Dealing with a sewer backup can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience for any homeowner. Not only can it cause damage to your property, but it can also pose a health hazard to you and your family. Knowing the common causes of sewer backups and how to quickly fix them can help prevent this issue from happening and save you from costly repairs.
In this blog post, we will discuss the common sewer backup causes and provide some quick fixes that homeowners can use to prevent or address this issue.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common causes of sewer backups. When drains become clogged, water and waste cannot flow freely, leading to a backup in the system. The best way to prevent clogged drains is to avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the drain. You should also avoid flushing non-degradable items such as wipes, dental floss, and feminine hygiene products.
Quick Fix: If you notice a slow drain or gurgling noises, use a plunger or drain snake to clear the clog. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are another common cause of sewer backups. Tree roots can grow into sewer pipes, causing blockages and even ruptures. This is especially true for older homes with clay pipes, which are more susceptible to root intrusion.
Quick Fix: If you suspect that tree roots are causing the problem, you should contact a professional plumber who can use a special camera to inspect the pipes and remove the roots.
Heavy Rainfall
Heavy rainfall can cause sewer backups, especially if your property is located in a low-lying area. The increased amount of water can overwhelm the sewer system and cause it to backup into your home.
Quick Fix: To prevent backups during heavy rainfall, you should install a backwater valve on your main sewer line. This valve will prevent sewage from flowing back into your home.
Sewer Line Damage
Sewer line damage can also cause backups. Pipes can crack, corrode, or collapse due to age, shifting soil, or improper installation. When this happens, sewage can leak out of the pipes and cause a backup.
Quick Fix: If you suspect that your sewer line is damaged, you should contact a professional plumber who can use a camera to inspect the pipes and determine the best course of action.
Sewer System Blockages
Blockages in the sewer system can also cause backups. These blockages can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as debris buildup, foreign objects in the sewer, or construction debris.
Quick Fix: To prevent sewer system blockages, you should avoid flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. You should also avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the drain.
Summary
In conclusion, sewer backups can be a frustrating and costly problem for homeowners. By understanding the common causes of sewer backups and implementing some quick fixes, you can prevent or address this issue before it becomes a major problem. If you suspect that you have a sewer backup, it’s important to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your property and health risks to your family.