Top 5 Causes of Overflowing Drains in Minneapolis Homes

Drain issues are never pleasant. From foul odors to water damage, they can disrupt daily life and cause further damage to your plumbing system. When it comes to maintaining the health and safety of your home’s plumbing, understanding the common causes of drain overflow can help you prevent these issues before they escalate. In this blog, our expert plumbers at Dean’s Home Services have outlined the top five most common causes of overflowing drains in the Twin Cities area.

Grease Buildup

Grease buildup occurs when fats, oils, and grease, commonly from cooking, are poured down the drain. Eventually, it lines your pipes, latching onto food particles and other debris, which restricts water flow and leads to blockages. When your pipes are clogged with grease, it can cause backups in your sink, dishwasher, or garbage disposal.

You can prevent grease buildup in your system by:

• Avoid pouring grease down the drain: Instead, collect it in a container and dispose of it in the trash.
• Use drain strainers: To catch food particles and debris before they enter the drain.
• Regularly clean your drains: Use vinegar or baking soda and hot water to help break down grease buildup.
• Schedule professional drain cleaning: Especially if you notice slow drainage or odors indicating potential grease buildup.

Tree Root Infiltration

Most homeowners are surprised to learn that the trees planted in their yards can impact their plumbing system. Tree root infiltration happens when roots from trees and shrubs grow into your sewer pipes through small cracks. Roots naturally seek out moisture and nutrients, which are abundant in sewer lines. Over time, these roots can cause blockages or even complete breaks in the pipes, leading to backups and overflow in your home.

You can help prevent tree root infiltration by:

• Plant trees away from sewer lines: Ensure trees and shrubs are planted at a safe distance from your home’s sewer pipes.
• Regularly inspect and maintain pipes: Schedule periodic inspections to detect early signs of root intrusion and promptly address any issues.
• Choose low-root plants: When landscaping near sewer lines, opt for plants with shallow root systems to minimize the risk of infiltration.

Flushing Non-Flushable Objects

Like every house, each plumbing system faces its unique challenges. One common issue is flushing non-flushable objects down the toilet, which can lead to clogs and costly repairs. Why? Certain items do not break down easily, even if they are labeled as flushable. These items get trapped in your system, leading to the worst kind of surprise — plumbing backups and overflows.

Here is a list of what to keep out of the toilet to prevent drain clog and overflow:

• Wipes
• Feminine hygiene products
• Diapers
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Paper towels
• Dental floss
• Hair
• Medications

Broken, Cracked, or Collapsed Pipes

Broken, cracked, or collapsed pipes can lead to overflow in your plumbing system for several reasons. These issues often result from aging infrastructure, ground shifting, tree root infiltration, or external factors like construction work near your property. Once your system is damaged or completely collapsed, professional assistance is needed to repair and restore function. By using methods such as water jetting or snaking, a professional can help prevent issues from escalating and reduce the risk of overflow.

Blockages in the Sewer Line

Sewer lines are underground pipes that carry wastewater from homes and businesses to a treatment facility. Sewer line blockages can be worse than regular household drain backups because they also carry sewage containing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens. By being mindful of what you put down your drains and scheduling regular repairs and maintenance, you can help prevent blockages in the sewer line and avoid potential health risks.

Call Dean’s for Drain & Sewer Services in the Twin Cities

Keep your drain and sewer lines clean and clear by choosing Dean’s Home Services for all your plumbing needs in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas. team employs time-tested measures and innovative solutions such as sewer camera inspections to detect blockages swiftly and accurately. As a family-owned and -operated business, we prioritize customer service. Enjoy the convenience of same-day service and benefit from free estimates on installations and replacements!

Trust Dean’s Home Services to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly and reliably. Contact us today to schedule drain and sewer services in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the neighboring areas.