There’s nothing more frustrating than a sewer line backup. And while it can wreak havoc in your household, it can also be a health hazard as well. Luckily, there are things you can do to prevent your sewer line from backing up.
How Do I Prevent My Sewer Line from Backing Up?
Correctly Dispose of Grease and Other Products
You probably hear it all the time, but it is still worth mentioning: don’t pour grease down your drains! When you cook bacon in the morning and leave the pan on the stovetop while you eat your breakfast, you’ll come back and notice that the grease coagulates in the pan. If that happens in your pan, it will happen in your drain as well. As for other products — like food waste, coffee grinds, etc. — you’ll want to dispose of them in your garbage. These clog-causing materials can also lead to blockage.
Properly Dispose of Paper Products
When it comes to your toilet, there are things such as:
- “Flushable” wipes
- Feminine products (and other hygiene products)
- Diapers
- Paper towels
- Garbage
Install a Backwater Valve
Installing a backwater valve could save you in the long run. This tool reduces the chances that sewage will flow into your home when the sewer line begins to become backed up. It works by allowing your normal wastewater to flow out of your home, but once it hits a sewage clog and begins to flow back, the flap closes.
Prevent Tree Root Problems
Tree roots are a big cause of sewer line back ups. This is because tree roots, no matter how far away trees are from your pipes, are far-reaching and consistently on the search for moisture. When they come across your sewer line, they can infiltrate and cause damage (especially if your pipes are old). The best way to solve this problem is to replace your pipes with plastic. This will most likely cause the tree roots to grow around the pipe rather than through.
