How You Can Stop Worrying About Sewer System Backups Today
Sewer system backups can be one of the most disastrous issues a homeowner can face. Since all of your waste and waste-water lead to one central sewer line that leads out of your home, a backup can cause a big issue. Not only are you at risk of minor backups, but a pressure-issue could actually cause sewage to reverse.
Yes, you read that right. Raw sewage could start spewing out of your drains and toilets, and that isn’t something anyone wants to deal with. Not only can that kind of water and waste damage your home, but it could also lead to sewage-related health issues from being exposed to toxic raw waste.
Not only that but if your sewer line is cracked your groundwater could become tainted. Here’s everything you need to know about preventing sewer system backups, so you can rest easy knowing you’re system is clear.
What Does a Sewer System Backup Mean?
Every sink, shower, and toilet in your home has a pipe that works with gravity to move waste through your plumbing system and out of your home. All of these pipes meet at your main sewer line that either goes out to a septic tank in your yard or out to a sewer main that is part of your city’s sewer system.
A sewer system backup happens when there is a problem in the sewer line that leaves your home, generally running underground in your yard. This can cause your drains and toilets to backup or even cause the waste to reverse due to pressure problems.
Why Is it Happening?
There are a few common reasons that sewer lines get backed up. The first is a good old fashioned clog. Many clogs happen closer to the drain or toilet, but clogs can happen in your sewer line too. Things like flushing sanitary products or diapers down the toilet, regularly putting large quantities of food down your garbage disposal, or regularly pouring grease or fat down your pipes will all add to your sewer system backup risk.
The grease coats the inside of your pipes with a buildup that can stop waste flow. All of these things pose the risk of creating a big sticky clog in your pipes that can stop the flow of wastewater. Two other common risks happen in your yard.
Tree roots are attracted to water and even the smallest crack in your pipe is very appealing to a tree looking for nourishment. Roots can easily wind their way into your sewer line, causing a big blockage. Lastly, the blockage could be coming from an underground broken or collapsed sewer line. This risk is more common in older homes that have metal pipes that can deteriorate over time.
Essential Tips for Backup Prevention
The best way to prevent a sewer system backup disaster is to be mindful of what you’re putting down your plumbing and to get routine maintenance for your plumbing system. Only flush waste and toilet paper down your toilet and avoid putting large amounts of food down your garbage disposal at a time. Prevent other clogs by using a drain filter to stop things like hair or food particles from getting into your pipes. It’s also important to dispose of grease and fat in the garbage to prevent hardened buildup in your pipes.
The number one preventative method to prevent a sewer system backup is getting regular sewer line cleanings. Professionals suggest getting this service done every 18-22 months. These cleanings will ensure your sewer line is checked for cracks, tree roots, and clogs. Plumbers will also insert a hose that uses water to blast off hardened debris from the inside of your pipe. These two steps will keep your sewer line flowing in the right direction, so you can rest easy knowing your system is taken care of.
Trust Alberta Indoor Comfort
Alberta Indoor Comfort is providing top-notch indoor comfort needs and plumbing services in Calgary. Qualified professional technicians offer timely service with upfront pricing and personalized solutions for your individual needs. From broken water pipes to new furnace installation, Alberta Indoor Comfort has integrity, competence, and objectivity that ensures your family has safe, clean, indoor comfort.
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