Ron The Sewer Rat

06/03/2026

Story from the Field | Second Opinions Matter

We were called out to a home in Maplewood after a homeowner was told by another company that their main sewer line had a “bend” and needed an immediate liner repair—$15,000—or risk a full exterior excavation.

Here’s the part that raised a red flag:
• The homeowner was not shown any video of the inspection
• No visual proof was provided to support the diagnosis
• No opportunity to see the “evidence” firsthand

That didn’t sit right.

So Jeff and Justin headed out to take a look. Instead of selling fear, they did what we believe in: show the truth, live and in real time. They walked the homeowner through the camera inspection foot by foot, explaining exactly what they were seeing all the way to the city sewer.
What we found:
• No bend
• No structural failure
• One small hairline crack around 66 feet (documented and noted)

No upsell. No pressure. No unnecessary work.
Our recommendation? Keep it simple: put the line on an annual maintenance schedule and move on with peace of mind.

Bonus moment from the visit: Justin also saved the homeowner’s curious cat, Felix, from jumping into the floor opening during the inspection.

This is why we do what we do.

If someone’s asking you to spend thousands, you deserve to see it for yourself.
Trust—but verify.

06/02/2026

Summer Storm Drain Reminder

June storms have a way of testing every drain in your home.

Before the next heavy rain hits:
• Make sure basement floor drains are clear
• Check that gutters are flowing away from the house
• Test your sump pump before you actually need it
• Don’t ignore slow drains “just for now”

A small drainage issue during a dry week can turn into a flooded basement during a Minnesota thunderstorm.

A little prevention now beats a wet carpet later.

06/01/2026

Ever seen one of these before?

Our plumbing team recently installed a squat toilet for a customer here in the Twin Cities, and it definitely sparked some conversation around the shop.

A squat toilet is designed to be used in a squatting position rather than sitting. They’re common in many parts of the world and some people specifically request them for comfort, mobility, cultural familiarity, or personal health preferences.

Some of the commonly mentioned benefits include:
• Natural squatting position for some users
• Easier cleaning with fewer touch surfaces
• Simple, durable design
• Preferred by many people who grew up using them

Not something we install every day, but our team enjoys tackling unique projects and learning something new on the job.

Have you ever used one before or seen one outside the U.S.?

05/31/2026

Happy National Smile Day from all of us at Ron the Sewer Rat!

A clean drain might not sound exciting… until your sink starts draining again, your shower stops backing up, or your basement stays dry after a storm. Then suddenly everybody’s smiling.

Today’s a good reminder that little things can turn a whole day around, whether it’s a friendly wave, a helping hand, or finally fixing that annoying plumbing issue you’ve been putting off.

We hope something makes you smile today. And if not, maybe this rat will.

05/30/2026

05/29/2026

Spring Tip: Check Your Sump Pump Before You Need It

We’re heading into peak rain season. Pour a bucket of water into your sump pit and make sure the pump kicks on and drains properly.

If it doesn’t… better to find out now than during the next storm.

05/28/2026

Happy National Brisket Day!

Low and slow isn’t just for BBQ around here. Sometimes getting a drain truly clean takes patience, the right tools, and a little experience.

Whether it’s brisket or drain cleaning, rushing the job usually leads to disappointment.

Today feels like a good day to fire up the smoker, grab some napkins, and appreciate the people who know how to do things the right way.

What’s your favorite BBQ side dish?
Beans? Coleslaw? Cornbread? Mac & cheese?

05/27/2026

What’s your current summer survival strategy?
React with your answer:

👍 = Staying inside with the AC blasting
❤️ = Living at the lake
😂 = Pretending allergies aren’t winning
😮 = Already planning the State Fair food list
😢 = Still finding sand from last summer
😡 = Battling mosquitoes every night

Minnesota summers are short. We fully support making the most of them.

Drop your real answer in the comments if Facebook doesn’t have the right reaction for it.

05/26/2026

Shout out of the week

This weeks shout-out goes to John our master plumber for stepping up and delivering when it mattered most.

Becky called us late Friday morning with a failed water heater, expecting to wait until Monday. Instead, John was on site that same afternoon, assessed the situation, and got to work replacing both the water heater and an aging softener, all in one visit.

No shortcuts, no delays, just solid work from start to finish.

Becky shared this after the job:

"John the plumber came to the rescue… He quickly put together a reasonable quote, I signed off and he got to work… He stayed until everything was installed and working properly. Very friendly and informative. Highly recommend!"

Great work, John. Showing up, solving the problem, and seeing it through, that’s what it’s all about.

If you’re dealing with a water heater issue, we’re here to help.
(612) 389-9333

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice made the freedoms we enjoy every day possible, and we are grateful beyond words.

From all of us at Ron the Sewer Rat, thank you to the fallen heroes, the military families who carry their memory, and all who have served.

We hope everyone has a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.