The plumbing system is crucial for the smooth running of home operations. However, the system may sometimes encounter issues, disrupting the entire household. These include leaks, dripping faucets, sewer backups, and low water pressure.
This article discusses one of the homeowners’ most frustrating plumbing problems: sewer backup. It also covers the major causes and how to fix them.
Causes Of Sewer Backups
Here are the common causes of backed-up sewer systems:
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Tree Roots In Sewer System
As the trees and shrubs grow, their roots can penetrate your sewer system, causing a blockage. This will make it hard for wastewater to flow smoothly, causing it to back up.
Root intrusion is more common in old homes with clay piping systems. The roots can grow in small cracks, eventually blocking the system.
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Heavy Rainfall
Public sewer systems are designed to handle lots of water at once. However, during a heavy downpour, excess water may overload the system, leading to sewage backup. Additionally, leaks in the sewer lines can exacerbate the problem during flooding. Your local system may be unable to handle the increased water, causing sewage to back up into multiple drains in your home.
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Municipal Sewer Issues
When your local public system is blocked, it’ll be hard for the area’s sewage to pass through. As a result, wastewater goes back up into your home through the drains. This issue might take longer to notice since it occurs slowly.
Methods To Fix Sewer Backup
Here are some popular methods to address a sewer backup:
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Sewer Repair or Replacement
If you have a blocked or damaged sewer system, you may need to repair or replace the entire line. Traditional methods for repairing or replacing sewer lines have been used for many years. These include extensive digging to access the pipe. This approach is usually costly and time consuming, making it less than ideal for addressing an emergency sewer backup.
Today, you can consider advanced restoration methods such as pipe relining in Sydney or your locality. This outstanding repair practice reduces the need for extensive digging. Instead, the plumber inserts a resin-dipped liner into the damaged pipe. After it cures, you’ll have a new, durable sewer line.
With numerous providers offering relining services, it can be challenging to find the right company. However, thorough research will make it easier to find reputable vendors in your area.
Pipe relining offers several significant benefits. Repairing or replacing a damaged pipe takes a shorter period. This means a functional sewer liner in no time and protection against harmful microorganisms. It also minimizes your landscape damage, saving you from expensive repairs that could affect your home’s value.
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Hydro Jetting
This is another option to fix a sewer backup. It involves blasting high-pressure water jets into your sewer lines. The water can remove debris, clogs, and other buildups, allowing wastewater to drain smoothly.
Other practices, such as detergents, may introduce harmful compounds into the environment. By contrast, hydro jetting is an eco-friendly method to address blocked sewers. It only uses water to unclog your lines; hence, there is no risk of contamination and related issues.
Additionally, this repair method is highly customizable. Before blasting pressurized water jets, the expert will assess the damage. Then, they can adjust the intensity of the water blast to suit your specific pipe type.
However, when using hydro jetting to fix sewer backup, there are several precautions you should consider. This includes wearing a protective kit to avoid being hurt by water jets.
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Use Of Plunger
This is a standard and simple method to address sewage backup. The plunger forces air into the drain, pushing out clogs or buildup. It’s mainly used to address minor issues. However, if you’re dealing with a severe problem, you’ll have to consider other methods to repair your damaged sewer line.
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Versus Professional Repair
Many homeowners might prefer to handle a sewer backup themselves. Although it might seem ideal, it could cost more in the long run, especially if greater skill is needed.
On the other hand, outsourcing services from a reputable vendor provides peace of mind, ensuring quality services. Also, it’ll save you from purchasing necessary tools, which can leave a massive dent in your savings margin. Additionally, you’ll avoid skin contact with contaminated water, reducing the risk of diseases and other issues.
Bottom Line
When facing issues like sewer backups, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize potential health risks and disruptions to your daily life. By considering options such as pipe relining, hydro jetting, and using plungers, you can effectively address these problems. Engaging a professional plumber ensures that the repairs are conducted safely and efficiently, saving you time and providing peace of mind. Keep your home running smoothly by addressing sewer backups with the appropriate solutions and expertise.
