Home Maintenance 101: How to Identify Sewer Line Problems

It’s pretty easy to take the residential wastewater plumbing system for granted. When it’s working correctly, most people don’t think about it. It’s only when indoor plumbing fixtures start to act unusual that homeowners begin to worry.

A sewer line issue can arise from age, tree root blockage, or gradual waste buildup. Therefore, it’s crucial to identify the problems before they get out of hand. Here are a few telltale signs to look for:

Several slow-moving drains

An isolated clogged drain is not an alarming event. Clogs are common and can happen for various reasons.

However, it’s a concerning sign when most drains inside your home are slow-moving. Toilets are often the first to experience problems, but they can occur with any low-lying fixture in the house.

Plumbing fixtures making odd sounds

It’s common for unusual sounds from various plumbing fixtures to accompany slow draining. The toilet might be making strange flushing noises, or the bathroom sink might be gurgling.

An occasional funny sound is nothing to worry about, but numerous noisy plumbing fixtures are a great reason to call a plumbing service.

Foul odors inside and outside

Take note if the shower drains, kitchen sink, and guest room bathtub emit a noticeably foul odor. There’s a great chance the sewer line cracked and has leaked for some time.

Make sure to check your backyard, too, to see if the odor is spreading. Keep in mind that prolonged exposure to sewage gases can be dangerous, so make sure to call a reputable plumbing company to repair the line.

Changes in water pressure

If the water pressure suddenly decreases, it could indicate a problem with the sewer line. Indeed, water pressure changes can result from an inefficient water heater or other plumbing fixtures, but it’s best to be sure about the cause. Call a plumber to perform an inspection.

Mold growth

If you notice unusual or rapid mold growth on the walls and ceiling, consider that a warning sign.

Mold development signifies the presence of considerable moisture indoors, which could be coming from a broken sewer line. Especially when combined with other symptoms, mold is an excellent reason to check on the sewage system.

Unusual wet patches in the yard

Some homeowners will identify issues with the sewer line by examining the yard. If a piece of grass or land is soggy, there’s a chance it’s right above the leaking sewer line.

The grass may be very green and lush around one area, which could be another identifier of a damaged line.

No time to waste!

If any of the plumbing system issues mentioned above occur, it’s critical to call a professional immediately. Slow-moving drains, foul odors, odd sounds, and soggy yards are more than inconvenient; they can lead to other, more significant problems.

A broken or damaged sewer line is not something homeowners can resolve independently. It’s best to call a licensed and experienced plumbing service.