What You Should Know About Drain Backups

Drain backups occur when there is a blockage in the sewer mains. Over time, this can cause an overflow that can be unpleasant, damaging, and potentially harmful to health if not dealt with. Here are key factors to consider when tackling drain backups.

How you can tell if there’s a problem

The most unmistakable indication of a backup is the presence of brown water or sewage when you turn on the taps. However, a malfunctioning drain can easily be misinterpreted as a simple clog. Additional signs to watch for include gurgling sounds, unusual odors, slow drainage, or water backing up in showers or bathtubs.

What can cause a drain backup?

Drain backups stem from various factors such as clogged or blocked sewer pipes, intrusion of tree roots into the pipes, pipe damage, or blockage of the sewer main. Additionally, heavy rainfall or snowfall can exert pressure on drains, exacerbating the risk of backups.

Homeowners can inadvertently contribute to drain issues. It’s crucial to refrain from flushing anything other than toilet paper and to avoid pouring grease and fat down the sink, as these substances can congeal into fatbergs, leading to blockages.

What you should do

Once you detect a drain backup, promptly shut off the water supply throughout your house. Once you’ve ensured all water sources are off, contact a Handyside professional to address and clear any blockages causing the backup.

Following the clearance of the blockage and removal of any standing water and sediment, residual greywater may remain. Use a gallon of water mixed with bleach to flush out this residual water. However, exercise caution with this process, as bleach may not be suitable for all types of backups. Consult with a Handyside professional for guidance. Thoroughly scrubbing surfaces with this bleach mixture will sanitize them, ensuring the safety of occupants in your home.