It's something you depend on every day, yet often goes unnoticed... until there's smelly, dirty water backing up into your home. That's when you realize just how important your sewer line is!
As a homeowner, it's essential to understand all the systems and components that keep your home running smoothly. After all, when something goes wrong, you're usually the one who has to foot the bill for repairs.
Sewer lines are crucial for a variety of reasons. Not only do they transport wastewater away from your home, but they also prevent harmful sewage and bacteria from contaminating your drinking water. In other words, a healthy sewer line is key to keeping your family safe and healthy.
So what exactly does a sewer line do? And how can you tell if yours is in good working order? What should you do if you suspect there's a problem? (Hint: Your local plumbing team has you covered!)
We've got the answers to all of your sewer line questions. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this essential part of your Oklahoma home!
What is a Sewer Line?
Sewer lines – also called lateral lines – are underground pipes that carry wastewater away from your home to the main sewer line. The main sewer line then transports the water to a treatment facility, where it’s properly disposed of.
In most cases, sewer lines are made of PVC or iron. PVC is the more common choice these days because it's less likely to corrode or break down over time.
The typical sewer line is about four inches in diameter, but the size can vary depending on the age of your home and the number of fixtures (toilets, sinks, etc.) that are connected to it.
How Does a Sewer Line Work?
Your home’s water system is truly a fascinating feat of human engineering. There was a time when clean water had to be carried from wells to your home – and the wastewater had to be transported back again by hand! (No thank you!)
Water goes down the drain and enters the sewer line when you flush the toilet, take a shower, or run the dishwasher. From there, it flows through the main sewer line to the treatment facility.
The water is cleaned at the treatment facility and released back into the environment. The water is often returned to rivers, lakes, and streams. In other instances, it's used for irrigation or to recharge aquifers.
Wastewater that isn't properly disposed of can lead to all sorts of problems. It contaminates drinking water, creates breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and insects, and causes flooding. Plus, it's just plain gross. That's why it's so important to have a functioning sewer line!
Who Owns my Sewer Line?
In most cases, the sewer line that runs from your home to the main sewer line is your responsibility. That means you're responsible for maintaining it and paying for any repairs that need to be made.
The main sewer line – the portion of the line shared with other homes in your neighborhood – is usually owned and maintained by the city, county, or water utility company.
It’s essential to know how your sewer line works and who is responsible for it so that if you have issues, you know who to call. When you have problems with your sewer line, it can cause a big mess – and a big headache!
How Can I Tell if There's a Problem with my Sewer Line?
In most cases, you’ll know there's a problem with your sewer line when wastewater starts backing up into your home. But at that point, you likely have a serious problem that will need to be fixed as soon as possible.
Here are some of the most common signs that there's a problem with your sewer line:
1. Your Drains are Backing Up
One of the most common signs of a problem with your sewer line is when water backs up into your drains. If this happens, it's usually because the line is blocked or damaged. Roots, debris, and grease are all common culprits.
2. There's a Foul Smell Coming from your Drains
This is one you never want to ignore! If there's a foul smell coming from your drains, it could be a sign that the sewer line is having issues. When working properly, your drain should be odor-free.
3. Your Toilet is Backing Up
If wastewater starts backing up into your toilet, it's a definite sign that something is wrong with your sewer line. Pay close attention to see if this happens after you flush the toilet or run water down the drain. If so, there's a good chance the blockage is in the sewer line.
4. Your Yard is Flooding, or Sinkholes are Forming
If you notice flooding or sinkholes in your yard, it could be a sign that the sewer line is leaking. This is a serious problem that should be fixed as soon as possible.
5. You Hear Strange Noises Coming from your Drains
If you hear gurgling, bubbling, or knocking noises coming from your drains, it's another sign that there could be a problem with your sewer line.
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to call a professional right away. They’ll be able to determine if there's a problem with your sewer line and fix it before it causes any more damage.
What Causes Problems with my Sewer Line?
There are a number of things that can cause problems with your sewer line, including:
1. Blockages
One of the most common causes of sewer line problems is blockages. These can be caused by anything from tree roots to grease and debris. In most cases, blockages can be cleared with a simple cleaning. But in some cases, they may require more extensive repairs.
2. Corrosion
Another common cause of sewer line problems is corrosion. Pipes built with materials prone to corrosion – like cast iron or clay – are especially at risk. Corrosion can cause the pipes to weaken and eventually break. This is a common cause of sewer line leaks in times of drought.
3. Ground Movement
Ground movement is another leading cause of sewer line problems. This can be caused by anything from earthquakes to shifting soil. When the ground moves, it can put stress on the pipes and cause them to break or collapse.
4. Tree Roots
Tree roots are another common cause of sewer line problems. They can grow into the pipes and cause blockages or damage the pipes. In some cases, tree roots can even cause the pipes to collapse.
5. Poor Construction
In some cases, sewer line problems are caused by poor construction. This can include everything from improper materials to shoddy workmanship. If the sewer line was not installed properly, it’s more likely to experience problems down the road.
How Can I Prevent Problems with my Sewer Line?
The best defense is a good offense! There are a number of things you can do to prevent sewer line problems, including:
1. Have Your Sewer Line Inspected and Cleaned Regularly
One of the best ways to prevent sewer line problems is to have your sewer line inspected regularly. This will allow you to catch any issues early on and have them fixed before they cause major damage. Plus, you can take advantage of preventative maintenance services to keep your sewer line in good condition.
A sewer line inspection and cleaning will include:
A visual inspection of the sewer line
The use of a camera to inspect the sewer line
The use of special tools to clean the sewer line
Other potential services as required for your specific case
2. Be Careful What You Flush
One of the best ways to prevent clogs and blockages is to be careful what you flush down the drain. Avoid flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper. And never pour grease or oil down the drain.
3. Plant Trees and Dig Carefully
If you have trees on your property, be careful where you plant them. Avoid planting them too close to the sewer line. And make sure they are not a species that is known to damage sewer lines. The same goes for digging in your yard – be careful not to damage the sewer line.
4. Use a Drain Cover
If you have a drain in your home, it's a good idea to use a drain cover. This will help to keep debris and other objects from going down the drain and causing problems.
Keep Your Waste Where It Belongs with BL3
Sewer lines are an incredible feat of engineering. They are designed to handle a tremendous amount of waste with minimal problems. But like anything else, they are not indestructible. If you want to keep your sewer line in good condition, it's important to be proactive about maintenance and repairs.
At BL3 Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we offer a full range of sewer line services, from inspection and cleaning to repair and replacement. We also offer preventative maintenance plans to help keep your sewer line in top condition. As Oklahoma City's trusted sewer line experts, we’re here to help you keep your sewer line in good working order.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you keep your sewer line in good working order. We even offer 24/7 emergency services when you need us most, so don't delay!
