Sewer backup – the phrase alone sends shivers down the spine of homeowners and property managers. It’s the nightmarish scenario where murky, unspeakable sewage starts bubbling up in your sinks, toilets, or shower drains. Frankly, it’s a situation that no one other than emergency plumbers in Altona wants to deal with. However, understanding the common causes of sewer backups and how to fix them is vital in safeguarding your property and peace of mind.
What Are The Common Causes Behind Sewer Backups?
Tree Root Infiltration
Tree roots are the silent intruders that can wreak havoc on your sewer lines. They infiltrate your pipes quietly and efficiently. As they grow, they can cause blockages, cracks, and even complete collapses in your sewer system. Signs of root-related backups often manifest as slow-draining fixtures, gurgling toilets, and unusual odours. When facing this menace, your local plumbing professionals have several mitigation strategies. A few of these are-
Chemical Root Killers: These are like invisible barriers, preventing roots from taking hold in your pipes. A periodic dose of these chemicals can help keep your sewer lines root-free.
Root Barriers: Installing physical barriers around your sewer lines can deter roots from entering your system. It is a proactive approach to protecting your pipes.
Professional Root Removal: When the situation gets out of hand, professional plumbers can employ root removal techniques, such as trenchless cutting or excavation.
Aging Sewer Lines
Sewer lines also age and endure damage like any other plumbing component in your home. Over time, materials building the sewer line break down, and the structural integrity of your pipes deteriorates. Detecting aging sewer lines is crucial, as these older pipes are prone to cracks, leaks, and backups. Repair and replacement options for the sewer lines range from modern trenchless pipe lining to traditional dig-and-replace methods.
Trenchless Pipe Lining: A modern marvel in plumbing, this method involves inserting a lining into your existing pipe, creating a new, durable interior surface without digging up your yard.
Traditional Dig-and-Replace: Sometimes, the old-school approach is necessary. Digging up and replacing the worn-out pipes can be more costly and disruptive but may be the best solution in some cases.
Pipe Relining: A balanced solution, this technique involves inserting a new pipe lining without excavation, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative.
Blockages and Clogs
Everyday debris can find its way into your sewer lines. Grease, hair, soap scum, and foreign objects can lead to clogs, slowing down drainage and causing backups. Homeowners often attempt to clear blockages with DIY methods, but sometimes, professional assistance is needed.
Hydro Jetting: High-pressure water is used to blast away stubborn clogs and debris, leaving your pipes clean and free-flowing.
Drain Snaking: Plumbers use specialised tools to dislodge blockages, allowing water to flow freely again.
Sewer Camera Inspection: By inserting a camera into your pipes, plumbers can identify blockages, damage, and potential issues, providing valuable insights for effective repairs.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
Nature can be relentless, overwhelming sewer systems with heavy rainfall and flooding. When the sewers can’t handle the excessive rain water that thursts through during calamities, backups can occur. Recognising the signs of rain-related backups and being prepared is vital.
Overwhelmed Sewer Systems: During heavy rainfall, sewer systems can become inundated, pushing water back into your property.
Signs of Rain-Related Backups: Water surfacing in unusual places, like your basement or drains, can be a clear sign of trouble.
Prevention and Preparedness: Installing sump pumps, backwater valves, and elevating fixtures can help protect your property from rain-related backups.
How to Deal With Sewer Backup?
When the sewage tide has receded, it’s essential to take precautions for health and safety. Documenting the damage is crucial for insurance claims, and contacting professionals for cleanup and repairs is a necessary step in the recovery process.
Opt for Smart Solutions
As technology advances, so does our ability to prevent sewer backups. Let’s take a look at sewer sensors and advanced plumbing technologies that offer a glimpse into the future of sewer maintenance-
- Smart sensors for early issue detection
- High-capacity sewage pumping stations
- Advanced waste separation and filtration technologies
- Grease traps and solids interceptors
- Green infrastructure for stormwater management
- Enhanced sewage treatment facilities
- Public education on proper disposal
- Backup prevention systems for homes
How to Prevent Sewer Backups?
Though it’s practically impossible to avoid sewer backup caused by natural calamities, there are still many ways in which we can prevent it. Below are a few of them suggested by emergency plumbers in Altona–
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste and nothing else
- Don’t pour grease down the sink and use a sink drainer
- Get regular sewer system check-ups by professionals
- Install a backwater valve
- Prevent tree roots from invading pipes
- Fix plumbing leaks and use water wisely
- Avoid harsh chemicals available at the stores for cleaning drains
- Educate everyone in your home on what can and can’t go down the drain
To Sum Up
In a world where sewer backups are an unfortunate reality, knowledge is your greatest weapon. By understanding the causes and the fixes, you’re not only protecting your property but also ensuring peace of mind in the face of a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and remember that in the world of sewer backups, knowledge is the key to resilience.
Contact Your Local Plumbing & Drainage for an expert intervention in your residential and commercial plumbing needs.