Ohio PHC Contractor Volume 2019 Issue 2

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CALL 811 BEFORE CLEARING A BLOCKED SEWER LINE One call can help identify cross bores and prevent dangerous gas line punctures By Scott Tustin, Pipeline Safety & Compliance,Columbia Gas plunger was insufficient to clear the clog in a homeowner’s toilet. When she noticed the sewage that had backed up into a rarely used shower, she decided it was time to call a professional plumber. This cross bore includes a 3-inch main line running through a 15-inch storm sewer. The plumber explained the problem was likely caused by a tree root or broken pipe. He removed the toilet and used a motorized auger to clear the line. He then snaked a pipe inspection camera about 40 feet until he discovered that a natural gas pipe had penetrated the sewer line. If the plumber had continued with the auger, he could have cut the pipe, which was a natural gas line. Puncturing the line would have caused a gas leak that could have led to an explosion. In this situation, the blockage resulted from a gas pipe that was bored through the sewer line, a condition known as a cross bore. CROSS BORES ARE MORE COMMON THAN EVER For many years, the use of trenchless technology to install underground utilities has increased as the technology reduces unsightly construction and causes the least amount of disturbance to lawns, sidewalks and streets. The process, however, increases the likelihood of a cross bore, which results when one utility line comes in contact with another. Sewer lines are often non-metallic and therefore difficult to locate using traditional methods. They are, however, more frequently affected by cross boring. Cross bores on their own do not create a safety risk. Over time, however, the sewer line can become blocked with sediment and waste, causing a sewer backup that usually results in the homeowner hiring a plumber. A cross bore can create a dangerous situation if the plumber uses an auger or other device to clear the sewer and accidentally damages the utility line, allowing natural gas to migrate into the house. Damage to the utility line can occur whether the job is large or small, a private home or a commercial facility, which is why it is important for you, as a plumber, to understand how to avoid utility line damage. TAKING THE RIGHT STEPS TO LOCATE CROSS BORES Once you establish that the clog is outside the structure’s foundation, your first step should be to call 811, which is operated by Ohio 811. A 1-inch plastic service line running than a 15-inch storm sewer caused this cross bore. The cross bore shown here was created when a 1-inch steel service line ran through a 6-inch clay sanitary lateral. Your call will prompt Ohio 811 to issue an emergency ticket so all facility owners in the area will be notified that a blocked sewer needs addressed immediately. Ohio 811 is a not-for-profit public safety organization that serves as a communication link 14 OHIO PHC CONTRACTOR • VOLUME 2019, ISSUE 2
HIGH PERFORMANCE. EASY INSTALLATION. IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY. Combi Boiler now available! People love the performance and continuous hot water of Rheem ® tankless water heaters. But every customer application is unique. So, we’ve created a complete line of solutions to provide the flexibility you need—and the ease of installation that saves you time and money. Meet our entire family of residential and commercial tankless water heaters online today. Rheem.com/TanklessInnovation MODELS WITH RECIRCULATION • MODELS WITH HYDRONIC HOME HEATING • UP TO 150' PVC VENTING • LEAK DETECTION VOLUME 2019, ISSUE 2 • OHIO PHC CONTRACTOR 15
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Page 3 and 4: HVAC PLUMBING KITCHEN & BATH HVAC E
Page 5 and 6: ACCO PRESIDENT, MIKE AERNI What a g
Page 7 and 8: Hassle-Free Hot Water! Is the extra
Page 9 and 10: MEMORIALS ACCO AND PHCC OHIO SEND O
Page 11 and 12: ACCO/PHCC OHIO PAC AIR CONDITIONING
Page 13: Cracks in foundation or concrete? W
Page 17 and 18: STOP BREAKING CONCRETE INSTALL A BA
Page 19 and 20: PLEASE JOIN US! Frank Alexander Leg
Page 21 and 22: 2018 ACCO CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR BR
Page 23 and 24: 2018 PHCC SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR FEDE
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Page 27 and 28: Social Media Social media continues
Page 29 and 30: social media. Social media continue
Page 31 and 32: HEAT & HOT Water in One Efficient P

Ohio PHC Contractor Volume 2019 Issue 2

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