Causes of Sewage Backup

Blocked Sewer Line: Tree roots, grease, feminine products, and other debris can accumulate in your sewer line, causing blockages that prevent sewage from flowing freely.

Damaged Pipes: Corrosion, cracking, or other damage to sewer pipes can create gaps or holes, allowing sewage to leak out and cause backups.

Overloaded System: During heavy rains or excessive water usage, the sewer system can become overwhelmed, leading to backups in homes and businesses.

Faulty Sump Pump: A malfunctioning sump pump can fail to remove water from the basement, causing it to flood and potentially back up sewage into the house.

Improper Toilet Use: Flushing non-flushable items like wipes, diapers, and feminine products can clog toilets and lead to sewage backups.

Effects of Sewage Backup

Health Hazards: Sewage backups can release harmful bacteria and viruses into the environment, posing health risks to occupants.

Structural Damage: Sewage water can damage flooring, walls, and other building materials, causing costly repairs.

Property Damage: Sewage backups can contaminate personal belongings, furniture, and appliances, leading to significant financial losses.

Environmental Pollution: Untreated sewage can contaminate nearby water sources and contribute to environmental degradation.

Why is Sewer Backing Up in House?

Blocked Drain: Blockages in the main drain line or individual drains can prevent sewage from flowing out of the house, causing backups.

Vent Blockage: Vent pipes allow air to enter the sewer system, preventing the creation of a vacuum that can draw sewage back into the house. Blockages in these pipes can lead to backups.

Tree Roots: Tree roots can penetrate sewer lines, causing breaks or blockages that prevent sewage from flowing smoothly.

Damaged Sewer Pipe: Any damage to the sewer pipe that transports sewage from the house can allow sewage to leak out and back up into the home.

Overloaded System: Excessive water usage or heavy rains can overwhelm the sewer system, leading to backups in multiple homes in the area.

Preventing Sewage Backups

Regular Sewer Line Inspection and Cleaning: Scheduling regular inspections and cleanings can help identify and remove blockages before they cause backups.

Proper Toilet Use: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing wipes, diapers, feminine products, or other non-flushable items.

Install a Backwater Valve: A backwater valve can prevent sewage from flowing back into the house in the event of a backup in the main sewer line.

Maintain a Sump Pump: Keep your sump pump in good working order to prevent basement flooding that can lead to sewage backups.

Dispose of Grease Properly: Avoid pouring grease down the drain, as it can accumulate and clog sewer lines.

Tree Root Management: Regularly inspect trees near sewer lines and have roots trimmed or removed if they are encroaching on the pipes.