What Are the Warning Signs of a Sewer System Backup?
If you notice any issues with your sewer line, give us a call as soon as possible so we can find the problem and repair it. To detect sewer line problems, there are several warning signs to look out for, including:
- Water backup from one or more drains, such as the toilet, shower, or sink.
- Multiple drain backups at the same time.
- A strong sewage smell emanating from drains or outside your home.
- Any combination of drain backups involving the toilet.
- Gurgling sounds from the drains or toilet.
- Water pools around the basement floor drain.
Tree Root Intrusions
When there is pipe condensation or leaky pipes, tree roots can be attracted to them as a source of nourishment. When water is detected, trees increase root growth in that area, which can clog the sewer system and eventually burst the pipe. Indications of intrusion may include sewage backup in the toilet or bathtub, gurgling sounds from the toilet, tubs that do not drain properly, and an empty toilet bowl. To address these issues, we will implement the following solutions:
- Rooter Work and Drain Cleaning – To address tree root blockages in your sewer, we will clear the line and assess the extent of the problem to recommend a long-term solution.
- Hydro Jetting – Hydro jetting involves using high-pressure water to thoroughly clean pipes and remove debris, grease, and roots for a lasting solution.
- Pipe Lining – Pipe lining is a permanent fix that involves sealing the entire sewer pipe or just the affected section to prevent water leakage without digging or demolishing any structures.
- Pipe Bursting – Pipe bursting is another permanent option that involves breaking apart the old pipe and installing a new seamless pipe using hydraulic equipment.
- Maintenance – We offer ongoing maintenance plans that include regular inspections and drain cleaning to prevent clogs and root growth.
Sewer System Backups
A sewer backup can cause more extensive problems than a sink or toilet blockage. If left unattended, a sewer backup could result in significant expenses to repair property damage and contamination, including environmental cleanup. If you suspect a sewer system backup, it's important to seek professional help. Our experienced service professionals can assist you in avoiding property contamination, environmental concerns, and serious health risks. Signs of a sewer system backup include:
- Sewage backup (smelly black liquid) in toilets or drains.
- Slow flushing and draining toilet.
- More than one drain in the house is running slowly.
- Wastewater seeping from the ground, which may or may not have an odor.
- Lots of very green grass, even during dry, hot weather.
- Bacteria in your well. Liquid from your sewer system could flow into and contaminate your drinking water well through the ground.
- Algae or weeds growing in a pond near your house.
- Bad odors around the house due to incorrectly vented or failing sewer systems.
Call Us to Repair a Sewer System Backup
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Colorado Springs offers a range of sewer backup prevention systems and solutions in the Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Fountain, Widefield, Security, Rockrimmon, and Woodmen, CO areas. Whether you're experiencing a minor drain issue or a complete backup, our team of experienced service professionals is ready to provide efficient and reliable service to get your sewer system back up and running smoothly. Contact us for all your plumbing needs, and be sure to ask about our Advantage Plan for regular maintenance and savings.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Sewer Backup?
Sewer backup can happen quickly, and taking quick action is essential. We can promptly inspect your drains and sewer system if you encounter slow draining or backups. Some of the most common causes of sewer backups include:
- Blockages from tree roots
- Grease buildup
- Debris in the pipes
- Aging pipes
- Heavy rainfall
- Foreign objects, including toys and diapers
How Do I Know If I Have a Sewage Backup?
It’s essential to contact our team if you notice any signs of a sewage backup. The most common signs you have a backed-up sewage system include:
- Foul odors coming from drains
- Water backup from multiple drains
- Gurgling noises from pipes
- Water pooling around basement floor drains
How Can I Prevent a Sewer System Backup?
It's vital to monitor your drains to address any issues when they occur. You can help prevent sewer system backups by having our professional team regularly inspect sewer lines. Stay alert and watch for any signs of a backup. We provide ongoing plumbing maintenance services to ensure your pipes are in optimal health.
How Do You Resolve a Sewer Backup?
Our professionals will assess the problem and determine an effective plumbing solution to resolve a sewer backup. We’ll explain your plumbing options and offer an estimate before performing sewer backup services. Some of the ways we resolve sewer system backups include:
Drain Cleaning
We use drain cleaning services to address blockages by clearing the line and recommending a long-term solution.
Hydro Jetting
Our team uses hydro jetting with highly pressurized water to blast away grease, debris, and tree roots.
Pipe Lining
Pipe lining permanently repairs your pipe issues by sealing the complete sewer pipe or the affected section to prevent water from leaking without digging into your property.
Pipe Bursting
Pipe bursting permanently repairs your problems by blasting apart the pipe and installing a seamless, new one with hydraulic equipment.
Is It Safe to Stay in a House With Sewage Backup?
No, it is not safe to stay in a house with a sewage backup due to potential health risks from exposure to harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. If a backup occurs, it is important to evacuate the affected area, and contact our service professionals immediately.
Can a Lot of Rain Cause Sewer Backup?
Yes, heavy rainfall can lead to sewer backups, especially if the storm drains and sewers are overwhelmed. Excessive rain can cause water to flow back into homes through the sewer lines, particularly in areas with combined sewer systems. It’s essential to stay alert if heavy rainfall is impacting your home and watch out for any sewer backup signs.
Is a Sewer Backup a Biohazard?
Yes, a sewer backup can be considered a biohazard. This type of backup typically includes harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the wastewater. Sewer backups pose serious health risks and require professional cleaning and sanitization to ensure safety.
How Do I Clean My House After a Sewer Backup?
After a sewer backup, hiring a professional cleanup service is essential to safely sanitize and restore the affected areas. They will remove contaminated water, disinfect surfaces, and ensure that your home is safe to inhabit again. Avoid attempting to clean up sewage on your own, as it can be hazardous to your health.