What to Do After Sewage Backup or Clog in Your Basement
What to Do After a Sewage Backup or Clog in Your Basement
A sewage backup in your basement can be a messy and overwhelming experience and it’s important to act quickly to protect your home and health. But what should you do when faced with such a situation? In this article, we’ll explain what causes sewage backups, how to recognize the signs, and the steps to take when a sewage backup or clog occurs in your basement.
What Are the Sewer and Main Sewer Lines?
The sewer system is responsible for carrying wastewater from your home to a treatment facility. Each home is connected to a main sewer line, which transports all the wastewater from the toilet, sink, showers, and drains. When this line gets blocked or damaged, sewage can back up into your home, often finding its way to the lowest point, your basement.
Sewage backups are not only unpleasant but can also pose serious health risks. Contaminated water can spread bacteria and viruses, making quick action professional help necessary.
What Are the Signs of a Sewage Backup?
Recognizing the signs of a sewage backup early can help you prevent more extensive damage. Here are a few common indicators:
- Gurgling Sounds – If you hear gurgling from your drains or toilets, it may signal a blockage in your sewer line.
- Slow Drains – If multiple drains in your home are slow to clear, it could point to a clog in the main sewer line.
- Unpleasant Odors – Foul smells from your drains or basement indicate that sewage may be accumulating in your pipes.
- Water Backflow – If water or waste begins to back up through your basement floor drain, this is a clear sign of a sewage line problem.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to investigate the cause and consider professional intervention.
Most Common Causes of Sewer Backups
Sewer backups can occur for a variety of reasons. Understanding these causes can help prevent future incidents:
- Clogged Pipes – Hair, grease, and other debris can accumulate over time, leading to blockages that prevent wastewater from flowing freely.
- Tree Root Intrusions – Roots from nearby trees can infiltrate and block your sewer line, causing sewage to back up into your home.
- Broken or Collapsed Pipes – Older homes are more prone to pipe damage due to wear and tear or shifting soil, which can disrupt the flow of sewage.
- Heavy Rainfall – When the municipal sewer systems become overloaded during heavy rain, water and sewage can back up into your home.
Knowing the most common causes can help you take preventive measures to avoid future sewer problems.
How to Fix a Sewage Backup
If a sewage backup occurs in your basement, immediate action is essential to minimize damage. Here’s what to do:
- Turn Off the Water Supply – If the backup is related to a clog in your plumbing system, stopping the water flow can prevent more waste from entering your home.
- Avoid Using Any of the Drains in Your Home – Do not flush toilets, run sinks, or use any other fixtures that send water into your plumbing system.
- Ventilate the Area – Open windows and doors in your basement to allow air to circulate and reduce harmful fumes.
- Call a Professional Plumber – Sewage backups are not DIY jobs. A professional plumber can assess the situation, locate the clog, and provide the appropriate solution.
Attempting to fix a sewage backup on your own can expose you to health risks and may cause further damage to your plumbing system. It’s always best to leave it to the professionals.
What to Do If You Have a Sewage Backup
Here are some key steps to take after discovering a sewage backup in your basement:
- Evacuate the Area – Keep children and pets away from the contaminated area to reduce the risk of illness.
- Document the Damage – Take photos and videos of the affected area for insurance purposes. This can help speed up your claim and ensure that you receive the necessary compensation.
- Contact Your Insurance Company – Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
- Arrange for Sewage Backup Cleaning – Professional sewage cleanup is necessary to safely remove contaminated water, disinfect the area, and restore your home.
Professional sewage backup cleaning services ensure that your home is properly sanitized and safe to return to after the backup is being resolved.
Reach Out to the Pros
When you’re faced with a sewage backup in your basement, you need a plumbing team you can trust. Kevin Ginnings Plumbing Services, Inc. has been serving South Kansas City for over 30 years, offering expert sewage backup cleaning and plumbing repair services. We understand the urgency of these situations and provide prompt, reliable service to get your home back to normal.
Our team is experienced in handling everything from simple clogs to major sewage backups. We use advanced tools to locate and fix the problem quickly. We take pride in delivering top-quality workmanship while ensuring your home is protected from future plumbing issues.
For more information about our company and plumbing services, visit our website or contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
What Is a Plumbing Vent and How Does It Work?
What is a Plumbing Vent, and How Does it Work?
