Sewer backups and clogged sewer lines can happen to any of us, whether it’s in our home’s sewer system or on a more municipal level. But luckily, there are things all of us can do to reduce the frequency of sewer lines getting clogged and backed up — and to prevent the need for more sewer repairs than normally needed.

There may even be some things you’re doing on a daily basis that could be putting your sewer lines at risk without you even knowing it — so to help prevent against sewer line replacements due to clogged pipes, take a look at this list of the three most common items that cause clogged sewer lines:

Items that belong in the trash

Many people use their toilets as garbage disposals, not knowing of the terrible consequences this can yield. Items like feminine hygiene products, paper towels, diapers, face wipes and paper towels can all clog up your sewer lines. Dispose of these items properly by placing them in the garbage instead — you’ll be grateful that you did.

Grease and food waste

Putting liquid grease and fat down the kitchen drain might seem fine; however, this grease hardens and collects food debris when it goes down the drain, eventually creating a clog that’s incredibly difficult to get rid of. Likewise, if your kitchen sink doesn’t have a garbage disposal, refrain from putting food down the drain.

Tree roots

Tree roots are another major cause of clogging and backup in sewer lines. When seeking out water and nutrients, a tree’s root system will grow into the pipes of your sewer lines, creating major blockages. Oftentimes, these blockages require professional assistance to rectify; typically, a root-killing foam containing metam-sodium and dichlobenil is used to flush the roots out of the sewer lines.

Have any other questions or comments for us on sewer lining repairs and water line repairs? Ask us by leaving a comment below this article. More on this topic.