Warning Signs Of Clogged Sewer Pipes

July 27, 2023

Warning-Signs-Of-Clogged-Sewer-Pipes

One of the most challenging sewer issues owners of residential and commercial buildings deal with is clogged sewer lines. They can potentially lead to bursting pipes and many other sewer-related problems.

Pipes typically become clogged when dirt builds up inside them over a period or tree roots begin to push through them. Moreover, aged clay and steel pipes might deteriorate over time and become clogged. This can seriously affect how water drains, particularly in pipes that connect to sewage below the ground.

Yet, early detection of suspected sewer pipe obstruction can help you avoid wasting time, money, and worry by delaying the need to call a plumber for an unscheduled repair.

Experts estimate that building owners invest a sizable sum of money annually on drain and pipe repairs. Regular pipe inspections by a professional plumbing company can help prevent backed-up drains and significantly lower the likelihood of expensive repairs.

In this blog, we will discuss some of the typical warning signs of clogged sewer lines.

A Slow Drain

Having sinks with slow drainage can be quite troublesome. During such situations, one might feel tempted to use strong liquids like bleach to unclog the drain pipe. However, this approach doesn’t work well for older sewer pipes that are already worn out. In fact, using reactive and potent chemical products can accelerate the corrosion of these old pipelines.

Many individuals are unaware that the first sign of a significant plumbing problem is sometimes a slow drain or sewage pipe. The best course of action is to get in touch with seasoned plumbing services who can identify the problem and resolve it.

A plumbing company may assess your building’s sewer system to determine the best course of action for repair and prevent future problems.

Moisture In The Foundation

Sewer lines that are damaged might cause additional moisture to infiltrate through the foundation of your house or other residential structure. Another sign of problems with your sewer pipe system is dampness in your home’s walls or basement as well as fractures around the building’s foundation. In such cases, prompt action is necessary to prevent further harm.

To find out whether the moisture was brought on by a pipeline, a sewer leak, or another cause, contact a qualified plumber.

Water Is Backed Up In Other Places As Well

Every home and structure utilizes gravity-based sewer systems, which means blockages will first impact the lowest drains. For example, if there’s a clog in the bathroom sink, it will only affect that sink. However, when there’s a blockage in the main drainage pipe on the second floor of a building, the lowest drain on the first level, usually the toilet or bathtub, will be the first to back up.

This occurs because a choked pipe’s small, confined area prevents water from being squeezed. So it must go somewhere else, which is frequently a drain in a shower or bathtub. Other fixtures might experience something similar. For instance, a clogged washing machine can result in a toilet overflowing.

Also Read: Tips To Prevent Clogged Drains This Holiday Season

Unpleasant Odors

Foul odours are another early sign of a sewer line problem. When contaminated wastewater gets trapped in blocked drains, it accumulates more particles over time. As the water becomes inadequate to move the debris, it starts to dry up. This dried-up waste material emits a bad smell. If you notice a persistent foul stench in your house or building, it is a clear indication that there is a clogging issue occurring.

A prompt resolution is necessary for clogged pipes. If the issue is left unaddressed, it can make living in your house more complicated, and it may cause further damage to your drainage system.

Unusual Noises

When using a fixture in your home, such as a sink, bathtub, or toilet, if you start hearing unusual or odd noises, it could be a sign of a clogged sewer line. These strange sounds can be an indicator that there’s an obstruction somewhere in the sewer system, hindering the smooth flow of wastewater.

One of the common issues that can cause such noises is mainline blockage. When the main sewer line gets blocked, it can lead to several noticeable effects in your plumbing system. For instance, when you flush the toilet, you may notice bubbles coming up from the drain, or the water might gurgle instead of flowing smoothly down the pipes.

If you experience any of these warning signs, it’s essential to address the clogged sewer line promptly. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious issues, such as complete sewer backups, sewage leaks, or damage to your plumbing system. Calling a professional plumber to inspect and resolve the blockage can help prevent further complications and ensure that your drainage system functions properly.

About Jack’d Up Plumbing

At Jack’d Up Plumbing, we take pride in providing the residents and businesses of Calgary with exceptional and cost-effective 24-hour plumbing services. Our commitment to delivering top-notch services ensures complete client satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.