When thinking about your home’s plumbing system, it’s easy to focus on pipes that deliver water or remove waste. However, there’s another important component that often gets overlooked: the plumbing vent. This essential part of your plumbing system helps keep your home safe from unpleasant odors and keeps water flowing smoothly through your pipes. In this article, we’ll explain what a plumbing vent is, how it works, and why it matters for your home.
What is a Plumbing Vent?
A plumbing vent, also known as a vent stack or air vent, is a pipe that extends from your plumbing system up through your roof. Its purpose is to regulate the air pressure within the plumbing pipes, allowing waste and water to flow freely out of your home. Without this vent, the water in your drains would move sluggishly, and you might encounter problems like clogged drains or overflowing toilets.
This vent also prevents dangerous sewer gases from entering your home by directing them safely outside when it’s working properly. It’s a simple yet essential part of keeping your plumbing system functioning smoothly.
The Vent Pipe’s First Benefit – Maintaining Air Pressure
The primary function of a plumbing vent pipe is to maintain proper air pressure within your plumbing system. Each time water moves through the pipes, whether from flushing the toilet, washing dishes, or running the shower, air is needed to balance the pressure. Without the vent, negative pressure could develop, causing water to be siphoned out of traps, leading to foul smells in your home. A properly functioning vent ensures air flows into the system to replace this pressure, preventing blockages and maintaining smooth drainage.
Common Types of Plumbing Vents
There are several types of plumbing vents, each suited for different needs within a plumbing system:
- Main Vent Stack – The main vent runs vertically through your home, connecting directly to your roof.
- Branch Vents – Horizontal pipes that connect to the main vent stack to help maintain proper airflow.
- Auxiliary Vent – This vent serves as a backup for branch vents, providing additional airflow as the main system needs it.
- Air Admittance Valve (AAV) – This is a one-way mechanical vent that allows air into the drain system but prevents sewer gases from escaping into your home. AAVs are often used in remodels, where adding a traditional vent might be challenging.
Why is a Plumbing Vent Necessary?
A plumbing vent serves several important functions. Without it, your home’s drainage system would struggle to remove wastewater efficiently, potentially leading to problems like slow drainage, foul odors, or even pipe damage due to the build-up of pressure. In addition, the vent prevents harmful sewer gases from seeping back into your living space, protecting your health and comfort.
The vent also reduces the risk of clogged toilets and slow drains by balancing the air pressure in the pipes If you’re experiencing frequent clogs or a blocked toilet, there could be a problem with your plumbing vent.
Potential Vent Pipe Problems
As a part of your home’s plumbing system, vents can develop issues over time. Here are some common problems:
- Clogs – Vents can become blocked by debris such as leaves, bird nests, or even snow. A blocked vent prevents air from flowing freely, which can result in slow drainage or a vacuum effect in your plumbing.
- Cracks or Leaks – Damage to the vent pipe can lead to water or sewer gas leaks. This can be caused by weather, animals, or simply age-related wear and tear.
- Improper Installation – If a vent is not installed correctly, it won’t be able to perform its job, leading to air pressure imbalances and drainage issues.
What Are The Common Issues with Plumbing Vents and Pipes?
Problems with plumbing vents are often the culprit behind recurring clogs, slow drains, and toilets that frequently back up. For example, if your toilet seems to overflow more often than it should, it could be a sign that the plumbing vent is blocked, preventing proper air circulation. Slow drainage in sinks and bathtubs might also be caused by a venting issue rather than a simple clog.
If you’re experiencing these issues, it’s important to contact a professional plumber who can inspect your vent and resolve any problems before they escalate into expensive repairs.
Who to Call for Assistance
At Kevin Ginnings Plumbing Services, Inc. we pride ourselves on our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction. With years of experience serving South Kansas City, we understand the ins and outs of plumbing systems and can tackle even the most challenging vent-related issues. Whether you need toilet repair, vent inspection, or a solution to a blocked toilet, we’re here to help.
Our team uses the latest tools and techniques to diagnose and fix plumbing vent problems quickly and efficiently, restoring your home’s plumbing to peak performance. We believe in clear communication, quality workmanship, and providing peace of mind to our customers. When you choose us, you’re partnering with professionals who care about your home as much as you do.
For more information about our company and plumbing services, visit our website or contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
Why is My Toilet Continuously Overflowing?
Why Does My Toilet Overflow?
