4 Steps To Stop Sewage From Backing Up Into a Bathtub

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Insert a plumbing snake into a toilet.

Stop Contaminated Water From Backing Up Into a Bathtub

There are several steps you can take to stop contaminated water from backing up into a bathtub. Depending on your level of plumbing skill and the location and severity of a blockage, it may be possible to stop a sewer backup on your own. If your efforts are not successful, you should contact a plumber or sewage company in Erlanger, KY.

1. Block the Tub Drain

Blocking a tub drain will prevent sewage from backing up into the tub. Take this step prior to attempting to clear a clog.

2. Locate the Blockage

It may be more or less difficult to clear a clog depending on its location. Clogs in lines near a toilet can usually be cleared with a plunger or auger. If these attempts do not work, the sewer backup may be located further down the line.

3. Snake the Toilet, Floor Drain or Cleanout

Depending on the evident location of a blockage, you can insert a plumbing snake into a toilet, remove the toilet to directly snake out the floor drain, or snake the drain cleanout. The main drain is typically located in a basement or crawlspace. Use a long pipe wrench to remove the cap and insert the auger. Look out for sewage overflow.

4. Call a Plumber or Sewage Company

If these efforts are not successful, you should contact a plumber if you suspect the clog originates on the residential end or a sewage company for a backed-up municipal main. If backup results in flooding, sewer damage mitigation will also be necessary.

Blocking a tub drain can stop a bathtub backup. You should also try to limit the spread of contaminated water caused by a sewer backup. Disinfect and dry any surfaces, materials or contents exposed to sewage. You may want to seek assistance from a mitigation and restoration company in Erlanger, KY.