A sewer line problem is the last thing any homeowner wants to deal with, but it’s more common than you might think. The good news is that with early detection, you can save your septic system from severe disruption and expensive repairs.
These 10 warning signs will help you recognize a potential clog. Contact an experienced plumber if any of them are familiar.
1. Foul Odors
The smell of sewage in your home is an unmistakable sign that something is amiss with your plumbing. When a sewer line can’t effectively remove waste, the clog can build up in the pipe and ultimately create an unpleasant and persistent odor.
2. Slow Drains
If your drains are slow to remove wastewater, the sewer line could be to blame. It’s important to rule out causes in the specific drain lines as well. Slow draining throughout the property is a clear indicator of a sewer line issue.
3. Toilet Overflowing
When your sewer line is clogged, the toilet won’t remove waste from your house as easily. If you notice frequent backups or clogs, then it’s a good idea to call a plumber to perform an inspection.
4. Greener Grass
Take note of any unusually green or thriving patches of grass in your lawn. Greener grass often indicates natural fertilizer has begun to leak underground. This leak can occur when a clog gets too large and cracks the sewer line. Some sewer lines also start to leak when they’re clogged from too much pressure.
5. Mold
Mold can grow in the sewer line from wet conditions. Excessive moisture is a breeding ground for mildew, too. If you spot it in your home or notice any health symptoms, like watery eyes and a persistent cough, contact a plumber right away.
6. Rodents and Insects
Pests are drawn to the waste in sewer lines, and a clog can invite many unwanted bugs, mice, or rats into your home or onto your property. Any uptick in pests is a good reason to get a professional involved. If you notice this along with other sewer line warning signs, it’s likely a clog or an underground leak that needs to be repaired.
7. Repeated Clogs Throughout the House
Repeat clogs in multiple parts of the home are a bigger indication that something is blocked in your sewer line. Your main line is responsible for carrying all wastewater off of the property. When it’s clogged, you’ll likely notice slow-draining sinks and tubs throughout your house.
8. Gurgling Sounds
When water gets backed up in a clogged sewer line, you may hear gurgling noises coming from your sink or toilet. Have a plumber investigate the sound to find its root cause.
9. Wet Spots in Your Yard
Along with lush grass, sewer line clogs can also lead to strange puddles in your yard. This dirty water is toxic and needs professional intervention.
10. Wet Spots in the Basement
Wet spots forming in your basement can indicate a sewer line clog. They form when wastewater backs up and begins to seep through the cracks in the concrete. If your floors have wood or carpet over the concrete, you may feel wetness underfoot or see mold developing.
Schedule Sewer Line Inspection Early
Keep your plumbing system and sewer lines pristine when you contact the team at All-Out Plumbing in Albuquerque, NM.