Sewer lines aren’t immune to issues, and when they do get clogged, it can turn into a nightmare for any homeowner. Whether it’s dealing with slow drains, foul odors, or even sewage backing up into your home, these problems are a surefire way to ruin your day. But what exactly causes these issues? How do sewer lines get clogged in the first place? And more importantly, how can you prevent these unwelcome blockages from happening?
In this blog, we’ll discuss the causes of sewer blockages and provide some practical tips on how you can keep your sewer lines flowing freely.
How Your Sewer System Works
Your sewer line is the main pipe that carries all the wastewater from your home’s plumbing fixtures — like toilets, sinks, and showers — out to the municipal sewer system or your septic tank. It’s a fundamental part of your home’s plumbing system, and when it’s working properly, everything flows without a hitch.
However, sewer lines can be prone to blockages, especially in older homes or those with lots of trees in the yard. These blockages can cause all sorts of issues, from slow-draining water to complete backups. But what exactly causes these blockages?
What Causes a Main Sewer Line to Clog?
Several factors can lead to a clogged sewer line. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Tree Roots
One of the most common causes of sewer blockages is tree roots. While trees add beauty and shade to your yard, their roots can wreak havoc on your sewer lines. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and your sewer pipes are a prime target. Over time, these roots can infiltrate your sewer line, growing inside the pipes and eventually causing a clog.
Foreign Objects
Foreign objects flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink can also cause major blockages. Items like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and even so-called “flushable” wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper and can cause significant clogs. Even small toys or other objects accidentally flushed can create a clogged main sewer line.
Grease Buildup
Pouring grease down your drains might seem harmless, but it’s one of the worst things you can do to your plumbing system and is one of the most common causes of sewer blockages. Hot grease may go down easily, but as it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the walls of your pipes. Over time, this can lead to a clogged sewer line that requires professional drain cleaning to fix.
Aging Pipes
Older sewer lines are more susceptible to clogs and other issues. As pipes age, they can become corroded or develop cracks, which can catch debris and lead to blockages. If you live in an older home, you may face more frequent sewer line problems simply due to the age of the pipes.
Shifting Soil
Sometimes, the ground beneath your home shifts due to natural processes like erosion or even heavy rainfall. This shifting soil can cause your sewer line to sag or become misaligned, leading to blockages. In some cases, this can result in a sagging sewer line, which becomes a trouble spot for repeat blockages.
Warning Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line
A clogged sewer line often gives off several warning signs before it becomes a full-blown problem. Recognizing these early can save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run. Here’s what to look out for:
- Slow Drains: If all the drains in your home are moving slowly, this could indicate a blockage in your main sewer line.
- Gurgling Noises: Strange sounds coming from your drains, particularly after flushing the toilet, might be an early sign of a clog.
- Multiple Clogged Drains: When more than one drain in your home is clogged at the same time, it’s usually a sign that the problem is in your main sewer line.
- Sewage Backup: This is the most obvious and unpleasant sign of a blockage. If you notice sewage coming back up through your drains or toilets, call a professional immediately.
How to Prevent Sewer Line Clogs
Now that you know the causes of sewer blockages, it’s a good idea to take preventative measures. Avoiding a clogged sewer line is far easier than dealing with one after the fact. Here are some practical tips to help keep your main sewer line in good shape:
Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain
One of the simplest ways to prevent clogs is to avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down your drains. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash. Even small amounts of hot grease can build up over time and cause a major blockage.
Be Careful With What You Flush
It might be tempting to flush things like flushable wipes or paper towels, but these items don’t break down easily and can cause serious clogs. Stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper to keep your sewer pipes clear.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Regular maintenance, including inspections by professionals, can catch potential issues before they become big problems. This is particularly important if you live in an older home with aging sewer lines.
What to Do If Your Main Sewer Line Keeps Clogging
If your main sewer line keeps clogging, it’s time to take action. Persistent clogs are usually a sign of a deeper problem that won’t go away on its own. Here’s what you can do:
Avoid DIY Drain Cleaners
While it might be tempting to reach for a bottle of drain cleaner, these products can do more harm than good. Many commercial drain cleaners are highly corrosive and can damage your pipes, especially if you have older sewer lines. It’s best to leave the job to a professional plumber.
Call a Professional Plumber
Don’t try to tackle repeated blockages on your own. At Environment Masters, our professional plumbers in Jackson, MS, have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the problem. We can perform a video pipe inspection to see what’s going on inside your pipes and recommend the best course of action.
Sometimes, hydro-jetting can be an excellent solution for older homes. Using high-powered water to clean pipes can break through roots and other clogs without damaging the pipes. This method also serves as a proactive approach to prevent future plumbing issues. If you have a broken sewer pipe, we can provide you with a sewer line repair or replacement.
Schedule Your Sewer Cleaning in Jackson, MS!
So, how do sewer lines get clogged? As you can see, multiple factors can contribute to this problem. No matter the culprit, it’s important to know that timely action is critical. Ignoring a clogged sewer line can have serious consequences, both for your home and your health.
If you’re dealing with repeat blockages, slow drains, or any of the other warning signs we mentioned above, now is the time to act. At Environment Masters, our experienced plumbers in Jackson, MS, are here to help. We offer a range of services, including video inspections, hydro jetting, sewer line repair, and drain cleaning, to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
Let us help you get to the bottom of what’s causing your main sewer line to clog and provide the solutions you need to prevent future problems. Your home deserves the best care, and we’re here to deliver it. Schedule an appointment with us today!
