What To Do When Basement Floor Drain Backs Up

A backed-up basement floor drain can be a major inconvenience and a potential health hazard. If you're dealing with this issue, don't panic! Here are some steps you can take to fix the problem and prevent it from happening again.

1. Check the Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump in your basement, it's the first thing you should check if your floor drain is backed up. The sump pump is responsible for removing water from your basement and pumping it outside. If the sump pump is not working properly, it can cause the floor drain to back up.

To check the sump pump, first make sure that it is plugged in and that the power switch is turned on. Then, look for any signs of damage to the pump or the sump basin. If you see any damage, you should call a plumber to have the pump repaired or replaced.

2. Clean the Floor Drain

If the sump pump is working properly, the next step is to clean the floor drain. The floor drain is located in the center of the basement floor and is typically covered by a grate. To clean the floor drain, remove the grate and use a drain snake to clear any debris that may be blocking the drain.

If the drain snake does not clear the blockage, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. However, be sure to follow the directions on the product label carefully, as some drain cleaners can be harmful if used incorrectly.

3. Check the Sewer Line

If the floor drain is still backed up after you have cleaned it, the problem may be with the sewer line. The sewer line is the pipe that carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer system. If the sewer line is blocked, it can cause the floor drain to back up.

To check the sewer line, you can use a sewer camera. A sewer camera is a small camera that can be inserted into the sewer line to inspect it for blockages. If you find a blockage, you can call a plumber to have it removed.

4. Call a Plumber

If you have tried all of the above steps and the floor drain is still backed up, you should call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

In some cases, the floor drain may be backed up due to a more serious problem, such as a cracked or collapsed sewer line. If this is the case, the plumber will need to excavate the sewer line to repair or replace it.

5. Preventative Measures

There are a few things you can do to prevent your basement floor drain from backing up in the future.

Keep your floor drain clean. Regularly remove any debris that may be blocking the drain.
Have your sump pump inspected and serviced annually. This will help to ensure that the pump is working properly and will be able to remove water from your basement in the event of a flood.
Get your sewer line inspected by a plumber every few years. This will help to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.