Fixing a Tub that Keeps Backing Up
A clogged tub is always frustrating for homeowners. However, there is a serious difference between a tub backing up with water and one that is backing up from the sewer line.
Bathtubs that start to back up with sewage are a very real health concern and risk for everyone living in the home. Knowing what to look for and how to fix smaller issues before they start can help avoid emergency situations, like the alarming need to unclog a bathroom drain.
Tub Backing Up? It Could Be a Sewer Line Clog
The home’s sewer line connects the pipes to the water line and eventually to the city’s sewer system. It is located under the ground but is generally also the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain. Every drain in the home connects to the sewer line.These lines slope downward and are usually between four and six inches in diameter. Because the lines are smaller than average pipes, they have more of a tendency to get clogged. This usually affects toilets, but can also ultimately lead to a tub backing up too.
If the tub backing up is due to a clog in the sewer line, a plumber should be hired immediately. These types of issues can result in sewage backing up into your bathtub. Not only can this cause water damage into the bathroom but it may also be a health hazard.
Make Sure To Watch What You Flush
Another fairly obvious culprit if a homeowner notices a tub backing up is to pay attention to what is being flushed down the toilet. While this may sound unrelated, it corresponds fairly directly with clogs in the sewer line. While the homeowner may be aware that only toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet, not everyone in the home may share the same view.
Some of the more common objects that cause clogs in the sewer line are feminine hygiene products (like tampons), wipes, cotton balls, q-tips, and children’s toys. If enough objects build up in the pipes, it will eventually lead to a blockage. In the end, issues with the toilet don’t just stay in the toilet. They affect not only the entire bathroom but the whole home.
Make Use Of A Hair Trap In The Tub
Homeowners aren’t often aware of how much hair they actually lose every day. It may not seem like a lot in the shower or the bath but, over time, hair accumulates and causes clogs and issues with the tub backing up.This can also lead to larger issues with a backed-up sewer line. The good news is that there is an easy way to avoid having this happen. A simple and inexpensive hair trap, that can be purchased at any hardware store, can just be placed in the drain.
It will work to collect any loose hair before it enters the pipes, which can stop clogs before they start. It can be cleaned out at least once a week, and the hair should be thrown in the garbage instead of being flushed down the toilet.
About Force Plumbing and Heating LLC
Force Plumbing and Heating LLC are a family-owned and operated Holmdel, New Jersey company. They offer competitive pricing without surprises, high-quality workmanship and materials, and service by trusted technicians. Best of all, they can help resolve your toilet backup issues.
