The sewer drain is a critical part of your home’s plumbing system. This is most often a blocked sewer drain. The sewer line is responsible to remove wastewater from your home’s fixtures and drains. It can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years depending on its material and how it is used.
It is essential to be a homeowner and understand how your pipes wear, and what you should do when they fail. Clogs are possible. A heavy soil load can cause the pipe to break. You may see a lot of wastewater seeping into your lawn. Your home is at high risk for a sewer backup or blockage due to food debris, grease and fat accumulations over time.
What do drain lines do?
Each drain pipe should connect to a network extending from the roof. Ventilation stops waste gases from escaping through drains into living spaces. To ensure that your house is properly functioning, inspect the sewer line before you purchase it.
Many plumbing fittings have curved “traps” pieces that keep water in place and prevent gases from getting out. The trap inside the toilet prevents water from entering the bowl. All household drains are located under the house. They connect with the main drain, which collects wastewater and carries it to the municipal sewer line.
What Causes a Sewer Pipe to Clog?
Blocked sewer pipes or drains can cause major damage to your home. Clogged drains can be avoided by proper drain use and regular maintenance.
HAIR
Hair may clog your drain quickly with oils and other sticky substances. Keep hair out of drains.
SOAP
Traditional soap bars contain oil or fat. This hardened soap creates a blockage in pipes and blocks bath fittings.
DIRT
Dirt from your clothes or your body can build up and cause issues in your drains.
FOOD WASTE
Food scraps should not be thrown out. Grease and oil can block the pipes, causing blockages.
TOILET PAPER BUILD-UP
Toilet tissue can block your toilet’s ability to flush and cause drain obstructions. A plumber should be called if the toilet doesn’t drain.
What can I do to keep my sewer lines clear of debris?
These methods will keep your sewer lines clear.
- Your toilet should not be used as a wastebasket. Clogs can result from using tissues, napkins, or other waste to flush your toilet.
- Don’t dump too much garbage down your garbage disposal.
- Grease should not be poured down the drain. Grease and fat can become solidified and build up, leading to a blockage.
How long should I drain water?
It is important to maintain your sewer system. Grease, fat, and storm run-off can all cause a blocked drain. This could lead to serious plumbing problems.
Warn Signs
Any unusual behavior should always be considered a warning sign that your sewer line isn’t backing up. If you suspect that there is a sewer backup, contact your local plumber. It is possible to prevent any further damage from an active line backup by not using your toilets, sinks, or dishwasher until the line has been cleared.