Whenever I run the laundry washer, which is downstairs, the upstairs bathroom's toilet and tub begin to overflow and back up with dirty water. I have checked to see where the washer drains to and it goes directly into the sump pump. I do have city lines as well. The main line has been snaked multiple times and seems to be clear since when we use any other appliance and toilet or tub there is no problems. But when I use the washer, it drains into the sump pump and somehow comes up to the upstairs bathroom and starts to fill the tub and toilet. Is there a clog in my lines somewhere or is my sump pump bad? I am stumped by this and need some advice.

Thanks

Mike Wendth

Something is not piped correctly... and you have a clog in the line. Call a few plumbers and 'get estimates' on how much to fix. Ask them questions while there.

All plumbing has two lines, one is for water, the other is a vent, for air.

If the vent (metal sleeves over pvc sticking out of your roof) is only slightly clogged with debris (leaves, bugs, dirt) it is enough to "not be able to burp" your water line.

Along with the high speed pumps in late model washing machines this is a common problem.

Run the snake (must be long enough) down the vent and that should clear up your problem.