Any homeowner can find it frustrating and difficult to deal with a sewer backup. A sewer backup can not only cause damage to your home, but can also be a danger to your health and the health of your family. You can prevent the problem from ever happening by knowing how to fix it quickly.
We will be discussing the most common causes of sewer backups, as well as some quick fixes that homeowners may use to address or prevent this problem.
Clogged Drains. Clogged drains can be a major cause of sewer backups. Drains that are blocked can cause water and waste to stop flowing freely, resulting in a backup. It is best to not pour grease, oil or coffee grounds down drains. It is also important to avoid flushing non-degradable items, such as feminine hygiene products, wipes, or dental floss.
Quick Fix: Use a plunger to unclog a slow drain, or make gurgling sounds. Do not use chemical drain cleaners as they can cause pipe damage.
Tree Roots: Tree roots can cause sewer backups. Tree roots can get into sewer pipes and cause blockages or ruptures. This is especially true in older homes with clay pipes that are more vulnerable to root intrusion.
Quick Fix: If tree roots are suspected, contact a professional plumber. They can use a special camera in order to inspect the pipes and extract the roots.
Heavy Rainfall, particularly if your property lies in low-lying areas, can lead to sewer backups. An increase in water volume can overflow the sewer system, causing it to back up into your home.
Quick fix: A backwater valve should be installed on your main sewer to prevent any backups from occurring during heavy rain. This valve will stop sewage flowing back into your house.
Sewer Line Damage Sewer line damages can also lead to backups. Pipes can crack or corrode due to age, soil shifting, or improper installation. If this happens, sewage could leak from the pipes and cause backups.
Quick Fix: You should call a professional plumber if you suspect your sewer line may be damaged. They can use a camera and inspect the pipes to determine the best course.
Sewer system blockages can also lead to backups. These blockages can be caused by debris buildup or foreign objects in the sewer.
Quick fix: To avoid sewer system blockages, it is important to not flush any other than human waste and toilet papers down the toilet. Avoid putting grease, oil or coffee grounds down the toilet.
Sewer backups can be costly and frustrating for homeowners. Understanding the causes of sewer backups is key to preventing or addressing this problem before it becomes a serious issue. To avoid further damage to your home or health, call a professional plumber if you suspect that your sewer backup is occurring.