Most sewer line problems start small but can quickly turn into big issues if you don’t address them promptly. Flushing the wrong items down the toilet, tree roots growing into pipes, or just worn-out pipes are a few things that can cause these problems. There are some safety guidelines you can follow to prevent plumbing nightmares with your sewer line.
Look for Signs You May Have an Issue
Before a full-blown plumbing disaster happens, your house will usually give you a few hints that something is wrong. If you notice bad smells coming from your drains, toilets bubbling or not flushing correctly, or water backing up in strange places, you need to pay attention. These signs can mean your sewer line is blocked or damaged and needs some TLC before things get worse.
If you don’t address sewer line problems, they can become health hazards. Even short-term exposure to raw sewage can cause illnesses, such as skin rashes and respiratory conditions. Long-term exposure can cause organ failure or even death.
Preventing Sewer Line Nightmares
To avoid these nightmares, there are some preventative measures you must take. Consider the following.
Be careful what you flush down the toilets. Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Even if products say they are flushable, like certain wipes, they can still cause blockages.
Watch what you allow to go down your drains. Grease, coffee grounds, and other sticky or chunky substances from food scraps can build up and block your sewer line.
Plant trees wisely. Tree roots love sewer lines because they are a source of water and nutrients. If you are planting new trees, make sure they’re far away from your sewer line to prevent roots from causing damage.
Never Forget Regular Maintenance
One of the best ways to prevent a plumbing nightmare is to keep up with regular maintenance. You need to have your sewer line inspected and cleaned approximately once a year, especially if your home is older or you have had issues in the past. A licensed plumber can use cameras to look inside your pipes and spot any potential problems before they turn into major disasters.
What to Do If You Suspect a Problem
If you notice any of the warning signs, don’t wait to act. The sooner you address sewer line issues, the easier and cheaper they will be to fix. Contact a professional plumber who can accurately diagnose and fix the problem. Trying to tackle it yourself will make things worse.
Dealing with a sewer line issue is the last thing you want to do, but with these guidelines, you can prevent most problems from happening in the first place. Upkeeping your plumbing is part of taking care of your home because it helps maintain a sanitary living environment. If you suspect problems with your sewer line, contact Royal Services for sewer line repair in Brighton, CO straight away.