Preventing Sewer Line Emergencies
The challenge with sewer line emergencies is that it’s hard to detect the small, easily fixable problems that lead to them. This is because your sewer line is underground, so you might not notice a problem until it becomes an emergency. But there are things you can do to help prevent these troubles in the first place.
Have Your Sewer Line Checked
One of the best ways to prevent a sewer line emergency is to call in a professional plumber and have the line checked and cleaned. This should happen once a year, or more often if you have a large household.
Put in a Backwater Prevention Valve
This is a valve in your sewer line that lets wastewater flow out but doesn’t let it come back in. You’ll need a professional plumber to install this valve, most likely in your basement or crawl space.
Have Illegal Connections Fixed
If you find illegal plumbing connections feeding into your sewer line, ask a professional to fix them right away. The fixtures that do connect to your sewer line, such as your toilet and sinks, need to be up to code.
Illegal connections typically include:
- Sump pump
- French drains
- Garden pond
- Swimming pool
- Downspouts
- Air conditioner condensation line
- Refrigerator condensation line
Use Natural Cleaners
You might be able to use a lye-based drain cleaner once in a great while to clean out a stubborn clog. However, for regular cleaning, choose mild and natural cleansers. Harsh chemical cleaners can harm your plumbing pipes and even make clogs worse. Your regular go-to is baking soda and white vinegar rinsed with hot water.
Stop Using Water for a While
Another way to prevent sewer line emergencies is to stop using water when you suspect that a serious problem is developing. This is because running water makes it more likely that raw sewage will back up into your house. Clearly, not being able to use water for a long period is itself problematic. One solution is to keep jugs of drinking water on hand.
Add Drain Covers
This preventive measure is so simple and inexpensive that it is easy to overlook. Drain covers catch all manner of objects that can clog the pipes and cause a serious problem.
Call Us for Sewer Line Maintenance
The issues mentioned above are only a few of the problems that can affect your sewer line. If you need sewer service in Huntsville, AL, call our skilled and experienced plumbers at Around the Clock Plumbing.
