3 Tips for Preventing Sewage Backup

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Don't pour grease down the drain

Prevent Sewage Problems In Your Home

A sewage backup can occur in your basement, bathtub, toilets, and sinks, causing flooding and property damage. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of encountering sewage problems.

1. Don't Pour Cooking Oil in Your Drains
Many people attempt to dispose of cooking oil by pouring it into their sink drain or toilet. Cooking oil can harden in your drains and make it more difficult for debris, such as hair and food particles, to drain. This creates clogs in your pipes, which can lead to sewage problems. Dispose of cooking oil by pouring it into a heat-resistant container and throwing it in the trash after it cools.

2. Maintain Your Sewage System
To prevent sewage backup, keep your sewage system well maintained. Check your sump pump pit for debris that could be sucked into the pump causing damage and make sure the pump has a filter to prevent debris from storm damage from getting inside the pump. If a malfunctioning sump pump has caused a flood in your basement, consider contacting a flood mitigation company in St. Charles, IL, to remove the water. Additionally, avoid clogs by periodically having a professional sewer cleaning performed to remove the debris that can accumulate in your sewer lines. It is also a good idea to have regular inspections done to check for damage to the lines.

3. Prevent Tree Root Damage
If the sewer line that runs through your yard is older, consider replacing it with a new plastic pipe. Plastic pipes are much more resistant to damage from tree roots than lines made from clay and cast iron. If tree root issues persist, periodically trim your roots or remove trees that are too close to the sewer line.
Sewage backup in your home can pose a safety risk and lead to property damage. These three tips can help you prevent sewage problems in your home.