Columbus is known to be the home to The Ohio State University, but it’s also one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. However, Ohio’s capital has a water problem. Many Columbus residents find themselves asking, “Can heavy rains cause sewer backups in the city?” And unfortunately, the answer is yes.
The city’s sewer system often gets overwhelmed during heavy rains, leading to sewer backups and overflow into the Scioto River. Sewer backups can pose health hazards to homeowners and increase the risk of water damage from basement flooding. That’s why we’re exploring the causes of sewer backups, warning signs to look out for, and steps you can take to protect your home in this article.
How Heavy Rain Can Lead to Sewer Backups
In 2005, the Ohio EPA ordered Columbus officials to stop sewer overflows and prevent sewage from spilling into basements, rivers, and streams. Since then, the city has been searching for a solution to prevent sewer backups during major storms. However, heavy rainfall continues to overwhelm the city’s drainage and sewer systems.
Columbus neighborhoods with aging infrastructure can especially face an increased risk of overflow. Older sewer systems were not designed to handle both rainwater and wastewater simultaneously.
Sewer systems can only hold a limited amount of water at a time, causing the system to overflow if excess runoff enters the storm drains too quickly. When sewer lines reach capacity, wastewater can be forced backwards. Heavy rain sewer system issues can also come from blocked or damaged pipes that reduce water flow.
Warning Signs a Sewer Backup May Be Starting
Every Columbus homeowner should be aware that heavy rain can cause sewer backups. They also need to understand the red flags that an overflow may be developing. Recognizing these red flags early can help reduce the risk of widespread contamination and damage to the home. Below are some of the common warning signs of sewer line overload.
- Gurgling toilets or slow-draining sinks.
- Insects congregate around your drains.
- Sewage odors around drains or basements.
- Water pooling near floor drains or lower-level fixtures.
- Strange and unusual noises from your drains.
What Homeowners Should Do If a Sewer Backup Occurs
We’ve answered the question, “Can heavy rain cause sewer backups?” Now let’s look at the warning signs that sewage overflow may be about to happen. Sewage that enters your home can expose occupants to health hazards, property damage, and structural issues. Because sewage exposure requires careful handling and a rapid response, you also need to know the proper steps to take if a sewer backup occurs. Here is what you should do if a sewage overflow occurs.
- Shut off the water line or ensure that no water is being used in your home.
- Use protective gear like rubber boots, gloves, eyewear, and an N95 respirator mask to walk through sewage water.
- Keep people and pets away from contaminated areas.
- Turn off the electricity if water reaches outlets or appliances.
- Avoid using household plumbing to reduce pressure on the system.
How to Reduce the Risk of Sewer Backups During Heavy Rain
While Columbus homeowners cannot control municipal sewer backups during intense storms, they can take proactive steps to protect their homes from flooding and water damage. For one, routine inspections can help homeowners stay informed about the condition of their sewage systems, especially before the stormy season. Below are some additional preventative measures to reduce the risk of sewer backups during heavy rain.
- Install or maintain a backwater valve to block reverse flow.
- Keep gutters, drains, and downspouts clear and disconnected from municipal drains.
- Don’t use non-porous landscaping materials like asphalt or concrete close to your house.
- Avoid flushing items that contribute to clogs.
Why Heavy Rain Sewer Backups Require Professional Cleanup
Water intrusion is damaging on its own, but when contaminated water is involved, the risks increase exponentially. Sewer backups can cause contaminated water to overflow through household drains, spreading harmful bacteria, odors, and even pathogens. Trained restoration professionals are equipped to handle various water damage situations and take the proper steps to restore safety while preventing lingering moisture issues. Here are some more reasons why expert restoration specialists are essential.
- Sewage contains harmful bacteria requiring specialized removal.
- Professionals address structural drying and odor elimination.
- Proper disinfection prevents long-term contamination issues.
When Sewer Water Invades Your Home, Fast Professional Help Matters
Properly addressing sewer backups and basement flooding requires water damage restoration expertise and a rapid response. That’s why ServiceMaster Restoration by Neverman Construction Company is available 24/7 to serve the Columbus community. As local specialists in restoration, we’re here to help protect your home from water damage of various forms, including sewage overflows.
Heavy rain can cause sewer backups in Columbus, but our team is here to help and restore your peace of mind. Call us today!
