Your property’s plumbing system works silently behind the scenes, but it’s one of your most critical assets. Ignoring the early warning signs of trouble—like slow drains or strange odors—is a gamble that can lead to messy backups, water damage, and expensive emergency repairs. Proactive maintenance is the smartest way to protect your investment and avoid a crisis. Think of it as preventive care for your home or business. By partnering with a reliable sewer and drain cleaning company for routine service, you can keep your system healthy and catch small issues before they become major disasters. This article explains why regular maintenance is a must.
Key Takeaways
- Know when to skip the DIY fix: If you’re dealing with recurring clogs, multiple slow drains, or foul odors, it’s a sign of a deeper issue in your main sewer line. These problems require professional tools and expertise, not another temporary chemical solution.
- Vet your plumber like a pro: The right company is licensed, insured, and has a solid history of positive customer reviews. Always ask for an upfront estimate and inquire about their service guarantees to ensure you’re hiring a trustworthy team that stands by its work.
- Modern tech means better results: Companies that use tools like video camera inspections and hydro jetting can offer a precise diagnosis and a more thorough cleaning. This technology eliminates guesswork, solves the root problem, and helps prevent future issues with less disruption to your property.
What Can a Sewer and Drain Company Do for You?
Think of a professional sewer and drain company as your property’s personal health specialist. Their job is to keep one of your home or business’s most critical systems running smoothly, from clearing minor clogs to handling major pipe repairs. They have the tools, training, and expertise to diagnose problems you can’t see and provide solutions that last. Whether you’re dealing with a recurring annoyance or a full-blown emergency, a reliable company can save you from water damage, expensive future repairs, and a lot of stress. They offer a mix of preventive maintenance and rapid-response services to keep your plumbing in top shape.
Services for Your Home
For homeowners, a sewer and drain expert is the go-to for keeping daily life flowing. They handle everything from that stubbornly slow shower drain to a completely blocked kitchen sink. Beyond simple clogs, they offer comprehensive residential drain cleaning services to clear out years of accumulated gunk and prevent future backups. If you’re facing a more serious issue, like invasive tree roots or a cracked pipe, they can perform a residential sewer pipe repair, often using modern techniques that don’t require digging up your entire yard. It’s about solving the immediate problem and protecting your home for the long term.
Services for Your Business
Businesses have unique and often more demanding plumbing needs. Restaurants, apartment complexes, and retail centers can’t afford the downtime that comes with a sewer backup. A professional company provides specialized commercial sewer line cleaning to tackle heavy-duty blockages from grease, food waste, and other debris. They also offer routine maintenance plans to prevent these issues from disrupting your operations and turning away customers. For businesses that are expanding or upgrading, these experts can also manage new sewer line installations, ensuring your plumbing system can handle the increased demand reliably and efficiently.
When You Need Help ASAP
Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. A burst pipe or a sewage backup requires immediate attention to minimize damage and restore safety. This is where a company with 24/7 emergency availability becomes essential. Having a trusted team on call means you can get a professional to your door quickly, day or night. They can assess the situation, stop the immediate threat, and start the repair process right away. When water is spreading and every minute counts, a prompt response is invaluable. You can schedule service and get the fast, professional help you need to handle the crisis.
Telltale Signs You Need a Pro
It’s tempting to grab a bottle of drain cleaner or a plunger at the first sign of trouble. And for a simple clog, that might be all you need. But sometimes, what looks like a minor inconvenience is actually a warning sign of a much bigger problem brewing deep within your sewer lines. Ignoring these signals can lead to foul odors, water damage, and costly emergency repairs that disrupt your entire home or business. Knowing when to step back and let a professional take over is the key to protecting your property and your peace of mind.
Think of it this way: a single clogged sink is one thing, but when multiple drains act up, or you notice strange smells and sounds, your plumbing system is trying to tell you something is seriously wrong. These aren’t issues that a quick DIY fix can solve permanently. They often point to a blockage or damage in the main sewer line—the central artery of your home’s plumbing. Trying to fix it yourself without the right equipment can sometimes make the problem worse. If you spot any of the following telltale signs, it’s time to put down the plunger and call in an expert who can accurately diagnose and resolve the root cause.
