What Should I Do if My Sewer Is Backing Up Into My Home?

Sewage backing up into your home can quickly become a nightmare. Whether you’ve noticed slow drains or are dealing with wastewater overflow, knowing what to do when your sewer backs up can minimize damage and protect your family’s health.

In this guide, Hy-Pro Plumbing & Drain will answer your question, “What should I do if my sewer is backing up into my home?” along with some useful tips to prevent sewer backups.

Why Do Sewers Back Up?

A sewer backup occurs when wastewater flows backward through your plumbing system instead of draining away from your home. This frustrating problem can stem from various issues.

Tree root infiltration often causes severe blockages by growing into and crushing pipes. Improper disposal of grease, wipes, and other materials can also create stubborn clogs. Even aging infrastructure and shifting soil can damage sewer lines, leading to serious backups.

Warning Signs That Indicate a Potential Sewer Backup

Don’t wait until you see wastewater flooding your basement to take action. Early detection can save you thousands in repair costs and prevent extensive damage to your home. Watch for these warning signs:

• Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets
• Water backing up in the shower
• Foul odors from drains
• Wet spots in your yard
• Toilets not flushing properly
• Sink water rising unusually high
• Sewage odors in basement or crawl spaces

What To Do When Sewers Backup

What should I do if my sewer is backing up? Stop using all water fixtures immediately, including toilets, sinks, showers, and appliances like dishwashers. Next, turn off the main water supply to your home.

Sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that pose serious health risks. Keep children and pets away from affected areas. If the backup reaches your electrical outlets or basement appliances, turn off power to those areas to prevent electrical hazards.

The Importance of Calling Sewer Inspection Experts

A thorough inspection by a qualified plumber can identify the root cause of your sewer backup. Modern inspection techniques use specialized cameras to examine pipe conditions, locate blockages, and assess damage. This technology helps determine whether you need drain cleaning, repair, or more extensive solutions.

How To Prevent Sewer Backups

Here are some sewer backup prevention steps that can significantly reduce the risk of this plumbing disaster:

• Schedule regular professional drain cleaning services
• Install backflow prevention devices and maintain them
• Replace aging pipes before failure occurs
• Avoid disposing of grease, wipes, and non-flushable items in drains
• Manage tree roots through barriers and proper landscaping
• Monitor and address plumbing issues promptly
• Document any recurring drainage problems

Contact Hy-Pro Plumbing and Drain – Professional Sewer System Experts

What should I do if my sewer is backing up? The answer is clear: Trust professionals who understand the complexities of sewer systems and can provide lasting solutions. Hy-Pro Plumbing & Drain brings over 25 years of experience handling sewer backups. 

Our team serves all of Ontario, Canada, providing 24/7 emergency response when you need us the most. Contact Hy-Pro Plumbing & Drain at 877-554-9776 for immediate assistance with sewer backups or to schedule a preventive inspection in Ontario, Canada.