In winter, flooding can occur due to melting snow, faulty water heaters, or clogged sewer lines. One of the most damaging forms of water damage comes from sewer backups, often referred to as “black water” overflow. This type of contamination is highly destructive, as many items affected by black water are unsalvageable. Moreover, sewer water is filled with harmful pathogens that can pose serious health risks. For all of your sewer repair needs contact M&B Services serving the greater Minneapolis / St.Paul areas.
Common Causes of Sewer Backups
Sewer backups are not only a messy inconvenience but also a potential health hazard. When sewage contaminates your home, it introduces bacteria, viruses, and toxic substances that can be dangerous to your family and pets. Instead of dealing with the unpleasant aftermath of a sewer backup, prevention is key. Understanding the primary causes of sewer backups can help you avoid this situation. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Tree Root Infiltration: Roots from nearby trees can invade and block sewage lines.
- Structural Defects: Cracks, collapses, or other issues in sewage lines and plumbing can lead to backups.
- Poor Sewage Line Design: Improper planning or installation of sewage systems can cause serious issues over time.
- Broken Pipes: Damaged or broken pipes can disrupt the flow of waste, leading to backups.
- Improper Disposal: Items that shouldn’t be flushed, such as wipes or sanitary products, can cause blockages in the system.
- Waste Line Leaks: Leaks in the waste line can create pressure imbalances that result in backups.
- Frozen Septic Systems: In cold weather, septic systems may freeze, preventing proper drainage.
- Blocked Sewer Vents: When vents are blocked, airflow is disrupted, which can lead to backup issues.
By addressing these potential causes, you can take proactive steps to prevent sewer backups and protect your home.
Even though you may understand what causes a sewer backup, predicting when one will happen can be difficult. The indicators, such as blockages, leaks, and defects, are usually hidden underground or within your home’s structure. However, sewer lines often provide a few warning signs before a backup occurs. Look out for the following:
- Foul odors inside your home, particularly from drains.
- Gurgling sounds when flushing toilets or when water drains.
- Slow draining tubs, sinks, showers, or laundry lines.
Winter Tips to Prevent a Sewer Line Backup
Preventing a sewer line backup is crucial, especially during the winter months when freezing temperatures can add to the problem. Here are some year-round precautions to reduce the risk:
- Properly dispose of grease. Don’t pour grease down drains, as it can harden and cause blockages.
- Avoid grinding hard items like bones or fibrous materials in the garbage disposal.
- Be mindful of what you flush. Items like sanitary products, tampons, and baby wipes should never be flushed.
- Test your sump pump regularly, and if you don’t have one, consider installing one to prevent basement flooding.
- Clear snow from sewer vents. Snow accumulation can block vents and cause sewer gases to back up into your home.
- Add water to drains. Pour water into lesser-used drains, such as basement floor drains, to prevent sewer gases from entering.
- Insulate or heat your sewer vent to prevent freezing. Consider working with a professional to install a heating element in the attic or add extra insulation to keep the vent clear.
- Work with a professional plumber to winter-proof your home’s sewer system and address any potential issues before they escalate.
Need Sewage Cleanup Services?
If a sewage backup does occur, it’s essential to call a professional cleanup service immediately due to the health hazards posed by bacteria and viruses in contaminated water. M & B Services provides comprehensive water and sewage damage restoration services. We handle everything from blockages caused by foreign objects and tree roots to flooding and structural issues.
M & B Services operates throughout the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas.
If you’re in need of sewage cleanup services, contact M & B Services for fast and professional help to prevent further damage to your home.