Heavy Rain & Your Plumbing: How to Keep Your Sewer System Flowing

Spring and fall bring much-needed rain to Boise, but excessive rainfall can put stress on your home’s sewer system. Without proper maintenance, heavy rains can lead to backups, flooding, and costly plumbing repairs. Fortunately, proactive steps can help prevent these issues and keep your sewer system functioning smoothly.

At Plumbing Solutions of Idaho, we specialize in Boise drain and sewer services, including maintenance, repairs, and emergency services to help homeowners prepare for stormy weather. Read on to learn some key ways heavy rain impacts your sewer system and what you can do to prevent problems.

Have questions or need to schedule service? Reach out to our expert Boise or Meridian plumbers today!

1. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clean

Your gutters and downspouts are your first line of defense against water damage and sewer backups. Proper maintenance ensures rainwater is directed away from your foundation and sewer lines.

Cleaning Gutters

Gutters quickly accumulate debris like leaves, dirt, and twigs, which can cause overflow. This excess water can saturate the ground near your foundation, leading to sewer line issues. To avoid problems:

• Clean your gutters at least twice a year, especially before the rainy season
• Remove leaves, twigs, and debris that block water flow
• Consider installing gutter guards to reduce debris buildup and minimize maintenance

Inspecting and Extending Downspouts

Blocked or improperly placed downspouts can cause rainwater to pool around your home’s foundation and seep into sewer lines. Prevent issues by:

• Checking downspouts for obstructions and clearing blockages
• Ensuring downspouts extend at least 10 feet from your home
• Redirecting rainwater to proper drainage areas to prevent oversaturation of the ground

2. Inspect and Maintain Sewer Cleanouts

Sewer cleanouts provide direct access to your main sewer line, allowing for easy maintenance and emergency intervention if needed.

Locating Your Sewer Cleanout

Most Boise homes have a sewer cleanout located in the yard or near the home’s exterior. Knowing its location before the next big storm can help facilitate quick maintenance and prevent delays in case of a backup. If you’re unsure where it is, our team can locate it for you during your next inspection.

Keeping Sewer Cleanouts Accessible

Make sure your sewer cleanout is free from obstructions, including landscaping, debris, or structures. This ensures quick access if emergency service is required.

Regular Sewer Line Inspections

Routine inspections help identify potential issues before they lead to sewer backups. If you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or standing water near your sewer cleanout, schedule an inspection with Plumbing Solutions of Idaho to prevent further damage.

3. Check for Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are one of the leading causes of sewer line damage. They naturally seek moisture and can infiltrate your sewer pipes, leading to clogs and backups.

Signs of Tree Root Damage

Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

• Slow or gurgling drains
• Unpleasant odors from sinks or toilets
• Patches of overly lush or damp grass in your yard

Preventing Root Intrusion

• Schedule a sewer camera inspection to check for root growth
• Install root barriers to prevent tree roots from reaching sewer lines
• Avoid planting trees and shrubs near underground pipes. If necessary, choose plants with shallow root systems and plant them away from sewer lines.
• Schedule routine sewer cleaning to keep line root-free

4. Install a Backflow Prevention Device

A backflow prevention device helps keep wastewater from flowing back into your home during periods of heavy rainfall when sewer systems are overloaded.

Benefits of Backflow Prevention

Without a backflow preventer, your home could experience sewage backups, especially during Boise’s rainy seasons. These devices protect your home by preventing contaminated water from re-entering your plumbing system.

Types of Backflow Preventers

Common options for residential properties include:

• Sewer backflow valves – Automatically close if backflow occurs
• Check valves – Allow wastewater to flow out but not back in
• Gate valves – Provide manual control over your sewer line

Professional Installation & Maintenance

Backflow devices require professional installation to ensure they comply with local Boise regulations. Our licensed plumbers can install and inspect these devices annually to keep them in top working order.

5. Improve Property Drainage

Effective drainage helps prevent excess rainwater from overwhelming your sewer system and causing backups.

Landscaping for Proper Drainage

Adjusting your yard’s grading can prevent rainwater from pooling around your home. Strategies include:

• Slope your yard away from your foundation
• Plant water-absorbing vegetation to manage excess moisture
• Use mulch and gravel strategically to improve water absorption

Installing French Drains & Swales

French drains and swales help channel excess water away from your property, reducing the risk of sewer system overload during heavy rains. These drainage solutions redirect rainwater to designated runoff areas and prevent it from accumulating near your home.

6. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections

Routine plumbing check-ups can prevent unexpected sewer issues and ensure your system is in good condition before storm season hits.

Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

• Identify potential sewer line issues early to avoid costly sewer repairs or sewer replacements
• Ensure backflow preventers and sewer cleanouts are functioning properly
• Minimize the risk of sewer backups by keeping your drainage system in top shape

Our team at Plumbing Solutions of Idaho provides annual inspections to detect hidden clogs, leaks, and damage before they escalate into major plumbing emergencies.

7. Stay Informed About Boise’s Stormwater Management Programs

Boise’s local government manages stormwater runoff to reduce the risk of flooding and sewer overflows. Homeowners can visit City of Boise’s Stormwater Program to learn about best practices for managing rainwater around their property.

Sewer Backup Prevention Checklist

To summarize, here’s what you can do to keep your sewer system running smoothly during Boise’s rainy season:

• Clean and maintain gutters and downspouts
• Keep sewer cleanouts accessible and clear
• Inspect sewer lines for tree root intrusions
• Install a backflow prevention device
• Improve yard drainage with landscaping adjustments and French drains
• Schedule regular plumbing inspections
• Stay updated on Boise’s stormwater management initiatives

Contact Plumbing Solutions of Idaho for Sewer System Maintenance in Boise, ID

If you’re experiencing sewer issues or want to prepare for Boise’s rainy season, call Plumbing Solutions of Idaho today. We offer comprehensive sewer line inspections, repairs, emergency services, and more.

Let us help protect your home from sewer backups and storm-related plumbing issues.

Schedule an appointment with us today!