Ask This Old House Season 10 Episode 25 Generator, Clogged Sewer

In Ask This Old House season 10 episode 25, titled "Generator, Clogged Sewer," the team tackles two common home maintenance issues that can cause a lot of headaches: power outages and clogged sewer lines.

The episode begins with host Kevin O'Connor traveling to Hershey, Pennsylvania, to help a homeowner install a standby generator. With power outages becoming more frequent due to severe weather and other factors, many homeowners are investing in generators to ensure they have reliable backup power.

Kevin meets with a local electrician, Tom Silva, and a generator installer, Jeff Sweeny, to learn about the different types of generators available and how they work. They discuss the pros and cons of portable generators versus standby generators and explain how standby generators automatically switch on when the power goes out.

Next, they tour the homeowner's property and decide on the best location for the generator to be installed. They also discuss the electrical load requirements and determine that a 22 kW generator will provide enough power to run all the essential appliances and systems in the home.

The team then sets to work installing the generator, which involves pouring a concrete pad, running gas and electrical lines, and mounting the generator on a platform. They also install a transfer switch and test the system to ensure it works properly.

In the second half of the episode, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey visits a homeowner in Needham, Massachusetts, who is experiencing a clogged sewer line. Clogs are a common problem in sewer lines, especially if the pipes are old or if the wrong items are flushed down the toilet or washed down the drain.

Richard begins by using a camera to inspect the sewer line and identify the location and cause of the clog. He discovers that the line is clogged with tree roots, which have infiltrated the pipes and created a blockage.

To clear the clog, Richard uses a hydro jetter, which blasts high-pressure water into the pipes to break up the roots and clear the blockage. He also recommends that the homeowner have the pipes lined with resin, which will create a new, smooth surface inside the pipes and prevent roots from growing back.

Throughout the episode, the team provides helpful tips and advice for homeowners who may encounter similar issues in their own homes. They also emphasize the importance of hiring licensed professionals for complex home improvements and repairs.

Overall, "Generator, Clogged Sewer" is a useful and informative episode of Ask This Old House that addresses two important aspects of maintaining a safe and functional home.