If your drains suddenly start producing gurgling sounds, it could indicate that your sewer line is clogged. These noises are produced by air pockets in the pipes that are trapped by the clog.
Backups and blockages are a sure sign that you need to have your sewer line repaired. They will also result in the nasty smell of sewage inside your home.
1. Water Backing Up
If your sinks, tubs, or toilets are draining slowly or seem to clog all the time, it could be a sign that your sewer line has a problem. A clog or break in your main sewer line can cause wastewater to back up into your home, which brings bacteria and other unwanted substances with it.
The most serious clogs are usually in the main sewer line, which connects to your municipal sewer system or septic tank. When this line is clogged, all of the drains in your house won’t be able to work properly.
Bubbles in your sinks, tubs, or toilets could also indicate a clog in the main sewer line. Watch for these signs and call a plumber right away. A quick fix can prevent sewage from backing up into your home and causing major damage.
2. Bad Smells
If you have a sewer line, you can expect unpleasant smells from time to time. However, if the smells from your drains start to spread throughout your house, it’s likely a sign that your sewer line is overflowing or experiencing a break.
Odors from your toilets may also indicate a problem with the sewer line, especially if you hear gurgling noises when you flush them. The odors produced by sewage can be quite strong and spread quickly, so pay attention to any unusual smells coming from your home.
Pests such as mice and rats are another common sign of a broken or damaged sewer line. These pests are often attracted to clogged drains and can cause a lot of damage to your property if they’re not dealt with quickly.
3. Patches of Sewage in Your Yard
If you see puddles of wastewater that refuse to dry up in your yard, it could be a sign of a broken sewer line. This is often caused by a clogged septic tank or cracked main line. The sewage can also be a breeding ground for pests like rats and mice, which are often able to slip through cracks in your plumbing.
Another telltale sign of a sewer leak is lush patches of grass that appear in your backyard. Backed-up sewage can act as fertilizer, feeding the grass and causing it to grow in places that normally wouldn’t get any sun. This is usually accompanied by other warning signs, such as foul odors or brown puddles. A professional plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and fix it before it worsens.
4. Unusual Water Bill
A broken sewer line can mean enormous plumbing bills, but it can also be avoided by knowing the warning signs and getting the repairs done quickly. If you are experiencing any of the signs below, it is likely time to call a plumber for a sewer line inspection.
Sanitary sewer backups occur in your home’s lowest drain and usually indicate a blockage somewhere in the line. If you notice backups in multiple areas, this is a sign that your entire sewage system is affected. If the backups only affect one particular drain, it may be an isolated problem with that drain’s plumbing.
If you hear scurrying noises in your walls or see evidence of rodents, this could also be a sign of a failing sewer line. Rodents are able to fit through cracks in plumbing and can carry disease.
5. Increased Humidity
If you notice areas in your yard that look lush and green compared to other areas, it may be a sign of a broken sewer line. This happens when the line leaks and sewage seeps into the soil around your home or business.
A leaking or broken sewer line can also lead to foundation problems. This is because a wet slab will shift and could cause cracks in your home’s foundation.
Preventative maintenance and good habits will help keep your sewer lines functioning properly. Only flush toilet paper and bodily waste down your drains, and avoid harsh chemicals in drain cleaners. It’s a good idea to get your sewer line inspected every five years. If you do spot any signs of a problem, call sewer line repair Houston right away!
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