What to Do When Your Sewer Backs Up: Emergency Steps & When to Call Us

What Is a Sewer Backup and Why Does It Happen?

A sewer backup occurs when wastewater that normally flows out of your home through your plumbing system is forced back inside. Instead of draining away properly, sewage flows backward through toilets, sinks, floor drains, or even the basement. This can create a messy, smelly, and hazardous situation for any homeowner.

Common Causes of Sewer Backups

There are several reasons why sewer backups happen. Here are some of the most frequent culprits we see in San Antonio homes:

• Clogged Sewer or Sewage Lines: Clogs in your main sewer line or drainpipes often result from grease buildup, flushing non-degradable items (wipes, paper towels, feminine products), hair and soap scum buildup, or tree roots invading cracks and causing blockages.

• Heavy Rain and Flooding: Heavy rainstorms in the San Antonio area can overwhelm the sewer system, causing backups—especially in homes on combined sewer lines.
• Blocked Sewer Main Line: The main sewer line connects your home to the city system; if blocked, all drains can back up.
• Broken or Collapsed Pipes: Older sewer pipes can crack, shift, or collapse over time from age, soil movement, or heavy traffic, causing wastewater to back up.

Why are sewer backups dangerous?

Besides the unpleasant mess, sewage carries harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, risking infections and respiratory issues. Plus, backups can cause structural damage to your floors, walls, and foundation.

Common Signs of a Sewer Backup in Your Home & Yard

Sewer backups don’t always start with a flood—often, there are early warning signs. Recognizing them early can help you act fast and avoid major damage:

1. Multiple Drains Are Clogged
   1. If several drains (toilet, shower, sink) back up, it likely indicates a main sewer clog. Flushing a toilet causing water to rise in the bathtub is a red flag.
2. Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds
   1. Strange noises from drains or toilets suggest trapped air from a blockage—time to check for a sewer backup.
3. Slow Drains That Keep Coming Back
   1. Slow drains that return after cleaning may signal a bigger issue like a clogged sewer line. Need a solution? Check out the drain services we offer.
4. Foul Odors from Drains or Yard
   1. Wet spots and / or strong sewage smells in your home or yard indicate leaking sewer gas, which can be hazardous.
5. Water or Waste from Floor Drains
   1. Sewage or dirty water rising from garage drains signals a serious sewer backup needing immediate help.

Emergency Steps to Take When Your Sewer Backs Up

A sewer backup is overwhelming, but acting quickly can reduce damage and protect your family. Here’s what to do right away:

• Stop All Water Usage
  • Immediately stop running faucets, flushing toilets, or using appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Adding water to your system will only worsen the clogged sewer or sewage backup.
• Shut Off the Main Water Valve (If Safe)
  • If you can safely access it, turn off your home’s main water supply. It’s usually near the water meter or where the line enters your home

• Important: Don’t enter areas with standing sewage—wait for professionals if the shutoff is contaminated.
• Keep Children and Pets Away
  • Sewage water is hazardous. Block off the affected area and make sure no one touches or tracks through it.
• Skip the Chemical Cleaners
  • Avoid using store-bought drain cleaners – they won’t fix a main sewer line backup and may damage your plumbing or create toxic fumes.
• Ventilate if Possible
  • Open windows and doors to reduce odors and moisture. Only use fans if there’s no risk of electrical hazard near the water.
• Clean Small Spills Carefully
  • For minor localized water, you can mop or use towels to control spread—but only with proper gear like gloves, boots, and a mask. Don’t attempt cleanup if raw sewage is present.
• Call 1st Call Plumbing & AC Immediately
  • We’re available 7 days a week, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and offer fast emergency response for sewer backups, clogged sewage lines, and sewer line repairs. Let our trained professionals restore your home safely and quickly.

Is a Sewer Back Up a DYI project?

A sewage backup can be overwhelming—but trying to fix it yourself often leads to bigger problems. Here’s why DIY methods aren’t the solution:

• Home Remedies Don’t Reach the Problem
  • Pouring hot water, vinegar, or store-bought drain cleaners won’t fix a clogged sewer or main line backup. These solutions are ineffective for deep blockages.
• Chemical Cleaners Can Harm Pipes
  • Harsh drain cleaners can corrode older pipes—especially PVC or cast iron. In a sewage backup, the chemicals just sit in the blockage and cause damage. And harmful chemical  fumes can back up into your living area.
• Sewage Is a Health Hazard
  • Raw sewage contains bacteria and viruses. Without proper gear, DIY cleanup exposes your home and family to serious health risks.
• You Might Misdiagnose the Issue
  • Not all backups are simple clogs—tree roots, collapsed lines, or pipe breaks may be the real cause. Without a sewer camera inspection, it’s easy to guess wrong.
• Mistakes Can Be Expensive
  • Using the wrong tools or techniques can worsen the problem, turning a minor issue into a costly sewer line repair or even a full replacement.
• Let the Pros Handle It
  • At 1st Call Plumbing & AC, we specialize in sewer backup solutions and sewage line repairs. With the right tools and decades of experience, we’ll fix the issue quickly and safely—saving you time, money, and stress.

