3 Tips for Preventing a Sewer Line Backup

Rachel Kline • November 14, 2023

Simple ways to keep things flushing smoothly for your home or business this fall!

Clogged lines are usually caused by the gradual build up of materials such as hair, grease, corrosion of the pipe or even root invasion. Over time, these build ups will cause the waste to back up into the house, often creating a mess. Our technicians are experts in Lancaster, PA sewer line cleaning and repairs so today we're sharing a few ways you can avoid a clog and keep things flushing smoothly. (Along with what to do if it's too late for prevention and you are already in a pickle!)


Troubleshooting Your Backup

Are you dealing with a slow draining sink? A clogged toilet? Or a combination of slow drains and toilets that won't flush? If your issue is isolated to one toilet/sink/drain, chances are there is a clog in the pipe that can be resolved with a plunger or a drain snake. But if your issue seems to be effecting all the drains/sinks and toilets in your home or business, chances are you're dealing with a clog in the sewer line - that means it's made it past your home or business and it's in the line that leads to the sewer system.


What should you do next?

Liquid Plumber or Draino won't do the job - you'll need to call a sewer and drain company, like John Kline Septic Services. In most cases, we can clear main line blockages with our high-pressure sewer line jetter/flusher when a traditional snake just isn’t doing the job. High pressure jetting can remove scale build up, grease, roots, hair clogs, and corrosion. Homeowner or restaurant, no one wants a sewage or grease backup!


Getting to the Root of the Issue

There are many issues a camera can help us find, including a disconnected, crushed or corroded pipe, roots invading a line, blockages and more. Once your problem is pinpointed, we will determine the most effective solution to get things flowing freely again!


3 Ways to Prevent a Sewer Line Clog:

The easiest way to avoid a mess is to prevent one altogether. Here are some easy ways to do just that.


  1. Watch What You Flush
    Do not flush or pour down the drain anything non-biodegradable. This includes feminine hygiene products, "flushable" wipes, tissues & paper towels, coffee grounds, household chemicals, grease, paint or bleach. Even some products labeled "septic safe" should be avoided. There is absolutely no such thing as a "flushable" wipe so if you have toddlers or you use makeup wipes, be sure to throw them in the trash - not the toilet!

  2. Do NOT Plant Trees or Shrubs Near Your Sewer Line
    Do not plant any trees or shrubs with deep roots on or near your septic system or sewer line. Expansive root systems can damage your septic tank, sewer lines and connecting pipes.

  3. Do NOT Skip Regular Maintenance
    If you're not on a regular maintenance plan, contact us to set one up. This is essential if you have a restaurant that has a grease trap - we can help with both your grease waste management and your drain line cleaning to ensure your business operates smoothly. We offer drain cleaning and line opening services in Lancaster, PA and the surrounding areas including York, Dauphin, Lebanon, Chester County and more.


Follow these guidelines and rest assured a backup is highly unlikely to effect your home or business. If you find yourself in need of line opening services in York, PA, give us a call. We are happy to offer frequent service discounts and we can often beat your current rates. 



We offer comprehensive Sewer & Drain services!


Share this post!

You might also find these helpful!

no dig trenchless sewer line repairs | John Kline Septic Services
By Rachel Kline June 11, 2025
If you’re facing sewer line trouble, don’t settle for outdated solutions that turn your property into a construction zone. Ask about our trenchless sewer line repair options and how we can help restore your system with minimal mess!
home for sale part of septic inspection blog post for John Kline Septic
By Rachel Kline June 10, 2025
Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or a real estate agent looking to keep things flowing smoothly, here's everything you need to know about septic inspections in Lancaster, PA and beyond.
John Kline Septic Services and Plumbing Experts
By Eleanor Landis May 21, 2025
At John Kline Septic, we’ve been serving Lancaster, PA and the surrounding areas for over 60 years, and we know one thing for sure: septic problems never take a vacation. So before your guests arrive and the grill gets fired up, here are a few ways to make sure your septic system stays summer-ready.
More Posts

Search the Blog

Schedule Service Today