Sewage Blockages: Causes, Prevention and Solutions

Sewage Blockages: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions

Sewage blockages can be a messy and disruptive issue. They are not only inconvenient but can also pose significant health risks and property damage if not addressed promptly. Understanding the causes, implementing preventive measures, and knowing the right solutions are crucial for maintaining a healthy plumbing system.

In this blog, we'll delve into the world of sewage blockages, shedding light on the intricacies of this common plumbing concern.

Common Causes of Sewage Blockages

There are several common issues that can cause a blocked sewer to drain. This can range from household objects being flushed down the drain to roots infiltrating your pipes and more. Here are a few of the most common causes of sewage blockages:

Foreign Objects

Flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet or letting them enter drains is one of the leading causes of blockages. Foreign objects like sanitary products, baby wipes, and paper towels can accumulate in your drains over time, forming stubborn clogs. These items don't break down easily so can cause a blockage in the pipes.

To prevent these blockages, it’s important to educate household members on what can and cannot be flushed or washed down drains. Keep a bin next to your toilet to dispose of these items responsibly and protect your drains.

Tree Roots

Tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines through cracks or joints when seeking water and nutrients. As they grow, they create obstructions and structural damage, leading to sewage backups and water leaks. This issue is particularly prevalent in older homes with older pipes.

To minimise the risk of tree roots infiltrating and damaging your pipes it is best to keep plants with invasive root systems away from sewage lines. If you already have plants near your sewage lines you can consult with an arborist to manage growth without compromising the health of the tree. Professional plumbers can also use techniques like root cutting to remove or inhibit root growth.

Grease & Fat Buildup

Pouring cooking grease and fat down the drain may seem convenient, but over time it can accumulate and solidify. This restricts the flow of water and sewage and traps other debris, forming blockages.

To prevent fat and grease buildups in your pipes it is best to collect kitchen grease in a container and dispose of it in the rubbish bun. For commercial kitchens, grease traps MUST be installed to capture the grease and prevent it from entering the sewage system. These traps also need to be cleaned and maintained regularly to keep them working as intended.

Collapsed Pipes & Improper Installation

Aging or deteriorating pipes can collapse, obstructing the flow of sewage. This is more common in older properties with aging plumbing infrastructure. Poorly designed or improperly installed sewage systems may have incorrect slopes, causing water and waste to pool and lead to blockages. Identifying and addressing structural issues and damage is crucial in preventing recurring blockages.

To ensure that your sewage system is installed correctly you should always hire experienced professional plumbers. In cases of severe pipe damage or collapse, repair or replacement of the sewer line may be necessary.

Effective Preventative Measures & Solutions

Many of these common blockages can be prevented and rectified by either changing your household’s habits or contacting professional plumbers. Here are a few other general measures that you can take to avoid costly, messy, and hazardous blockages and damage to your sewage system:

Regular Plumbing Inspections & Maintenance

Schedule regular inspections and preventative maintenance of your sewage system with plumbing professionals to address minor issues before they escalate into major blockages. Early detection and maintenance of tree root infiltration or pipe damage can prevent blockages and costly major damage.

Consider scheduling preventive maintenance appointments with plumbing professionals to keep your sewage system in top working order.

Professional Drain Cleaning

Engage the services of a professional plumbing team for thorough drain cleaning. High-pressure water jetting and advanced tools can break down and remove stubborn blockages. This is effective against grease buildup, roots, and other debris lining the pipes.

Tropical Coast Plumbing can schedule routine drain cleaning as part of or in conjunction with your regular plumbing inspection and maintenance as necessary.

Tropical Coast Plumbing can also utilise specialised drain chemicals/acids. These products can become especially useful for smaller blockages or blockages caused by fats or crystalised urine.

However, this is not always a permanent solution as it can still block up in the future. It is always best to get your drains inspected with a drain camera to ensure there are no other issues with your drains.

Prevent Sewage Blockages with Professional Plumbing

Understanding the causes, implementing preventive measures, and choosing the right solutions are crucial steps in dealing with sewage blockages. Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, being proactive about your plumbing system can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of dealing with sewage backups.

If you're facing persistent issues or need professional assistance, don't hesitate to contact our team at Tropical Coast Plumbing for expert advice and reliable plumbing services. Whether it's preventive maintenance, emergency blockage removal, or pipe repairs, count on us to keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly.