Sewer Backup in Edmonton

How We Handle Sewer Backup in Edmonton

Edmonton plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing have seen it all and offer the best solutions for eliminating sewer blockages. However, the exact solution for a sewage backup depends on both the extent of damage it has caused and the original cause of that backup. In most cases, professional service for Edmonton sewer backups will start with an inspection to determine the cause before moving on to cleaning, sewer line repairs, and other solutions.

Sewer Camera Inspections

If our professional plumber suspects that the situation is the result of internal damage or root growth, we may choose to confirm these suspicions using specialized camera equipment. Plumbing inspection cameras are long, flexible video cameras that allow expert plumbers to see directly inside blocked and broken sewer systems, where we will look for issues like root penetration, bellies, and damage that may need sewer line repair solutions.

After we slide the camera down your drain line, we will get a view of what's inside. Because numerous factors can lead to a backup, it's important to see exactly what we're dealing with so that we can utilize the right solution. For example, backups can be caused by severe clogs, but they can also result from improperly sloped sewer lines. In the first case, a simple drain cleaning will help clear the clog and get sewage running in the right direction again. In the second case, we will need to excavate to re-pitch the pipes to ensure wastewater will flow down into the sewer.

Drain Cleaning

If your backup comes from blockage, it may be possible to resolve the situation with the same specialized technology that our professional plumbers use for regular maintenance and drain cleaning. Augers and hydro jets are great for clearing stubborn blockages, which is why many homeowners in Edmonton choose to get regular cleaning services from a professional plumber. A routine cleaning appointment today could save you from a bad Edmonton sewer backup tomorrow. 

If you are currently dealing with a sewer backup in Edmonton, and we find that it's the result of a clog, drain cleaning will clear the issue. However, looking around with a camera inside a drain line that's filled with sewage doesn't always yield clear results. Drain cleaning is often necessary to give us a better view of what's going on inside your pipes.

Repairs And Replacements

If your backup is caused by—or causes—extensive damage, it may be necessary to repair or replace those damaged pipe sections. These solutions might also be necessary if you're suffering from issues like corrosion or if you have a faulty system with illegal plumbing connections that cause sewer backups. Edmonton homeowners may need to check with their insurance company about sewer line replacement coverage.

However, the exact repair method we will use varies, based on both the type of damage and the type of pipes you have, but we always provide safe, cost-effective service for damaged plumbing systems. If repair is needed, either trenchless pipe lining or pipe bursting will be recommended. These non-invasive solutions can be completed in a single day and will cause minimal disruption to your daily routine. Sewer line replacement may require excavation, and though it is a longer, more invasive solution, we aim to always complete tasks diligently. 

Preventive System Installations

For Edmonton homeowners who suffer from sewage water backflow during periods of heavy rainfall or for those affected by other backflow issues, we may recommend installing protective plumbing devices like a backwater valve and a sump pump for more protection against future issues. In areas of Edmonton with combined sanitary sewer systems, these flood prevention devices are an important part of protecting yourself against future plumbing complications during severe storms. If you live in an area with combined sewers (where stormwater and sewage combine), you’re more susceptible to basement flooding. The sooner you schedule an appointment with a licensed plumber, the sooner you’ll be protected from unpredictable weather events.

Why Choose Mr. Rooter Plumbing For Edmonton Sewer Backup Services?

The certified plumbers on our team are dedicated to providing outstanding service and reliable solutions for all plumbing issues in Edmonton. Our plumbing experts have professional experience, advanced tools, and years of experience helping local homeowners with issues caused by heavy rainstorms, root infiltration, and much more. We're your Edmonton sewer backup experts and won’t rest until we have helped every local property owner with poor pipes recover their plumbing.

While nobody can control nature, your local pros can help you take preventative measures that will guarantee safety and minimize damage that would otherwise be more severe. You can count on our qualified team for expert advice to help keep your plumbing system in great shape, along with specialized services to prevent plumbing disasters in your home. From scheduled maintenance to 24/7 emergency service, whether you're looking to prevent issues or stop them before they ruin your home or business, we're the team you should call.

As a locally owned and operated business, we are proud to be part of Neighborly’s home service experts and have a team of qualified and fully insured service professionals who deliver excellent workmanship and customer service.

The Benefits of Choosing Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton:

When choosing Mr. Rooter Plumbing to resolve your sewer backup in Edmonton, you're getting a team that's dedicated to doing an excellent job. Here's what else you can look forward to when calling our valued team:

• Service from licensed, certified plumbers
• Emergency services without overtime charges
• Upfront, honest prices
• Convenient appointment times
• Friendly, courteous service
• Guaranteed parts
• Answers to all your plumbing questions

Would you like to learn more about our dedicated team, a wide range of professional services, or core values? Check out our local reviews and ratings, or give our friendly customer service team a call today!

Frequently Asked Questions about Edmonton Sewer System Backups

Do you have questions about sewer backup, Edmonton? When it comes to preventing or resolving the issue, the more you know about it, the better. That's why we aim for full transparency concerning any plumbing issue our customers experience and do our best to relay helpful information that makes a difference. You can find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below, but should you need any more information, our customer care team is available to take your call.

What are the Signs of a Sewer Backup in Edmonton?

Stinky black water seeping out of your drain lines or fixtures is the most obvious sign, but it's not the only sign. In some cases, it's possible to spot early warnings coming from your plumbing system that indicate blockage buildup in your main sewer line. Responding to those warning signs is vital if you want to avoid situations like a flooded basement full of wastewater.

