Rain, Roots & Clogs: Summer Drain Issues to Watch For
June 22, 2025
Prevent blockages when it rains cats and dogs in Kansas.
Did you know heavy rain can cause sewer line backups and stubborn drain clogs? Wichita’s wet summer season can wreak havoc on older plumbing systems and catch homeowners off guard if drains aren’t prepared.
When a sudden downpour hits, extra groundwater puts pressure on underground pipes and the city’s sewer system. This can lead to blockages, backups, or even burst pipes if roots or debris get in the way. Here’s what to watch for:
🌳 Tree Roots: Trees are thirsty during dry spells — but after a big rain, their roots naturally seek out cracks or weak spots in underground pipes. Once roots get inside, they expand and trap debris, which slows your drains and can cause backups.
🚰 Sewer Overflow: When city sewers are overloaded during storms, water can reverse flow and push debris back up through your drains. You might notice gurgling toilets, slow tub drains, or water pooling where it shouldn’t be.
🧼 Grease & Hair Buildup: Summer means cookouts, house guests, and more showers — which can lead to extra grease down the kitchen drain and hair down the bathroom drain. Combine that with excess water flow from rain, and clogs happen faster than you’d think.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t wait for a clog to ruin your summer plans. Schedule a professional drain cleaning at the start of storm season. Boyer Plumbing uses modern tools to clear stubborn blockages, inspect for hidden root intrusions, and keep everything flowing smoothly, rain or shine.
If your drains are slow, gurgling, or backing up after a big rain, give Boyer Plumbing
a call today. We’ll handle the mess — so you can get back to enjoying summer in Wichita worry-free!