Since the network of pipes is not visible, you might not immediately notice when your sewer line freezes. This could lead to severe problems as frozen pipes are prone to bursting. According to Chugach Sewer & Drain, a leading sewer cleaning company in Anchorage, AK, understanding how cold weather conditions affect the sewage system is the first step in preventing it.

What Are Sewer Lines?

Most buildings and homes have plumbing and drainage systems made up of several pipes that distribute water and gas or collect sewage. In a drainage system, the sewer line is where water and solid wastes pass through before their disposal.

Why Do These Lines Freeze?

As long as temperatures remain subfreezing, water inside the pipes can solidify, increasing the pressure inside. Too much pressure will cause the pipe to burst, similar to what happens with a frozen can of soda. Sewer cleaning experts cite three instances when sewer lines freeze: lack of insulation around the pipe, sudden temperature drops outside, and insufficient heating inside your house or building. To address this, you can install insulation wraps around the pipes to shield them from cold air.

How Can Sewer Lines Be Thawed?

There are a couple of methods commonly used to thaw sewer lines depending on the location of the frozen pipes. If the pipes are located inside, a technician will use boiling water to unfreeze them. If the drain is underground, a plumbing professional can use either a steam boiler or hydro-jetter to unclog the line.

When your sewer line freezes, turn to the plumbing repair experts at Chugach Sewer & Drain to have the issue fixed. This locally owned and operated company specializes in a wide variety of plumbing and drainage services, including septic pumping, hydro excavating, and sewer cleaning. Call (907) 929-5072 to ask a team member about a frozen sewer line on your property, or visit their website to learn more about the services they offer.