Clogs and backups in the sewer line can happen at any time of the year. However, this plumbing disaster is somewhat likelier to strike during frigid weather, both because of possible pipe freezing and because tree roots may seek moisture and infiltrate pipes if the soil dries out during the cold season.
The last thing you want is to deal with a plumbing blockage under conditions of hail, slush, or snow. The following tips will help you prevent sewer line backups in winter in Collinsville, OK.
Avoid Clogs
Blockages are one of the most common reasons for sewer line overflows. You’re a lot less likely to face clogs and blockages if you:
- Keep cooking oil and fat away from drains. Avoid pouring fat, oil, or grease down the drain. These can solidify and block your pipes.
- Never flush anything but toilet paper. Paper towels, sanitary napkins, and even so-called “flushable” wipes won’t dissolve quickly enough in the plumbing system and may create a clog.
- Cover drains. Simple, affordable drain covers are great for catching hair, stray bottle caps, small bath toys, and other objects that could clog your pipes.
Watch Out for Invasive Roots and Pooling Water
The trees in your yard are an often-overlooked menace to plumbing. Tree roots may interfere with sewer lines and infiltrate pipes. As a rule, you need a minimum distance of 10 feet between trees or shrubs and underground pipelines. If you’re moving your sewer line, keep it well away from existing trees.
Some trees are notorious for their invasive root systems. Willows, poplars, silver maples, and American elms are a few tree species you should plant as far as possible from any underground pipes to prevent sewer line backups.
You can use chemical inhibitors to kill aggressive roots and prevent new roots from growing. However, root inhibitors will only solve the problem for a few years. If you decide to cut down a tree with invasive roots, you’ll also need to remove the stump to eradicate the root system.
Flooding or pooling water on your lot could also be a problem since excess water may seep into sewer lines and compromise their integrity. Talk to a professional landscaper about solutions to divert pooling water from your yard.
Protect Your Sewer Line From Freezing
Although Collinsville doesn’t often see extremely harsh winter weather, freezes can still happen in December through February when Arctic air moves in from the north. Exterior pipes are often more susceptible to freezing than indoor pipes.
Adding insulation to your pipes can help prevent sewer line backups. Heat tape, foam pipe insulation, or an additional soil cover are all good options for outdoor piping. You should also seal any gaps where your indoor pipes join the sewer line.
When temperatures drop below freezing, keep a thin trickle of water flowing through your pipes. Run sinks and flush toilets regularly so water keeps moving. Use hot water taps as often as possible.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
You may notice signs of an impending sewer line backup before it happens. If your drainage suddenly becomes slow throughout the house rather than in just one drain or area, something is likely blocking your main sewer line.
Also, pay attention to unusual bubbling or gurgling noises in your pipes or drains. Strange sounds may point to an obstruction in the sewer system. If in doubt, call your local trusted plumbers in Collinsville, OK, to schedule an emergency sewer line inspection and cleaning. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Invest in Plumbing Maintenance in Collinsville, OK
Many homeowners don’t think about their plumbing while the water still flows. However, an annual plumbing inspection can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. A basic checkup can uncover problems like hidden leaks, loose pipe joints, invasive tree roots, and corroded pipes before they turn into a major plumbing crisis.
Spring or fall are the best seasons for a plumbing inspection in Collinsville, OK. A fall checkup will help ensure your plumbing and sewer lines are ready for the winter, while a spring inspection can assess any winter damage.
Facing a Plumbing Emergency in Collinsville, OK? Call Us Now
Even if you take every step to prevent sewer line backups during the winter, plumbing emergencies may still happen. We at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric provide fast 24/7 plumbing service in Collinsville and other locations near Tulsa, OK. We also offer regular plumbing checks for saving money and ensuring your pipes stay in good shape.
