Because your sewer line is buried underground, it’s at risk of freezing and other issues during winter as the ground cools down. Other factors, such as shifting soil and moisture, only add to the winter-related concerns. You can keep your sewer lines protected throughout the winter with a few simple tips.

What Can Happen in the Winter

Your pipes can freeze, particularly old pipes or those close to the surface. The wastewater inside the pipes will expand when it freezes and possibly cause your pipes to crack or burst. Your system could become sluggish in the winter as food waste, grease, and other debris harden from the cold. You may then develop a clog that partially or fully blocks a pipe. The wastewater could even back up into your home if it can’t flow normally.

Once snow or ice melts, you could develop a backup or overflow if the water overwhelms the system. Moreover, whenever the temperatures shift and there are freezing and thawing cycles, the soil will expand and contract. This change in soil could lead to a line breaking or leaking.

Ways to Protect Your Sewer Lines

These tips can help you prevent the most common winter problems for sewer lines.

Hire a Professional for an Inspection

If you haven’t had your lines inspected in the last year or two, now is an excellent time to have a professional visit for an evaluation of your system. The sewer specialist will assess the major aspects of your system and determine if any repairs are necessary. The professional may recommend a cleaning based on their assessment.

Seek the Assistance of a Professional at Early Signs of a Problem

As soon as you notice your drains are slow or you hear gurgling, contact a specialist for a repair. They can identify the cause and make any necessary fixes before the issue has time to progress and a more costly intervention is necessary.

Be Mindful of What You Put Down the Drain

Since substances in your lines can freeze during winter, avoid putting grease down the drain. Strive to keep as many food particles from going down as possible.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulate any pipes you have in your basement or crawl space. The insulation will decrease the risk of them freezing.

Make Sure Sewer Vents Are Clear

Sewer vents allow sewer gases to be released outside safely. They balance air pressure and assist with drainage. Check that these vents don’t have ice or snow blocking them.

While these yips can help protect your sewer line throughout the cold months, issues can still arise. Contact Harmon Plumbing, serving Durham, NC, and the surrounding area, to schedule a sewer line repair if you have signs of a problem like slow drains.