Sanitary Sewer Backups

Common Causes of Sewer Backups

  • Grease: Cooking oil should be poured into a heat-resistant container and disposed of properly after it cools off, not in the drain. Washing grease down the drain with hot water is unsatisfactory. As the grease cools off, it will solidify either in the drain, the property owner's line or in the city main line causing the line to constrict and eventually clog.
  • Roots: Tree roots can cause major problems if they grow into, or through your sewer lines. Roots can travel far from trees and can pose a threat even if you don't have trees on your property.
  • Structure: Depending on the age of your home, your sewer pipe is likely made of PVC, cast iron, clay or Orangeburg. While these materials are durable, they will not last forever. It is common for sewer pipes to deteriorate or even collapse as they age.
Sewer backups in your home can be prevented by installing a backwater prevention valve. A properly installed and maintained backwater valve allows sewage to go out, but not to come back in. Qualified and licensed plumbers can install backwater valves.

Sanitary Sewer Overflows

When it rains, ground water rises, or when the sanitary sewer systems become overloaded, sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) may occur, sending untreated sewage into waterways. Normally sewage discharges from a manhole cover in the street, backyards, or other areas where manholes are located. They can appear as slow water leaks that may take time to be noticed, or a heavy discharge.

Sewer Problems

If you are experiencing sewer problems, such as a slow drain, sewer backing up into your fixtures, or sewer running out of a clean-out in your yard, you should first call a plumber as the owner is responsible for sewage backup in their service line to the main.
styling border