Tips for a Healthy Sewer System

If you have ever had a sewer problem in your home, you already know that you don’t want to deal with something similar again. A backed up sewer drain can cause chaos in your home, not to mention damage caused by flooding, standing water, or other complication. If you are a home or business owner, you can take preventative steps to decrease your risk of emergency situations caused by sewer back up. Here are a few of our tips to have a healthy sewer system.

Beware What Goes Down Your Drains
Most sewer flooding situations are caused by blocked pipes. One way to keep your pipes from being blocked is to be vigilant about what goes down your drains, your toilet, and your garbage disposal. Don’t flush items like paper towels, and only use flushable wipes. As for the garbage disposal, don’t use it as a garbage can. Instead, empty plates into your trash can before rinsing in your sink. Items like bones can cause damage to the blades and unsuspecting items like celery can leave tangled fibers in your sewer system that can cause a litany of problems later.

Make it a household rule that grease stays out of the garbage disposal and drains. Further, make sure everyone in the home knows what not to flush.

Be Vigilant
Keep an eye – and an ear – out for any potential warning signs that your sewer system is blocked. For example, is your toilet slow to flush or are your drains more sluggish than usual? These can be telltale signs that a problem is brewing, and you can address the situation before it becomes an all out crisis. Your ears can also tell you if a potential problem is on the horizon. Listen for any strange noises, like gurgling or bubbling, coming from your drains. Finally, let your nose get in on the action. Odd odors or foul smells coming from your drain areas can also indicate potential problems.

Follow Up Immediately
When you suspect a problem, don’t delay in getting a professional opinion. An experienced plumber can diagnose a sewer issue quickly and give you the plan for fixing it sooner than later. Even if you aren’t seeing, hearing, or smelling something strange, it is still wise to invite a plumber to your home for an inspection at least every few years.

At Elk Grove Village Sewer and Plumbing, we are ready to make sure your sewer lines are clear and efficient. Give us a call today to set up an appointment for a home visit.