Maintaining a clean and functional sewer system is essential to avoid costly repairs and disruptions to your plumbing. Whether you live in a house or an apartment, protecting your sewer system is something every family member can do. Fortunately, with a few proactive steps and proper practices, you can reduce the need for sewer cleaning and keep your drains free of clogs. Below, we explore ten practical tips to help safeguard your plumbing and sewer system.
Ten practical tips to help safeguard your plumbing and sewer system
- Not Everything Labeled “Flushable” Is Safe
One of the most common mistakes people make is flushing items labeled as “flushable.” While these products might seem harmless, they can lead to significant blockages in your sewer system. The only item that should ever be flushed is toilet paper. Items like wipes, paper towels, and even certain sanitary products should be disposed of in the trash, not the toilet. Making this simple change can significantly reduce your need for sewer cleaning and prevent costly clogs.
- Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Don’t Belong in Your Drains
Fats, oils, and greases (FOG) can wreak havoc on your pipes. Many people pour leftover cooking oils or grease down the kitchen sink, not realizing that it solidifies once it cools, creating stubborn blockages. If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t pour it down the drain! Instead, dispose of grease in a designated container, which can be discarded once full. This habit will prevent your sewer system from becoming clogged and reduce the need for costly cleaning. Here’s a short video from the City of London.
- Don’t Flush Harmful Liquids
While it may seem like a quick fix, flushing chemicals such as paint, solvents, and pesticides down the drain can cause severe damage to your sewer system. These products can solidify or create harmful obstructions in your pipes. Avoid pouring anything other than water and mild soap down your drains. This includes paints, cleaners, and thick household products that should be disposed of properly at a hazardous waste facility.
- Safely Dispose of Unused Medications
Many homeowners flush unused or expired medications down the toilet to keep them out of reach of children. However, this practice can damage your plumbing system and contribute to blockages. Pills and liquid medications do not break down easily in the sewer system, and they can create obstructions. The best practice is to return unused medications to the pharmacy or follow local disposal guidelines.
- Install Backflow Valves for Protection
Backflow valves are an important installation that can prevent sewage from backing up into your home. When public sewer systems become overloaded due to heavy rainfall or other factors, backflow valves block sewage from entering your home. This is a more involved solution but is an investment worth considering for long-term protection, especially in areas prone to flooding. BEST Plumbing and Drainage Contractors in London, Ontario, can help with this installation to keep your sewer system protected.
- Properly Use Your Downspouts
Did you know that connecting your downspouts to your sanitary sewer can lead to flooding during heavy storms? When it rains, excess water enters your sewer system, which can overwhelm the pipes and cause a backup. To avoid this issue, disconnect your downspouts from the sewer system. This simple adjustment will help maintain the proper function of your plumbing during storms and prevent the need for sewer cleaning.
- Keep Your Eaves Troughs Clean
Cleaning your eaves troughs might not be the most exciting task, but it is crucial to preventing clogs and backups. When troughs become clogged with leaves and debris, the water cannot flow freely, causing it to pool and possibly enter your home’s foundation. If cleaning your eaves troughs becomes a frequent chore, consider installing larger troughs or downspouts to accommodate more water, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
- Be Mindful of Planting Near Sewer Lines
It’s tempting to beautify your yard with trees and shrubs, but planting near sewer lines can lead to serious issues. Tree roots are notorious for seeking out moisture, and if they find a crack in your sewer line, they will infiltrate and potentially cause a blockage. Before planting, check your pipeline map and avoid placing trees or large shrubs near your sewer lines.
- Elevate the Ground Around Your Home
If water is pooling around your home after a heavy rain, it could be due to improperly graded ground. When the grade of the soil around your house slopes towards the foundation, water will flow into the basement or foundation walls. To avoid this the ground around your home needs to be elevated to direct water away from the foundation. This should be completed by a licensed and experienced drainage contractor. It is good practice to also regularly inspect driveways, patios, and sidewalks for erosion that may cause water to flow back toward the foundation.
- Regular Maintenance Is Key
The most effective way to protect your sewer system is through routine maintenance. Even with all the preventative steps mentioned, your sewer lines still require regular checkups. Consider scheduling professional sewer cleaning every few years to ensure everything is functioning properly. It’s far less expensive and less disruptive than dealing with a full-blown blockage. BEST Plumbing and Drainage Contractors in Southwestern Ontario offer regular maintenance and sewer cleaning services to keep your pipes in optimal condition.
Best Practices for Drain Care
In addition to protecting your sewer system, it’s also important to take proactive steps to maintain clean and clear drains. Here are some essential drain care practices:
Responsible Disposal Practices
Dispose of grease, oils, food scraps, and other potential blockages in the trash, not the sink or toilet. When cooking, pour excess grease into a container and discard it once it cools. This practice will go a long way in preventing stubborn clogs and keeping your plumbing system in top shape.
Regular Drain Cleaning
Regularly clean your drains to remove soap scum, mineral deposits, and debris that can build up over time. A simple mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water, can help break down residue and keep drains clear. For tougher clogs, a plumbing snake or auger can physically remove blockages.
Use Drain Screens
Install drain screens in your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room to catch debris before it enters your pipes. This simple tool can prevent hair, food particles, and other waste from creating blockages.
Handle Hair Clogs Properly
Hair is one of the leading causes of bathroom drain clogs. To prevent hair buildup, remove visible hair from drains after every shower. Additionally, using a hair catcher can help prevent hair from entering the drain in the first place.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
While chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick fix, they can corrode your pipes and cause more damage in the long run. Instead, rely on natural cleaning methods or consult a professional plumber for persistent clogs.
Professional Plumbing Inspections
Even with regular maintenance, it’s essential to schedule professional plumbing inspections to catch any potential issues before they escalate. A plumber can identify weak points in your system, clean your drains using high-pressure water jetting, and ensure your sewer system remains in good condition. BEST Plumbing and Drainage Contractors in Southwestern Ontario can provide you with professional inspections and maintenance services.
Teach Your Family Good Practices
Finally, educating your family members about proper disposal practices and drain maintenance can prevent many plumbing issues. Ensure everyone knows what can and cannot go down the drain, and emphasize the importance of proper waste disposal to avoid unnecessary clogs.
In Conclusion
By following these expert tips, you can protect your sewer system, prevent drain clogs, and maintain the integrity of your plumbing system for years to come. A little attention today can save you from expensive repairs and inconvenience tomorrow. If you ever find yourself facing an issue, don’t hesitate to contact BEST Plumbing and Drainage Contractors in London, Ontario today (519) 438-6565, or complete their online form to request an inspection and sewer cleaning.
