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Most people don't give much thought to their sewer until there's a problem. However, understanding how your sewer works and how to properly maintain it can save you a lot of time and money down the road. In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about sewers, from how they work to how often you should get them inspected.
What is a Sewer?
A sewer is an underground pipe that carries wastewater from your home or business to a treatment plant. The waste is then treated and released into the environment. Your sewer system is made up of two main types of pipes: the lateral pipe and the mainline pipe.
Your home's sewer system includes the following components:
the main sewer line, which carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer line
the lateral sewer line, which connects your home's main sewer line to the municipal sewer line
fixtures such as toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers
drains, which connect fixtures to the sewer lines
traps, which are U-shaped bends in piping that contain water and create a seal that prevents odors from seeping back into your home
Maintaining Your Sewer System
To keep your sewer in good working order, you should do the following:
Inspect all visible piping for cracks or breaks regularly. Make sure to check under sinks, in basements, and in crawl spaces.
If you have trees on your property, make sure their roots are not growing into or blocking your lateral sewer line. Roots can cause blockages and cracks in piping.
Never flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Avoid flushing grease, coffee grounds, condoms, diapers, sanitary napkins, or anything else that could potentially clog or damage your pipes.
Install a backwater valve in your basement floor drain to prevent sewage from backflowing into your home in the event of a blockage or backup in the municipal sewer line.
Cleaning Your Sewer System
If you need to have your sewer cleaned, there are a few different ways this can be done. One method is hydro jetting, which uses high-pressure water to clean the inside of the pipes. This method is effective at removing all types of build-up, including tree roots, grease, and sediment. You should have your lateral sewer line cleaned with hydro jetting every three to five years by a professional plumber or sewage company.
Another common method is drain snaking, which involves using a long, flexible rod to remove blockages.
Sewer Backup
Sewer backup occurs when sewage backs up into your home or business through the drains. This can happen for various reasons, including clogged pipes, heavy rains, or power outages. If you experience sewage backup, it's important to call a professional right away, as this can be a very serious health hazard.
What is Trenchless Sewer Repair?
Trenchless sewer repair is a method of repairing a sewer pipe without having to dig a trench. This type of repair is often used when the sewer pipe is damaged or broken. The first step in trenchless sewer repair is to insert a flexible liner into the damaged sewer pipe. The liner is then inflated and left in place for a period of time so that it can harden. Once the liner has hardened, it will create a new inner surface for the sewer pipe. This new inner surface will be smoother and will not be susceptible to the same problems that caused the original damage.
One of the benefits of trenchless sewer repair is that it does not require digging a trench. This means that there is no need to disturb the surrounding area, which can save time and money and keep your yard looking presentable throughout the process.
In addition, trenchless sewer repair can often be completed in a shorter amount of time when compared to traditional methods. Trenchless sewer repair is also less disruptive to your home or business and can often be completed with minimal interruption to your life.
Trenchless sewer repair is a great option for those who are looking for a more efficient and environmentally friendly way to repair their sewer pipes. This type of repair can often be completed in a shorter amount of time and can be less disruptive to your life. If you think that trenchless sewer repair may be right for you, then we encourage you to learn more about this process so that you can make an informed decision.
What is Pipe Bursting?
Another method of sewer repair is pipe bursting. Pipe bursting is typically used when a sewer line is severely damaged or blocked. A hydraulic machine is used to insert a breaking head into the existing pipe. The breaking head then breaks the existing pipe into pieces as it is pulled through the new pipe.
What is Pipe Relining?
The final method of sewer repair is pipe relining. Pipe relining is typically used when a sewer line is leaking but not severely damaged. A flexible liner is inserted into the existing pipe. The liner is then inflated and left in place to cure. Once the liner has cured, it forms a new inner wall for the pipe.
Sewers are an important part of your home's plumbing system. It's important to have a basic understanding of how they work and how to maintain and clean them. From what sewers are made of to how often you should get them cleaned, this blog post has covered everything you need to know about sewers!
By following these simple tips, you can keep your sewer system running smoothly for years to come. Remember to inspect piping regularly for cracks or breaks, keep trees' roots away from lateral lines, only flush human waste and toilet paper down toilets, and have your lateral line cleaned by a professional every three to five years. With just a little bit of care and attention, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home's sewers working properly for years to come!