5 Basic Oft-Forgotten Things to Consider for Sewer Drains in Austin

No matter where you live, sewer drains are a critical component of infrastructure in your home or business. But for property owners in Austin, Texas (78620), these systems can be particularly important due to the area's notoriously extreme weather events. From flash flooding to long-term periods of drought, Austin residents need to be sure they have all the basic components of an effective sewer drain system set up correctly.

To make sure your property is prepared for whatever Mother Nature brings to the region, here are the top five things you should consider when it comes to your sewer drain system:

1. Inspect the entire length of the drain

The best way to ensure that your drain system is functioning optimally is to take a good look at it. Start your inspection from the beginning of the pipe, which is where your property's sewage enters the sewer system, all the way down to the outflow pipe. Whether you decide to inspect the pipes yourself or hire the help of a plumbing professional, make sure to check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, broken pipes, or evidence of blockage or clogging.

2. Make sure there is a sump pump

In an urban area with a lot of pavement, like Austin, water can quickly build up and cause major flooding, especially during periods of heavy rain. To prevent your home from flooding in the event of a large storm, make sure there's a properly working sump pump in place. This pump will be able to handle large volumes of water by pumping the excess water away from the home and into a safe area.

3. Keep an eye on the water levels

Your sewer drainage system will become compromised as the water levels in it increase. It's important to monitor the water levels in your drains so you can address issues quickly and effectively. Make sure you are monitoring the water levels not only at the inlet, but also in the outflow pipe, as this will provide you with a better indication of how much pressure the drain pipe can handle before backing up.

4. Check the drain pipe for tree roots

Tree roots are a common problem in sewer systems, and can cause major damage if they are not dealt with quickly. To prevent any injury or damage to your pipes, the best thing to do is to have a plumber come and check for any tree root infiltration. This is best done during the spring months when the tree roots are more active and likely to cause further damage to the pipes.

5. Have your pipes checked for leaks

Leaks can lead to water and sewage overflowing from the pipes, leading to a very costly issue if not resolved quickly. This is why it's so important to have your pipes checked for leaks on a regular basis. To do so, you can have a plumbing professional come to your property and conduct a hydrostatic pressure test on the pipes, which will check the pressure of the pipes and identify any potential leaks.

Sewer drains are a critical component in Austin, Texas, and it's important to make sure they are functioning properly. Don't forget these five basic things to consider when it comes to managing and maintaining your sewer drain system: inspecting the entire length of the drain, making sure there is a sump pump, monitoring the water levels, checking for tree root infiltration, and having your pipes checked for leaks. Taking the time to ensure that your drain pipes are in functioning order will help keep your home dry and safe in the event of a sewage or flooding emergency.

Sewer Drain

Austin

TX