6 Tips to Avoid Sewer Backup

Dealing with a sewer backup is no fun at all. It’s frustrating, messy, and expensive. However, while many things contribute to backups outside of your control, there are things you can do to help prevent them. And prevention is always the best option. 

1. Don’t Flush Anything but Toilet Paper

The most important tip is to make sure you and your family don’t flush anything but toilet paper. It’s that simple. Nothing else should go down your sewer line (other than waste, of course). 

2. Don’t Pour Grease or Fat Down the Drain

Grease and fat are natural byproducts of cooking, but they must be disposed of properly. Unfortunately, many people choose to pour them down the kitchen drain, and this leads to slow and clogged lines over time. Grease and fat eventually cool and solidify, building up within your lines. Instead of pouring them down the drain, dispose of them in the trash.

3. Don’t Plant Trees or Shrubs Near Sewer Lines

Avoid planting anything near your sewer lines. That includes trees, but also many shrubs. The problem is that tree and shrub roots can easily grow into your lines, damaging them and clogging them. While roots can be removed, it’s an avoidable expense and hassle.

4. Don’t Connect Anything Else to Your Sewer Line

Some homeowners connect their gutter downspouts and sump pumps to their sewer drains. It seems to make sense, at least superficially, but it’s a good way to clog up your lines and incur additional fees. Look into other ways to disperse storm water and seepage from low-lying basements.

5. Install a Backwater Valve

If you want to prevent a sewer backup, there’s nothing more important than having a backwater valve installed. These valves fit directly onto the main sewer line where it connects to your home. When the valve detects sewage backing up, it closes and prevents it from flowing back into the home. 

6. Have Your Drains and Lines Inspected

Perhaps the most important tip is this – have your lines and drains professionally inspected by Open Drains. They will be able to tell you what needs to be done to prevent a sewer backup and can offer regular maintenance to ensure that your sewer lines flow smoothly.

With a little bit of preparation and the right plumber, it’s never been easier to prevent a sewer backup in your home.