• Unpleasant Odours: Unpleasant smells emanating from your drain line could come from a waste line backup. Not only does wastewater carry revolting odours, but many types of blockage can also contribute their own foul stench to plumbing backups. If your nose wrinkles near a toilet or floor drain, don't ignore it.
• Visible Grey Water: Black or grey water seeping out of fixtures is a clear sign of a sewer backup. Edmonton property owners who have witnessed this may only have clogged drains, but in some cases, that wastewater could simply be appearing because of serious problems with the sewer lateral. Frequent toilet backups are a good example when repeated plunging and snaking won’t give you long-term relief. Either way, it should be investigated and fixed before it gets worse.
• Standing Water: Showers, sinks, tubs, and other fixtures that drain slowly should be inspected—and fixed. That slow drainage could be a sign of a sewage problem. Slow draining will only continue getting worse until that undetected clog takes a toll. An entirely blocked drain pipe won't just stop drainage systems from working; it will also create waste and water backups.
• Toilets Affecting Other Drains: If your main drain pipe is blocked or damaged, flushing your toilet could send that waste into your showers, tubs, and floor drains instead of into Edmonton's municipal sewer lines. Wastewater will always follow the path of the least resistance. If something stops it from getting by, it'll go somewhere else, or not go anywhere. The new destination for those sewer backflows could be whichever drains in your home are easiest to reach. You should also get assistance for backflow problems that appear when running dishwashers, washing machines, and any other fixtures or appliances with drainage connections.
• Gurgling Toilets: Air must always flow freely through plumbing systems. Air helps waste flow efficiently out of your home and into Edmonton's city sewer system. If air isn't flowing smoothly, it could make your toilet gurgle, bubble, and even flush itself. A potential cause for that annoyance is an Edmonton sewer backup, which could lead to a series of problems.

Additional Warning Signs for Septic System Backups:

• Ground leakage near septic tanks
• Algae and weed growth in nearby ponds
• Standing water above septic tanks
• Unusual grass growth near a septic system
• Contaminated water

How Common are Sewer Line Backups in Edmonton?

They don't happen every day, but they're not uncommon and could happen at any time. Some communities in Edmonton built before 1960 are at increased risk due to older plumbing systems and the lack of preventative maintenance. Homes with older drain pipes that haven’t received annual inspections and treatments are susceptible to corrosion, clogs, and collapse. When drain lines are well-maintained and cleaned regularly, the occurrence of Edmonton sewer backups and many other problems that require repairs decreases.

What is a Combined Sewer?

A combined public sewer—like those in some of Edmonton's older communities—carries rainwater, meltwater, and wastewater in the same pipe. During high accumulation of rain—or when snow melts during the spring—those systems are at risk of overflowing and sending backflow up into the drains of private residences. Installing a backwater valve could prevent any backflow from overflowing your basement floor drain and protect you from a potential basement flood. While the municipality does its best to control those public sewers, they have also been encouraging local homeowners to take additional action, such as equipping their plumbing with a backwater valve or sump pump installation. We also recommend checking with the city about potential programs and financial assistance.

Is it Safe to Stay in a Home with a Sewer Backup?

Edmonton property owners need to determine the severity of the damage. Raw sewage and grey water do pose health hazards, so it's best to keep your distance, but you won't have to leave your home unless it's entirely flooded or extensive damage has caused serious foundation issues. As this is an emergency plumbing situation, follow your local plumber’s instructions. Until they arrive, simply avoid affected areas and ensure you’re in a safe place.

What Causes Edmonton Sewer Backups?

Blockages created by flushing unsafe materials are a common source, but backflow could also be caused by tree root penetration, pipe damage, and heavy rain. To avoid future issues, you should always avoid flushing harmful materials. Consider installing flood control systems like a backflow valve for even more protection. Edmonton drain cleaning service is also a great option for preventing backups.

Common Culprits Include:

• Tree roots
• Baby wipes, “flushable” wet wipes
• Cigarette butts
• Sanitary napkins (and other personal hygiene products)
• Paper towel
• Dental floss
• Food waste
• Grease and cooking oil
• Corrosion
• Sudden damage
• Heavy rain and melting snow

Do Sump Pumps Help Against Edmonton Sewer Backups?

A sump pump plays a huge role in dealing with excess groundwater. It can help reduce the risks of a sewage backup. They are designed to detect rising water levels in the sump pit which either comes from moisture in the basement or excess rainwater in your weeping tile (also called perimeter drain), which is installed outside your home, surrounding your property’s perimeter. They help redirect rainwater away from your foundation and, thus, reduce the risks of a basement flood. Combining the sump pump with backwater valves can enhance your protection against sewer backups and flooding. Edmonton homeowners who don’t know if they have any protective plumbing devices installed should call a qualified plumber for an inspection and potential installation services for damage prevention.

What Is Sewer Backup Coverage?

This is a good question to ask your home insurance company now before any incident occurs. Every property owner has a slightly different insurance policy. That said, any backup that occurs on your property and cannot reach the city sewer is your responsibility unless the city is at fault because the location of blockage occurs off your property but is affecting you. For this reason, having protective devices to stop potential issues from occurring on your property is crucial.

Are You Suffering from a Sewer System Backup in Edmonton? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today!

When you see sewage coming out of your drains, filling your sink, tub, toilet, or floor drains, you need help fast. Not only is the smell unpleasant, but this toxic human waste is also filled with bacteria and isn't safe. Plus, it's a hassle to properly clean up and sanitize. If the thought of spending hours sanitizing, mopping up raw sewage, and sanitizing your surfaces sounds like a nightmare, our team is ready to help! If wastewater flows into your home instead of out, we can fix that! We proudly serve all communities in and around Edmonton, including Pleasantview, Sherwood Park and St. Albert.

For efficient, reliable solutions from a licensed Edmonton plumber, call to speak with our friendly customer service representatives. Learn more about our other plumbing services, including everything from drain repair to sump pump services.