The Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make with Their Sewer Lines (and How to Avoid Them)

The Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make with Their Sewer Lines (and How to Avoid Them)

Your sewer line is one of those systems you don’t think about—until something goes wrong. By then, you’re usually dealing with a messy (and expensive) problem. At The Mink Plumbing, we’ve seen it all: cracked pipes, massive clogs, and full-blown backups that could’ve been prevented with just a few simple changes.

So let’s talk about the biggest sewer mistakes homeowners in Tyler, TX make—and how you can avoid them.

Mistake #1: Flushing the Wrong Things

We get it. Flushable wipes say they’re flushable. But that doesn’t mean they break down like toilet paper does. Same goes for paper towels, cotton swabs, dental floss, and feminine hygiene products. These items can catch in your pipes and create major blockages over time.

How to avoid it: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. If you’re not sure whether something belongs in the toilet, it probably doesn’t. When in doubt, throw it out.

If you’re already dealing with a clog, our professional drain cleaning services in Tyler and beyond can help.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Slow Drains

A slow drain might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it’s usually a red flag. It could mean there’s buildup forming in your pipes—or worse, that there’s a clog deeper in the sewer line.

Water pooling around your feet in the shower or taking forever to drain from the kitchen sink? That’s not normal—and it won’t go away on its own. Letting it linger could lead to raw sewage backing up into your home.

How to avoid it: Don’t ignore slow drains. Call for help before it turns into a full backup. A professional sewer cleaning in Tyler, TX can remove buildup and restore flow before the damage spreads.

Mistake #3: Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

Store-bought drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, but they’re one of the worst things you can pour down your pipes. The harsh chemicals can corrode your pipes, especially if used repeatedly, and they don’t always solve the underlying issue.

We’ve seen pipes eaten away from the inside due to years of chemical use. By the time homeowners call us, they’re often looking at full replacements—something that could’ve been avoided with a safer solution.

How to avoid it: Stick with mechanical drain cleaning methods, like plunging or snaking. If the clog is stubborn, it’s time to call in the pros. We offer safe, effective drain cleaning services in Tyler that actually solve the problem without damaging your pipes.

Mistake #4: Planting Trees Too Close to Sewer Lines

Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and your sewer line is like an underground buffet. Roots can creep into tiny cracks in the pipe, expand, and completely block flow—or even break the pipe altogether.

It often starts with a small leak. The roots find it, grow into the line, and before long you’ve got a tangled root ball choking your entire sewer system. We’ve had to use specialized cutting tools just to free the line.

How to avoid it: Know where your sewer line runs and avoid planting trees or large shrubs nearby. If you’re unsure, a quick inspection from a professional can help. We handle everything from routine sewer maintenance to full sewer repair and replacement in Tyler or the surrounding area if roots have already made their way in.

Mistake #5: Delaying Repairs

Maybe you noticed a weird smell outside. Or maybe your drains are bubbling or gurgling more than usual. These subtle warning signs often get ignored until something serious happens, like a full-on backup or a burst pipe.

Time and again, we hear homeowners say, “I figured it wasn’t a big deal.” But the truth is, small problems don’t stay small. That faint odor or minor backup could be your home’s way of waving a red flag.

How to avoid it: Don’t wait. Sewer issues don’t fix themselves. They only get more expensive the longer you put them off. The sooner you call, the simpler the fix will be. Our team at The Mink Plumbing can diagnose and repair sewer issues quickly and affordably.

Mistake #6: Pouring Grease Down the Drain

You’ve probably heard this one before, but it’s worth repeating: grease and oil don’t belong in your drain. When they cool, they solidify and stick to your pipes, gradually creating a stubborn clog.

We’ve removed lines completely caked in hardened grease—imagine a long, greasy pipe filled with what looks like candle wax. And once that buildup hardens, even water has a hard time getting through.

How to avoid it: Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before rinsing, and pour cooking oil into a container for disposal—not down the sink. Keeping grease out of your pipes is one of the easiest ways to prevent sewer blockages.

Mistake #7: Skipping Regular Sewer Inspections

You get oil changes for your car, checkups for your teeth—why not the same for your sewer system? Regular inspections can spot small issues before they turn into big problems.

With video inspections, we can actually show you what’s happening in your pipes. Whether it’s minor buildup, early root intrusion, or corrosion, we can pinpoint the problem and fix it before it escalates.

How to avoid it: Schedule a professional inspection every couple of years, especially if your home is older or you’ve had sewer issues before. Our team provides thorough sewer maintenance in Tyler, TX that can save you money (and headaches) in the long run.

Sewer Issues Don’t Have to Be a Surprise

Knowing what not to do is half the battle. By following these sewer maintenance tips and building better plumbing habits, you can protect your home from expensive and disruptive sewer problems.

And when you do need a hand? We’re here. Whether it’s preventative sewer cleaning, emergency sewer repairs, or a simple inspection, The Mink Plumbing has your back.

Contact us today to schedule service and keep your sewer line flowing like it should!