What Causes Sewage Backups and How to Prevent Them

Sewage backups are a messy and unpleasant problem that can cause extensive damage to your home and belongings. In some cases, they can also pose a health hazard. That's why it's important to know what causes sewage backups and how to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Causes of Sewage Backups

There are many different things that can cause a sewage backup, including:
  • Clogged drains
  • Tree roots
  • Damaged sewer lines
  • Overloaded septic tanks
  • Heavy rainfall
  • Grease buildup
  • Foreign objects in the drain

Effects of Sewage Backups

Sewage backups can have a number of negative effects on your home and belongings, including:
  • Water damage
  • Mold growth
  • Property damage
  • Health hazards
  • Unpleasant odors

Why is Sewage Coming Up in My Shower?

One of the most common places for a sewage backup to occur is in the shower. This is because the drain in the shower is connected to the main sewer line. If the sewer line is clogged or blocked, sewage can back up into the shower drain and overflow. There are a number of things that can cause the sewer line to become clogged, including:
  • Tree roots
  • Grease buildup
  • Foreign objects in the drain
If you notice sewage coming up in your shower, it's important to call a plumber right away. They will be able to identify the cause of the blockage and clear it so that sewage can flow freely again.

Preventing Sewage Backups

There are a number of things you can do to prevent sewage backups from happening in your home, including:
  • Avoid pouring grease down the drain
  • Don't flush foreign objects down the toilet
  • Have your septic tank pumped regularly
  • Get your drains cleaned by a plumber every few years
  • Install a backflow preventer
By following these tips, you can help to prevent sewage backups from happening in your home and protect your family from the associated health hazards.