Common Causes of Commercial Sewers Backing Up

Sewage backups can quickly become a health hazard to your employees, clients, or customers on your property. Knowing some of the most common causes of sewer backups can help you understand the importance of preventative maintenance services from Mr. Rooter® Plumbing of Olympia. Commercial property owners often face the following problems with their sewer systems:

• Tree root infiltration
• Soil settlement
• Misaligned joints
• Grease build-up
• Collapsed pipes
• Items flushed down drains

Sewer Backup Solutions for All Types of Businesses

Sewer system backups can stop your business productivity, create an unprofessional work environment, and be expensive to resolve. The licensed plumbers at Mr. Rooter® Plumbing of Olympia provide sewer backup solutions for all types of commercial properties, including office buildings, restaurants, retail stores, schools, medical facilities, and much more. Additionally, one of the best ways to prevent your commercial sewer from backing up is to sign up for our Advantage Plan® for routine plumbing preventive maintenance services on your system.

Contact Mr. Rooter® Plumbing of Olympia to Request Sewer Service

When your commercial sewer system backs up, there's only one company you need to call. Rest assured, the plumbing professionals at Mr. Rooter® Plumbing of Olympia will get your plumbing system back in pristine condition so you can resume business as usual in Olympia, Lacey, or Tumwater, WA. Our technicians always arrive on time for scheduled appointments, and we can be there at any time of the day for plumbing emergencies. Contact us today to schedule service or request an estimate for sewer backup repair services!

Commercial Sewer System Backups FAQ

How do I know my business's sewer is backed up?

If your business's sewer is backed up, you might notice that the drains take longer than usual to clear, or there might be water backing up in places like the floor drains. Sometimes, you might hear gurgling sounds from the toilets or see bubbles. A foul smell could also indicate something's wrong with the sewer. If you suspect a problem, it's best to call us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Olympia immediately so we can inspect and fix the issue before it worsens. Regular maintenance can also help prevent sewer backups for businesses, saving time and money in the long run.

How does a tree root affect my sewer system?

Tree roots can cause significant problems for your sewer system. They're like explorers looking for water; if they find a tiny crack or hole in your sewer pipes, they'll sneak in. Once inside, they can grow and block the pipe, causing water to back up or even damage the pipe more. It's like a tree root invasion that can cost much money to fix.

What can I do to help prevent sanitary sewer backups?

To prevent sewer backups, don't flush items down the toilet that don't belong, like wipes (even if they say flushable), paper towels, or anything that's not toilet paper. Make sure not to pour grease down the sink in the kitchen because it can cool and harden in your pipes, causing clogs. Having a professional from Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Olympia check and clean your sewer lines regularly can stop backups before they start. These preventative measures help keep your sewer system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

How much does a commercial sewer system backup service cost?

The cost of fixing a commercial sewer system backup can vary. It depends on how bad the backup is, what caused it, and how long it takes to fix it. Sometimes, it might cost a few hundred dollars, but if the problem is big, like tree roots damaging the pipes, it could be more. Getting an estimate from a professional company before you hire them to start any work is always a good idea.

How long will a commercial sewer system backup service take?

The time it takes to fix a commercial sewer system backup also depends on what's wrong. If it's a simple clog that can be cleared with a snake, it might be done in a few hours. But if the problem is more serious, like replacing damaged pipes because of tree roots, it could take days. The professionals will give you an idea of how long it will take after they check out the problem. Ultimately, it's best to address sewer system backups immediately to avoid potential damage and inconvenience. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Olympia, our team is equipped with the necessary expertise and tools to handle any commercial plumbing issue quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruptions to your business operations.

What causes sewer clogs and backups?

Sewer clogs and backups happen when elements that shouldn't go down the drain (like wipes, grease, or significant bits of waste) get stuck in the sewer pipes. Think of it like a traffic jam in the pipe, where nothing can move forward because of blockages. Over time, these blockages can get bigger if more debris keeps getting stuck on them, causing the water to back up and sometimes even flow back into homes.

My basement is backed up with sewage. Who should I call, and what should I do?

If your basement is backed up with sewage, that's a plumbing emergency! You should immediately call a professional to identify the root of the problem and devise a solution that'll last. It's important not to try to clean it up yourself because sewage can have harmful bacteria that can make you or your loved ones sick. An expert, like one from our team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Olympia, has the right tools and knowledge to fix the problem and can help ensure your basement gets cleaned up safely.

What are the possible causes of a sewer problem or stoppage?

To determine what's causing a sewer problem, consider what goes down your drains and if anything unusual has been flushed or washed away. Factors to consider include whether you've had a lot of rain recently (which can overload sewer systems), if there's a history of sewer problems in your area, or if you've been flushing items that don't break down quickly. Most of these types of products consist of feminine hygiene products or wipes. A professional can always thoroughly clean these items from your system so they flow as usual.

What can I do to help prevent sanitary sewer backups?

You can help prevent sewer backups by being careful about what you put down your drains. Don't flush anything other than toilet paper — no wipes (even if they say they're flushable), paper towels, and toys (as sometimes kids think the toilet is a fun water slide!). Avoid pouring grease down the sink in the kitchen because it can harden in the pipes and cause a blockage. It shouldn't go down the drain if it doesn't break down easily in water. It's also a good idea to have your sewer lines regularly inspected and cleaned by professionals, as they can catch any potential problems before they become significant.

Who should I call about sewer odor?

If there's a nasty sewer smell in your house or yard, it's a good idea to call a professional to check it out. There might be a problem with your home's plumbing system, like a dry trap in the drain that's supposed to block odors from coming back up, or there could be a bigger issue with the sewer line. An expert can help find the source of the smell and fix it so you can live comfortably and conveniently in your home.