How to Tell When the Sewer Line Is Clogged
Every homeowner dreads a clogged drain or sewer line and the negative things it can lead to, such as a backed-up toilet, a stopped-up sink, or a shower that quickly turns into an unwanted bath. But as frustrating as individual drain clogs can be, a sewer line clog can be much worse. This is because the home’s sewer line is where all of the home’s drains lead – so when the sewer line clogs, it can affect every drain in the home.
Sewer line clogs can be caused by several issues, from a buildup of cooking grease and other debris to invading tree roots. But no matter the cause, homeowners should address a clogged sewer line as quickly as possible to avoid an unsanitary and dangerous sewage backup or leak. This article will share some common signs of a sewer line clog so homeowners can quickly call a plumber to resolve the issue with drain cleaning.
Gurgling Noises or Bad Smells From Drains
One sign of a potential sewer line clog is if drains make gurgling sounds. A home’s drainage system relies on gravity and air pressure to carry wastewater to the sewer line. A clogged pipe creates a pressure imbalance, trapping pockets of air and sewage gases in the pipe. As water struggles to flow down through the clog, air bubbles force their way through the water, causing that telltale gurgling sound.
The pressure imbalance caused by a clog can also prevent the P-traps or S-traps from working properly. These are bends in a drain pipe that trap water to form a seal against the unpleasant (and often dangerous) sewer gases below. Those air bubbles that cause gurgling sounds can also make it up through the water seal, releasing foul odors into the home. Additionally, clogs in the sewer line can prevent waste from being disposed of, creating foul smells due to sewage being stuck in the line.
Drains or Toilets Are Backed Up
Another sign of a sewer line clog is if the home’s sink, tub, shower drains, or toilets are backed up. A particularly stubborn clog can prevent wastewater and sewage from flowing into the city sewer main, so it doesn’t have anywhere else to go but back into the home’s drains and toilets. This will generally affect the home’s lowest drains and toilets first since they’re the closest to the blockage.
A single backed-up toilet or drain could indicate a clog in that fixture’s dedicated drain pipe, be it from improper materials being flushed or a buildup of food waste, hair, or other debris. However, if multiple drains or toilets are affected, it indicates an obstruction in the sewer line, which will require professional intervention.
Sinks, Tubs, or Showers Drain Slowly
In many cases, drains won’t immediately get backed up but will instead start to drain more slowly over time. Whenever homeowners wash their hands, do the dishes, or shower, they should pay close attention to how the water goes down the drain. If it takes a little while to drain or they find themselves standing in an inch or two of water throughout their shower, homeowners can be sure there’s a clog developing.
Again, it’s not necessarily a sewer line clog unless multiple drains have this issue. And, of course, slow draining is better than all-out sewage backups. However, homeowners need to call a professional for drain cleaning as soon as they notice the slow draining to avoid more problems, like a backup.
Plumbers can use sophisticated equipment like sewer inspection cameras to determine the exact location and cause of the clog. Depending on the cause and pipe condition, they can perform hydro jetting services or drain snaking to get rid of the obstruction. If the pipe is damaged due to tree roots or old age, they can also perform sewer line repair or replacement to get the home’s drainage system flowing smoothly again.
About Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc.
Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc. is a heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company serving Lombard, IL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront, flat-rate pricing, honest advice, and on-time service. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Lombard, IL.
