Table of Contents
- Common Culprits: What Causes Sewer Backups in Vancouver?
- Be Proactive: Practical Sewer Backup Prevention Tips
- City of Vancouver Resources: Your Partner in Prevention
- Emergency! What to Do During a Sewer Backup
- Understanding Vancouver’s Wastewater System
- The Dangers Within: Health Risks of Sewer Backups
- Final Thoughts
Sewer backups are a homeowner’s worst nightmare, causing extensive property damage, posing serious health risks, and leading to significant financial burdens. For residents of Vancouver, WA, understanding the specific causes and preventative measures is crucial. Imagine foul odors, contaminated water, and potential structural damage – the unpleasant realities of a sewer backup. Vancouver’s wastewater system includes approximately 791 miles of sewer lines and 48 pump stations, serving almost 244,000 residents across a 58.6 square mile area. This highlights the scale of the system and the potential for widespread impact if backups occur. This guide provides Vancouver, WA homeowners with a comprehensive understanding of sewer backup prevention, covering common local causes, practical DIY prevention tips, City of Vancouver resources, and emergency procedures. This information is brought to you by Sarkinen Restoration, your local water damage experts.
Common Culprits: What Causes Sewer Backups in Vancouver?
Identifying the root cause of a sewer backup is the first step to preventing one. This section details the most common causes specific to the Vancouver, WA area.
- Tree Roots: Invasive tree roots are a major problem in Vancouver, seeking out moisture and nutrients in sewer lines. This can lead to cracks, blockages, and even pipe collapse.
- Grease Buildup: Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) poured down the drain solidify in pipes, gradually restricting water flow and eventually causing complete blockages.
- Oversized Objects: It’s crucial to only flush toilet paper. Common culprits like “flushable” wipes (which aren’t truly flushable), feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and toys can cause significant problems.
- Heavy Rainfall: Vancouver’s rainy season can overwhelm the city’s sewer system, leading to backups, especially in older homes or areas with combined sewer systems.
Be Proactive: Practical Sewer Backup Prevention Tips
This section outlines actionable steps homeowners can take to minimize their risk of experiencing a sewer backup.
- Proper Grease Disposal: Never pour grease down the drain. Let it cool and solidify, then scrape it into a sealed container and dispose of it in the trash.
- Flush Only Toilet Paper: “Flushable” wipes are problematic, along with other items that should never be flushed.
- Tree Root Maintenance: Be aware of the location of your sewer lines and nearby trees. Consider regular inspections by a professional arborist and potential root barrier installation.
- Backwater Valve Installation: A backwater valve is a crucial device that prevents sewage from flowing back into your home during a system backup. Professional installation is highly recommended.
- Regular Sewer Line Cleaning: Preventative maintenance is key. Schedule professional sewer line cleaning (hydro-jetting is an effective method) every 1-2 years, or more frequently if you’ve had problems in the past.
- Install an Outside Clean-Out: This provides easy access for maintenance and inspections.
- Address Slow Draining Issues: Promptly address any signs of slow draining in sinks, bathtubs, or toilets, to identify any potential issues.
- Maintain your Sump Pump: Ensure your sump pump is working to remove water from around your home’s foundation.
City of Vancouver Resources: Your Partner in Prevention
The City of Vancouver offers valuable resources to help residents prevent sewer backups.
- Sewer Preventative Maintenance Program: This program assists properties with recurring sewer line issues.
- Cross-Connection Control Program: This program focuses on protecting the city’s water supply from contamination.
- Sewer Connection Incentive Program (SCIP): This program helps residents connect to the public wastewater system, especially in areas initially served by septic systems.
Emergency! What to Do During a Sewer Backup
If a sewer backup occurs, follow these steps:
- Safety First: Sewage exposure is a serious health hazard. Avoid contact with the contaminated water. Wear protective gear (gloves, boots, mask) if contact is unavoidable.
- Stop Using Water: Immediately stop using water to prevent further sewage from entering your home.
- Contact the City: Report the backup immediately to Vancouver Public Works at 360-487-8177.
- Call a Professional: Contact a qualified plumbing or restoration company like Sarkinen Restoration to assess the damage, perform cleanup, and ensure proper disinfection.
Understanding Vancouver’s Wastewater System
Vancouver’s wastewater collection system is a vast network. It includes approximately 791 miles of sewer lines and 48 pump stations. As of mid-2023, the City of Vancouver sewer district served almost 244,000 residents across a 58.6 square mile area. These pumping stations are essential for moving wastewater from areas without gravity sewer lines to areas where they exist. Clark Regional Wastewater District also plays a role, providing wastewater services to residents and businesses in unincorporated Clark County and the City of Ridgefield.
The Dangers Within: Health Risks of Sewer Backups
Untreated sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Exposure can lead to various illnesses. Proper disinfection is CRUCIAL to protect your health and safety.
Final Thoughts
Sewer backups are a serious issue, but proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk. Remember to understand the common causes, implement preventative measures, utilize city resources, and know what to do in an emergency. Regular inspections, scheduled maintenance, and awareness of the city’s programs are your best defense. For water damage and restoration services in Vancouver, WA, Sarkinen Restoration is here to help. If you are experiencing a sewer backup, you can go to our sewer/septic backup page. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance.
Reference List
- City of Vancouver, WA. Sewer and Wastewater. Retrieved from https://www.cityofvancouver.us/government/department/public-works/water-sewer-and-stormwater/wastewater/
- City of Vancouver, WA. Sewer Connection Incentive Program (SCIP). Retrieved from https://www.cityofvancouver.us/government/department/public-works/sewer-connection-incentive-program-scip/
- Clark Regional Wastewater District. About Us. Retrieved from https://www.crwwd.com/about/
- City of Vancouver, WA. Backflow and Cross-Connection Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cityofvancouver.us/government/department/public-works/drinking-water/backflow-and-cross-connection-prevention/