Drains are Slow or Backing Up
One slow drain in a sink or shower can be annoying, but when multiple fixtures start acting up at once, pay attention. If flushing your toilet causes water to bubble up in the bathtub, or running the washing machine makes the kitchen sink gurgle, you likely have a main sewer line clog. These are classic signs that the wastewater from your home has nowhere to go and is being forced back up through the lowest points. A simple plunger won’t fix this. You’ll need professional residential drain cleaning services to clear the main line and get things flowing smoothly again.
You Smell Foul Odors or Hear Gurgling
Your plumbing system is designed to be airtight, keeping unpleasant sewer gases out of your home. So, if you start smelling something foul coming from your drains, it’s a major red flag. This often means there’s a crack or clog in the sewer line allowing gas to escape. Similarly, listen for gurgling sounds. That noise is usually caused by trapped air being forced through water because of a blockage. Think of it as your pipes trying to tell you they can’t breathe. These sensory clues are your home’s way of signaling a problem that needs an expert diagnosis, as it could point to a need for sewer pipe repair.
Clogs Keep Coming Back
Are you fighting the same clogged drain every few weeks? A recurring clog is a sure sign that the initial fix didn’t solve the real problem. Many over-the-counter chemical cleaners or quick snaking jobs only poke a small hole in a larger blockage made of grease, hair, or even invasive tree roots. The clog inevitably returns because the underlying issue was never fully removed. Instead of wasting more time and money on temporary solutions that don’t last, it’s best to have a professional find the root cause. They can use tools like camera inspections to see exactly what’s going on and provide a lasting fix, so you can finally stop the cycle of clogs.
How to Pick the Right Sewer and Drain Cleaning Company
Finding the right plumbing company can feel like a big task, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your property. The right team won’t just fix the immediate issue; they’ll help you prevent future headaches and protect your home or business from costly damage. A little research upfront saves you a lot of stress later.
When you’re looking for a reliable partner, you’re looking for more than just a quick fix. You need a company with a proven track record, transparent pricing, and the right tools for the job. Think of it as hiring a long-term caretaker for your property’s plumbing system. Here’s what to focus on to make sure you’re choosing a team you can trust for years to come.
Check Their License, Insurance, and Experience
Before you let anyone work on your plumbing, confirm they are licensed and insured. A license shows that the company meets state and local requirements, ensuring their work is up to code. Insurance is just as critical—it protects you from any liability if an accident happens on your property. Don’t be shy about asking for proof of both.
Experience is another key factor. A company that has been around for a while has likely seen it all and knows how to handle complex or unexpected issues. Look for a team that has a long history of serving your community and specializes in the specific sewer services you need.
Read Reviews and Ask for References
Online reviews are your best friend when vetting a company. Check out what past customers are saying on sites like Google, Yelp, and Angi. While a perfect five-star rating is rare, you should look for consistently positive feedback about professionalism, timeliness, and quality of work. Pay attention to how the company responds to any negative reviews, as this can tell you a lot about their customer service.
For larger jobs, especially for commercial properties, don’t hesitate to ask for references. A reputable company will be happy to connect you with past clients who can speak to their experience.
Compare Prices and Service Guarantees
It’s always a good idea to get a few different quotes, but don’t let the lowest price be your only guide. Some companies offer a cheap “drain clearing” that only provides a temporary fix. A true drain cleaning is more thorough and should come with a solid service guarantee.
Ask each company what their guarantee covers and for how long. A company that stands behind its work with a six-month or year-long guarantee is showing confidence in the quality of their service. When you’re ready, you can schedule a service to get a detailed estimate and understand exactly what you’re paying for.
Ask About Their Technology and Tools
The plumbing industry has come a long way from just using a simple snake. Modern companies use advanced technology to diagnose and fix problems more efficiently and with less disruption. Ask potential hires what kind of equipment they use. Do they perform video camera inspections to pinpoint the exact location of a clog or break?
For tough clogs, methods like hydro jetting use high-pressure water to clear pipes completely. And for major repairs, trenchless technology can fix underground pipes without having to dig up your entire yard. A company that invests in modern tools is investing in providing you with better, longer-lasting solutions.
What Does Sewer and Drain Cleaning Actually Cost?
