Understanding Basement Backups

Basement backups occur when wastewater overflows into your basement. This can be caused by a variety of factors including:

  • Blockages in the sewer line 

  • Inflow during heavy rainfall

     overwhelming the sewer system 

  • Tree roots infiltrating sewer pipes 

  • Aging or damaged sewer infrastructure 

By taking preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of basement backups and protect your home from potential damage. However, if you ever find yourself in need of our services, please don’t hesitate to give us a call (315) 435-3157 

Tips for Preventing Basement Backups 

Don’t Feed the FOG Monster! 

Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) should never be flushed or poured down the drain. FOG, along with “flushable” wipes and other hygiene products get trapped in pipes and contribute to clogs. Dispose of these items in the trash.  What else does the FOG Monster eat?

Plug the Floor Drain 

Basement floor drains help move water out of your basement, but if it connects to the sewer system, your floor drain can also be a source of wastewater entering your home. In areas that are prone to heavy rain or flooding, installing a plug or one-way drain can prevent wastewater from entering your home. 

Install a Backwater Valve

A backwater valve is a device installed on the main sanitary sewer pipe to prevent sewage from flowing back into the pipes. The backwater valve contains a flap that lays flat under normal conditions. In the event backflow from the sewer system occurs, this flap floats up to block any backflow from coming back into the pipe. Installation should be done by a licensed plumber. It’s also important to have your backwater valve inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure it works when needed.

Note: When your backwater valve is preventing backflow, it is also preventing any flow from leaving your home and entering the sewer system.  

Check for unnecessary connections to the sewer system 

Sump pumps and roof drains/gutters that are connected to the sewer system can lead to capacity issues. Groundwater and stormwater don’t need to be treated like wastewater, so these connections should be directed to drain outside or to a designated storm drain. 

Disconnect basement sewer connections 

If you have a basement sewer connection that you don’t need, consider eliminating it. It serves as another point of entry for sewage to enter your home.  

Be mindful of where your sewer line is before planting 

Tree roots are naturally inclined to grow toward moisture and when it comes to a sewer line, they find all the moisture they need. The roots continue to grow and multiply, eventually clogging the sewer pipe and even cracking it.