#sewer backup

[theworldoffostering]

In the continuing saga of A Lot of Bad Things Have Happened to Us this Fall, we had some sewer back up in our basement. Turns out that the pipe running out of our house connecting to the city pipe was misaligned. This was causing things to get stuck in the pipes and back up into our basement. Thankfully, the back up was not horribly severe, but nonetheless, the pipes needed to be repaired. 

DH decided this was a DIY kind of job. H was thrilled to have a mini excavator in our yard, and truth be told, he did most of the digging. The hole was massive, and took the afternoon to dig. Definitely not the two hour project DH predicted (I told him it would take at least two days).

After the hole was dug, jt sat until the following weekend, and then DH did repair the pipes. We have it backfilled about halfway, but hoping to get this wrapped up asap before the cold weather sets in. This week we have a lot of rain which is also not ideal.

[reasonsforhope]

Plastic wet wipes could soon be banned in the UK

More than 90 per cent of the material in sewer blockages across the UK is made up of plastic wipes, according to a recent report.

"The UK is looking to ban plastic wet wipes that clog up the country’s sewers.

Under a plan to tackle water pollution, the government is launching a public consultation on whether to get rid of plastic wipes. Some retailers like supermarket Tesco and health and beauty company Boots have already stopped selling them in favour of biodegradable alternatives.

Although these alternatives are available, most products still contain plastic which doesn’t break down, sticks together and can create something known as a fatberg. These rock-like masses of waste matter form in the sewer systems from non-biodegradable solids, oil, grease and fat.

Environment Minister Therese Coffey told the BBC that the proposal was to “ban plastic from wet wipes”. She added that the consultation was a “legal requirement” to make sure that they can go ahead with the ban.

The ban should come into force next year following the consultation.

The consultation on whether to ban wet wipes is part of the UK government’s Plan for Water which was published on Monday (3 April).

It is intended to improve water quality in the country and also includes measures like restrictions on some kinds of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) - also known as ‘forever chemicals’ - in textiles, cleaning products and other items.

The government also announced earlier this week that water companies could face unlimited fines for releasing untreated sewage into waterways without good reason."

-via EuroNews.Green, 4/4/23

Note: If you're in the UK, you should be able to send in a comment as part of the public consultation on this!

[uujudoes-blog1]

The End of my Water Troubles

Water and I have not been friends lately.  Sure, life out on the water in my kayak is another story altogether, but here at home, I have had nothing but troubles with water.

The problems started just a little over a month ago when my sump pump stopped working.  For most people, this wouldn’t be an issue, but I barely ever go in my basement, and I didn’t notice that there was a problem.

It was a big one.

You see, the sewer backed up and the sump pump wasn’t working, so the basement flooded with sewage.  Not only did it stink, but it created the perfect environment for the growth of mold.

Which is what I am dealing with now.

Well, let me correct that statement.  I have hired a company that specializes in mold remediation to take care of the problem for me.  They will be dealing with the issue from start to finish – from cleaning up the mess to ensuring that there is no possibility of mold growing in the basement.  I love that they are handling every aspect of this situation as I just don’t have a clue as to what needs to be done.

Everything should be dealt with here by the end of the day tomorrow.  I’ll be happy when it is all over – I’m ready for the end of my water troubles.

[doctordrainil]

Floor Drains: Why They Back Up and How to Prevent It

Backed-up floor drains are more than a nuisance: they can trap wastewater, cause foul odors, and sometimes lead to damage in basements, garages, and laundry areas. While the fix depends on the underlying cause, most backups share a few predictable triggers. Common reasons floor drains back up often start with partial or complete blockages. Hair, soap scum, food particles, and sediment can accumulate and narrow the drain line over time. In homes with outdoor runoff or landscaping nearby, root... Read more »

[doctordrainil]

Emergency Drain Service: What Counts as a Real Emergency

A blocked drain is frustrating, but only some situations truly qualify as an “emergency drain service.” The difference often comes down to safety risks, potential property damage, and whether contaminated water is involved. Clear signs you should call an emergency drain service Sewage backup or foul odors. If toilet waste backs up into showers, sinks, or tubs—or if there’s a strong sewage smell that persists—this usually indicates a blockage beyond a simple clog. The lo... Read more »

[doctordrainil]

Steps to Take When Storm Surge Backs Up Into Basement Drains

When a storm surge (or heavy rainfall) forces water up and back through a home’s basement drain, the situation can turn dangerous quickly. Backup water may carry sewage, chemicals, and debris, raising risks ranging from contamination to electrical hazards. Act immediately to reduce risk The first priority is safety. Keep people and pets away from the affected area, and avoid touching standing water if you suspect it may be contaminated. If water is near outlets, wiring, or applianc... Read more »

[doctordrainil]

Basement Drain Backup: Immediate Steps and Prevention

A basement drain backing up is stressful—and it can turn dangerous fast. Standing water may contain sewage, mold spores, and bacteria, especially if the backup is coming from a sewer line. The goal is to stop the immediate risk, reduce damage, and figure out what caused the blockage so it doesn’t repeat. First, assess safety and contamination. If you suspect the water is sewage (brown/black color, foul odor, toilet or main drain gurgling, or multiple fixtures backing up), treat it as h... Read more »

[purocleanzephyrhills]

The Dangers of DIY Sewer Backup Cleanup: Why You Should Call the Pros

A sump pump installed in a basement of a home with a water powered backup system. A sewer backup in your home can be overwhelming, and while it may seem tempting to handle the cleanup yourself, DIY approaches can be hazardous. Here’s why relying on professional cleaning services Zephyrhills Florida for sewer backup cleanup is the safest option. 1. Health Hazards from Contaminated Water Sewage…

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