A backed-up sewer is one of the most frustrating and daunting issues homeowners can face, characterized by smelly odors and potential health risks. Recognizing the signs early, understanding the causes, and knowing what steps to take can mitigate damage and restore your home’s comfort and plumbing. Our blocked drain plumbers here at The Local Plumber Melbourne have helped resolve sewer backup issues 1000s of times. That is why we have created the following guide to help you navigate the distress of a sewer backup effectively.
What Are The Signs of Sewer Backups?
Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of a sewer backup can help mitigate damage and streamline the resolution process. Based on our daily experiences in helping our fellow Melbourne locals, here are the key signs that you may have a backed up sewer:
1. Multiple Clogged Drains
If you notice that more than one drain is clogged in your home, especially if the blockages occur in the lower sections of your house like basements and ground floor bathrooms, then this could be a sign of a sewer backup.
2. Changes in Toilet Flushes
If you notice unusual gurgling sounds or if the water level in your toilets fluctuates strangely whenever you flush your toilet, these could be signs of a sewer blockage affecting your home’s overall plumbing system.
3. Water Backflow
Any instance where water backs up out of a sink drain or toilet when you run your washing machine or dishwasher is a classic sign of a sewer backup.
4. Bad Odors and Smells
Persistent, foul odors emanating from your drains can indicate a serious problem deep within your sewer lines. If you have tried natural blocked drain remedies such as pouring boiling hot water and baking soda and vinegar, and the smell still persists then we highly recommend to contact your local plumber to get this issue fixed asap
What Are The Main Causes of Sewer Backups?
Understanding what has caused your sewer backups can help in both future prevention and the potential solutions we have for getting this issue fixed. Here are the most common causes:
1. Tree Roots
Tree root blocked drains can grow into pipes, causing obstructions or even pipe damage. They are attracted to the moisture in sewer lines and can infiltrate even the smallest cracks. That is why plumbers highly recommend to avoid planting trees and shrubs near the plumbing lines.
2. Clogged Pipes
Non-flushable items such as wipes, diapers, or extensive build-up of kitchen grease can clog household pipes or main sewer lines, leading to backups. Another typical culprit of blocked drains is large clumps of hair.
3. Aging Sewer Systems
Older sewer systems can degrade over time, leading to collapses or failures that result in backups.
4. Structural Defects
Cracks, misaligned joints, and collapses in the sewer lines can impede the normal flow of wastewater, causing backups.
What to Do If You Suspect a Sewer Backup?
1. Cease Using Water
Minimize water usage in your home to prevent further backing up. If you have serious sewer backups and to prevent others within your household from using taps and showers, then turning off your water main is also recommended.
2. Check with your Neighbors
Confirm whether the problem is isolated to your house or affecting others on your street. If your neighbors are experiencing similar issues, the problem might be with your local council’s sewer line. If you suspect that this may be the issue, be sure to contact Melbourne City’s Council as they are responsible for the following:
- Blocked/flooding stormwater drains
- Missing grate covers
- problems with a connection from a private property into a City of Melbourne drain.
3. Contact Professional Plumbers
Call a professional plumbing service like The Local Plumber Melbourne immediately. Handling sewer backup issues can be hazardous due to the bacteria and viruses present in wastewater. Our plumbers have all the tools and technology to quickly unblock your drains within the same day. Some techniques include employing CCTV drain inspections, jet blasting and drain snakes.
4. Take Safety Precautions
While waiting for professional help, keep away from affected areas to avoid contact with potentially harmful waste. If you must handle wet materials, wear gloves, boots, and masks.
Preventing Future Sewer Backups
1. Regular Maintenance
Schedule regular inspections and cleaning of your sewer line, especially if you have large trees on your property.
2. Dispose of Waste Properly
Never flush anything besides toilet paper down the toilet. Avoid pouring grease down your kitchen drain and consider using hair catchers in shower drains.
3. Install a Backwater Prevention Valve
This valve can be installed into a sewer line in your basement to allow sewage to go out but prevent it from coming back in.
4. Upgrade Your Pipes
If you live in an older home, consider replacing your clay or metal sewage pipes with newer plastic or PVC pipes, which are less susceptible to corrosion and tree root invasion.
Melbourne’s Backed Up Sewer Plumbers
A backed-up sewer can disrupt your life significantly, but knowing how to recognize the signs, understanding the causes, and taking prompt action can help manage the situation effectively. If you’re dealing with a sewer backup or want to take preventative measures, contact The Local Plumber Melbourne. Our team of emergency plumbers are equipped to handle all your plumbing emergencies and maintenance needs, ensuring your home remains clean and safe. Contact us today for same day services and a lifetime warranty on all warranty and workmanship.