Common Causes of Sewer Line Backups and How to Prevent Them

Common Causes of Sewer Line Backups and How to Prevent Them

A sewer line backup is one of the most unpleasant plumbing issues a homeowner can face. It causes not only foul smells and messy cleanups but can also result in extensive property damage and serious health risks. Unfortunately, many backups occur due to preventable causes such as grease buildup, tree root invasion, or flushing improper items down the toilet. Understanding these triggers is the first step in keeping your sewer line running smoothly.

Grease, even in liquid form, can solidify inside pipes, narrowing the flow and eventually causing clogs. Meanwhile, tree roots naturally grow toward moisture and can infiltrate even the smallest cracks in underground sewer lines. Add in the occasional "non-flushable" item—wipes, sanitary products, or paper towels, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Regular maintenance and mindful habits are your best defense against such backups.

At Real Time Plumbing, we provide comprehensive sewer line inspections using high-definition camera technology. This allows us to locate blockages or root intrusions without unnecessary digging. If you want to schedule a plumbing inspection for your home today or have any questions about our services, feel free to contact us at Real Time Plumbing and or call us at (732) 314-1082! Whether it's a routine checkup or an emergency backup, we’re here to get your system flowing again fast.

We also offer root removal services, pipe descaling, and recommendations for long-term solutions such as root barriers or trenchless pipe replacement. Preventive maintenance is far less expensive than emergency repair, which is why we encourage homeowners to have their sewer lines checked every 1 to 2 years, especially in older homes.

A clear sewer line means a safer, cleaner home. Let Real Time Plumbing help you prevent backups before they start. If you want to schedule a sewer line inspection or need advice about your plumbing, our team is just a phone call away at (732) 314-1082.