Maintaining a smooth and trouble-free sewer system might not be the most glamorous aspect of homeownership, but it’s undeniably essential. A clogged sewer line can lead to messy and costly problems, including sewer backups and the need for sewer lateral replacement. 

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to prevent these issues. But, if things get complicated, you should contact plumbing contractors to save the day. 

To give you an idea, here are six tips to help you avoid sewer line blockages and keep your plumbing in tip-top shape.

Watch What You Flush

Let’s start with a common culprit for sewer problems – what goes down the toilet. Sometimes, it’s tempting to toss things like paper towels, baby wipes, or feminine hygiene products into the bowl. But here’s the deal: these items don’t play nice with your pipes. They can clog them up over time. So, remember, only toilet paper and human waste belong in the toilet. By being mindful of what you flush, you can prevent a major headache down the line.

Cooking Grease Disposal

Cooking is fun, and bacon is amazing, right? But here’s the catch: that leftover bacon grease shouldn’t go down your kitchen sink. When it cools, it turns into a sticky mess that clings to your pipes. Instead, collect the grease in a container, let it cool, and then toss it in the trash. This little habit can save you from a costly plumbing repair in the future.

Get Drain Screens

Here’s a simple, budget-friendly solution. Get some drain screens or strainers. They’re like little gatekeepers for your drains. These handy devices catch debris before it can slink down your pipes and cause trouble. In the kitchen, they snag food particles. In the bathroom, they corral hair and soap scum. Just remember to empty and clean them regularly to keep your plumbing happy.

Regular Maintenance Matters

You take your car for regular check-ups, right? Well, your sewer system needs some TLC too. Bring in a professional plumber to give it a once-over. They’ll spot potential problems early, like pesky tree roots or pipes that are starting to show their age. This is like a little investment in your home’s health and can save you from the hefty costs of sewer lateral replacement down the road.

Tree Troubles

Trees in your yard are lovely, but sometimes their roots can be a pain in the pipes. Those roots can worm their way into your plumbing and wreak havoc. If you have trees nearby, talk to a gardening expert or arborist to make sure they’re planted a safe distance from your pipes. Keep an eye out for warning signs, like slow drainage or gurgling sounds. Act quickly to avoid bigger problems.

Dispose of Hazardous Waste Responsibly

Finally, let’s talk about those household chemicals and hazardous waste. Things like paint, motor oil, and pesticides should never go down the drain if they are liquid. 

Not only can they damage your pipes, but they’re also bad news for the environment. Your community likely has spots where you can drop off these items safely. Responsible disposal is not only kind to your plumbing but to Mother Earth as well.