Signs and Causes of a Sewer Backup
A sewer backup can become an emergency that negatively impacts the household's lifestyle quality, increases utility bills, and leads to costly repairs.
Most people don't think about their plumbing system until severe sewer issues occur. However, when unaddressed, a sewer backup can become an emergency that negatively impacts the household's lifestyle quality, increases utility bills, and leads to costly repairs. To protect the property, homeowners should remain vigilant and pay attention to the warning signs.
Here are some of the most common reasons for a sewer backup.
What's a sewer backup?
A backup occurs when debris or other items obstructing the normal water flow from the house to the sewer system. As a result, the sewage has nowhere to go and enters the home.
Moreover, a blocked drain can damage the pipework; the sewage might come out of the drains and cause structural damage to the home.
But before the issue appears, some might notice several warning signs. For example, people may have difficulty flushing the toilet. Or, the toilet could cause backups in other fixtures. Sometimes a strange odor comes from the drains, and homeowners realize multiple drains are clogged.
These symptoms point to a sewage backup, and it's best to act quickly and contact an experienced contractor.
What causes a sewer backup?
It's essential to diagnose its cause. Here are the main reasons sewer backups occur.
Sewer main blockages
Local municipalities take care of two kinds of pipelines. The first is the storm sewer system, while the other is the sanitary sewer system. The municipality will repair the blockage and prevent future issues if there's a problem with either of these pipelines.
Damaged sewer lines or residential plumbing debris can block the systems and affect thousands of homes. A city crew will visit the home to perform a thorough inspection and determine whether the main line or the home's plumbing is clogged. When the home's sewer line is causing problems, the homeowner is responsible for covering the repairs.
Broken sewer lines
Sewer lines are built to last, but they will eventually succumb to the rigors of daily use and begin to break down. In addition, old age eats away at their efficiency, and the lines might break or collapse without proper maintenance.
Tree roots
Tree roots feed on moisture and will go through cracks or holes in joints and pipes, creating a blockage. When a tree root is embedded in the sewer line, it could lead to ruptures and stop sewage from leaving home.
Plant trees and shrubs away from the sewer line to prevent tree root problems. Also, go for trees with smaller roots so they won't grow through the pipework.
Blockages in the home's pipework
Throwing items like cotton pads, wet wipes, and Q-tips into the toilet seems harmless, but these objects can damage the plumbing system and cause blockages. To keep the plumbing healthy, only flush toilet paper.
Another reason there's a blockage could be the sink. Grease and leftover food can also block the sewer line.
Protect the home with professional help
Those who suspect they're dealing with a sewage backup should contact a reputable professional to protect the home and keep the plumbing in perfect condition.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
