PuroClean of Bluffdale 
Sewer backup in Salt Lake City is more than just a messy inconvenience; it’s a serious health hazard and a costly threat to your home. When heavy rains hit, the risk of sewer systems becoming overwhelmed increases dramatically. For homeowners in Bluffdale and the greater Salt Lake area, knowing how to prevent and respond to a backup could be the difference between a quick clean-up and a full-scale restoration project.
At PuroClean of Bluffdale, we specialize in helping families and businesses recover from sewer backups and water damage. In this blog, we’ll walk you through five urgent steps to take before, during, and after a sewer backup, helping you protect your property, your health, and your wallet.
Table of Contents
What Causes Sewer Backup in Salt Lake City?
Heavy rain can quickly overwhelm stormwater and sewage systems. When combined sewer systems (which carry both stormwater and sewage) reach capacity, they can overflow into basements, crawl spaces, and ground-level drains. Some common causes include:
- Aging infrastructure
- Tree root intrusion
- Clogged or collapsed pipes
- Excessive rainwater infiltration
- Blocked municipal lines
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cities with older or combined sewage systems are at particular risk during storm events. And Salt Lake City, with its mix of aging neighborhoods and growing population, fits that profile.
Step 1: Install a Backwater Valve
The first line of defense against sewer backup is a backwater valve. This one-way valve is installed on your main sewer line and allows water to flow out but not back in. During heavy rainfall, this simple device can prevent contaminated water from re-entering your home.
Many cities, including Salt Lake City, recommend backwater valves in flood-prone areas. In fact, the City of Toronto saw a drastic reduction in basement flooding after mandating these installations in new builds.
If your home doesn’t already have one, call a licensed plumber to evaluate your system. And after installation, don’t forget to perform routine maintenance.
Step 2: Clear and Maintain Drains & Gutters
It might sound simple, but keeping your gutters and drains clear of debris is a highly effective way to prevent water from overwhelming your property’s drainage system. Clogged gutters force rainwater to pool near your foundation, increasing the risk of infiltration and eventual backup.
Check the following areas regularly:
- Roof gutters and downspouts
- Basement floor drains
- Stormwater grates in your yard or driveway
Redirect downspouts at least six feet away from your home and ensure water flows downhill and away from the foundation.
Step 3: Avoid Using Plumbing During Storms
When heavy rains hit, try to minimize water usage inside your home. Why? Because your household wastewater goes into the same sewer lines that may already be under stress from the storm.
Avoid these activities during a major rain event:
- Running the dishwasher or laundry machine
- Taking long showers
- Flushing multiple toilets in a short period
Limiting water use during peak rainstorms gives your sewer system time to catch up, reducing the chances of a backup.
Step 4: Know the Signs of an Incoming Sewer Backup
Early detection is key. Recognizing the signs of sewer backup in Salt Lake City can help you act fast and minimize damage.
Look out for:
- Foul smells coming from drains or toilets
- Gurgling sounds when using sinks or showers
- Slow-draining tubs or toilets
- Water backing up in basement drains
These symptoms typically mean there’s a blockage forming or the system is overwhelmed. The moment you spot these red flags, call in a professional like PuroClean of Bluffdale. We provide 24/7 response services for sewer and water emergencies.
Step 5: Call in Professionals for Cleanup and Restoration
If your home experiences a sewer backup, do not attempt to clean it up alone. Sewage water is classified as Category 3 water or “black water” by the IICRC. It contains bacteria, viruses, and pathogens that can pose serious health risks.
The professional team at PuroClean of Bluffdale is trained in:
- Sewage cleanup
- Contamination removal
- Odor control
- Sanitization and disinfection
- Water damage restoration
- Mold prevention and removal
We use advanced equipment, EPA-approved antimicrobial treatments, and industry-standard protocols to restore your home safely and efficiently.
Why Salt Lake City Homes Are Especially at Risk
Salt Lake City’s geography and climate play a big role in its sewer vulnerability:
- Clay-rich soil makes drainage more difficult
- Hilly terrain causes water to rush downhill toward residential areas
- Urban sprawl places more pressure on outdated infrastructure
- Rapid snowmelt in spring adds to seasonal challenges
These conditions make it essential for homeowners to stay proactive, especially during Utah’s intense storm seasons.
What to Do If Sewer Backup Happens
If a sewer backup occurs in your Salt Lake City home:
- Stop using water immediately.
- Evacuate children, pets, and anyone with health conditions.
- Turn off electricity in affected areas if it’s safe.
- Do not touch or attempt to remove sewage.
- Call PuroClean of Bluffdale immediately at (801) 254-6204 for professional assistance.
Time is critical when it comes to water damage. The sooner you act, the less likely you are to face long-term consequences like structural damage or mold growth.
How PuroClean of Bluffdale Can Help
When it comes to Sewer Backup Salt Lake City, no one handles it better than PuroClean of Bluffdale. Our IICRC-certified team responds within hours, not days. We serve all of Salt Lake County with compassionate care, advanced technology, and insurance-friendly documentation.
Our services include:
- 24/7 emergency response
- Sewer water extraction
- Structural drying
- Sanitization and deodorization
- Full water and mold damage restoration
We handle the cleanup so you can focus on what matters most: your family’s safety and peace of mind.
Prevention Today, Peace of Mind Tomorrow
Sewer backups can strike when you least expect them, especially during Utah’s heavy rainstorms. But with proactive steps and the right support, you can protect your home and loved ones from the damage and stress these disasters bring.
If you live in Salt Lake City or Bluffdale, don’t wait until it’s too late. Partner with PuroClean of Bluffdale, your trusted leader in water and sewer damage restoration. From prevention advice to full-service recovery, we’re here to help you through every step of the process.
If your Salt Lake City home is facing a sewer backup, or you want to prevent one before the next storm, don’t wait. Visit our website or call PuroClean of Bluffdale at (801) 254-6204 for 24/7 expert help. Our certified team is ready to restore your peace of mind and your property.
PuroClean of Bluffdale 