Common Spring Sewer Problems (and Their Solutions)

Spring is a time for renewal—warmer weather, blooming flowers, and cleaning up after the long winter months. However, spring also challenges homeowners in Sacramento, especially in your sewer system. The changing weather, increased rainfall, and tree growth can all contribute to sewer problems.

Bonney provides top-notch plumbing services, including sewer inspections, maintenance, and repairs in the greater Sacramento area. Let’s explore the most common spring sewer problems for homeowners and how to prevent them.

1. Clogged Drain Lines

Springtime often means a surge in home cleaning activities. Whether you’re tackling spring cleaning, decluttering, or doing a deep clean after a long, cold winter, the extra debris and waste can lead to clogged drains. Soap scum, hair, dirt, and even food particles can build up in the pipes over time, leading to blockages. This concern is common in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry room drains.

While occasional small clogs can often be resolved with a plunger or drain cleaner, persistent or severe blockages require professional attention. Over time, clogged drains can lead to blockages, sewage backups, and pipe damage.

2. Tree Root Intrusion on Sewer Pipes

Tree root intrusion is a prominent spring sewer threat — especially in tree-heavy cities like Sacramento. 

While tree root intrusion can strike in almost any season, spring’s combination of increased rainfall and warmer weather encourages trees to grow quickly, and their roots search for water. If you have older or poorly maintained sewer lines, these roots can break into your pipes. Over time, tree roots create blockages, cracks, and even pipe collapses. 

Tree roots are one of the leading causes of sewer line damage, and they can lead to costly repairs if not caught early.

Homeowners should regularly inspect areas where tree roots are close to the sewer system, especially if you’ve noticed a change in the drainage rate or unusual sounds from your pipes.

3. Increased Spring Rainwater and Plumbing Problems

Sacramento is known for its seasonal rainstorms, especially in spring. While rain is essential for maintaining healthy lawns and gardens, it can also stress your sewer system. Excess water can overwhelm the drains and pipes, potentially causing flooding in basements, crawlspaces, or areas where the sewer line is poorly maintained. This concern is particularly problematic if your home’s sewer system is outdated or has any existing damage.

To avoid flooding, homeowners should ensure their downspouts and drains are cleared, maintained, and prepped for the spring season. Additionally, if you have a sump pump, ensure it’s in good working order before the rainy season begins. Click here for a closer look at all the plumbing maintenance you need to prepare for heavy rain. 

4. Grease Buildup

Spring is known to bring warm weather, outdoor barbecues, family gatherings, and an increased use of your kitchen. While these occasions are fun, they can also lead to grease buildup in your drains. When hot grease is poured down the drain, it cools and hardens, eventually creating blockages in your pipes. The buildup is particularly problematic in kitchen sink drains, as grease can mix with food particles, causing more severe clogs.

A simple solution is to avoid pouring grease or oil down your sink. Instead, dispose of it in the trash. For existing grease buildup, a professional plumber can use specialized equipment like hydro-jetting to clean the pipes.

Solutions to Common Sewer Problems

Preventing and addressing sewer issues early can save you from costly repairs and inconvenience. Here are some effective solutions to avoid the most common sewer problems:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule an annual or biannual inspection with a trusted plumbing professional like Bonney. Inspections allow us to identify potential problems before they escalate, including root intrusions, cracks, or blockages.
• Maintain Your Trees: If you have large trees near your sewer lines, consult a landscaping professional to trim roots that might endanger your plumbing system. If you suspect root intrusion, Bonney can help. We use modern tools like video inspection snakes to assess the situation and recommend the best solutions for you.
• Proper Drain Maintenance: Don’t put grease, coffee grounds, or large food particles down your kitchen drain. Running hot water down your drains after cooking can also help break down grease before it hardens. Install hair catchers in bathroom drains and regularly clean them to prevent clogs. Most importantly, do not flush any “flushable” wipes, as they can quickly create or worsen blockages.
• Trenchless Sewer Repair: When routine services, annual maintenance, and small repairs won’t do the trick, you may need a larger solution, such as trenchless sewer repair. Also called pipe lining or slip lining, this service repairs pipes that have been damaged by lining the inside of the pipe. 
• Trenchless Sewer Replacement: When you are too degraded for slip lining, plumbers can turn to trenchless sewer replacement. This service involves replacing damaged pipes by dragging new installs through a small entry hole, minimizing issues for your yard while effectively restoring your sewer system. 
• Open Trench Sewer Replacement: For pipes past the point of saving, an open trench sewer replacement is the last resort for sewer repair. This service can solve almost any problem by giving you a brand-new system of pipes. Unfortunately, open trench sewer replacement is incredibly invasive, potentially requiring plumbers to dig up your landscaping and/or driveway to remove and replace pipes. This concern is why it is essential to have routine sewer maintenance and to call a professional at the first sign of a problem. 

Why Spring Is a Great Time to Check Your Sewer System

Let the warm weather be your annual reminder to get your sewer system inspected and serviced. After the heavy rains and winter freezing, your sewer system may be under more strain, and the growth of trees can introduce new seasonal hazards. By performing routine maintenance during this season, you can ensure your home is ready for the warmer months, preventing any inconvenient plumbing disasters.

Here’s why spring is the best time to check your sewer system:

• Minimized Risk of Damage: Inspecting and repairing any issues before they worsen helps prevent major damage that could require expensive repairs or replacements.
• Prevent Clogs and Backups: By addressing minor concerns now, you’ll reduce the chances of experiencing clogs, slow drainage, or backups during the busy summer months.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your sewer system is in good shape ensures peace of mind, especially during spring showers and outdoor gatherings.

Bonney Sewer Service in Sacramento

The local sewer experts at Bonney are dedicated to providing reliable sewer, drain, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical services in the greater Sacramento area. If you suspect an issue with your sewer system or want a professional inspection, don’t wait — explore our coupons or contact us today to ensure your home is ready for the season ahead!