Homeowners have many responsibilities. They must protect their assets, regardless of what this entails. However, certain tasks often get overlooked. For example, sewer line maintenance is one task many homeowners never complete.
Maintaining the sewer line helps ensure the proper functioning of the plumbing system while reducing the need for restoring damaged sewer lines and other expensive repairs. No homeowner wants sewage backing up into the home, and the accompanying damage and regular sewer line maintenance can help prevent this.
The Dangers of Overlooking Sewer Line Maintenance
Homeowners need to know the consequences of ignoring sewer line maintenance. When a sewer line is blocked, deteriorates, or leaks, sewage may back up into the home. Not only will this lead to water damage that must be remediated, but the house’s occupants are at risk of illnesses related to sewage exposure. Fixing the sewer line issue is only one of several costs a homeowner might be required to pay. Prioritizing sewer line maintenance reduces the risk of a sewer line problem and the accompanying costs.
Routine Inspections
Homeowners should have their sewer lines regularly inspected to catch problems early. A professional plumber is trained to catch problems before they escalate. During the inspection, the plumber looks for blockages, roots growing into the line, deteriorating pipes, and more. Based on what they find, the plumber will recommend how often these inspections should be conducted.
Take Care With Drain Lines
Homeowners must watch what they and family members put down the drains in the home. Diapers, wipes, and feminine products should never be flushed. Doing so can lead to clogs, complete blockages, and pipe damage. Ensure all family members know what can and cannot go down the drain.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regularly cleaning the sewer lines reduces the risk of a buildup or blockage. Plumbers use hydrojetting or mechanical augering to clear the lines. These methods remove debris, mineral deposits, and grease in the pipe and on the walls.
Tree Root Intrusion
Many sewer lines are damaged by tree roots growing into them. Roots enter the line to access the water and nutrients present. When doing so, the roots may break the pipes or block them. A plumber can remove these roots and recommend ways to avoid similar problems in the future.
Dispose of Grease Properly
Grease can quickly clog a sewer line and block it completely. Never pour cooking grease, oils, and fats down the drain. They may remain in the pipes and solidify. Over time, the grease, fats, and oils can block the pipes. Save grease in a container and throw the container in the trash. Homeowners find this is one of the easiest ways to protect the pipe from damage and blockages.
Be Proactive
Homeowners must know the warning signs of sewer line issues. Slow drains in the home need to be investigated immediately. Pipes should not gurgle when used and shouldn’t emit foul odors either. If a toilet or drain backs up, this is a sign there is a problem within the plumbing system. Call a plumber for help. They can determine whether the problem is with that fixture, the sewer line, or another plumbing system component and make the necessary repairs.
Homeowners can take steps, such as disposing of grease properly, to protect their household sewer lines. However, they must also know when professional help is needed to maintain the plumbing system properly. With the help of an experienced plumber, water and raw sewage will flow freely through the system.
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