Sewer backups can occur anywhere in your sewer lines, affecting all drains in your home. Let's delve into the common causes of these unpleasant occurrences:
- Tree Roots: Roots always search for water, and your sewer lines have a generous supply. These roots can grow into the pipes and clog them with debris and dirt.
- Grease Buildup: When grease or fat accumulates in the sewer lines, it solidifies, causing blockages that can lead to significant backups with rippling effects beyond the kitchen sink.
- Flushing Non-Degradable Items: Even though you think it may be small enough, any non-degradable item can cause a backup. This includes paper towels, kitchen sponges, or even too many of those wipes that are labeled as “flushable."
- Structural Damage to Sewer Lines: Broken sewer lines happen. Whether the ground shifted due to an earthquake or an old and corroded line collapsed, any disruption in the pipes can cause significant backups.
- Heavy Rainfall or Floods: When too much water flows through the sewer system at once, it has difficulty draining and will back up into your property. This is especially common during heavy rains or flooding conditions.
While this list includes common causes of sewer backups, it's not exhaustive. If you notice unusual signs like sewage smell or visible sewage, seek professional help immediately. Early inspection can prevent minor issues from escalating!
