Sewage Backup Services

A sewer backup is one of the most stressful plumbing issues a homeowner can face. When wastewater starts flowing in the wrong direction, it can cause property damage, health risks, and major disruption to daily life.  

Arctic Air offers professional solutions for sewage backup problems in New Jersey, using safe, effective methods to restore your system and peace of mind. 

What Causes a Sewer Backup? 

Sewer backups happen when wastewater cannot flow freely through the drain and sewer lines. This forces sewage back into your home through floor drains, toilets, or sinks.  

These backups can affect one area or the entire plumbing system, depending on the severity of the blockage or damage. 

Many of the most common causes develop slowly over time. That is why early detection and proper maintenance are so important. 

Signs of Issues 

Not all sewer backups happen suddenly. Sometimes the warning signs appear long before the situation becomes an emergency. Watch for these signs that may indicate a problem in your sewer system: 

• Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets 

• Foul odors coming from sinks or floor drains 

• Water backing up into tubs, showers, or basement drains 

• Slow-draining sinks or toilets throughout the home 

• Toilets that bubble or overflow when other fixtures are in use 

If you experience more than one of these symptoms at the same time, it may be a sign of a blocked or backed up sewer line. 

Common Reasons for Sewer Backups 

Several factors can contribute to sewage backup in basement areas or other parts of your home.  

Some of the most common causes include: 

• Tree root intrusion in underground sewer lines 

• Cracked, broken, or collapsed sewer pipes 

• Grease, soap, or debris build up inside drain lines 

• Flushing non-flushable items like wipes or hygiene products 

• Old or corroded pipes that cannot handle normal flow 

• Heavy rainfall or flooding that overwhelms the municipal system 

If your home is older or located near large trees, you may be more vulnerable to backup issues. A professional inspection can identify the source and help prevent future problems. 

How to Prevent Sewer Backups 

Sewage backup is not always avoidable, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk: 

• Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products 

• Keep grease and food scraps out of kitchen drains 

• Install backwater valves to prevent sewage from reversing into your home 

• Schedule routine drain and sewer cleaning with a licensed plumber 

• Inspect and replace aging or damaged sewer lines 

• Trim trees and manage root systems near your plumbing 

These small actions can go a long way towards keeping your sewer system healthy and reducing the chance of future backups. 

What to Do When a Backup Occurs? 

If you are experiencing sewage backup in your basement or anywhere else in your home, do not try to fix it on your own. Sewage contains harmful bacteria and toxins, and cleanup must be handled properly to avoid health risks. 

Here is what to do: 

• Stop using water in your home immediately 

• Avoid contact with contaminated water or waste 

• Ventilate the area if possible, by opening windows 

• Call Arctic Air to schedule a professional sewer backup service 

• Notify your insurance provider to begin the claims process if necessary 

Our team will arrive with the proper tools and safety equipment to assess the issue, clear the blockage, and clean the affected area.  

While Arctic Air does not offer full emergency response, we do provide quick scheduling and an answering service for after-hours requests. 

FAQs 

What causes a sewer backup? 

Blockages from tree roots, grease buildup, damaged pipes, and heavy rain are common causes. 

Is sewage backup dangerous? 

Yes. It can expose your home to harmful bacteria and cause serious property damage if not addressed quickly. 

Can sewage back up only into the basement? 

Most often, yes, since the basement is the lowest point in your home’s plumbing system. 

How can I tell if it’s a sewer problem and not just a clogged drain?

If multiple drains are affected at once or sewage is coming from a floor drain, it is likely a sewer issue. 

Do I need to replace my sewer line after a backup? 

Not always. It depends on the cause. We will inspect the system to determine if repair or replacement is necessary. 

If you are dealing with a backed-up sewer line, Arctic Air is ready to help. We understand how urgent these situations can feel and offer expert solutions designed to protect your health and your home.  

Whether you need drain cleaning, inspection, or long-term sewer repair, we will work quickly and carefully to get everything flowing the way it should. 

Schedule a sewage backup service today and get your plumbing system back under control.