Spring is right around the corner, and with spring comes unexpected rainstorms. Heavy rains can back up sewer lines, leaving homeowners with inches or even feet of water-waste in basements, garages, and other parts of the house. Backups are not always the result of a faulty home sewer system, but rather that of an overworked public drainage system backing up into your home. This issue could potentially cost hundreds or thousands of dollars in clean-up, so being proactive can save you time and money.

Guarding Against Sewer Line Backups

Here are a few tips about what you can do to help guard against sewer line backups:

  • Sewer trap plugs: Sewer trap plugs can be damaged or ill-fitting which are relatively inexpensive to replace. This small device could potentially save you tons of money in damage costs down the road if in good condition.
  • Backwater check valves: Backwater check valves on individual plumbing fixtures, especially ones located in the basement, should be installed if your home sewer system is also used for stormwater. A backwater valve ensures that water only travels in one direction, averting excess water from entering your home after a substantial rain.
  • Standpipes: In a moderate backup situation, a standpipe or floor drain plug can work to halt the backup at the source.

Regular maintenance on your home plumbing can help prevent sewer line backups caused by heavy rain; however, if you do run into a backup issue, contact Ben Franklin Plumbing as soon as you can to get the problem resolved.