Understanding Sewage Backup Causes Effects and Solutions

Sewage Backup: Causes and Effects

Sewage backup occurs when wastewater from your home's plumbing system flows back into your house. This can be a serious problem, as sewage contains harmful bacteria and other contaminants that can pose health risks to you and your family.

There are various factors that can lead to sewage backup:

Clogged Drains: Grease, soap, hair, and other debris can accumulate in your drains, causing blockages that prevent wastewater from flowing properly.
Tree Roots: If trees are planted too close to your sewer line, their roots can grow and penetrate the pipes, causing cracks that allow sewage to leak out.
Broken Pipes: Damage to your home's plumbing system, such as broken pipes, can result in leaks that allow sewage to backup into your house.
Heavy Rainfall: When it rains heavily, the volume of water entering your sewer system can exceed its capacity, leading to backups.

Effects of Sewage Backup

Sewage backup can have several negative consequences:

Health Hazards: Sewage contains bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause illnesses such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis, and skin infections.
Property Damage: Sewage can cause extensive damage to your home's flooring, walls, and furniture.
Unpleasant Odors: Sewage emits a strong, unpleasant odor that can linger in your home, making it uncomfortable to live in.

What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in House?

If sewer backs up into your house, it is important to take immediate action to mitigate the damage and prevent further contamination:

Turn Off Water: Shut off the main water supply to your home to stop any further flow of wastewater.
Call a Professional: Contact a licensed and experienced Sewage Cleanup Service to safely remove the sewage and restore your home to its previous condition.
Clean and Disinfect: Once the sewage has been removed, thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected areas of your home, using bleach or other disinfectants as directed.

By taking these steps, you can minimize the health risks and damage associated with sewage backup, ensuring a clean and safe environment for you and your family.