How to Prevent Clogged Sewage Backups

On the list of homeowners’ worst nightmares, a sewer backup in the basement is probably near the top. When you head downstairs and find your basement floor drain backing up, you may feel a sense of panic, but you need to keep a cool head and act quickly. Sewage backups don’t only occur in the basement, but can happen anywhere that you have a drain or plumbing. They can quickly become a health hazard, damage property, and require costly repair, so you should immediately take steps to resolve the issue if it ever occurs.

First, avoid entering any area where there could be a live electrical current, and be cautious of gas leaks. Then, call a licensed plumbing company or sewage cleanup service as quickly as possible, so that your sewer backup can be cleared and cleaned safely and effectively. The best thing to do, however, is to prevent this problem from happening in the first place.

Common Causes of Sewage Backups

What causes a sewer to back up? They are generally caused by blockages in the sewer line, although they can also be the result of faulty sewer drainage. Grease, hair, soap scum, and food particles can block the sewer line, causing sewage to back up into your home. Another problem is tree roots, which can grow into the pipes, not just blocking them but potentially cracking them as well. If you live in an older home with an aging sewer system, or your sewer system is faulty, it could fail and cause a backup.

But even when your sewage system is not blocked or damaged, flooding and heavy rain can cause it to back up. This can happen when the community treatment plants or part of the municipal sewer system is flooded, or if the storm drainage system is overwhelmed. If you have a septic system, it can also back up into the home when the area is flooded.

Signs of a Potential Sewer Backup

A sewer backup may seem to happen quickly and without warning, but if you know what to watch for, you can pick up on the signs before disaster strikes. If you notice that several drains in your home are sluggish or backing up, this could mean a sewer backup. Additionally, if your drains are emitting unpleasant odors, it probably means you should call for help with your plumbing. Similarly, if the drains are making bubbling or gurgling noises when you run the water, this could mean that your sewer line is blocked somewhere and requires attention.

Preventive Measures for Homeowners

How can you keep your sewer from backing up into your home? If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it may be worth it to seal each drain with a plug or sewer drain cover. There are many different types of plugs, so it’s worth consulting your plumber to learn how to do this. Additionally, by being proactive about sewer maintenance, you can save yourself a great deal of trouble and expense in the long run.

• Replace worn-out sewer trap plugs promptly.
• Don’t flush anything that isn’t biodegradable.
• Have your plumbing and sewer lines inspected regularly by a professional plumber.
• Keep an eye on tree roots in your yard and consider having them trimmed if you think they could infiltrate your pipes.
• Avoid excessive water use during heavy rains, so that you don’t strain your sewer system.
• Never pour cooking oil down the sink, but let it solidify and then throw it into the trash.

Tips for Emergency Preparedness

In addition to keeping your plumbing in good condition through regular maintenance, it is crucial to know the key plumbing features of your home. Have at least a basic understanding of your drainage systems, and make sure you know the location of the shut-off valves for the main water supply, as well as individual fixtures. When a plumbing emergency strikes, knowing how to quickly turn off the water can save you from catastrophic damage. Once you have located and familiarized yourself with the shut-off valves, teach everyone in your household how to turn them off.

Trust the Experts at Sewer and Drain Champion to Handle Your Sewage Backup

Any time you have plumbing issues, if you live in the Sacramento area, Sewer and Drain Champion can help. Our local, family-owned plumbing company has been serving the community for nearly a decade, providing 24/7 plumbing services for residential and commercial customers. When dealing with something as important as plumbing, it is important to rely on the skills of a professional to prevent property damage and even injuries.

DIY plumbing mishaps can make problems worse, but our experienced team is knowledgeable, experienced, and equipped to handle your biggest sewer and drain challenges. We are a full-service company, and as a locally owned company, we are proud to be a part of the Sacramento community. Deeply invested in our community, we provide free estimates for all services and always give our customers fair, upfront pricing. When you need fast, friendly, reliable sewer and drain solutions, contact us through our website or fill out an online form to schedule an appointment.