A sewer system that functions well protects your home from the damage that leaks can cause. While trenchless sewer repair can save you money in restoration costs, the least expensive way to handle plumbing issues is to prevent them in the first place. Here are a few tips on how to protect your sewer lines from damage.
Watch What You Flush
The only things you should ever flush down your toilet is human waste and toilet paper. Anything else can cause blockage in the sewer lines and wreak havoc on your system. Dispose of feminine hygiene products in a trashcan. Even wipes marketed as flushable are potentially hazardous to your pipes.
Dispose of Grease Responsibly
Another common cause of sewer clogs is grease that is poured down the drain. You may not think that the small amount of bacon grease produced when you were cooking breakfast can hurt anything, but it stubbornly clings to the pipes, especially as it cools, coating the inside and making the passage more narrow. To dispose of grease, pour it into a can, wait for it to cool and then throw it in the trash.
Plant Trees Away From Lines
Plant roots naturally seek out moisture, and there is a lot of moisture present in sewer lines. Roots can invade the pipes, causing leaks that start small and inevitably get bigger as the root works its way further into the line. Know where your sewer lines are located in your yard so that when you are planning your landscaping, you know which areas to avoid.
There are noninvasive ways to repair broken sewer lines, but the best solution is protection of the lines in the first place. Knowing how to take care of your sewer system can save you a lot of money and time.