. He quickly identified the issue and took the time to explain my options clearly. He made sure everything was cleaned up and working perfectly before leaving which made the whole process smooth and stress-free. Definitely recommend this company and highly suggest you request Wilber!
From booking to completion, our streamlined process ensures hassle-free, efficient handyman services. Just follow the steps below, and we’ll handle the rest, delivering quality work you can count on.
The most common causes are aging pipe materials, tree root intrusion, and ground movement. Many San Diego homes built before 1980 have sewer lines made from clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg, all of which deteriorate over time. The dry climate pushes tree roots toward moisture sources like sewer lines, and seismic activity can shift pipes out of alignment or create cracks.
Our call support is available 24/7 for urgent sewer situations like backups or sewage odors. We work to schedule inspections as quickly as possible, and many repairs can be completed within a day or two depending on the scope of work needed. When you call, we'll give you an honest timeline based on your specific situation.
Yes. We assess your entire sewer system before recommending repairs and choose methods appropriate for your pipe material and condition. For homes with fragile older pipes, trenchless lining can restore the line without the stress of excavation. If replacement is necessary, we use techniques that minimize disruption to your property.
We start with a camera inspection to diagnose the problem accurately. Based on what we find, we explain your repair options and provide clear information so you can make an informed decision. The repair itself, verification that the line is working properly, and our lifetime workmanship guarantee are all included.
We have 24/7 call support for sewer emergencies. Sewage backing up into your home, persistent sewage odors, or visible sewage in your yard are situations that shouldn't wait. Call us any time and we'll work to get help to you as quickly as possible.
A camera inspection reveals the answer. If damage is limited to one area and the rest of the pipe is in good condition, a targeted repair often makes sense. If the pipe is deteriorated throughout, made from failing materials like Orangeburg, or has multiple problem areas, replacement is usually the better long-term investment. We'll explain what we find and help you understand your options.
Yes. Our sewer repairs come with a lifetime workmanship guarantee. If you experience any problems related to our work, we'll make it right. We also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee because we want you confident in choosing Pacific Drain & Plumbing for your sewer repair needs.