Top 4 Reasons For Sewer Line Clogs 

Few things can disrupt daily life as quickly and unpleasantly as a clogged sewer line. From odors and slow drains to messy backups, sewer line issues create serious headaches for homeowners. Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air knows how stressful plumbing problems can be and how important it is to take care of them quickly. Thankfully, many of these issues are completely preventable. Knowing the most common causes of sewer line clogs can help you take proactive steps to protect your home and avoid an emergency plumbing repair service. Keep reading to learn about the top four causes of sewer line blockages and practical ways to keep your plumbing system in good shape.

Tree Root Invasion

Trees can improve your property with shade and beauty, but their roots pose a hidden danger beneath the surface. Tree roots look for moisture and nutrients, so your sewer line is a prime target. Even the smallest crack or joint in your sewer pipes can allow roots to infiltrate and expand, where they slowly block the flow of wastewater and cause damage over time. Older homes with clay or cast-iron pipes are more vulnerable to root intrusion. Once roots take hold, they can lead to recurring clogs, backups, and complete pipe collapses. Routine plumbing service inspections are needed to catch root growth before it becomes a major issue. A professional plumber can detect early signs of root intrusion and offer solutions like hydro jetting, root barriers, or trenchless pipe lining to prevent future damage.

Flushing the Wrong Items

Toilets are designed for human waste and toilet paper. Unfortunately, many people treat their toilets as an alternative trash can and flush items that don't belong in the plumbing system. Common culprits include:

• Wet wipes
• Paper towels and napkins
• Feminine hygiene products
• Dental floss
• Cotton swabs and pads
• Baby wipes

These items do not break down like toilet paper and can accumulate in pipes, which leads to severe blockages. To prevent toilet-related clogs, educate your household on what can and cannot be flushed. A simple rule of thumb is if it’s not toilet paper or waste, toss it in the trash. If your toilet is slow to drain or frequently backs up, it may be time to invest in a plumbing repair service to fix the problem and restore your plumbing system.

Misuse of Garbage Disposals

While garbage disposals are convenient for handling small food scraps, they are not designed to process all types of waste. Misusing a garbage disposal can quickly lead to clogged drains and sewer lines. Common mistakes include pouring grease, oil, and fat down the drain. These substances cool and solidify inside the pipes and form sticky blockages that trap food and other debris. Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and potato peels can also wrap around the disposal blades and cause jams or blockages. Starchy foods like pasta and rice can expand when wet and will also contribute to clogs. To protect your garbage disposal and plumbing system, follow these tips:

• Dispose of grease and oils in a sealed container rather than the drain.
• Scrape large food scraps into the trash or compost bin.
• Run cold water while using the disposal to help flush small particles through the system.

If you notice slow drainage or recurring sink clogs, contact a plumber to inspect your pipes and provide professional cleaning if necessary.

Aging and Damaged Sewer Lines

Over time, all sewer pipes experience wear and tear. Materials like clay, cast iron, and Orangeburg are prone to cracking, collapsing, and corroding. Even modern PVC pipes are not immune to damage, especially in areas prone to ground shifting, root growth, or heavy construction activity. Signs of aging or damaged sewer lines include frequent clogs, gurgling drains, sewage odors, and wet patches in your yard. Ignoring these symptoms can result in catastrophic damage and urgent repairs. Routine plumbing service maintenance, including video camera inspections, allows plumbers to detect cracks, corrosion, and other vulnerabilities before they worsen. Depending on the severity, a plumbing repair service may recommend trenchless repair, pipe bursting, or complete pipe replacement.

How to Prevent Sewer Line Clogs

Prevention is always better than dealing with a plumbing disaster. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your sewer line:

• Schedule Routine Inspections: Annual check-ups with a qualified plumber can catch minor problems before they get worse.
• Watch What You Flush: Only human waste and toilet paper should go down your toilet.
• Proper Grease Disposal: Never pour grease, oils, or fats down the drain.
• Mindful Landscaping: Plant trees and shrubs away from sewer lines, and choose species with non-invasive roots.
• Install Drain Screens: Use screens in sinks and showers to catch hair, food scraps, and debris.
• Know Your Plumbing System: Understand where your sewer line runs and take precautions during landscaping or construction projects.

Does Your Sewer Line Need Professional Care?

Are you worried about your sewer line? Call Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air today to schedule an inspection and protect your home from sewer line clogs. Whether you need a routine inspection, emergency plumbing repair service, or long-term solutions, we are here to help. Our team of professionals uses advanced technology and industry-leading techniques to diagnose and sewer repair line problems efficiently. Contact us to schedule your next appointment.