Ways to Treat and Avoid Sewer Backups
When sewer lines collapse or have a severe break or clog, it can cause the wastewater to have nowhere to go but back up into the home’s drains and toilets, creating a hazardous mess. Nobody wants to deal with a backed-up sewer line, so homeowners need to have some knowledge about this dreaded plumbing disaster so they can get it fixed right away and help prevent it. This article will discuss the common causes of sewage backups, professional repair techniques, and prevention methods.
What’s Causing the Backed-Up Sewer Line?
The problem with any plumbing system is that the underground pipes are hidden, and homeowners often only know there is a problem brewing once things go awry. A sewer line backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies because stuff comes back up through the drains, causing a horrible mess, not to mention the sanitation and health aspects of such an issue. Common causes of a sewage backup include:
- Blockages and clogs
- Tree roots that have entered the line
- Crushed or broken pipes
- Damaged line from age or wear and tear
The best way to know what is happening in a home’s pipes and the cause of a backup is to get a professional to inspect them and determine the cause and best method for fixing the pipes.
Fixing Sewer Line Backups
Technological advancements are seen in every business sector today, and the plumbing industry is no exception. Several new developments make solving plumbing problems easier and with less collateral damage. Some of these technologies are exceptionally helpful when dealing with sewer line backups and repairing their causes. However, what is done to fix it will depend on what has caused it. Some equipment and methods plumbers may use when fixing a sewer line are:
- Sewer Camera Inspection: Using a tiny camera on the end of a long flexible cord, a plumbing professional can look inside the sewer pipes to find the source of the problem, helping them determine the best way to make repairs.
- Hydro Jetting: Hydro jet drain cleaning can be used to clear clogs in the sewer line if that is the cause of a sewage backup. It uses a high-pressure stream of water to break apart the clog and send it on its way.
- Trenchless Sewer Repair: In some cases, plumbers may use trenchless pipe repair methods such as pipe lining to fix cracked or damaged sewer lines without digging up the yard. However, if the line collapses or the damage is too severe, trenchless methods may not be able to be used, and traditional sewer line repair requiring excavation may be necessary.
Methods of Sewer Backup Prevention
To prevent the hassle, cost, and damage caused by a backed-up sewer line, homeowners must do their best to avoid them. One way to help prevent sewer line backups is to schedule routine plumbing maintenance and inspections with a plumber. During these visits, they can look for problems before they get out of hand and lead to bigger issues.
Additionally, household residents should help prevent sewer line clogs to avoid sewer backups. Some easy tips to prevent clogs include avoiding putting grease, oil, and food waste down the drains and only flushing toilet paper down the home’s toilets and nothing else. Also, mesh drain screens can be placed in drains throughout the house to catch things before they can enter the drains and contribute to clogs.
About Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc.
Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. has more than 45 years of expertise serving Green Bay and the surrounding areas. They offer competitive pricing, on-time arrivals, and financing. Call them today for emergency plumbing services in Green Bay, WI.