An overflowing toilet is a common household issue, but that doesn’t make it any less stressful. Understanding the causes of toilet overflows can help you address the problem more effectively, whether you need a quick DIY fix or professional help. In this article, we’ll explain why your toilet may be overflowing and when it’s time to call in the pros.
Potential Causes of an Overflowing Toilet
Several factors can lead to a toilet overflow, some more serious than others. Here are the most common causes:
- Clogged Drains – Blockages in the toilet drain are among the most frequent causes of an overflow. This can happen due to excessive toilet paper, flushed foreign objects, or a buildup of waste.
- Clogged Plumbing Vent – Your toilet’s plumbing vent allows air to flow into the plumbing system, maintaining the correct pressure for water and waste to move. A clogged vent can disrupt this balance, leading to sluggish drainage and potential overflow.
- A Malfunctioning Float Mechanism – The float mechanism inside the toilet tank controls the water level. If it’s not working correctly, the tank may overfill, causing water to overflow into the bowl.
- Sewer Line Backup – A more serious cause is a blockage in the main sewer line, which can force wastewater back into your home, leading to an overflowing toilet.
Toilet Backup vs. Overflow: What’s the Difference?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, a backup and an overflow are not quite the same. A toilet backup occurs when there’s a problem in your plumbing system, such as a clogged sewer line or an issue with your plumbing vent. In contrast, a toilet overflow happens at the fixture level, typically due to clogs in the drain or problems with the toilet itself.
Understanding the difference can help you determine whether you can address the issue on your own or if you need to hire a professional.
What to Do If Your Toilet Overflows
If your toilet overflows, acting quickly can minimize damage:
- Turn Off the Water – Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it off to stop the flow of water.
- Clean Up Immediately – To avoid water damage, soak up the water immediately. Use towels or a mop, and be mindful of any nearby electrical devices.
- Plunge the Toilet – If the overflow is caused by a clog, using a plunger might help dislodge the blockage. Make sure to cover the drain completely and apply firm pressure.
- Call a Professional – If the problem persists or if you suspect a more serious issue, such as a sewer line backup or clogged plumbing vent, it’s time to contact a plumber.
Can You Prevent Toilet Overflows?
Taking proactive measures can help prevent future overflows. Here are some tips:
- Use Less Toilet Paper – Using large amounts of toilet paper can easily clog your drains. Encourage family members to use only what’s necessary to get the job done.
- Be Mindful of What You Flush – Never flush items like sanitary products, wipes(even those marked “flushable”), or other non-flushable materials.
- Install Plumbing Vent Covers – Keeping your plumbing vent protected from debris can help prevent clogs.
- Regular Maintenance – Have a professional inspect your plumbing system regularly, especially the plumbing vent, to make sure it’s in good working order.
When to Hire a Professional
While minor overflows can sometimes be handled with a plunger, persistent problems may indicate deeper issues that require a plumber’s expertise. If you notice repeated overflows, foul smells, or slow drainage, it’s probably time to call in the professionals.
Who to Call for Help
Kevin Ginning Plumbing has years of experience handling toilet overflows, clogged plumbing vents, and sewer line backups. We have been a trusted name in Kansas City plumbing for over 30 years, serving both residential and commercial customers. We offer expert plumbing solutions, including water heater repair, pipe inspections, and drain cleaning. Our licensed, insured team guarantees high-quality work, maintaining an A+ BBB rating. With a focus on honesty and reliability, we provide upfront pricing and hassle-free service. Whether you need a minor repair or a system overhaul, we are ready to serve with professionalism and a commitment to long-term customer relationships.
For more information about our company and our plumbing services, visit our website or contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
Ask the Inspector: Plumbing Checkup
By Rich DuerkopWhat should I be aware of about the plumbing in my home, both new and older construction?
You should frequently check all faucets and other valves for leaks.
Turn the water on, look under the sink, and run your hand around the shut-off and drain pipes to make sure they are not leaking. Then go down to the basement and check for leaks. A good way to remind yourself is to mark your calendar and check these areas every change of the season.If you see any water staining in the walls or the ceiling call a licensed plumber right away.
If your water pressure in an older home appears marginal or poor remember your old pipes may be corroded. I have seen pipes so full of corrosion the opening is no bigger than the lead of a pencil. When pipes get like this the only thing you can do is call a licensed plumber and have them removed.
When you check the toilet listen for hissing sounds that may indicate that it is running and wasting water; new parts may need to be added. If the toilet is loose I would recommend you pull the toilet, evaluate the floor, and replace the wax seal.
