Backed up sewer drain-fixing the problem
Hi there -
In 2 years living here, we have had no end of problems with our sewer pipe. With serious rain or snow storms, we get a sewer back up. Right now, with the snow in the northeast. We just had one. Had it all cleaned up, and then checked the test plug in the basement and there is still tremendous pressure from the outside sewer. So much so, that I broke the wingnut and had to do a last minute repair with more sewage pouring in while I put in a new test plug in the floor.
I have a couple of questions:
Immediate: Right now, sewage is not backing into the next lowest point (the washtub) that is has during other systems. Is it safe to use the house's water for showers, etc.
Long-term: Our local plumber has recommended a back flow valve that we can shut off during a storm. But says, if we install that, once we shut it off during a storm we won't be able to use any water. Are there other options. He says the valve it self is not expensive, but the installation in an older house like hours is and will run us several thousand. Can anyone comment on solutions I can do in my home.
The town: What should I be asking the town to do. They state that the city sewer on my corner is actually one that is split off the main branch, but empties out from many houses.
Thanks,
