A sewer backup is one of the most unpleasant things that can occur on any property. While there are many causes for it, it most frequently happens during heavy rainstorms. In order to be prepared, a lot of people in San Diego, CA rely on commercial sewage removal services, to keep their drainage systems running perfectly at all times.
Before you call professionals to sort out the issue on your commercial property, you should first become familiar with the main causes of sewage backup. Keep reading to learn more!
What could cause a sewage line to backup in commercial buildings?
A big part of being prepared to deal with plumbing issues in your office building is prevention, so here are the most common causes of such issues:
- Municipal sewer problems
Most sewage problems happen outside of your control, and municipal sewer can be the main cause of it. If it’s not addressed or detected as soon as it happens, the wastewater backs up into all the properties around the affected area. Unfortunately, there are no warning signs that you can keep an eye out for, as this occurs slowly.
The best thing you can do if you notice a sewer backup caused by the municipal sewer problems is to report the problem to the local public works office. If they take care of the issue immediately, this will reduce the damage caused by the sewage backup.
- Tree branches and roots
Sometimes the problem with the sewer is caused by the tree roots and branches accumulating inside the pipes. This can cause blockages and significant damage to the pipe joints. In case this is the main issue that created the backup, the only thing to do is to cut the roots and replace the pipes.
- Sump pump malfunction
If you use a sump pump to keep the water out of the lower floors of your property, regularly check the battery and always have an extra one handy. Sump pump malfunction can usually happen due to a power outage or a mechanical failure. Keeping a spare battery nearby can prolong the durability of a sump pump from a few hours to a couple of days.
- Old sewer systems
Most sewage systems are made of cast iron, PVC, Orangeburg, or even clay. These materials can be quite durable, but that doesn’t mean that they’ll last forever. As time passes, the pipes age and can start to deteriorate and collapse. Almost all of the sewer lines across the USA are at least thirty years old. Therefore you shouldn’t be surprised if there’s a sewage backup caused by broken pipes in the system.
- Grease and paper
Grease is every pipe’s biggest enemy. It accumulates on the walls and can create a thick layer that the water can’t go through. This can happen via improper food disposal whether by washing the greasy plates or blatantly pouring cooking oil down the drain. The most common places where it happens are restaurants and fast-food chains.
On the other hand, paper can be just as dangerous as grease. People usually think that, if the toilet paper is flushable, other types of paper are as well. However, that is not the case, as there’ve been found various forms of paper blocking the sewers and causing the backup. Instead of flushing it, put it in a designated recycling basket. Nature will be grateful!
Do you have a property in San Diego, CA that could benefit from commercial sewage removal services?
While all of these causes can be difficult to notice right away, giving a call to Risk Free Serv can help you prepare for a potential sewage backup. We will provide you with a professional inspection, regular upkeep, and damage assessment in case you’ve had troubles with your sewer. So you can go and relax at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with your loved ones and leave your drainage system to us. Contact us today!