Sewer Backup in Edmonton? Here’s What to Do Immediately (And How to Prevent It)
A sewer backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies you can face — and unfortunately, it's more common than most Edmonton homeowners realize. Whether it's a bad smell coming from your basement drain, water pooling in your laundry room, or full-on sewage spilling into your home, a sewer backup needs to be dealt with immediately.
This guide will walk you through what to do if you’re experiencing a sewer backup in Edmonton, what causes it, how to prevent it, and why calling a local professional like Instarooter can save you thousands in cleanup and repairs.
What Is a Sewer Backup?
A sewer backup occurs when water or sewage from the main municipal sewer line flows in the reverse direction — up through your home’s drains, floor drain, or toilets — instead of flowing away as it should. When that happens, dirty water and waste can enter your basement or lower-level rooms, creating a dangerous and costly mess.
Common Causes of Sewer Backups in Edmonton
Tree root intrusion into sewer pipes (especially in older neighborhoods like Highlands, Westmount, and Parkallen)
Clogged or collapsed sewer lines due to grease, debris, or pipe failure
Heavy rainfall or snowmelt overloading the city’s sewer system
Lack of a backwater valve, which helps prevent reverse flow into your home
Old clay or cast iron pipes, which are more prone to cracking and joint failure
What to Do Immediately If You Suspect a Sewer Backup
1. Stop using all water in the home – This includes toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines, and dishwashers.
2. Don’t try to clean it yourself – Sewer water contains harmful bacteria and contaminants.
3. Avoid contact with affected areas – Especially if there’s visible sewage in the basement.
4. Call Instarooter immediately at (587) 988-7387 – We offer emergency sewer backup service in Edmonton and surrounding areas.
Our licensed technicians will quickly inspect your system, identify the source of the problem, and start the cleaning and repair process right away.
How to Prevent a Sewer Backup in the Future
1. Install a Backwater Valve
This simple device prevents sewage from re-entering your home when the main line is overloaded. It’s highly recommended by the City of Edmonton and often required in new construction.
2. Schedule Regular Sewer Camera Inspections
A routine camera inspection helps identify early signs of root intrusion, cracks, or buildup — before they cause a backup.
3. Avoid Flushing Grease, Wipes, or Hygiene Products
Only toilet paper should go down your toilet. Everything else — even if labeled “flushable” — can clog your sewer line.
4. Get Tree Roots Removed
If you have large trees near your sewer line, root intrusion is likely. Instarooter provides safe, non-invasive root removal services in Edmonton.
5. Invest in Professional Drain Cleaning
Don’t rely on chemical drain cleaners. Our hydro jetting service clears debris and buildup the right way — safely and completely.
Why Choose Instarooter?
We’re a local Edmonton company that specializes in sewer and underground plumbing issues. We’ve helped homeowners across St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Beaumont, and surrounding areas recover from serious sewer backups quickly and affordably.
Emergency response 7 days a week
Sewer camera inspections & hydro jetting
Trenchless sewer repair options
Backwater valve installation
Licensed, insured, and trusted in the community
When you call Instarooter, you’re getting experienced professionals who care about protecting your home — not just clearing a clog.
Call Now for Emergency Sewer Backup Help in Edmonton
If you’re dealing with a sewer backup — or you want to make sure it never happens — call Instarooter today. We respond fast, fix the problem right, and help you prevent it from ever happening again.
📞 (587) 988-7387
We serve Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Beaumont, Leduc, and nearby areas. Let’s protect your home — before, during, and after the flood.