Preventing Sewer Backups: Tips for Charlotte Homeowners

Homeownership comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and one issue that no homeowner wants to deal with is a sewer backup. Not only can it be a messy and unpleasant experience, but it can also lead to costly repairs. For residents in Charlotte, NC, understanding the causes of sewer backups and taking preventive measures is crucial. Our plumbing experts at Parks Heating Cooling Plumbing & Electrical will cover the common reasons behind sewer backups, provide practical tips to prevent them, and cover the steps to take if you are dealing with a backup.

What Causes Sewer Backups

Sewer backups can be caused by many different factors, some of which are more preventable than others. Some common causes of sewer clogs in the Charlotte area include:

Tree Roots

One of the leading causes of sewer backups in Charlotte is invasive tree roots. As beautiful as the trees in your landscaping may be, their roots can penetrate and damage sewer lines over time, leading to clogs and backups. Older neighborhoods with mature trees are particularly susceptible to this issue.

Grease Buildup

Grease is a common culprit for drain and sewer clogs. Over time, grease accumulates and solidifies in the pipes, restricting the flow and causing backups. To prevent this, it’s crucial to dispose of cooking grease properly.

Foreign Objects

Your sewer lines are designed to handle wastewater, and that’s really it. Flushing other, non-biodegradable items down the toilet or pouring them down the drains can result in blockages. Items like wet wipes, sanitary products, and even small children’s toys can accumulate and obstruct the sewer lines.

Collapsed or Damaged Pipes

Over the years, pipes can deteriorate due to various factors, including age, corrosion, or ground shifting. Collapsed or damaged pipes can impede the proper flow of sewage, leading to backups.

Preventing Sewer Backups in the Charlotte Area

There are many proactive steps you can take to prevent sewer blockages and backups around your home. Consider the following tips to help keep your sewer lines clear:

• Mindful landscaping: When planting trees or shrubs in your yard, be mindful of their proximity to sewer lines. Choose plants with slow-growing, non-invasive root systems and plant them at a safe distance from plumbing infrastructure.
• Proper grease disposal: Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool and solidify in a disposable container. Dispose of the solidified grease in the trash to avoid buildup in your pipes.
• Use trash bins: Dispose of non-biodegradable items, such as wet wipes and hygiene products, in the trash rather than flushing them down the toilet.
• Keep a list: If you can’t remember what is and isn’t okay to go down your drains, make an easy reference sheet for your household members.
• Schedule regular inspections & maintenance: Routine sewer inspections can identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Proactive maintenance can help extend the life span of your plumbing system.

Call Parks for Sewer Line Services

Despite taking preventive measures, sewer backups can still occur. If you find yourself dealing with a sewer backup in your Charlotte-area home, it’s crucial to seek professional help promptly. At Parks, we provide efficient and reliable sewer and drain services. Using advanced sewer video camera technology, our experienced plumbers can diagnose the issue, provide effective solutions, and restore your plumbing system to optimal functionality.

Whether you need to clear tough clogs with hydro jetting or completely replace your sewer line, the Parks team is here to help.

Call Parks today at 704-596-8200 to schedule sewer repairs or replacements in the greater Charlotte area.