I get the concern about contractor bags, but I’ve had a few situations where nothing else held up to the mess—shower curtains are great until you have to drag them outside and they’re dripping everywhere. When you put in your backflow preventer, did you go with a manual or automatic one? I’ve heard mixed things about reliability, especially if you’re not home when the storm hits.
When you put in your backflow preventer, did you go with a manual or automatic one? I’ve heard mixed things about reliability, especially if you’re not home when the storm hits.
I actually went with a manual one after hearing too many stories about the automatic ones failing at the worst possible time. It’s a pain to remember, but at least I know it’s closed when I need it. Honestly, I’d rather deal with a little extra hassle than trust a gadget that might not work when I’m out. The peace of mind is worth it for me, even if it means crawling into the crawlspace during a downpour...
even if it means crawling into the crawlspace during a downpour...
Been there, done that—never fun. I get what you mean about trusting gadgets, but have you ever had the manual stick or not seal right? I’ve had one jam up on me mid-storm and let’s just say, mopping up sewage at 2am isn’t my favorite landlord memory. Do you keep any backup tools or just cross your fingers?
What do you keep on hand for sudden sewer backups?
Manual sticks are the worst when they decide to betray you. Had one snap on me once, and I swear I almost invented a new dance move trying to dodge the mess. These days, I keep a backup pump (battery-powered, just in case), a couple of heavy-duty plungers, and a stack of those disposable coveralls that make you look like you’re about to walk into a biohazard zone. Also, a mountain of old towels—because no matter how prepared you think you are, water finds a way.
I don’t really trust any single gadget 100%. If something can go wrong, it usually does... especially at 2am. Crossed fingers don’t cut it for me anymore.
I get the “trust nothing” approach, but honestly, I think people overcomplicate this. I’ve had my share of midnight disasters, and I swear by a good quality drain snake (electric, not manual—the cheap ones are just asking for trouble). Pumps and towels are fine, but if you can clear the blockage fast, you save yourself a ton of cleanup. Coveralls are nice, but I just use old jeans and a shirt I don’t care about. Half the time, I’m in too much of a rush to suit up anyway. Maybe I’m just stubborn, but I’d rather invest in one solid tool than juggle a dozen gadgets.
