The sewer system is one of the things we always forget about. Out of sight, out of mind, as people say. Usually, we notice it when it’s too late. When there’s a nasty clog or backed-up sewer line, it’s impossible not to smell extreme smells, and then you know there’s a problem. However, this problem can be quite expensive, so you should think about a way to avoid it. The good news is that all you need is a bit of care and attention. In this article, we’ll give you a few tips on how to maintain your sewer system and avoid clogs. Trust us, your wallet will be thankful.
If You Notice Any Problem, Schedule a Repair
All the wastewater from your home goes through the sewer line. This means that if the sewer line is clogged or damaged, all the wastewater comes to a standstill. Ground shifting, tree roots, or even old pipes can lead to cracks and blockages in your sewer line. Remember that it’s time to schedule a sewer line repair if you notice any strange sounds, slow drains, or bad smells in your yard. Don’t ignore these signs because it will only get worse over time. One small crack will become a major break. Minor clogs will lead to a huge issue. This is usually not a type of issue you can fix yourself, so it’s very important to call professionals if you notice any signs. They will use the camera to check the issue and will recommend what is the best thing to do before things get out of control. Don’t be sorry to spend some money, because it will cost you a lot later.
Pay Attention to What Goes Down the Drains
Most people treat their drains and pipes like trash cans. This is why the issue starts. Remember that you should never let anything go down your drain. What to avoid? First of all, grease and oil. Yes, these are liquids, but once they cool, they can stick to the pipes. Day by day, this builds up and causes clogs. Next, food scraps. Remember that certain foods like eggshells, coffee grounds, or rice can cause serious problems, even if you have a garbage disposal. Finally, just because a package has a “flushable” sign on it, trust us, it’s not. Never throw things like paper towels, baby wipes, or feminine hygiene products. Always remember - water, human waste, and toilet paper are the only things that belong to your sewer system.
Clean Your Drains Regularly
Even if you pay attention to what goes down the drain, you can’t avoid some buildup. This is why you should clean your drains regularly. How do you do it properly? Remember that you don’t need expensive chemicals. These can even cause more harm sometimes. You can use some simple ingredients that everyone has at home instead. For example, you can pour boiling water down the drains once a week. It will help melt any soap scum or grease. Also, there is a timeless combination of baking soda and vinegar. You can use it to break up minor clogs. Just pour some baking soda and vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 20 minutes, and flush with hot water. If you need extra help, we would recommend drain strainers. They are little gadgets that catch food scraps, hair, or anything else that can go down the drain. They are very cheap but will save you a lot of stress.
Check the Tree Roots
Tree roots are a real nightmare for sewer lines. Why? They are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients in your pipes. They can even grow into tiny cracks, and this can cause big damage over time. If there’s any tree close to the sewer line, always check if there are signs of root intrusion. It could be slow drains or even patches of extra-green grass. If you still want professionals to take a look at it, call them periodically to catch any issues early. If they notice an issue, they will tell you exactly what needs to be done. It will probably be using a root barrier or inserting some root-resistant materials.
Schedule Inspections
Regular inspections are the best thing you can do to maintain your sewer system and avoid clogs. Professionals should come every couple of years, even if you don’t see any issue. They can notice problems that your eye can’t before they cause serious damage. It’s like a visit to the dentist. It’s always better to catch a cavity early and not just wait till you need a root canal. How will professionals perform the inspection? Most of the time, they use a special camera to look inside the pipes. This way, they will see if there are any clogs, cracks, or other issues. If they find anything, even a minor thing, it should be addressed before it turns into a serious and expensive problem.
If You Don’t Know It, Find Where the Main Sewer Line Is
We know that this may sound like a basic thing, but many people don’t know where the main sewer line is in their house. This is the important thing because you will need to shut off the water if there is any major clog or backup. Take some time to find where the main sewer line is if you don’t know it already, and make sure to inform everyone in the house as well.
Be Careful With Future Projects
If you want to perform any exterior or interior projects in the future, it’s important to know where your sewer lines are before any digging starts. If a sewer line is hit with a shovel or an excavator, it can cause serious damage. It will also cost you a lot. So, before starting any project, mark the location of your sewer lines. You can call the local utility company to do this job.
Prevention is a cure for many problems in life. It also applies to the sewer system. If you take care of it properly, you will avoid a lot of headaches, costly repairs, and unpleasant smells. However, if the issue still happens, always call a professional.