We love surprises, but not gross ones! Sewer backup is a nasty and dangerous plumbing problem that none of us enjoys. Improper drainage of sewage and wastewater can cause a backlog in your home through the drains, sinks, and toilets. It can cause dangerous disease and significant property damage. Read this blog and learn what causes sewer backup and how to prevent it.
What are the Sewer and Main Sewer Lines?
Whenever you flush a toilet or clean anything down the risk, wastewater is dumped into your home’s sewage system. The main sewer line in your house is often found outdoors or in the lowest area, such as the garage or basement. It is where all of your house’s wastewater is sent to either your septic tank or the public city connection.
Sewer lines are connected to the pipes within your home. This is why a sewage backlog may turn into a plumbing problem and a health risk since it can contaminate your water.
What Causes a Sewer Backup?
Here are a few causes of sewer backup:
Tree Roots in Plumbing Systems
Even if there are no trees on your land, tree roots can spread widely and endanger your house. As they develop, little tree and shrub roots have the ability to enter service pipe joints and gaps in sewage lines, resulting in major damage and clogs.
Old Sewer System
Usually, PVC, cast iron, or clay are used to make sewer pipes. Even though these materials are strong, their lifespan is limited. As sewer pipelines age, deterioration and ultimate collapse are inevitable.
Municipal Sewer Problems
Wastewater can back up into houses through floor drains if a blockage in the municipal sewer is not found and fixed very once. This issue usually develops gradually and may not show symptoms at first.
Blocked or Obstructed Pipes
The main sewage line in your house can clog or become blocked, just like any other drain pipe in your house. When items that shouldn’t be flushed or poured down the drain are flushed, they might cause a backup since the main sewage system can only handle human waste and toilet paper.
How to Prevent a Sewer Backup?
Sometimes, there’s no way to stop a sewer backup, and the only solution is to call a professional plumber. Still, there are a few steps you may take to lessen the possibility of a sewage backup:
- Get your sewer line inspected regularly.
- Try not to flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper.
- Replace old sewer lines.
- Don’t pour grease down your drain.
Final Word!
Sewage backups may be dangerous for you, your family, and your pets, and they may also be a major annoyance. What causes a sewer backup, and how can you prevent it? A sewer backup can be caused by tree roots in the plumbing system, blocked or obstructed pipes, or other reasons.
You can prevent sewer backup by getting your sewer line inspected regularly by a professional plumber at Arid Valley Plumbing. Get in touch with us by calling (602) 999-4741.