Let’s talk about one of the biggest questions on every property owner’s mind: the price tag. When your drain is clogged or your sewer line is acting up, you want a fast solution, but you also need to know what to expect financially. The cost of sewer and drain cleaning isn’t a simple, flat rate. It depends on several factors, from the nature of the problem to the tools required to fix it. Understanding these variables will help you feel more prepared and confident when you call in a professional. We’ll break down what influences the price, give you some typical cost ranges, and share tips on how to budget for this essential service.
What Influences the Final Price?
The final bill for a drain cleaning service can vary quite a bit because no two clogs are exactly alike. The main thing that shapes the cost is the complexity of the job. A simple clog in a bathroom sink is a much quicker fix than a major blockage in your main sewer line caused by tree roots. The location and severity of the clog determine what kind of equipment is needed. A standard plumber’s snake might do the trick for minor issues, but a serious obstruction could require a video camera inspection to diagnose and powerful hydro jetting to clear. These advanced tools and the expertise needed to use them will naturally influence the final price of your residential drain cleaning services.
Typical Costs for Common Services
While a precise quote requires an inspection, you can get a general idea of what to expect. Nationally, a standard main sewer line cleaning often falls between $200 and $600. For a straightforward clog that a professional can clear with a snake, you might pay as little as $150. However, for deep-seated, stubborn blockages that require hydro jetting—a process that uses high-pressure water to blast through debris—the cost can go up to $1,000 or more. Most general drain cleaning jobs land somewhere in the $100 to $500 range. These figures give you a helpful baseline, whether you’re dealing with a slow drain at home or need commercial sewer line cleaning for your business.
Watch Out for Hidden Fees
No one likes surprise charges, so it’s important to work with a company that is upfront about its pricing. Before agreeing to any work, ask for a detailed estimate that breaks down all the potential costs. Be cautious of quotes that seem too good to be true, as they might not include everything. A key part of avoiding unexpected fees is hiring a licensed and insured plumbing company. This ensures the technicians are qualified and that you’re protected if anything goes wrong. A reputable company will always be transparent and ready to answer your questions, so you can feel confident when you schedule your service and know exactly what you’re paying for.
How to Budget for Routine Maintenance
The best way to avoid a costly plumbing emergency is to be proactive. Think of sewer and drain cleaning as preventive care for your home or business. Experts recommend having your main sewer line professionally cleaned every 18 to 22 months to prevent buildup and catch potential problems early. Budgeting for this routine maintenance can save you a significant amount of money and stress down the road by helping you avoid the need for major residential sewer pipe repair. If you’re already noticing slow drains or strange gurgling sounds, don’t wait for it to get worse. Calling a professional right away is the most cost-effective move you can make.
The Tech Behind Modern Sewer and Drain Cleaning
When you picture a plumber, you might think of a wrench and a plunger. But these days, the best pros come armed with some seriously impressive technology. Modern tools have transformed sewer and drain cleaning from a guessing game into a precise science. This means faster service, more accurate diagnoses, and solutions that are far less disruptive to your home and yard. Understanding the technology a company uses can tell you a lot about the quality of service you can expect. From tiny cameras to high-pressure water jets, these tools ensure the job is done right the first time.
Video Camera Inspections
Ever wished you could see exactly what’s causing a clog? With video camera inspections, you can. A technician feeds a small, waterproof, high-resolution camera into your pipes on a flexible rod. You can watch on a monitor in real-time as the camera travels through your sewer line, revealing the exact location and cause of the problem. This technology eliminates guesswork, allowing pros to identify everything from grease buildup and invasive tree roots to cracks or collapses in the pipe. A clear diagnosis is the first step toward an effective residential sewer pipe repair, saving you time and money on unnecessary work.
Hydro Jetting and Trenchless Repairs
For stubborn clogs that a snake can’t handle, hydro jetting is the go-to solution. This method uses a high-pressure stream of water to blast away years of accumulated sludge, grease, soap scum, and even tree roots from the pipe walls. It’s incredibly effective and cleans the entire diameter of the pipe, which helps prevent future clogs. If an inspection reveals a broken pipe, you don’t have to dread a torn-up lawn. Modern trenchless pipe repair allows technicians to repair underground sewer lines with minimal digging, preserving your landscaping and driveway.
