How Do I Maintain my Sanitary Sewer Service Line

  • Be careful what enters the sanitary sewer. Grease, oils, sand, mud, silt or solid objects are capable of causing blockages.
  • Make sure NO storm water connections or cross-connections are made to the sanitary sewer (such as sump pumps, gutter drains, footer drains or storm run-offs).
  • Avoid planting fast-rooting trees such as willows, elms or maples in the vicinity of sewer lines. These types of trees are attracted to very moist areas. Their roots may grow into and ultimately obstruct the sewer lines.
  • Make sure the sewer line is properly vented. Usually a vent stack exits the roof and must be kept clear of bird nests and debris.
  • Use sink strainers and keep disposals in working order to prevent large pieces of waste from entering the sewer line.
What can I do about sewer gas odor?
Floor drains typically are the source of sewer gas odor. You should periodically fill floor drain traps with water to avoid sewer gas odor problems - one or two gallons will normally suffice. Do not forget your garage floor drain.