In older homes, if you have an old toilet I would recommend replacing them. Some of the old toilets would flush on five gallons of water where the new ones flush on about a gallon and a half. This is a real water saver.
To help extend the life of your water heater drain off about three gallons of water out of the faucet at the lower part of the heater. This helps remove sediment that builds upon the bottom of the tank. I would do this about every three months.
Everyone in the house should know where the main water shut-off is, in case you have to shut off the water to the whole house if there is an emergency. I recommend tagging the valve so it is easier to find especially for children.
Check all shut-off valves throughout the house for leaks. In older homes many times there are no shuts-offs under the sinks and other water lines. I would recommend installing them; that way you can turn off the water right at the source of the leak instead of having to run down to the basement to close the main shutoff.
Did you know? We are a Best Plumbers Award Winner!
You will receive excellent results working with master plumbers from Kevin Ginnings Plumbing Services. Our commercial and residential plumbing company is backed by more than 30 years of experience, and we have proudly served the area for more than 28 years.
The most trusted plumbers in the Kansas City, Overland Park & all of Johnson County. From plumbing fixture upgrades to complete system maintenance and repair, we are here for all of your residential and commercial plumbing needs.
Professionally trained Kansas City plumbing technicians come to your home or business in uniforms to bring you honest and reliable plumbing services every time. Rely on our plumbing professionals in Kansas City for commercial and residential plumbing services.
Kevin Ginnings Plumbing is a full-service plumber that has served the Greater Kansas City area for 3 decades. Our goal: provide fast, high-quality plumbing services for our customers in the Kansas City area.
Kevin Ginnings Plumbing has been providing a full range of plumbing services to customers and communities all across Greater Kansas City & Johnson County, Kansas. Our plumbers are experienced in all aspects of plumbing repair in Kansas City.
Please contact us for additional information or to schedule a service appointment.
Troubleshooting Your Plumbing Problems
Spike in Your Monthly Water Bill
If you’ve seen an upsurge in your recent monthly water bill, the most likely culprit is a leak in your main water line. Without expert service and repair, you will literally throw money down the drain—not to mention the bigger problems the leak will create as it just grows into flooding of your home or business or a dreaded pipe burst.
Trench-less Technology – Pipe Bursting
In many cases, we can provide you with breakthrough trench-less technology to replace your waterline. Trench-less water line replacement;
- is much more economical
- involves less mess and expense of tearing up your driveway or yard
- takes much less time to accomplish
- offers much less of an environmental footprint
Equipped to solve your waterline problems, 24/7 in the Kansas City area. Our skilled phone and service technicians can quickly hunt down the source of your problem and detail for you the proper solution. We are expert at solving a variety of waterline problems, such as:
- Waterline repairs
- Replacement of damaged pipes
- Redirection of the flow of your current piping system
- and more
Waterline bursts and broken pipes won’t search out a perfect time in your schedule. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to be at your side to help when water floods your home or business. Our expert technical representatives can, over the phone, walk you through the troubleshooting and shutting off your water main to stem the flow of water into your structure. Next, we send out our technicians to your home to diagnose and cure the problem. Because we’re there for you 24/7, we can remedy your predicament and get you back to a dry, normal life. We take pains to equip our techs’ trucks with all the latest parts, tools, and supplies to maximize our ability to solve your problem in one visit, if possible.
The Dangers of Water Heaters
Classic video on the potential dangers posed by unprotected water heaters. Demonstrates the explosive power of water heaters and the need for temperature & pressure relief valves. This Video is one of Watts instructional videos.Lead free updates from the EPA
By Shawn Martin
While the “Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act” was signed in early 2011, the story on it continues to unfold. The law is set and has not changed, but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to release guidance detailing their interpretations of the law. Most recently, the EPA has released two documents designed to clarify questions on its applicability and implementation and to assist contractors, designers, and inspectors.
A document, “How to Identify Lead-Free Certification Marks for Drinking Water System and Plumbing Materials,” was released by the EPA in September 2013. It provides a user-friendly flow chart describing the decision-making process that should be used to determine whether a product must comply with the law. It also addresses certification marks that may be used to show compliance with the law.
Many examples of marks used by third-party certification agencies, such as ICC-ES, NSF, and CSA, are provided in the document, along with explanations on their use. But, the document also clarifies the fact that third-party certification of a product is not required, nor is there a single, uniform mark showing compliance. The document is available on the EPA website as a PDF download.
