Why Sewer Backups Occur And How To Prevent Them

Your residential sewer line ensures the safe and efficient removal of wastewater from your home. Unfortunately, you may not give it much thought until an issue pops up.

One of the most common issues that you may experience with your residential sewer line is sewer backup. Sewer backup occurs when the untreated wastewater flowing through your sewer pipes flows back into your home instead of exiting the building, creating a smelly, unsightly mess. 

If not addressed quickly, a backed-up sewer line can cause extensive damage and compromise your family's health. Knowing the top causes of a sewer backup and how to prevent them is an excellent way to protect your home and family.

Here are the most common culprits behind sewer backups and possible actions you can take to help avoid them.

Blockages

Several things can cause your sewer pipes to become clogged, resulting in dreadful wastewater overflow in your home. These include the following:

• Excessive sediment buildup
• Flushing clog-causing objects down your drains 
• Tree root intrusion

The most effective way to avoid sewer backups due to blockages is to invest in regular professional drain sewer cleanings. During these cleanings, a plumber will perform a video sewer inspection to see into your sewer pipes. That way, they can identify the location of blockages and remove them with pinpoint accuracy and effectiveness.

Pipe Collapse

Operating a heavy vehicle or construction equipment right above your sewer line can cause the pipes to collapse, inhibiting the proper flow of wastewater.

If all the drains in your entire home stop working after recently operating a heavy piece of equipment in your yard, you should schedule a sewer inspection to check for possible pipe damage.

If you want to prevent sewage water from overflowing into your home, make sure you know the location of your sewer line and avoid using any heavy machinery on top of it.

Pipe Deterioration

Sewer pipes are made from materials that deteriorate over time. As these pipes weaken with age, they become less effective at withstanding the internal and external forces exerted on their walls. As a result, pipe failure will be inevitable.

While there's nothing you can do to stop your sewer pipes from aging, cleaning them regularly and avoiding unnecessary damage will help to increase their lifespans. 

Like many modern homeowners, you're accustomed to the convenience that a properly functioning sewer line brings to your daily household activities. However, plumbing mishaps are a fact of life for every homeowner. 

For professional assistance with all your residential plumbing maintenance and repair needs, contact a local company like C & C Mechanical Plumbing & Drain Cleaning.

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