No one likes a sewer line problem – especially sewage disasters like flooding, clogs, or broken pipes. Fortunately, you can prevent many of the worst sewage line issues with a little useful prevention.
Keep your pipes clear of junk
Your sewer line suffers when it has to deal with things that aren't waste or toilet paper: Remember this, and you can avoid many common problems. Don't flush or dispose of grease, diapers, condoms, paper towels, cotton swabs, tampons, or anything similar in your pipes. This can create serious clogs and resulting leaks.
Look for warning signs
Does your sink or bathtub start bubbling or stinking after you flush the toilet? These results often mean problems with your sewage system. A suddenly slow or dirty toilet can also be a problem: If you see warning signs like this (along with any pervasive smell), it's a good idea to call a plumbing expert to see about checking for clogs and cleaning out your sewage line if necessary.
Keep the line clear of plants
Trees and shrubs can easily damage both septic tanks and sewer lines if you allow them to grow directly about these important sewage components. The roots of large plants can work their way around or inside your pipes, destabilizing them and causes leaks (along with expensive removal). Avoid a disaster by removing trees or shrubs from above your sewage line. Not sure where the line is? Ask an expert or take a look at your property survey map to find out.
Watch carefully during our big rainstorms
We can get a lot of rain during certain seasons, which is a problem for sewage lines, especially newer lines that are more integrated with water lines. Backflow and overflow can swamp sewage systems, then flood right up into your home. If it looks like this is happening in heavy rain, shut your water off and call up a repair service ASAP, because you can bet others are going through the same issue.
Replace particularly old sewer lines
Sewer lines in old houses should be replaced before they start to fail. If your sewer line is around 30 years old or so, consider asking an expert if it's time to start a replacement project to prevent future problems.
Have more questions about your sewer line and how your sewage system works? Give Ragsdale a call and we're happy to answer all your questions.
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