Professional Sewer Backup Solutions from 1st Call Plumbing & AC

When you’re dealing with a sewage backup, you need fast, reliable help. 1st Call Plumbing & AC provides expert, long-lasting solutions to homeowners across San Antonio, New Braunfels, Boerne, Spring Branch, and beyond. 

Our services include:

• Sewer Line Video Inspection
  • Using advanced sewer cameras, we inspect your pipes from the inside to identify blockages, cracks, or root intrusion. This accurate diagnosis allows us to tailor the best repair solution.
• Hydro – Jetting Sewer Lines
  • Our hydro-jetting service uses high-pressure water jets to clear out stubborn blockages like grease, roots, and debris clogging your sewer pipes — restoring proper flow without damaging your plumbing.
• Sewer Line Repairs and Replacement
  • If your sewage line is damaged, corroded, or collapsed, we offer professional sewer line repairs or full sewage line replacements. Our licensed plumbers follow all state codes and use durable materials to ensure long-lasting results.
• Preventative Maintenance Services
  • Don’t wait for another emergency. Regular cleaning and inspections help keep your sewer lines clear and reduce the risk of future backups.

Preventing Future Sewer Backups

The best way to deal with a sewer backup is to prevent it. While not all emergencies can be predicted, many common causes are avoidable. Here are a few simple tips to reduce your risk:

✅ Avoid Flushing Problem Items

Don’t flush wipes (even “flushable” ones), paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, or grease. These items don’t break down easily and often contribute to clogged sewer lines.

✅ Schedule Regular Sewer Inspections

An annual camera inspection of your sewer line helps catch minor issues before they become major. At 1st Call Plumbing & AC, we offer non-invasive inspections that provide peace of mind and early detection.

✅ Install Drain Screens

A low-cost solution that makes a big impact: drain screens can catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter your plumbing system and cause a blockage.

✅ Maintain Plumbing Fixtures

Small leaks and corroded pipes can lead to backups over time. Fix minor issues early to keep your system working properly.

✅ Watch Your Landscaping

Avoid planting trees or shrubs directly above your sewer line. Roots naturally seek out water, and over time they can penetrate or crush pipes, causing recurring sewage backups.

Proactive care and regular maintenance go a long way in protecting your home from costly water damage and health hazards.

When to Call 1st Call Plumbing & AC

If you’re experiencing signs of a sewer backup, time is critical. Backups don’t fix themselves—and delays often lead to extensive damage, health risks, and higher repair costs.

Call Us Immediately If You Notice:

• Sewage or wastewater backing up into sinks, tubs, or toilets
• Multiple drains in your home clogging or backing up at the same time
• Foul sewer odors coming from drains or your yard
• Slow drainage accompanied by bubbling or gurgling sounds
• Standing water or sewage near basement floor drains or in your yard

We proudly serve San Antonio, New Braunfels, Boerne, Spring Branch, and nearby areas with expert sewer solutions—fast, reliable, fixed right to last. 

Here’s why San Antonio area homeowners have counted on us for over 35 years:

✅ Certified plumbing technicians with decades of hands-on experience.
✅ Zero Trip Charge and fully stocked trucks—we are always prepared on the job.
✅ FREE Onsite Estimates—we don’t guess. We assess the problem at your home. Get a free estimate today.
✅ Upfront pricing—no surprises, no upselling.
✅ Thorough inspections and diagnostics using the latest technology to pinpoint issues accurately.
✅ Same day, emergency plumbing services are available for urgent needs.
✅ Satisfaction guarantee – we stand behind our work!

Protect Your Home with Expert Sewer Backup Solutions

At 1st Call Plumbing & AC, we bring over 35 years of hands-on experience, advanced equipment, and a commitment to customer care that San Antonio homeowners trust. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden clogged sewer, recurring backups, or need a full sewer line repair or replacement, we’re ready to help—fast.

Don’t let a sewage backup disrupt your life. Get expert help today.

📍 Serving San Antonio and the surrounding communities

📅 Same-day appointments available

📞 Call now: 210-446-0200

🌐 Or request your estimate online at 1stCallPlumbingandAC.com

Even if you would just like a second opinion on a sewer or water line replacement we will come out free of charge.