Sewer System Maintenance Is The Key To Happy Drains
Nearly three quarters of American homes are connected to public sewer lines. However, regardless of their vast usage, knowledge of proper sewer system maintenance is not as common. At Art Rooter, Sewer & Drain Cleaning, we believe that just because it is out of sight doesn’t mean it should be out of mind.
Key Points Of Basic Sewer System Maintenance
These maintenance tips don’t take a lot of effort, but they will save you a lot of hassle over time.
Don’t Forget To Have It Cleaned
You should have your sewer lines cleaned once every 18 to 22 months. This will take care of the buildup that causes most of the problems in the system. If you think it sounds pricey to get it cleaned that frequently, imagine how expensive it will be to repair your sewer system.
This is also a good time for a plumber to inspect your pipes for any cracks or leaks in the line. Fixing small issues will help prevent larger ones from occurring in the future.
Pay Attention To Your Landscaping
Plant and tree roots can break or crack your pipes. Tree roots are worse because they can completely fill a pipeline. Tree root invasion is something we’re no stranger to in South Florida. Remember, it’s not just the trees close to the lines that you have to worry about. Tree roots travel underground, making any tree in the area a potential problem.
If possible, plant trees with a shallow root structure, like oak or maple trees. These are less likely to interfere with the pipes.
Don’t Ruin Your Sewer System
There are some things that just aren’t meant to be flushed or put down the drain. By not allowing these things to enter your pipelines, you’ll avoid clogs and other issues.
Stop Using Your Garbage Disposal Inappropriately
Tossing food and grease down your drain can seriously mess up your pipes. The more food and gunk you throw down there, the more you will have to worry about your sewer system maintenance. Food can easily get stuck to the walls of the pipe and clog them.
If you want to use your garbage disposal, install a grease receptor under your sink. It will catch the grease while allowing water to safely enter your sewer. You should still avoid letting solid food go down the drain.
Know What You Can And Can’t Flush
Other than natural waste, the only thing that should be flushed is toilet paper. Sanitary products are not created to enter your sewer. The sewer system can’t break down those materials so they will sit in your pipes and create clogs.
Any “flushable” wipes or products should also be thrown in the trash. They are notorious for ruining sewer systems. Just because it is advertised as flushable, doesn’t mean you should flush it.
Never Flush Chemicals
In your sewer system, there are bacteria that break down waste and toilet paper. The addition of any chemicals can destroy that essential bacteria and disturb the balance of your system.
In addition to that, don’t use any chemical-based cleaning products. The bacteria, coupled with proper sewer system maintenance, will do the job. They can clog your system and they pollute the groundwater.
When it’s time to clean your drains, it’s best to use an enzyme-based drain cleaner like Bio-Clean®. This is the most efficient way to keep your drains happy. It’s environmentally friendly and much better for your health than caustic chemical cleaners. Remember to use the enzyme cleaner once a month.
Don’t Drain Your Hot Tub Into Your Sewer System
Chemicals shouldn’t be dumped into the system and the chlorine in hot tub water is no exception as it will destroy the bacteria that break down the solids. Draining that much water into the system all at once will flood the pipes. Not only that, the influx of water can cause unpleasant backups in the system.
The same rule applies to any above ground pools. After you’re done taking a break from the Florida heat, find somewhere else to dump your pool water.
Now, You Have All The Information You Need
It’s not difficult to have proper sewer system maintenance, but it can be overlooked. It doesn’t matter what condition your sewer system is in, Art Rooter, Sewer & Drain Cleaning can clean it! Give us a call at 1-888-773-1524 to schedule your drain cleaning appointment today.
