Damaged pipes and water leaks can lead to mold growth or damaged walls, ceiling, and insulation.  A backed-up drain can cause all of these things by raising relative humidity and it adds in the dangers of dirty water.

While most water lines carry grey-water (used water that is no longer potable) from washing machines and sinks, other water lines carry hazardous human waste.  Still worse, common chemical drain cleaners are caustic and, when they fail to clean out a deep clog they aren’t designed for, flow back up the pipe along with all the other hazards, slowly eating away at pipes and leaving a caustic danger for you to deal with.

So what do you do when a pipe bursts or heavy rainfall leads to a backed-up sewer line that overflows to fill your yard or home?  How should one respond to a failed blackwater line?

Emergency Response

The problem with blackwater lines is that they aren’t pressurized.  Unlike the clean water in your home, shutting off the main valve in for your plumbing won’t always stop the flow of water into your home.  When a blackwater line breaks, the contents of the pipe simply flow with the water. When it’s raining outside, flooding water picks up both black- and grey-water (along with all of their contents) and carries it along.  Shutting off the valve won’t stop this backflow.

When it’s a sewer clog or a toilet that won’t stop running, then shutting off the main valve is the first step.  Preventing additional water flow is essential to stopping the spread of the contaminated water.

The second response is to turn off the main circuit breaker if you can reach it safely.  In flood conditions it’s best to retreat to high ground if you can do so without crossing water.  If the flooding is limited to your home, retreat to an upper room after you’ve shut off the water and call water drying specialists to begin the cleanup process.

Dealing with Bio-Hazards

Even after the flooding has stopped, do not set foot in water that’s been contaminated.  Any water that’s come into contact with an open sewer or water from backed-up sewer line is hazardous and unsafe.  You’ll need to contact a hazard cleanup team that’s skilled in dealing with biological contaminants.  Fumes and bacteria from this water will make you sick and it’s best left to professionals.  Professional cleaning crews will remove the water, dry out the area, and disinfect any contaminated surfaces.

Unfortunately, many personal items are not able to be restored once exposed to damage from a blackwater line.  Risk of infection from diseases carried in this water is never worth the restoration process.  In many cases, insulation and flooring will need to be replaced completely.

Don’t take chances when it comes to dirty water.  It’s never a smart thing to risk your health just to save a little money.

Don’t forget to follow RestoPros on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+ for new Updates, News, and Discounts.