Mechanical Snakes and Enzymatic Cleaners
Of course, not every problem requires the most advanced solution. The mechanical drain snake, or auger, is still a vital tool for professional plumbers. It’s perfect for breaking up or pulling out simple blockages caused by hair or foreign objects. For ongoing maintenance, many pros recommend enzymatic cleaners. These solutions use natural bacteria to break down organic waste in your pipes without the harsh chemicals found in many store-bought drain openers. Using these for routine residential drain cleaning services is a great way to keep things flowing smoothly and avoid future emergencies.
Why Regular Maintenance is a Must
Thinking about your sewer lines probably isn’t your favorite pastime, but a little proactive care can save you from a world of headaches later. Regular maintenance isn’t just about preventing clogs; it’s a smart investment in your property’s health and your own peace of mind. By staying ahead of potential problems, you can avoid messy backups, foul odors, and the stress of an emergency plumbing bill. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your home or business from the ground up. This approach keeps your system running smoothly and helps you sidestep the high cost and inconvenience of unexpected repairs.
How Often to Schedule a Cleaning
Consistency is key when it comes to sewer maintenance. Experts generally agree that you should have a professional clean your sewer drain every 18 to 22 months. This timeframe is the sweet spot for catching buildup from grease, hair, soap scum, and even minor tree root intrusion before it can cause a complete blockage. Think of it like a routine check-up for your home’s plumbing system. Setting a recurring calendar reminder makes it easy to stay on track. A scheduled cleaning is a predictable, manageable expense, whereas an emergency call for a backed-up sewer line is anything but. Taking this simple step ensures your pipes remain clear and functional year-round.
The Perks of Preventive Care
The biggest benefit of regular maintenance is avoiding costly and disruptive problems down the road. Keeping your sewer line clean helps prevent clogs and expensive pipe damage that can lead to a full-blown plumbing emergency. A simple cleaning service costs a fraction of what you might pay for a major residential sewer pipe repair. Beyond the financial savings, preventive care offers incredible peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about drains backing up during a holiday gathering or foul odors greeting your customers. It’s a proactive measure that protects your property’s value and ensures your plumbing system operates reliably when you need it most.
Pro Maintenance vs. DIY: Which is Better?
While tackling home projects yourself can be rewarding, sewer line cleaning is a job best left to the professionals. Store-bought chemical drain cleaners can be harsh on your pipes and often provide only a temporary fix for a deeper issue. For tough clogs, a professional plumber uses specialized tools like high-pressure water jetters that are far more effective and safer for your plumbing. Trying to fix a major sewer clog on your own can easily cause more damage, potentially turning a simple clog into a cracked pipe. As experts note, it’s a scenario that can cost you more money in the long run. Calling a professional for residential drain cleaning services is the safest and most effective way to protect your system.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?
It’s one thing to know you need a professional drain cleaning, but it’s another to know what actually happens when the technician arrives. If you’ve never called for service before, the process might seem like a mystery. A reputable company won’t just show up and start guessing; they follow a methodical process to accurately diagnose the issue and resolve it effectively. Understanding these steps can help you feel more confident and informed when you make the call.
From the initial look at your pipes to the final cleanup, a professional service is designed to be thorough, efficient, and lasting. The goal isn’t just to fix the immediate problem but to leave your plumbing in better shape than before, helping you avoid a repeat visit anytime soon. Let’s walk through what you can expect from a professional sewer and drain cleaning service, from start to finish.
The Initial Inspection
The first thing a professional plumber will do is perform a detailed inspection to understand the root cause of the problem. Instead of blindly feeding a snake down the drain, our skilled technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to get a clear look inside your pipes. This often involves a video camera inspection, where a small, waterproof camera is sent into the sewer line to transmit a live feed. This technology allows us to pinpoint the exact location and nature of the blockage, whether it’s built-up grease, invasive tree roots, or a collapsed pipe. This diagnostic step is essential for choosing the most effective and least invasive solution, like a residential sewer pipe repair, if needed.
The Cleaning Process
Once the inspection is complete, the technician will select the right tool for the job. For severe blockages caused by grease, sludge, or debris, hydro jetting is often the best solution. This method uses high-pressure water to scour the inside of the pipes, completely clearing away buildup and leaving them spotless. For simpler clogs, a professional-grade mechanical snake might be used. Our expert plumbers are equipped to handle any clogged sewer drain for both residential and commercial properties. The focus is always on providing a comprehensive cleaning that not only removes the current clog but also helps prevent new ones from forming.
