While you may not see your septic system’s vital pipes and tanks, they’re essential to your family’s daily convenience. This system safely transports wastewater out of the house and off your property. When these lines wear down or accumulate damage, they can cause unpleasant overflowing and leaks. To help prevent these septic issues, you should learn more about the most common causes behind damaged sewer lines.
Overloaded Capacity
While your septic system can handle years of use, it’s not designed to accommodate sudden overloading. This is why having more people in your household using your fixtures tends to result in more plumbing worries. You can also run into issues when you use several heavy-duty appliances at once like your dishwasher and washing machine. Too much wastewater in your septic system will stop solids from settling and dilute the bacteria colony. The pipes leading into the system can quickly clog, reducing their overall efficiency.
Flushing Improper Materials
Non-biodegradable materials like cotton swabs, cat litter, feminine hygiene products, and wipes should never go in your toilet. These items won’t break down easily over time and can cause blockages deep within your septic system. Many wipes marketed as septic-safe contain thick plastic fibers that don’t easily tear or disintegrate. Your toilet is only meant to handle toilet paper and human waste.
Overusing your garbage disposal can also cause septic issues, especially if you’re grinding up improper items like bones, meat, or coffee grounds. For example, sharp bone shards may damage the interior of your pipes, while starchy items can make a thick paste that causes blockages.
External Factors
Tree and plant roots, shifting soil, and cold weather are a few of the most common external stressors affecting your septic system. If you have a drain field, nearby roots may seek the water inside your pipes. This is why it’s often better to limit the foliage around your septic system or choose plants with shallow root systems. Cold weather can freeze your pipes and drains. While you can’t avoid seasonal changes, you can invest in sewer maintenance to keep your system as well-protected as possible.
Chemical Damage
Drain cleaners, detergents, paint thinners, and even nail polish remover can cause serious septic harm over time. They may corrode your drains or kill the important bacteria within your system. Some chemicals leave residue behind that makes it easier for clogs to form. You should always dispose of these materials in minimal amounts to prevent damage. Drain cleanings can also minimize buildup over the years.
Protecting your home’s septic system will ensure you don’t have to worry about foul sewage odors or overflowing sludge in your tubs. Reach out to Select Plumbing to schedule your sewer line repair in Lincoln, NE.
