Your home’s plumbing system is dependent on the sewer drain. The sewer drain is often not visible and most people don’t know about it. Many homeowners don’t think about their sewer pipes until they have a problem. This is usually a clog in the sewer drain.
The sewer line is responsible for removing wastewater from all drains, fixtures, and appliances in your home. The pipe is concealed beneath your lawn. It can last between 50 and 100 years depending on the material used and the conditions in which it is used.
It is important to be a homeowner to understand the factors that affect the wear and tear of your pipes and what to do when it reaches the end. Clogs can happen. Your sewer line may encounter many challenges, including clogged toilets, sinks and bathtubs. The soil’s weight can shift above the pipe due to dryness and compaction. The pipe may drop if the soil is too heavy.
Leakage of wastewater into your lawn. Overuse or mismanagement of the home’s plumbing systems can lead to sewer line damage that is more rapid than expected. Over time, food debris, grease, fat, or soap residue can buildup in the sewer lines, reducing its utility and putting your home at high risk of a sewer backup or clog.
How do drain lines work?
Each drain pipe should be connected to a network of ventilation pipes that reach the roof. Ventilation stops sewer gases escaping from drains and into living spaces. Before you buy a house, it is a good idea to inspect the sewer line using a camera. Ensure that the inspector inspects all venting pipes to ensure they are functioning properly.
Many plumbing fittings include curved “trap” pieces that hold water and create a seal to keep gases out. To clear clogs, you can remove this section of the pipe. The trap in the toilet keeps regular water from entering the bowl. The largest pipe for draining the toilet is located in the bathroom. All household drains are located below the house and connect to the main drain, which carries wastewater to the municipal sewer lines.
What Causes a Sewer Drain to Clog?
Your home can be affected by a blocked sewer drain. Although they may seem minor, blocked drains or pipes can quickly become major problems. Regular maintenance and proper drain use can stop most sewer clogs. These are five common reasons for clogged drains.
HAIR
Hair can bind with oil and other sticky substances quickly, causing blockages and a blocked drain. To prevent hair from clogging your drain, it is best to keep them out. Make sure that drains are protected from hair, and clean them regularly.
SOAP
Traditional soap bars are made from oil or fat. The soap’s fat is mixed with water minerals and creates a hard residue which clogs pipes and blocks bath fittings.
DIRT
Excess dirt from your clothes and yourself can build up, causing problems in your drains. Before washing your clothes inside, take out any dirt or mud from your body and clothes.
FOOD WASTE
Food waste should not be thrown away. To get rid of food waste, create a composting heap. Other foods that contain grease or oil should be avoided as they can block the pipes and cause blockages.
TOILET PAPER BUILD-UP
Toilet paper can block your toilets’ ability to flush and clog drains. To remove toilet paper that is still clogging your drains after flushing, you can use a plunger. If your toilet does not drain, you should call a plumber.
How do I keep my sewer lines clear?
These are some ways to keep your sewer lines clear.
- Do not use your toilet as an empty wastebasket. Using facial tissues, napkins and other waste to flush can cause clogs.
- Make sure you use your garbage disposal efficiently – You should not dump a lot of garbage down your disposal.
- Do not pour grease down the drain. Grease and fat can solidify and collect debris, causing a clog.
What time should I drain the water?
Maintaining your sewer system is a priority. There are many types of clogs that can happen without regular maintenance. A blocked drain can be caused by grease, fat, or from the accumulation of dirt and debris due to storm run-off. This could quickly lead to a plumbing emergency. It is important to understand when your drain needs to be cleaned and what you can do to fix it.
Warn Signs
Any unusual behavior should be considered a warning sign to make sure your sewer line doesn’t back up. You may hear drain sounds when your washing machine is running, such as gurgling or waste residue. Call your local Long Beach Plumber if you see signs of a sewer backup. You can prevent further damage from an active sewer line backup by not using your dishwasher, sinks, showers or toilets until the line is cleared.