We’ve all experienced it. After a heavy rain, a foul odor and gurgling mess can begin to seep out of floor drains in your basement or utility room. Not only is this a major inconvenience, but it can also put your health and safety at risk.
Unfortunately, these types of floor drain backups aren’t uncommon in the Twin Cities thanks to constant freeze-thaw cycles, shifting clay soil, older sewer lines, and significant rain. Luckily, the team at 4Front Energy is here to discuss why these issues require immediate attention, along with how homeowners can handle them and when to call a professional.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Signs of A Floor Drain Backup
Floor drain backups are most commonly caused by deeper issues in your sewer line like clogs or alignment problems. Leaving these problems alone can make the area worse and lead to hazards like sewage contamination, water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.
Why Does My Floor Drain Back Up When I Do Laundry?
If you notice a backup while doing laundry, it could be due to a main sewer line clog. When the washing machine runs, it drains large volumes of water quickly that can overwhelm a sewer line that is clogged by tree roots, grease, scale buildup, and more. The water then gets pushed back towards the floor drain, leaving you with a mess.
Floor Drain Backups After Heavy Rain
Spring and summer heavy rains in the Twin Cities area can be too much for the area’s old sewer system to handle. Sometimes, municipal sewers fill to capacity, causing water to flow back towards your home and drains.
Odors Coming From Floor Drain
Foul odors are often a warning sign for potential floor drain issues. Sewage scents can travel into your home before backups occur, giving homeowners the chance to resolve sewer line issues proactively. If you notice strange smells, call a professional to check for sewer line blockages or organic buildup in your drain lines.
Gurgling Sounds From Floor Drain
Like bad odors, gurgling sounds could point to a problem in your drains. The sound comes from water that is pushing through trapped air and struggling to move, resulting in a bubbling effect. This is often the very first sign of major backups and should be addressed immediately.
What To Do When There’s a Backup
If you experience a floor drain backup, follow these simple steps:
- Stop using water immediately
- Move any valuable items off the floor and away from the drain
- Remove the grate and remove any visible debris
- Use a plunger to try to clear the clog
When Is A Floor Drain Backup An Emergency?
Unfortunately, drain backups are often a health hazard if sewage is entering your home. If you suspect a main line clog or are experiencing sewage odors, call for emergency repairs. A technician can use a video camera inspection to get to the root of your issue and clear away any clogs that are interrupting your wastewater system.
Call 4Front Energy Today
Don’t struggle with drain backups in your Twin Cities home. Instead, call 4Front Energy for expert plumbing services from our local team. We’re licensed and insured to safely handle complex sewer and drain issues to protect your home and health. Trust our team to add superior value to your property and comfort to your life.
Schedule sewer and drain services today by calling 4Front Energy.
