Having a home means having responsibilities, one of which is the maintenance and repair of your sewer line. Sewer lines are an essential part of any home as they are responsible for collecting wastewater from all your drains, toilets, sinks, and tubs and safely transporting it away from your home.
A broken or clogged sewer line can lead to a variety of issues, such as bad smells, slow drains, and even sewage backups. This guide provides all the information you need to know as a homeowner to keep your sewer lines in top condition.
Understand Your Sewer System
Before you can maintain your sewer line, you have to understand how it works. Your sewer consists of the lateral line that connects your home plumbing to the main sewer line under the street. The lateral line should be sloped downwards and away from your property to guarantee smooth flow. Take note of where your sewer line connects your house to the main line, as this is where potential issues may arise.
Schedule Routine Sewer Line Inspections
Sewer line problems are not always visible, and what starts out as a small problem can quickly spiral into a significant issue. To avoid surprises, it is essential to schedule camera inspections on an annual or semi-annual basis to detect issues before they become significant. With these inspections, professionals can examine the interior of your sewer line and identify any potential problem areas, such as leaks, obstructions, corrosion, and cracks.
Know What to Flush
Knowing what should and should not go down your drains can help prolong the sewer’s lifespan. Avoid flushing items such as flushable wipes, feminine hygiene products, cooking grease, and cotton swabs. Instead, dispose of them in the trash. These items can accumulate and cause blockages, leading to a backup in your sewer line.
Take Care of Your Trees
As trees grow, their roots can invade and infiltrate your sewer line, blaming for up to 50% of sewer blockages. As a homeowner, it’s critical to take care of your home’s trees by planting them an adequate distance from the sewer line. Also, avoid planting trees that have aggressive root systems. If you already have trees planted, consult with a professional to have them regularly trimmed to prevent any issues.
Act Quickly
The most crucial tip of all is always to act quickly when a sewer problem arises. Waiting can cause significant damage and be more costly in the end. Signs of problems may include slow drains, bad odours, gurgling noises, and visible backups. Once you begin to notice any unusual behaviour, call in professionals for a sewer line repair before it gets any worse.
In conclusion, your home’s sewer line is a vital component of your home and needs to be maintained to prevent any issues. By following these five tips, you can prevent problems before they start, avoid costly repairs, and extend the lifespan of your sewer line. Remember to schedule regular inspections, avoid flushing harmful objects down the drain, plant trees a safe distance from the line, and always act fast when an issue arises. With these tips, you can ensure a smooth-running sewer line.
Also, read: How to Keep Your Drains Clear and Unclogged With These Proven Plumbing Tips
