Sewage Backup Causes and Effects Understanding Sewage Cleanup Services
Sewage Backup Causes
Sewage backups occur when wastewater from toilets, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures cannot flow properly through the drainage system. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Clogged drains: Tree roots, grease, hair, and other debris can build up in drains and block the flow of sewage.
- Collapsed pipes: Pipes can collapse due to age, corrosion, or damage, which can also cause sewage backups.
- Frozen pipes: When temperatures drop below freezing, water in pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst and sewage to back up.
- Overwhelmed sewer lines: During heavy rain or snowmelt, sewer lines can become overwhelmed and unable to handle the increased flow of water, which can lead to sewage backups.
- Improperly installed plumbing: Pipes that are not properly installed or connected can also cause sewage backups.
Effects of Sewage Backups
Sewage backups can have a number of negative effects, including:
- Property damage: Sewage can damage carpets, flooring, furniture, and other belongings, and can also lead to mold growth.
- Health hazards: Sewage contains bacteria and viruses that can cause a variety of health problems, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin infections.
- Unpleasant odors: Sewage backups can create unpleasant odors that can permeate a home or business.
- Environmental contamination: Sewage can contaminate soil and water supplies, which can pose a risk to human health and the environment.
How does Sewage Backup Happen?
Sewage backups can happen anywhere in the plumbing system, but they are most common in the following areas:
- Toilets: Toilets are the most common source of sewage backups because they are used frequently and can easily become clogged with toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, and other objects.
- Sinks: Sinks can also become clogged with food scraps, grease, and hair, which can lead to sewage backups.
- Main sewer line: The main sewer line is the pipe that carries sewage from the home or business to the municipal sewer system. If the main sewer line is clogged or damaged, it can cause sewage backups in the entire building.
Professional Sewage Cleanup Services
If you experience a sewage backup, it is important to call a professional sewage cleanup service as soon as possible. Professional sewage cleanup services can:
- Safely remove sewage from your home or business.
- Dispose of sewage properly.
- Clean and disinfect the affected areas.
- Help prevent future sewage backups.
By calling a professional sewage cleanup service, you can help protect your health, your property, and the environment.