A second, more technical document, “Summary Of The Reduction Of Lead In Drinking Water Act And Frequently Asked Questions,” was released by the EPA in October 2013. This document followed a draft frequently asked questions (FAQ) document released in May 2013. The EPA sought comments on that draft through June 2013, and many individuals and organizations responded. The final version contains a number of revisions as a result.
Probably most notably, the FAQ document stated that water heaters and dishwashers (FAQ #6) and fire hydrants (FAQ #5) must comply with the new lead free requirements. It also provided updated information on the repair of various types of devices (FAQ# 23-30), including those installed before and after January 4.
Taken together, these documents provide the best available information from the EPA on its interpretation of the law. The FAQ document is a must-read for plumbing inspectors, contractors, distributors, manufacturers, designers and engineers. It should also be noted, though, that the EPA is still requesting feedback on the documents and other revisions are possible. So, it is important for all in the industry to continue to monitor developments.
Many channels are available to keep tabs on this law as it is implemented. For those who are ICC members, they can subscribe to the PMG Membership Council free of charge to receive updates as they become available. ICC also provides links to these key resources on its PMG homepage under the Resources tab, and makes every effort to keep them up to date. ICC is also a member of the Get the Lead Out of Plumbing Consortium, which provides a number of resources on the topic for different audiences. Distributors, such as Lowes and Ferguson, are working actively to push information to local stores, as national member organizations such as ICC, PHCC and ASPE are reaching out to chapters.
On the local level, states are still grappling with the law and working to determine how best to implement and enforce it. While the law requires that states enforce the installation prohibitions (and provides for a penalty if they do not), it does not specify the specific method they must use. Building and plumbing codes are suggested but not required. Without such a requirement in state or local code, however, many states are struggling to determine the appropriate enforcement authority. Efforts are underway in many jurisdictions to update local codes to require compliance with the new no-lead provisions. Model codes, such as the 2015 International Plumbing Code have been updated to comply with the new law and provide important resources for communities seeking to revise their codes.
So, in addition to monitoring the latest from the EPA, it is also important for those in the industry to monitor local plans for enforcement and rollout. States such as California, Maryland, Vermont and Louisiana have already passed state laws consistent with the new federal law, providing a framework for local implementation. Links to key documents from these states can also be found on the ICC PMG web page, under the Resources tab. It remains to be seen if other states will pass laws or move to revise codes seek to comply with the law.
It is critical that those in the plumbing industry continue to closely monitor federal, state and local developments related to the reduction of lead in plumbing products. Organizations such as ICC and the other members of the Get the Lead Out of Plumbing Coalition will continue to work to serve the industry with the best possible information, in a timely way as it is received.
Shawn Martin is the director of Plumbing, Mechanical, and Fuel Gas (PMG) Activities with ICC.
– See more at: http://www.plumbingengineer.com/jan_14/leadfree_feature.php#sthash.TkUEwCFr.dpuf
Fix a Running Toilet
WHY DO THIS?
A running toilet can waste two gallons of water per minute. That will do a number on your water bill this month. Plus, if you don’t repair it, your toilet can spring a major leak which can cost thousands of dollars to fix. And, of course, it makes a really annoying noise!
First, take off the toilet lid.
Flush the toilet. Pay attention to your chain and flapper. If your chain is tangled, that’s your problem! A tangled chain prevents the flapper from completely setting on top of the hole at the bottom of the toilet bowl. Untangle your chain, and flush your toilet again. If the flapper sits flush, your problem should be solved.
If your flapper doesn’t sit flush on the bottom of the toilet tank, you need to tighten your flapper. Do this by reconnecting the flapper to the bracket by tightening the pegs holding the flapper down. You can tighten the pegs with your hands.
If your flapper is secured, make sure it isn’t soft and spongy. If it is, it’s time to replace it. You can purchase a new flapper at your local hardware store for less than $10.
To replace your flapper, first turn off the shutoff valve. It’s located on the wall behind the toilet. Flush the toilet to remove the water in the bowl and then remove the old flapper by pulling it off the pegs on the bottom of the tank. Remove the chain from the old flapper with your needle nose pliers. To install your new flapper, simply reverse the steps to remove the flapper.
Turn your water back on by turning the shutoff valve back on. Let your toilet’s tank fill with water, and then replace your tank lid. Voila!
SOURCE: https://brightnest.com/todos/fix-a-running-toilet