Plumbing issues are frustrating and can also be dangerous when raw sewage is involved. Nobody wants to deal with nasty odors, a toilet that won’t drain, backups, and other problems with this system.
The time and money needed to resolve the system might be in short supply, but the homeowner may need professional help. Preventing these issues is always the best option.
How can a homeowner protect the plumbing system from sewage blockages? What steps can they take? The following guide provides the answers every person needs to keep their sewer lines flowing freely.
Take Care When Flushing
Only flush toilet paper and waste down the drain. Many people flush baby wipes, hygiene products, and other items down the drain and then wonder why there is a blockage. Toilet paper, unlike most items, breaks down quickly and is easily washed away.
The problem may extend beyond the toilet and affect lines throughout the home. Blockages may also harm municipal sewage systems. Pay attention to what is being flushed down the toilets in the house to avoid paying a plumber for inspecting your sewage lines.
Choose Wisely When Landscaping
Mature trees add to a home’s value. However, if the roots make their way into the plumbing system, problems arise. Consider this when planting new trees and ensure they are far enough from the home and sewer lines that they won’t make their way into these lines. If the property already has trees, calling a plumber and requesting a camera inspection never hurts. They can view the inside of the lines to see if tree roots have infiltrated them. If they have, the plumber will clear the lines before they become blocked.
Throw Grease Away Rather Than Washing It Down the Drain
Many people pour cooking grease down the drain. When it solidifies, it blocks the lines. While it’s tempting to do so for convenience, the problems that crop up take more time, energy, and money to resolve. Put the cooking grease into a designated container and allow it to solidify. When it does, throw it away.
Run Hot Water Regularly
Hot water helps break down any soap scum and grease building up in the drains. Run hot water in all drains regularly to reduce the risk of a blockage. People often don’t realize how much this simple step can help keep the plumbing system from problems. While it isn’t good for the environment to run hot water for long periods when not showering or doing dishes, there are some benefits.
Plumbing System Maintenance
Use enzyme-based drain cleaners to remove buildup in the pipes before they become blocked. Enzymes break down blockages and keep the sewer lines in good shape. Many people choose chemical products, but plumbers warn against using them. They can harm the plumbing system and may not clear the blockage. It’s harder for a plumber to work on lines that have chemicals in them. Enzyme-based cleaners are a much safer option.
Professional Plumbing Inspections
Have a plumber inspect the system routinely. When having this inspection completed, don’t focus only on sewer lines. Allow them to examine all components to ensure problems aren’t lurking behind walls, in cabinets, or the crawl space. Most plumbers have cameras to see the inside of pipes and sewer lines and catch problems early.
Contact a plumber today for this inspection. Once homeowners know what they are dealing with, a plan can be developed to prevent future problems. It’s always best to take action before problems arise to prevent a sewage backup.
Nobody wants raw sewage in the home. With the help of a professional plumbing inspection, the risk of this happening decreases.
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