Sewage Back-Up Prevention: What To Do

image of a sewer backupIndoor floods are every homeowner’s nightmare, mainly when caused by sewage back-up. It’s a dangerous situation, given all of the microorganisms that could be in the water. Anyone who comes into contact with contaminated water is at risk of developing infection or disease. Cleaning is also incredibly difficult because of sanitation issues and water damage. It is better to let the professionals handle the matter than to deal with it yourself. Of course, the best solution is to use sewer backup prevention strategies in the first place.

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How Can I Prevent Sewage Back-Up?

In this article, we share some tips on how to prevent a sewer back-up in your home.

Sewage Backup Health Risks

According to studies, sewage contamination leads to 2 million cases of illness annually. There are just too many hazardous substances in it, including chemicals and organic matter. Among the resulting health issues are leptospirosis and hepatitis. People can also become infected with bacteria. That includes E. Coli, salmonella, acanthamoeba, and helicobacter pylori. Some of these are potentially lethal and you should take these health risks seriously.

Common Causes Of A Sewer Back-Up

clogged drainHomeowners should keep their eyes peeled for warning signs so that they can spot possible sewage back-up before the problem worsens. One of these is the presence of back-ups in multiple drains. If the toilet, sinks, and bathtubs are all having issues at the same time, then there is probably a clog in the sewer line. The same is true if you see water backups in odd spots and in the sewer cleanout pipe.

Finding the underlying cause is essential. It could be a structural defect in the foundation or a blockage due to root infiltration. A problem with the city’s main line, flooding due to excessive rains, and leaking pipes can also lead to a sewer backup. Flushing items down the toilet can also cause a clog. People should be mindful of their habits as they might be creating problems without knowing it.

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Sewer Backup Prevention Strategies

1. Fix Problems In The Foundation

Check for cracks in the foundation, as well as other tell-tale signs of structural problems. Seal the cracks as soon as possible. If you have a basement, then you will want to waterproof it to prevent moisture from moving across the walls. The risk of indoor flooding will be less likely.

2. Dispose Of Grease Properly & Not Down The Drain

cooking greaseOils, fats, and cooking grease are often sent down the drain when washing pots and pans. This is problematic as liquid grease can solidify when it gets cold. The pipes will get blocked, and sewer backups can ensue. Always dispose of grease properly to avoid this. Let it cool, put it in a sealed container, and put it in the trash for collection. Some cities have oil recycling programs, so see if you can avail of that.

3. Do Not Flush Non-Soluble Items Down The Toilet

People often find it convenient to flush unwanted items down the toilet. This can become a problem if the objects do not readily dissolve in water. Only bathroom tissue and human waste are safe for flushing. Sanitary napkins, thick paper towels, baby diapers, cloth rags, and hazardous chemicals should be kept away from the toilet.

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4. Install Drain Traps

drain coversAn easy way to prevent dirt, hair, and other items from clogging the system are to install drain traps. These are usually made of metal mesh that lets water pass through while catching solids. Just place them over drains and clean them out once full. It’s a simple solution that can make a big impact.

5. Conduct Regular Plumbing Inspections

Not all homeowners are familiar with sewer systems and residential plumbing. They could miss the most obvious signs of trouble just because they don’t have trained eyes. This is why it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced professional. Plumbers can conduct thorough inspections and implement suitable solutions right away.

Also, if you have to ask yourself, “Why do my pipes keep clogging?” or “Where is that sewer backup smell coming from?”, then call a plumber. These are tell-tale signs that a problem is on the rise.  Whenever you notice a plumbing issue in your home, address it immediately. It could save you a lot of time, money, and stress.

 

Call Robinson Plumbing When You Need Plumbing Services

For reliable plumbing services, contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the Lehigh Valley’s most trusted plumbing companies.

Our plumbing services range from sewer backup service, clogged drains, water leak detection/repairs,  to the installation of water-efficient plumbing fixtures. For any plumbing repairs, we always offer a wide range of solutions whenever possible. This way, you can choose the option that works best for your budget and family.

We are proud to offer the best and most affordable plumbing services in the area. All of our plumbers have the proper licenses and experience to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work is guaranteed. Call Robinson Plumbing today to schedule a free estimate.

Call Now: (610) 351-9889

Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or click here to contact us for any questions that you might have!