A sewer backup typically happens when wastewater cannot flow freely away from a building or area because of a blockage or issue within the sewer system.
Understanding Sewer Backups
According to common understanding and the provided reference, sewer backups usually involve sewer pipe blockages in either main sewer lines or service laterals (the lines connecting individual buildings to the main sewer). When these pipes become blocked, wastewater has nowhere to go and is forced back up through drains and toilets into buildings.
These blockages aren't the only reason. The reference also points to other potential issues within the system itself.
Primary Causes of Sewer Backups
Based on the reference, several factors can lead to a sewer backup:
- Sewer Pipe Blockages: As mentioned, this is the most common cause. Blockages can occur in the large main sewer lines managed by municipalities or in the smaller service laterals connecting properties.
- Pipe Breaks or Cracks due to Tree Roots: Tree roots naturally seek out water sources. They can infiltrate sewer pipes through small cracks or loose joints, growing and expanding inside the pipe. This expansion can cause the pipe to break further and create significant blockages by trapping debris.
- System Deterioration: Older sewer systems, both main lines and service laterals, can simply degrade over time. Pipes may collapse, crack, or sag (creating bellies where waste collects), reducing flow capacity and leading to blockages and backups.
- Insufficient System Capacity: As communities grow, adding more homes and businesses, the volume of wastewater increases. If the existing sewer system was not designed or upgraded to handle this increased flow (due to residential or commercial growth), it can become overwhelmed, particularly during heavy rainfall, leading to backups.
- Construction Mishaps: Accidents during construction projects, such as digging that damages sewer lines, can compromise the integrity of the pipes, causing breaks or blockages that impede flow and result in backups.
Practical Insights & Prevention
While backups are often linked to systemic issues or natural causes like tree roots, what goes down the drain can also contribute to blockages, especially in service laterals. Avoiding flushing items like wet wipes (even those labeled "flushable"), fats, oils, grease (FOG), and non-biodegradable materials can help prevent buildup and blockages in the pipes connecting to the main sewer.
Understanding these causes highlights the importance of proper maintenance of both public and private sewer infrastructure to prevent disruptive and damaging backups.