After the Service: What’s Next?
A professional’s job isn’t finished the moment the drain is clear. To ensure the problem is fully resolved, the technician may perform a final video inspection to confirm the pipe is completely clean and free of obstructions. They will also clean up the work area, leaving your property just as they found it. We are dedicated to customer satisfaction and take a proactive approach to preventing costly future issues. Your technician should provide you with a clear explanation of the work they performed and offer practical tips for maintaining your drains. If you’re ready for a hassle-free experience, you can schedule a service with a team that prioritizes your peace of mind.
Is Your Drain Cleaning Eco-Friendly?
Keeping your drains clear is essential, but it’s just as important to consider the environmental impact of your cleaning methods. Many people worry that the only way to bust a tough clog is with harsh chemicals that can harm pipes and pollute waterways. The good news is that you can maintain a healthy plumbing system without compromising on your commitment to the planet. From simple home remedies to advanced professional techniques, eco-friendly drain cleaning is more accessible than ever.
Earth-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
For minor, everyday clogs, you can often find a solution right in your pantry. A simple mix of baking soda and vinegar can be a great first step. This combination creates a fizzing reaction that helps break down grease and grime without harsh chemicals. For something a bit stronger, many stores now offer biodegradable drain cleaners that use enzymes or bacteria to eat away at organic waste. While these are excellent for maintenance, they may not be enough for severe blockages. When DIY methods don’t cut it, a professional residential drain cleaning service can tackle the problem safely and effectively.
How Pros Conserve Water
You might think that professional drain cleaning uses a ton of water, but modern techniques are surprisingly efficient. The most effective method, hydro jetting, uses high-pressure water streams to scour the inside of your pipes clean. This process is incredibly thorough and uses significantly less water than you might imagine. It’s a far more conservative approach than letting a faucet run for hours trying to flush a stubborn clog. By using targeted, powerful technology, professionals can clear even the toughest commercial sewer lines while being mindful of water conservation—a top priority for everyone in Southern California.
Disposing of Waste the Right Way
What happens to all the gunk that gets pulled out of your drains? It’s not something you want to think about, but proper disposal is a critical part of an eco-friendly cleaning process. The sludge removed from pipes can contain everything from grease and hair to chemical residues. A professional plumbing company is trained to handle this waste responsibly. We make sure all materials are disposed of according to local environmental regulations, preventing harmful substances from contaminating soil or entering the water supply. This commitment to safer cleaning practices ensures the job is done right from start to finish.
Who to Call for Sewer and Drain Cleaning in Southern California
Finding the right plumbing company in Southern California can feel like a big task. You want a team that’s not only skilled but also reliable, transparent, and familiar with the specific plumbing challenges of our region—from older homes with aging pipes to the demands of a bustling commercial property. A simple online search brings up dozens of options, but how do you know who to trust with the essential systems of your home or business? The best companies combine years of experience with modern technology, offering clear communication and fair pricing. They understand that a plumbing issue is a major disruption, and they work efficiently to get your life back to normal.
To make your search a little easier, we’ve gathered a list of reputable sewer and drain cleaning companies serving the Southern California area. These professionals have built strong reputations for their quality of work and customer service. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog that won’t budge with DIY methods, need a comprehensive commercial sewer line cleaning, or are facing a plumbing emergency in the middle of the night, these are some of the top names to consider. Think of this as a starting point to help you find the perfect partner for your plumbing needs, so you can feel confident in your choice.
SWE Sewer Solutions
As a family-owned business serving Southern California since 1980, SWE Sewer Solutions has built a legacy of trust and expertise. They handle everything from routine drain cleaning to complex sewer issues for both homes and businesses. What sets them apart is their commitment to using advanced technology, like trenchless pipe repair, which solves major sewer problems without destroying your landscaping. They offer 24/7 emergency services, so you know you have a reliable team ready to help anytime. Their proactive approach focuses on preventing future problems, making them a smart choice for maintaining the long-term health of your plumbing system.
Roto-Rooter
Roto-Rooter is one of the most recognized names in plumbing, and for good reason. They offer around-the-clock drain cleaning services for virtually any clog you can imagine, from kitchen sinks to main sewer lines. Their technicians don’t just clear the immediate blockage; they clean the entire length of the pipe to help prevent clogs from coming back anytime soon. This thorough approach makes them a dependable option when you want the job done right the first time. Their widespread availability means you can likely find a technician in your area whenever you need one.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing
If you value transparency, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a great company to call. They are known for their “Up Front Pricing,” which means you get a clear estimate before any work begins, helping you avoid surprise fees. Their licensed and insured professionals handle a wide range of drain and sewer services for homeowners. For particularly tough clogs, they offer an innovative service called HydroScrub® Jetting, which uses high-pressure water to blast away buildup and debris. This commitment to clear pricing and powerful solutions makes them a solid choice.
Bill Howe Plumbing
Bill Howe Plumbing is a versatile company that provides a broad spectrum of plumbing services, including expert drain cleaning and sewer line repairs. They have a strong focus on customer satisfaction and work with both residential and commercial clients, tailoring their solutions to fit the specific needs of each job. Whether you have a small clog at home or need a comprehensive plumbing plan for your business, their team has the experience to handle it. Their flexibility and customer-first mindset have made them a go-to plumbing resource in the community.
Mike Diamond Services
When you have a plumbing problem that just can’t wait, Mike Diamond Services is known for its fast response times and dependable service. They are a popular choice for homeowners who need quick and effective solutions for drain cleaning and sewer line maintenance. Their slogan, “The Smell Good Plumber,” reflects their commitment to providing a clean, professional, and pleasant customer experience from start to finish. If you’re looking for a company that prioritizes speed and quality service, they are definitely worth considering for your next plumbing need.
Related Articles
- Commercial Drain Repair: Fast, Reliable – Keep Your Business
- #1 Sewer Line Cleaning: We’ll Clear the Air and Your Pipes!
- Plumber in South Pasadena, CA – 24/7 Emergency Services
- Drain Cleaning Services: Costs & Benefits Explained – Sewer Solutions
- Plumber in Hermosa Beach, CA – Reliable Emergency Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the real difference between a professional drain cleaning and just clearing a clog? Think of it this way: clearing a clog is like poking a hole through a blockage just big enough for water to pass through again. A professional drain cleaning is a much more thorough process. Using tools like hydro jetters, a technician scours the entire inner surface of the pipe, removing the sticky buildup of grease, soap, and grime that caused the clog in the first place. This comprehensive cleaning makes it much harder for new clogs to form, giving you a lasting solution instead of a temporary fix.
Is hydro jetting safe for older pipes? This is a great question, and a common concern for homeowners with older properties. The short answer is yes, hydro jetting is safe for most pipes when performed by a skilled professional. Before starting, a technician will always perform a video camera inspection to assess the condition of your pipes. If they find any significant cracks or weaknesses, they will adjust the water pressure accordingly or recommend a different approach, like a trenchless pipe repair, to avoid causing any damage.
I only have one slow drain. Do I really need to call a professional? A single slow drain isn’t always a five-alarm fire, but it’s worth paying attention to. If it’s a recurring issue or if DIY methods aren’t helping, it’s a good idea to call a pro. Often, that one slow drain is the first symptom of a larger buildup forming deeper in your plumbing system. Getting it checked out early can prevent a situation where multiple drains back up at once, which is a much bigger and more expensive problem to solve.
How can I prevent clogs in the first place, especially in my kitchen? Preventive habits can make a huge difference. In the kitchen, the biggest rule is to avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the sink, as they solidify and create stubborn blockages. It’s also wise to run hot water down the drain for a minute after washing greasy dishes. For all drains, using a simple mesh screen to catch hair and food scraps is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do to keep your pipes flowing freely.
Does my business need more frequent drain cleaning than a home? Yes, almost always. Commercial properties, especially restaurants, apartment buildings, and high-traffic retail centers, place a much heavier demand on their plumbing systems. Grease traps in restaurants fill up quickly, and the sheer volume of use in public restrooms can lead to frequent blockages. Setting up a routine maintenance plan with a professional is the best way to prevent disruptive and costly backups that could shut down your operations and turn away customers.