4 Proactive Measures To Prevent Sewage Backup

Clogged pipes can be a big hassle for any homeowner in Jefferson County, TN, and they are a common cause of a sewer or water backup. To minimize the risk of your home flooding, you should implement the following precautions.

1. Properly Dispose of Grease

You should avoid pouring grease down your kitchen drain because it can stick to the pipe’s surface, eventually creating a blockage. To properly dispose of grease, wipe it off pots and pans with a paper towel or pour it into a can that you can throw in the trash.

2. Avoid Flushing Unnecessary Items

Paper towels, disposable wipes, and feminine hygiene products can also clog pipes and potentially cause a sewage overflow. For this reason, you should always dispose of these items in the trash instead of in the toilet.

3. Choose a Strategic Location for Trees and Shrubs

The purpose of a plant’s root system is to absorb water. If you plant trees and shrubs near water and sewer lines, roots may eventually find their way to the pipe and possibly penetrate its interior. Excessive root infiltration can clog the pipe, cause a backup issue and create the need for a licensed plumber to perform a sewer cleaning. To avoid this situation, ensure you know where underground pipes are located before commencing any landscaping project.

4. Install Safety Devices

As an additional safeguard, you can also install a flood deterrent device, such as a one-way floor drain or a backwater valve. Both items are effective mechanisms that can prevent water from flowing back into your home. If you chose to purchase any device, consider contacting a licensed plumber to help you properly install it.

Clogged pipes can be a significant problem for your city’s entire sewage system. Unfortunately, every community is also potentially susceptible to powerful storms capable of producing heavy rainfall and significant storm damage. Floodwaters can easily overwhelm drainage and sewer systems, making your home more susceptible to a sewer or water backup. However, implementing these four measures can protect your pipes from unnecessary damage, helping to reduce your home’s flood risk and the need for extensive cleanup and restoration efforts.