Sewer line clogs can cause major disruptions to your home’s system of plumbing. To avoid damage or costly repairs, you must act fast when clogs appear. Understanding the causes and prevention of sewer line clogs is important if you are experiencing plumbing problems. You can also contact experts at My Guys Now. This article will discuss the causes of clogged sewer lines and how to avoid them.
Sewer Line Blockages: What Are The Common Causes?
- Tree Roots
The most common reason for sewer line clogs is tree roots. By nature, the roots of trees, vegetation, and other plants are attracted to water sources. Moisture and nutrients within sewer lines attract these roots. Over time, these roots can enter sewer pipes via small cracks, joints, or holes. They will grow and cause blockages. It can lead to clogged drains, backups, and even pipe damage.
Solution: A plumber can clear roots using specialized tools, such as hydrojetting or rooters. In some cases, relining or pipe replacement may be required. Consider using root barriers and planting trees or shrubs away.
- Grease
Kitchen drains are a major cause of sewer line clogs. Once poured down the sink, these substances will solidify, coating the insides of the pipes and restricting the flow of water. Over time, these substances can cause major blockages to the entire sewer network.
Solution: Don’t pour fats and oils down the drain. To dispose of these items, place them in a trash container. If a blockage has already occurred, a professional plumber may use hydro jets or chemical cleaners in order to clear it.
- Foreign Objects
The clogs are caused by foreign objects which accidentally enter the plumbing system. Some of the most common culprits are paper towels and non-flushable such as toys, hygiene products, and paper towels. These objects can cause blockages and prevent water from flowing freely.
Solution: Inform your household about what you can and can’t flush down the toilet or wash in the drain. Plumbers can locate and remove a clog using augers or cameras.
- Mineral Buildup
In areas that have hard water, the buildup of minerals inside pipes can be a major problem. Minerals, such as calcium or magnesium, can accumulate in pipes over time. This narrows the pipe’s diameter and causes clogs. This is especially problematic for older homes that have galvanized piping.
Solution: Installation of a water conditioner can help reduce mineral deposits. To clear out clogged pipes, a plumber will use descaling agent or hydro jetting.
- Sagging Sewer Lines
Over time, ground shifting and settling can cause sewer pipe sections to “belly.” These low areas in the pipe can collect waste, paper, and debris, causing a blockage. Poor installation and natural aging may cause pipes to sag.
Solution: Fixing sagging pipes often requires excavating and replacing the damaged section. Regular inspections help identify problems and correct them before they worsen.
- Flushing non-flushable Items
Many products labeled “flushable,” such as wipes and feminine hygiene products, can cause clogs. These items are not easily broken down by water and can build up along the sewer line.
Solution: only flush human waste or toilet paper. Throw away other items. In the event of a blockage, a professional plumber can use hydrojetting or a snake to clear it.
- Pipe Size
Inside older cast-iron or galvanized piping, scale, which is a combination between rust and mineral deposits, can form. This buildup reduces the internal diameter, which can cause clogs or slow drainage.
Solution: Descaling involves the removal of buildup using specialized equipment. This can restore pipe flow. In some instances, pipe replacement can be the best long term solution.
Preventive Actions
It is important to keep your sewer lines clear by performing regular maintenance on them and using the plumbing system in a responsible manner. Here are a few tips to keep your sewer pipes clear.
- Proper Elimination: Avoid flushing unflushable items, and dispose of grease, oil, and fat in the proper manner.
- Tree planting: Use root barriers and plant trees and shrubs well away from sewer lines.
- Softening: Installing a water softener will reduce mineral accumulation in pipes.
- Educate Family Members. Make sure all members of your family are aware of what is and is not acceptable to flush down the sink or drain.
Conclusion
By understanding the causes of sewer line obstructions and implementing preventative measures, it is possible to maintain a plumbing system that functions efficiently. Professional help from Your Guys Now may be required if you have persistent or serious clogs. The key to avoiding sewer line clogs is regular maintenance and proper usage.
