Blog highlights
- Detecting slow-draining fixtures is the first defense against sewer line problems.
- That bright green patch of grass in your lawn might be a sign of trouble lurking below.
- 1-800-Plumber +Air offers trenchless repair for many sewer line issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Potential Sewer Line Problems
Nothing is more frightening to a homeowner than the thought of a sewer backing up into their home, causing extensive and stinky damage. That’s why remaining vigilant about your sewer service should be a priority to ensure you catch the causes of sewer backups before they become a severe problem.
While municipalities across the United States might deal with up to 75,000 sewer system overflows a year, the one that concerns you is the one that you can do the most about — a problem in the sewer line from your home to the main service line.
If you suspect a sewer line problem, contact a professional with the right tools to properly diagnose the issue. Catching the problem early leads to simpler and less costly fixes.
The seven sewer line symptoms
The key to early detection of sewer line problems is awareness of the seven telltale signs your sewer line could be clogged.
Slow-draining fixtures
If you notice that tubs, sinks, and toilets are draining more slowly than usual, this could be the first sign that your sewer line is beginning to clog. Clogs in multiple plumbing fixtures also mean the problem is not isolated to a single interior line. Addressing the problem at this early stage could be as simple as removing clogs caused by grease and hair buildup.
Gurgling sounds
Strange sounds, such as gurgling in your pipes, indicate air is entering the sealed system, which could be caused by a leak.
Sewage smells
Sewage smells detected inside or outside your home could indicate a sewer line leak, as gases can easily flow in the space surrounding pipes and come back into your home or travel up through cracks in the ground.
Wet or lush green spots
You might welcome a lush green spot in your lawn, but not if you realize it’s being fertilized by sewage you’d rather have transported from your home to your local treatment plant. Excessive leaks also could leave a wet, smelly area.
Sewage backups
The most feared symptom is sewage backing up into your home, particularly through floor or shower drains. Any hint of sewage backup should be addressed immediately before it becomes a full-fledged mess.
Foundation cracks or sinkholes
Slow sewer line leaks that don’t rise to the surface of your yard can also track back along the pipe, causing pressure and foundation cracks in your basement or crawl space. Sinkholes on or near your sewer line’s route also indicate possible leaks.
Pest problems
Pests such as rats and insects are attracted to sewer odors, so if you have a leak, you might notice increased pest activity near your sewer line.
Causes of sewer line problems
Sewer line problems are an inevitable issue for most homeowners. Many factors can harm your sewer system, such as oil or hair buildup, objects flushed down a toilet, tree roots growing into lines, improperly installed lines, or collapsed pipes.
Sewer Line Repair and Replacement Options
Plumbers use advanced imaging techniques to examine sewer lines to determine the cause and the easiest route to repairs. Simple clogs can be rooted out, leaving the pipes to serve your home for many more years. Leaks caused by faulty installation or small areas of corrosion often can be fixed without digging or with small holes. A collapsed pipe will need an entire line replacement.
Get the sewer line help you need
1-800-Plumber +Air deals with all types of sewer line issues in the Lansdale, PA, area each year. Our trenchless sewer repair service allows us to address many concerns without causing a major disruption to your home and life. Contact us the minute you suspect a problem to ensure timely service to keep your family safe.
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