How to Prevent Sewer Line Clogs
Meridian's housing is young, with a median build year of 2007, and the city says homes built after 1980 generally have PVC plumbing. Even so, grease, wipes and roots can still clog a newer sewer line, especially where drains see heavy use.
Habits That Keep the Sewer Line Clear
Keep grease and wipes out
Pour cooled cooking grease into a can for the trash, scrape plates before rinsing, and flush only toilet paper. Wipes labeled flushable, paper towels and hygiene products do not break down and can snag in the line.
Keep roots away from the pipe
The City of Meridian names deep-rooted plants as a cause of sewer blockages. Keep trees and large shrubs away from the line's path, and call 811 before digging, knowing Digline does not mark private lines.
When drains start to slow
If several drains slow down or a toilet gurgles when the washer runs, stop using water and do not pour chemical drain cleaners into the line. If neighbors have backups too, report it to the City of Meridian Public Works first.
Call to reach a plumber before a slow drain becomes a backup.
Pour cooled cooking grease into a can for the trash, scrape plates before rinsing, and flush only toilet paper. Wipes labeled flushable, paper towels and hygiene products do not break down and can snag in the line.
Keep roots away from the pipe
The City of Meridian names deep-rooted plants as a cause of sewer blockages. Keep trees and large shrubs away from the line's path, and call 811 before digging, knowing Digline does not mark private lines.
When drains start to slow
If several drains slow down or a toilet gurgles when the washer runs, stop using water and do not pour chemical drain cleaners into the line. If neighbors have backups too, report it to the City of Meridian Public Works first.
Call to reach a plumber before a slow drain becomes a backup.