The main sewer line of your living space is one of the most important pieces of plumbing in your house. This pipe carries wastewater away from your home and to the municipal sewer system. If this line becomes clogged, it can cause serious problems for your home.
Sewer pipe relining owner Dave Small understands that most homeowners do not think about their main sewer lines until they are too late. Unfortunately, many homeowners only realize they have a problem with their sewer line when sewage starts backing up into their homes. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to protect your main sewer line and prevent costly repairs in the future.
Here are some tips to help keep your main sewer line functioning properly.
Rainwater runoff
If there is a problem with your main sewer line during a rainfall event, it can result in serious flooding of your home. It is important that you avoid all areas of standing water around your property that could potentially flow into places where it should not. Use an asphalt shingle or similar device on both sides of your foundation wall as well as any downspouts to direct the water away from your house.
Do not pour grease down the drain
One of the most common causes of sewer backups is grease. When hot grease cools off, it will solidify and can easily clog your pipes. Always dispose of cooking grease in a safe and responsible manner – either by pouring it into a disposable container for later disposal in the trash or by using a grease stripper to help dissolve the contaminant before it has a chance to cause damage.
Proper maintenance
One of the best ways to prevent costly sewer problems is to perform proper maintenance on your system. This includes inspecting your system regularly for any signs of damage or wear and cleaning out any debris that may have built up over time.
Inspect your drainage system
It is a good idea to inspect your drainage system regularly, both inside and outside of your home. Check for cracks, leaks, or other damage, and make sure that all the joints are sealed properly. If you find any problems, address them as soon as possible.
Use a sewer grate
If you have a sewer grate in front of your house, make sure that it is always clear of leaves and other debris. This will help ensure that the water can flow freely through the grate and into the sewer system.
Keep tree branches trimmed
Tree branches can be a major nuisance when it comes to the drainage system. Make sure to keep tree branches and leaves trimmed away from your drainage system.
Avoid excess use of drain cleaners
It is a good idea to avoid the use of drain cleaners in your pipes, especially when they are not necessary. Sometimes people will try to use them on a slow running sink or tub when the real issue is something totally unrelated, like a clogged toilet. This can actually make the situation worse by damaging your plumbing.
Protect your main pipes against freezing weather
In areas where there is a threat of freezing weather, it is important to protect the sewer line of your property. You must be prepared for emergencies by keeping things like heat tape and cable covers handy. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, so this should be a no-brainer for anyone who lives in a cold climate.
Know where your main shut off valve is
If you ever experience a sewer emergency, it is important to know where the main shut off valve of your living space is located. This will allow you to quickly turn off the water supply to your home and minimize the damage.
Have a qualified plumber check your system regularly
The best way to prevent costly sewer problems is to have a qualified plumber check your system regularly. They will be able to identify any potential problems and take care of them before they become bigger issues.
Watch what you flush down the toilet
Just because something says “flushable” on the package does not mean that it is actually safe to flush down the toilet. Dispose of all waste in a responsible manner – do not take any chances.
Educate your family and friends about sewer safety
The best way to prevent sewer problems is to educate your family and friends about proper sewer safety. Show them how to avoid potential problems, and what to do if they experience a sewer emergency. It is always better to be safe than sorry.