Signs That You Have a Problem With Your Main Sewer Line

Nobody realizes how lucky we are with our modern water supply and waste disposal systems – until they get a dreaded blocked sewer line.

When all of that sewage waste and water starts backing up into your toilets, bathtub, or mudroom sinks, it can make for a rather traumatic experience. However, if you know the early warning signs of a clog in your main sewer line, you can catch it early and deal with it before it becomes severe.

What Causes a Blocked Sewer Line?

When there is a blockage in your main sewer line that prevents the sewage water from flowing smoothly, it results in clogs and subsequent backups.

Intrusive tree roots, debris, and broken pipes are some of the most common reasons your sewer line could get clogged. Sometimes, debris like feminine products and toilet paper can also lead to obstructions in the pipes.

Warning Signs of Sewer Main Problems

Here are the top warning signs that indicate a sewer pipeline blockage:

Clogged Drains Throughout Your Home

Do you have drains throughout your house that are emitting a gurgling noise or foul odor? If the draining in your toilet, sink, shower, or bathtub are moving slowly and creating strange smells and sounds, it means you have a main sewer blockage. Since every drain connects to the main sewer line, a clog in the main line can affect multiple drains in your home.

Water Backs Up Into Drains

Does water back up into your shower when you flush the toilet? That happens when you have a blocked sewer line, and the flushed water cannot be eliminated. This means the water is forced to find a different outlet, which is usually the shower drain.

You should also check if the water is overflowing to other plumbing fixtures in your home, such as bathroom sinks and the washing machine. Turn the water on in the sink and watch the toilet closely. Does the water level rise? If yes, it’s a clear sign that your main sewer line is clogged.

Same goes for your washing machine. Turn it on and see if water comes up through the shower drain or bathtub. If it does, it also means there is a blockage in the main sewer line.

Drainage in Sewer Cleanout

If you see sewage draining out of or standing in the sewer cleanout of your home, it means you have sewer main problems.

A sewer cleanout is a pipe that’s directly connected to the main sewer line in your home. It essentially helps the plumbers access your main sewer line in order to clean out any clogs. The cleanout is located in the basement or right outside your home.

Think You Have a Blocked Sewer Line?

If you spot one or more of these signs, you should call a plumbing professional right away. Don’t try to “deal with it” yourself or you may end up making the problem even worse. And leaving blocked sewer lines unattended not only causes a major inconvenience, but also poses a serious health hazard.

A skilled plumber will use their arsenal of tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the problem very quickly. While they are taking care of the blockage in your main sewer line, they will also make sure that the rest of your pipes are in top condition.Looking to have your plumbing problems solved on time and on a budget? 24/7 Plumbing Co., LP is your trusted expert in the Katy area. Contact us today at 281-391-2001 to schedule a free in-home estimate.

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