Sewer problems & prevention

Sewer backups and cleaning of personal service and main lines costs.  Much of this can be avoided by properly disposing of items that can cause blockages and plug up sewer lines and pumps.  A great rule of thumb is that sewers are built to handle human waste and toilet tissue; anything else should be disposed  of in the garbage.

Grease and Food Scraps– Solidified grease or pour it into a container and dispose of in the garbage. A good idea is to catch food scraps or other solids before they go down the drain in the sink and not use it as a garbage disposal.  Do be careful when using a chemical for dissolving grease.  It may only transport the problem further down the sewer system.

Paper Products – This includes items like paper towels, disposable diapers, feminine products, wash cloths, corded towelettes and baby wipes.  BE AWARE.  Some items claim to be flushable but don’t break down like toilet paper.  These items then build up in lines collecting other solids like hair, paper towel and facial tissue.  Once this happens, it’s a costly call to the plumber.

Small toys – Small children can be fascinated with the toilet.  Keep the door to your bathroom closed.  This just may save you some money and time.

Stringy Items – This category encompasses things that can tangle.  Believe it or not Dental Floss and Hair is included here as well as condoms and wrappers.

Medical Supplies – This includes cotton balls & swabs, prescription medication and band aids.

General Items – Things like cigarette butts and cat litter is on the NO list too. 

Landscaping - Select carefully where to plant greenery, as trees and shrub roots can cause problems with sewage lines.