The main sewer line is crucial to all of the plumbing components in your home. From plumbing fixtures and drains to pipes, when there is a main sewer line clog, all of it can suffer the consequences. A clog in your main sewer line requires professional services from a licensed, insured plumber to get your plumbing system back in order and to prevent damage to your property.
Here are the five leading causes of clogs in the main sewer line and what you should do if you are experiencing any of these problems with your home’s plumbing:
#1: Pipe Damage
If your sewer has cracked or broken pipes, sewage cannot flow and drain through the plumbing system properly. This leads to a sewer line clog or sewer backup no homeowner wants to experience. Pipe damage can occur in the following situations:
- Pipe corrosion due to aging or exposure to the elements
- Pipe rupture resulting from settling or shifting soil
- Leaky pipe joints
#2: Sagging or “Bellied” Sewer Line
Over time, your sewer line can begin to sag if the pipe sinks due to changing soil conditions. A sagging line can accumulate waste and toilet paper, leading to frequent sewer line clogs.
#3: Tree Roots
Tree root infiltration can be a problem for your sewer line, especially if you have an older property with older lines. When the tree and shrub roots grow, they begin seeking out water sources. As a result, they can grow toward and into the sewer pipe. Expanding roots can even cause a broken sewer line.
#4: Flushing the Wrong Stuff Down the Toilet
If people in your home treat the toilet like a trash can or garbage disposal, problems are sure to develop. Only toilet paper and human waste are safe to go down the toilet. Otherwise, your system will experience repeated clogs that can wreak havoc on your plumbing system.
#5: Grease, Fat, and Oil Buildup in the Pipes
Many homeowners think that since grease, fat, and oil are part of cooking, they are okay to go down the drain, but that would be a mistake. Buildup from the substances can create major clogs in your sewer line. As the liquid cools, it becomes hard and sticks to the inside of the pipes. Make sure to dispose of these substances properly and educate your family members on what should and should not go down the drain.
Stubborn Main Sewer Line Clog? Progressive Plumbing Can Help!
If you have more questions about the common causes of main sewer line clogs or need a fast, effective solution, reach out to the expert team at Progressive Plumbing. Our licensed, insured plumbers will be there when you need us to unclog your drains and keep your plumbing functioning optimally. Connect with us now to schedule plumbing services.
Leave a Reply