Post By Admin
January 28, 2025Have you been startled by water or sewage backing up into your home? This is a problem that many homeowners face.
In Australia, where plumbing systems connect everything from sinks to sewer lines, it’s helpful to know what happens behind the scenes.
In this article, we’ll uncover the reasons sewage comes out of drains, explore prevention tips, and answer some frequently asked questions. So, by the end, we hope you’ll feel confident tackling this messy situation!
Reasons Why Sewage is Coming Out of Your Drain
So, why exactly is sewage backing up into your drains? It’s not just one random issue—it could be several factors working against your plumbing system, such as:
1. Clogged Pipe
The most frequent reason for sewage backing up is a good old-fashioned clog.
Over time, grease, hair, soap scum, and other debris can build up inside your pipes and create a blockage.
The thing is clogs can form anywhere, but they’re especially problematic when they occur in the sewer drains, as they affect the entire plumbing system.
If you’re experiencing slow drainage or backups, it’s time to check for that stubborn blockage.
2. Tree Roots in Pipes
Did you know that tree roots can be a nightmare for your plumbing?
If you live in an area with large trees, their roots can extend far and wide, seeking moisture. Sewer lines are the perfect target!
Once roots find their way into a pipe, they grow and create blockages, eventually causing sewage to back up.
This is one of the trickiest issues to deal with because it’s not immediately visible. It often requires professional tools like CCTV cameras to locate the problem and remove the roots.
3. Issues with the Sewer Line
Problems with the sewer line are another common culprit.
If the main sewer line connecting your home to the municipal sewer system gets damaged or blocked, you’ll likely experience sewage backing up into your drains.
Issues can arise from anything, including debris buildup, aging pipes, or even a collapse.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “Does shower water go to the sewer?”, the answer is yes. And if the sewer line is blocked, everything from your shower, sinks, and toilets can be affected.
4. Underground Water Leak or Damaged Pipes
An underground water leak or damaged pipe can also be responsible.
Over time, pipes can crack or break due to shifting soil, natural wear and tear, or even external pressure like construction work nearby. This can disrupt the flow of water, leading to backups.
If you’re noticing water coming up from a floor drain, it could be a sign of an underlying issue with your underground plumbing that needs urgent attention
5. Stormwater Drain Overflows
This issue is particularly common if your stormwater and sewer systems are interconnected.
Heavy rains or storms can overwhelm your stormwater drain system, especially if it’s clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris.
When this happens, water can back up into your property through floor drains, creating a messy and potentially hazardous situation.
How to Prevent Water or Sewage Coming Out of Your Drain
Preventing sewage or water backups doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how you can keep your drains and pipes flowing freely.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
If you notice sewage or water coming up from your drain, the first step is to turn off your water supply.
This prevents further water from entering the system and exacerbating the problem.
Locate your home’s main water valve, typically near the front of your house or in your basement, and shut it off.
It’s a simple but effective step to stop the situation from worsening while you troubleshoot or call for help.
2. Regular Maintenance of Drains and Sewer Lines
Your stormwater drain is designed to handle rainwater, but it can easily become clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris.
Regular cleaning—especially before the rainy season—can prevent overflows and backups.
If your backyard pit or drains have a history of clogging, you may want to install a protective grate to catch debris before it enters the system.
Also, consider having your stormwater drain and sewer lines checked annually. Professionals can also inspect for blockages or damage using advanced tools like hydro jets or CCTV cameras.
3. Address Tree Root Issues Early
Tree roots are a sneaky problem, but they’re not impossible to manage. If you suspect roots in your pipes, contact a plumber to assess the situation.
Root removal services and installing root barriers can help prevent further invasions.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on slow drainage or unusual gurgling noises—these could indicate a root problem before it becomes severe.
4. Watch Out for Burst Water Pipes
A burst water pipe can lead to backups and leaks that wreak havoc on your home.
Inspect your pipes regularly for signs of wear and tear, especially if your plumbing system is older.
Catching a leak early can prevent it from turning into a full-blown burst pipe.
FAQ about Water Coming Out of Drain
Sure, there must be more questions in your mind regarding water or sewage backing up into your home. Below are some of the most common queries to help you better understand the issue.
1. Where does the floor drain water go?
Floor drains in your home are typically connected to the sewer drain system, designed to remove wastewater from your property.
In some cases, they might also link to your stormwater drain system, depending on your home’s plumbing layout.
If water is backing up from the floor drain, it’s a sign of a blockage somewhere in the system. This could be in your sewer line, a clogged drainpipe, or even a connection between the sewer and stormwater systems.
2. How to tell if a floor drain has a trap?
If you see a U-shaped section of pipe, that is the floor drain trap you’re looking for.
It functions to hold water and stop any sewer gases getting inside your home. You can usually spot it by shining a flashlight into the drain—if water is visible, your drain has a trap.
If there’s no water in the trap, it might dry out, causing odours or allowing gases to escape. Pouring a bucket of water down the drain can fix this in most cases.
3. Are floor drains connected to sewer?
Yes, the majority of most floor drains are connected to the sewer system — especially in older homes.
This connection ensures that wastewater from your basement, garage, or utility room flows into the main sewer line.
However, if the sewer line is blocked, water can flow back into the house through these drains.
Conclusion
With the right knowledge and maintenance, dealing with water or sewage backing up from your drains can be manageable!
In case you are facing a persistent problem due to the stormwater drain overflow or a blocked sewer line — Neighbourhood Plumbing Melbourne is only one call away!
Simply ring us at 0488 885 122 and our team will come to your property to do a comprehensive inspection and provide you the best solution.
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
