How to handle a Sewer Backup in Your Basement
You wake up one morning with the sun shining and a new day about to begin. Leaving your comfy bed, anticipating the alluring scent of that first cup of morning coffee...then it hits you! That is most definitely not the smell of your morning joe. Your sewer has backed up and now not only do you have an atrocious odor infecting your nostrils, but now you have to deal with this poop right away, literally. Here are steps you should take when this problem strikes.
Don’t use chemical drain clog removers
Usually, a sewer line backup is not something a chemical agent can remove and is more indicative of a physical clog in your drain system. These will require a plunger or a hair removal tool to remove the clog. If neither of these works, it is time to call in a plumber because it is most likely a much larger issue.
Shut off the water and possibly electric
If the clog is severe enough to cause a flood, make sure you shut off the water entering your home. Before entering the flooded area assess if the water level is high enough to be covering any electrical outlets. If this is the case, turn off the electricity in this part of your home as well.
Wear protective gear
Not only does a backed-up sewer line cause an unpleasant odor to take over your house, those fumes and the water you may need to go into contains debris that is unhealthy for you to breathe in and come in contact with. Wearing a facemask, heavy boots, heavy rubber gloves, and goggles will be necessary.
