A common problem with the sewer line in a home is water or sewer backup caused by blockage. If your main sewer pipe is blocked, then water or sewage can back up into other drains and pipes. The pipe to a city sewer system can develop a blockage problem along with plumbing and sewer lines inside a home.

Annual Inspection

The inspection of your sewer pipes by a Springfield plumber is needed annually to detect any problems with your sewer pipes. A plumber will visually inspect the sewer pipe with a video camera. The camera will show any defects or blockage, such as tree roots.

Maintain Drains

Drains that are properly maintained are less likely to develop a clog and lead to water backups. If there is a sink that is draining water slowly, then debris may be causing blockage. Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar down the drain. Wash the mixture down the drain with hot or boiling water after a half an hour has passed. This will wash excess debris down the sewer pipe. Do this once a week to keep a sewer pipe working properly.

Things to Avoid

The best way to prevent a sewer backup or clog in a drain pipe is to avoid simple mistakes. If you have grease from cooking a meal in the kitchen, then do not pour it down the drain. Grease will solidify is it goes down a drain and can lead to blockage. You should also not flush products down the toilet that need to be put in the trash. This will include paper towel and disposable diapers. These items do not decompose and may cause blockage that will require sewer pipe repair.

Backwater Valve

The lowest drain in your home is typically in the basement. You can prevent water backup by installing a backwater prevention valve on the drain. Another option is to close floor drains in your home by using a plumber’s test plug.

Additional Information

If you have any questions about preventing sewer problems, then contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Springfield at (417) 213-8973.