Preventing Sewer Backups During Heavy Rainfall

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Protect Your Home Before The Next Heavy Rain

Kansas City's heavy rainstorms can put added pressure on residential plumbing and sewer systems. Keeping gutters clear, maintaining proper drainage, preventing drain clogs, and addressing sewer line problems early can all help reduce your risk of a backup.

What Should You Do If Your Sewer Backs Up During A Storm?

Even with preventative maintenance, severe rainfall can still lead to sewer backups.

Stop using water when possible.

Keep people and pets away from contaminated water.

Avoid standing water near electrical equipment.

Contact a professional plumber and document the damage when safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • 1. Why do sewer backups happen during heavy rain?

    Heavy rain can overwhelm sewer systems, increase groundwater infiltration through damaged pipes, and expose existing blockages. When wastewater cannot flow properly through the sewer line, it may back up into your home through toilets, drains, or basement floor drains.

  • 2. How can I prevent a sewer backup during a storm?

    You can reduce your risk by keeping gutters and downspouts clear, maintaining proper yard drainage, avoiding putting grease and non-flushable items down drains, and scheduling routine sewer line inspections. A licensed plumber can also determine whether a backwater valve may provide additional protection.

  • 3. What are the warning signs of a sewer backup?

    Common warning signs include multiple slow drains, gurgling toilets, sewage odors, recurring drain clogs, and water coming up through basement floor drains. If these symptoms occur, contact a professional plumber to identify and address the underlying problem before it worsens.

  • 4. Who should I call if my sewer backs up during heavy rain?

    Contact a professional plumber, such as JF Denney, to diagnose the backup and determine the appropriate solution. If the problem may involve the public sewer system, contact your local sewer utility or municipality as well. Avoid contact with sewage-contaminated water and stay away from flooded areas with potential electrical hazards.