The importance of regular maintenance for your home sewage system

Most people do not know the importance of having a well-maintained sanitary drainage system. The sewage system is made to take the water that is flushed down toilets, sinks, showers, and dishwashers away from your home. In order for these systems to function properly, it is important that you have a professional come in and inspect your system every few years. Homeowners often do not know the importance of having a sanitary drainage system until something goes wrong.

One of the main problems that can occur with these systems is when tree roots grow into the sewer line. The roots can cause blockages that lead to sewage backing up into your home. This can be a health hazard as well as a costly repair. Another problem that can occur is when grease and oil are poured down the drain. Over time, these substances can build up and cause a blockage. If you have a professional clean your system regularly, they will be able to catch these problems before they cause serious damage.

Regular maintenance of your sanitary drainage system is the best way to avoid costly repairs.

The Drain System

All the interior plumbing fixtures of your home, the toilets, showers, and sinks all have drains that feed underground and out of your house to a main sanitary sewer system or septic tank. Each fixture connects to a branch drain that connects to a main. The main line is the lowest point of the drain and each should feed using gravity to that main line out of the house. Each fixture in addition to the sanitary line also has a vent. This vent typically runs to the roof and penetrates the roofing membrane. It provides regulation to the air pressure in the system that helps to allow the water to flow freely without getting backed up in the system.

What causes clogs?

The things that go down your drains, both big and small, have an impact on whether or not they become clogged. Some of the things that commonly cause clogs include:

• Hair
• Soap scum
• Grease and oil
• Food scraps
• Coffee grounds
• Paper products

While some of these items will dissolve over time, others will not. When they mix with other substances and build up, they can create a clog.

Recurring clogs could show signs of improperly installed pipes. Sharp turns in the direction of the pipe or improperly sloped runs could lead to them not discharging properly.

Unclogging drains

If you have a clog, there are a few things you can do to try and clear it yourself. The first thing you should try is a plunger. Many people don't realize that you can use a plunger on a sink drain. You will need to cover the overflow to successfully create the suction required, but you will find it works much better than the liquid drain cleaner solutions. If that does not work, you can try using a plumber’s snake. This is a long, flexible piece of metal that you insert into the drain and push through the clog. If neither of these methods works, you will need to call a professional to clear the blockage.

Chemical drain cleaners are also an option, but they can be corrosive and weaken pipes over time. Many plumbers recommend enzyme cleaners. They can be used regularly to help maintain the system.

Signs of sewer problems

There are a few signs that you may have a sewer problem. If more than one drain is backing up, it is likely that you have a blockage in the main sewer line. You may also hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains or see water backing up into your tub or shower when you flush the toilet. If you see any of these signs, you should call a professional to have your system checked as soon as possible.

Causes of sewer problems

There are a few things that can cause sewer problems. One of the most common is tree roots growing into the sewer line. The roots can block the line and cause sewage to back up into your home. Grease and oil can also build up over time and cause a blockage. If you have a professional clean your system regularly, they will be able to catch these problems before they cause serious damage.

Resolving sewer problems

The best way to avoid costly repairs is to have regular maintenance done on your system. A professional will be able to inspect your system and clear any blockages before they become a problem. This will help to keep your home safe and healthy and save you money in the long run.

You may not know how important your sewage system is until it becomes clogged and overflows. Luckily, when you have a professional clean your system regularly they will be able to catch these problems before they cause serious damage.

Thanks for reading and I hope you found some of the home tips useful!