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Sewer Backups: Yes, they are gross but unfortunately they do happen. What should you do if you experience a sewer backup?

It’s true there are a lot of things that top the list of things we don’t want to go wrong with our homes, but I think it’s safe to say that sewer backups can be one of the most disturbing.
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As similar as the experience of a sewer backup can be for everyone, it is best to realize that the process may be different for everyone who experiences something like this based on where the backup occurs and why the backup has occurred.

It’s true there are a lot of things that top the list of things we don’t want to go wrong with our homes, but I think it’s safe to say that sewer backups can be one of the most disturbing in any home including ones in Wichita, Kansas. We will try not to dwell on what sewage consists of because it is gross and we all know what is in there!

WE KNOW IT’S GROSS BUT WE HAVE TO TOUCH (NOT PHYSICALLY) ON WHAT IS IN SEWAGE WATER – WE WON’T DWELL ON THE OBVIOUS

Sewage is mainly water containing excrement, industrial release, and debris in any sewer including ones in Wichita, Kansas. Excrement is the major source of harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and parasites. These bacteria, viruses, and parasites can cause serious illness or disease to anyone exposed to sewage.

Some of these include:

  • Salmonella
  • Shigella
  • E. coli
  • Streptococcus
  • Encephalitis
  • Gastroenteritis

Your sewer can back up for many reasons. Some of these include: 

  • Blockages
  • Line breaks
  • Sewer defects that allow stormwater and groundwater to overload the system
  • Power failures
  • Improper sewage design
  • Vandalism

WHAT TO DO IF YOU EXPERIENCE A BACKUP IN YOUR SEWER

As similar as the experience of a sewer backup can be for everyone, it is best to realize that the process may be different for everyone who experiences something like this based on where the backup occurs and why the backup has occurred in Wichita, Kansas. This next list is a general idea – it is best to contact a plumber and a restoration company to get a more specific and comprehensive list of what needs to be done in regards to resolving any sewer backup issues.

  1. Do not flush toilets or attempt to drain tubs and sinks. Don’t use the water supply system in your home until the problem has been detected and taken care of.
  2. Do not use harsh chemicals in an attempt to unclog the draining system quickly and easily. 
  3. Keep children and pets away from the affected area.
  4. If it is still safe, shut off the power. Otherwise, don’t go near electrical equipment.
  5. Wear protective clothing: gloves, eyeglasses, rubber boots and a facemask if safe and you must go into the affected area.
  6. Notify your insurance company about the sewage backup.
  7. Notify your municipal authority or sewer department if your home is connected to a public sewer.
  8. Call for professional assistance – plumber and restoration company.

If you have unfortunately experienced a sewer backing up into your home, please give us a call immediately. FreshCo Cleaning and Restoration can safely get your home back to its original state. 

“Inspectors were very respectful and were well educated and showed real genuine concern for me and my family.”

— Georgia H. in Wichita, Kansas

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