The flow of water is necessary for different purposes, from daily use to ensuring sewerage waste is disposed of. Every property needs a working sewerage system, and it is particularly important for commercial and industrial properties
So, what happens when a sewer line or system becomes clogged? Other than give you an annoying plumbing issue, inefficient water systems can seriously impact our daily lives and work.
How Can You Tell When a Sewerage System Is Partially or Fully Blocked?
When a sewerage system is blocked, water and sewerage have nowhere to go. Worst case scenario, a fully clogged sewerage system may see your main lines backing up, therefore sewerage has nowhere to pass through, and it can end up back inside your property.
Here are other warning signs to look out for:
- Drains regularly back up – If your property’s ground floor drains back up constantly, this can be an initial warning sign. Look into getting a professional’s opinion before attempting to unblock drains yourself.
- Multiple drain clogs – Multiple clogs around your property may indicate that there is a larger problem with your sewer system.
- Changes in your front lawn surface – There may be visible dips or sagging in your front lawn as main pipes run from your house and under the ground before joining the street.
Main Causes of Clogged Sewerage Systems
Although this type of clog is uncommon, as most sewer pipes are 10 to 15 cm wide, it usually only occurs if something has gone seriously wrong. When a clogged sewerage system has been detected, a simple drain clearing may not fix the problem, and therefore the pipe may require repair or replacement.
Here is a list of causes of clogged sewerage systems:
Serious Pipe Damage
When sewer pipes are broken, sewage won’t be able to properly drain through the system, resulting in abrupt and frequent backups. Damage can be caused by:
- Ground movement – Shifting and settling soil can cause damage, as well as increased traffic on the ground above, or the use of heavy construction equipment.
- Aged pipes – Corrosion of older pipes can cause them to break or collapse.
- Joint damage – Leaking, cracked joints may allow water and sewage to escape.
Tree Root Infiltration
As older sewerage systems are built from clay or similar materials, tree roots can infiltrate pipe systems as they seek water sources. As time goes on, such roots grow and can cause the pipe to crack.
Grease And Oil Build Up
Your sewerage pipes and systems do not agree with fats, grease, and oils – washing these substances down the drain with hot water will NOT do the trick, as they will solidify and stick to your pipes. Always get rid of left-over grease and oil by pouring it into an old jar or can, then throwing it into a rubbish bin.
Debris Down the Toilet
It might sound obvious to most but avoid flushing debris, other than human waste and toilet paper, down your toilet. Other debris (e.g., sanitary products, facial tissues) can end up seriously clogging your sewerage system.
Fluid Pipe Relining: Sewerage Pipes and Systems Experts
Do you suspect a clogged sewerage system at your property? Are you constantly dealing with clogged drains at your property? It would be in your best interest to get an expert’s opinion to find out the cause of your problem before it’s too late.
Fluid Pipe Relining is the plumbing and pipe relining experts to call. For over 20 years, we have been repairing broken pipes in the Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, Northern Beaches, North Shore, and Western Sydney. We are up to date with the latest techniques to unblock drains and reline pipes efficiently and effectively. Call us today on 0410 522 799 to get started!
