Sewer backups have got to be one of the most infuriating plumbing problems for folks in Westchester to put up with. A clogged or damaged sewer line can cause all sorts of problems including slow drains, terrible odours and in the worst cases, even raw sewage backing up into sinks, baths or your basement. Knowing what causes them can save you a world of trouble and expense down the line.
Grease Build Up in Sewer Lines
One of the main reasons sewer backups happen is grease build up. Quite often people just tip the cooking oil and food scraps down the sink, not realising they eventually harden in the pipes and restrict the flow of water, causing a right old blockage. We’d recommend you throw that grease in a sealed container instead of down the sink.
Tree Root Intrusion in Older Sewer Systems
Tree root intrusion is another major issue in the older Westchester areas. The thing is, roots naturally seek water and can burrow into the tiniest cracks in the underground sewer lines. As they grow, they block the flow of waste water and may even break the pipe completely. Regularly getting a sewer camera inspection can help you spot any root problems before they get completely out of hand.
Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Flushing non-paper items down the loo is another problem that’s all too common. Wipes, paper towels, sanitary products and just too much toilet paper can quickly clog the sewer lines. Even things that are labeled “flushable” may not break down properly. So, the general rule of thumb is stick to just flushing your loo paper and human waste if you can.
Heavy Rain and Aging Sewer Systems
And then there are the problems caused by heavy rain and old aging sewer systems. When the rain comes down in buckets and the municipal sewer systems get overwhelmed, it can cause sewage to back up into homes. Installing a backwater valve and doing regular drain maintenance can give you that extra bit of protection.
How to Prevent Sewer Backups
Preventing sewer backups is all about keeping your plumbing system in good nick and being on top of any problems early on. Regular drain cleaning, sewer inspections and sensible use of your drains is the key to avoiding emergencies and getting the most life out of your plumbing system.
Contact our team today for professional sewer inspections and drain cleaning services in Westchester