3 Ways to Prevent a Clogged Sewer Line

And what to do if things are backing up!

Clogged lines are usually caused by the gradual build up of materials such as hair, grease, corrosion of the pipe or even root invasion. Over time, these build ups will cause the waste to back up into the house, often creating a mess. Our technicians are experts in Ithaca, NY sewer line cleaning and repairs so today we're sharing a few ways you can avoid a clog and keep things flushing smoothly. (Along with what to do if it's too late for prevention and you are already in a pickle!)

Troubleshooting a Septic Backup

Are you dealing with a slow draining sink? A clogged toilet? Or a combination of slow drains and toilets that won't flush? If your issue is isolated to one toilet/sink/drain, chances are there is a clog in the pipe that can be resolved with a plunger or a drain snake. But if your issue seems to be effecting all the drains/sinks and toilets in your home or business, chances are you're dealing with a clog in the sewer line - that means it's made it past your home or business and it's in the line that leads to the sewer system.

What should you do next?

Liquid Plumber or Draino won't do the job - you'll need to call a sewer and drain company, like Clean Earth Septic. In most cases, we can clear main line blockages with our high-pressure sewer line jetter/flusher when a traditional snake just isn’t doing the job. High pressure jetting can remove scale build up, grease, roots, hair clogs, and corrosion. Homeowner or restaurant, no one wants a sewage or grease backup!

Getting to the Root of the Issue

There are many issues a camera can help us find, including a disconnected, crushed or corroded pipe, roots invading a line, blockages and more. Once your problem is pinpointed, we will determine the most effective solution to get things flowing freely again!

3 Ways to Prevent a Sewer Line Clog:

The easiest way to avoid a mess is to prevent one altogether. Here are some easy ways to do just that.

1. Watch What You Flush
   Do not flush or pour down the drain anything non-biodegradable. This includes feminine hygiene products, "flushable" wipes, tissues & paper towels, coffee grounds, household chemicals, grease, paint or bleach. Even some products labeled "septic safe" should be avoided. There is absolutely no such thing as a "flushable" wipe so if you have toddlers or you use makeup wipes, be sure to throw them in the trash - not the toilet!
   
   
2. Do NOT Plant Trees or Shrubs Near Your Sewer Line
   Do not plant any trees or shrubs with deep roots on or near your septic system or sewer line. Expansive root systems can damage your septic tank, sewer lines and connecting pipes.
   
   
3. Get on a Regular Maintenance Schedule
   If you're not on a regular maintenance plan, contact us to set one up. This is essential if you have a restaurant that has a grease trap - we can help with both your grease waste management and your drain line cleaning to ensure your business operates smoothly. We offer drain cleaning and line opening services in Ithaca, NY and the surrounding areas including Waverly, Owego, Elmira and Watkins.

Follow these guidelines and rest assured a backup is highly unlikely to effect your home or business. If you find yourself in need of line opening services in Ithaca, NY, give us a call. We are happy to offer frequent service discounts and we can often beat your current rates. 

We offer comprehensive Sewer & Drain services!

• High Pressure Jetting to Clear and Unclog Sewer Lines
• Removal of Roots in the Sewer Line
• Sewer Line Replacement and Repair
• Sewer Pump Replacement
• Video Pipe Inspection of Sewer Lines 
• Video Pipe Inspection of Grease Trap Lines
• Excavation Services to Repair or Replace Sewer Lines