Spring Showers & Sewer Backups: How to Prevent Costly Drainage Problems
Spring is just around the corner! The flowers will be blooming, the birds will be singing… and your drains? Well, they might be struggling. 🌧️ With all the extra rain, your home’s drainage system is under more pressure than usual. And if you’re not careful, you could end up with a nasty sewer backup — which, let’s be real, is NOT the kind of indoor pool you want.
So, what’s causing the problem? And more importantly, how can you stop it before your home smells like a swamp? Let’s break it down.
Why Spring Showers Can Wreak Havoc on Your Drains
Heavy rain doesn’t just water your lawn — it also soaks the ground around your sewer lines. When the soil gets too saturated, water can’t drain properly, and your pipes struggle to keep up. If you’ve got clogged drains, tree roots in your pipes, or an older drainage system, your home could be one big downpour away from a messy (and expensive) backup.
Warning Signs Your Sewer System is Struggling
Gurgling toilets – Your toilet shouldn’t sound like it’s trying to talk to you. That bubbling noise? It’s air struggling to escape through your pipes.
Slow-moving drains – If your sinks and tubs take forever to drain, rainwater might be fighting for space in your pipes.
A funky smell – If you step outside and catch a whiff of something… unpleasant, it could be a sign that your sewer system is backed up.
Water pooling in your yard – Random puddles on a dry day? Your underground pipes might be leaking.
How to Prevent Sewer Backups This Spring
✅ Keep your gutters clean. Clogged gutters force rainwater to pool around your foundation, increasing the risk of a backup.
✅ Check your sump pump. If your home has a sump pump, make sure it’s working properly before the next storm hits.
✅ Watch what you flush. Even when it’s not raining, flushable wipes are NOT flushable. (Seriously, don’t do it.)
✅ Schedule a drain cleaning. If you’ve got slow-moving drains, a professional drain cleaning can clear out debris before it causes a full-on backup.
✅ Consider a backwater valve. This handy device prevents sewage from flowing back into your home during heavy rainfall. (Trust us, it’s a game-changer.)
When to Call a Plumber
If your drains are acting up, don’t wait until it’s too late. A quick inspection now can save you from an expensive mess later. Give Sanders Plumbing HVAC a call, and we’ll make sure your pipes are ready for whatever spring throws their way! 🌧️🚽