Sewer line breaks are an unpleasant situation for everyone involved. Along with expenses, breaks can release harmful bacteria and cause property damage to the surrounding area. Preventing line breaks should be a priority for every property owner. While the best steps toward prevention are maintenance, it can be difficult to know how to maintain a system you can’t see. Fortunately, these tips for properly maintaining your sewer line will help.
Be Wary of What Goes Down the Drain
A sewer line is designed to take in water, human waste, and toilet paper. Other things in the system can clog or damage the pipes. Because of this, you should avoid flushing certain things down the toilet:
- Paper towels
- Baby wipes
- Q-tips
- Cotton swabs
- Diapers
- Pads
- Tampons
Additionally, you should prevent food and hair from going down the bathroom sink’s drain as much as possible.
Flush and Wash Your System
Though we try to keep dander out of our sewer systems, some items will inevitably get past us. And these little items will accumulate. Because of this, you should flush or wash your system regularly. Keep reading for an overview of these two processes.
How To Flush Your System
To flush your pipes, fill your sinks with water until full, and then pull the stopper to let the water rush through the pipes. Another way to do this is to boil water and dump it down the drain. You should pour a half pot at a time, and can do this weekly or monthly.
Note that this is a way to maintain your sewer line and not correct a major clog. Trying to flush your system with a clog can lead to overflowing.
How To Wash Your System
At times, it’s beneficial to use a cleaner in your pipes along with water. Store-bought enzymatic cleaners clear grease and deodorize pipes. If you prefer fewer chemicals, you can use a mix of baking soda, vinegar, and boiled water.
Address Issues Quickly
It’s easy to notice problems like backups and breaks with major sewer lines. However, these issues often result from a culmination of minor problems. If you can identify these smaller issues and address them quickly, you can prevent major line breaks.
A few signs there may be a problem in your sewer line include:
- Cracks in the walls
- Mold
- Odors
- Divots in the pavement or lawn
- Discolored grass patches
- Infestations of bugs or rodents
If you notice one or more of these signs, consult a professional to assess the situation. If you seek New York sewer repair, Harris Main and Sewer Contractors can help address the problem.
