Sewer line warning signals like backups, clogs, or other indicators can inform residents of possible damage to the sewer line. Even if you haven’t seen any concerns, failing to examine sewage lines as soon as they show signs of trouble could cause severe damage to your house. If you see any warning signs in your home, get in touch with a pro right once to schedule an inspection video.
These are the indicators you need to look for if you suspect there is the possibility of a blockage, rupture, or another issue in your sewer line.
What Are the Symptoms of Sewer Line Problems?
1: Slowly Draining Sinks and Other Backups – Water backing up in fixtures is among the most frequent signs of lateral sewer problems. The plumbing system has many branches, like a tree, and problems could occur on one or more units. A secondary sewer line may have issues instead of the main line if the problem only affects a specific institution, such as an overflowing bathtub.
2: Using One Fixture Can Cause the Backup to Occur in Another Place – The backups could be in various areas, such as drains in basements or sinks. If you flush the toilet and the water backs up in the tub, it may be because the sewage line is blocked, which forces the water higher.
3: Backups Across Multiple Fixtures – Suppose you notice that water is back up in various places – the sink, laundry or toilet, etc. It signals that something is blocking the main sewer pipe in your home. Home-made snake cleaners will not be able to help in these instances. It’s time to contact an experienced professional to examine your lines.
4: Sediment in Backups – Be aware when the water backing up is filthy. The appearance of sediment indicates that the water has backed up from the sewer line and inside your plumbing. The deposit appears to be like mud or dirt in formation. Your drains may have a problem if you smell gas inside or around your home.
5: Unpleasant Odor – If there are no problems with your sewer line in the pipeline, your pipes need to get sealed. The blockages could cause cracks and other holes that release the unpleasant smell of sewage into your home or yard.
6: Large Trees in Your Backyard – Believe it or not, the roots of trees are among the most frequent sewer line issues. Roots can extend well beyond the visible footprint above ground for the uninitiated. They will eventually deteriorate the underground water pipes and other drains. If you’ve got large, old trees around your yard, it could be the reason for the problems you are experiencing.
7: Water Backups When It Rains – Following a heavy downpour, water backs up so it can enter your home but not leave; you might need to place a backflow prevention device on your sewage line.
8: Mold on Ceilings and Walls – When a sewer pipe ruptures inside a wall, the remaining humidity can quickly lead to dangerous mold growth. There may be an unpleasant or musty smell.
9: Grassy patches in your backyard – If sewers leak, they can result from fertilizing and feeding the plants in that region. The appearance of greener grass in a specific section of your lawn may indicate a damaged sewer line underneath it.
10: Plunging and Clearing the J-Trap Does Not Solve the Issue – Suppose you’ve tried the most popular techniques for clearing blockages, such as using a plunger or a natural drain cleaner, and nothing has worked. You should then contact a licensed plumber.
What Must You Do If You Think a Sewer Line Is in Trouble?
Suppose you’re having any of the abovementioned problems. In that case, you must solve the issue with your sewer line as soon as possible.
1. Shut Off the Main Water Valve. If you’ve reached a stage where water could soon cause extensive damage, you must locate the shut-off valve where the water line from the water meters enters the house. Turn the “gate valve” to the “closed” or “off” position.
2. Schedule a Video Inspection. Plumbers are the best at diagnosing sewer pipe issues by assessing the condition of the inside pipes. When a camera inspects the sewers, it shows the state of the tubes installed in the sewerage line. The precise area of pipe problems permits the sewer replacement or repair team to address the issue with your sewer drain quicker, saving everyone time and cost.
In the case of Ottawa Plumbing Service, we will credit the cost of the sewer camera inspection towards the cost of upgrading your sewer lateral should one be required.
Find a Licensed Professional in Ottawa
The experts at Ottawa Plumbing Service who repair and replace sewage lines will treat your house and you with the care and expertise you deserve. As certified and licensed sewer line specialists, We’ve provided top-quality solutions and advice for homeowners living in Ottawa. Whatever your plumbing requirements are or whether they are an easy or complex emergency repair, you will get assured of the professional and skilled experts of Ottawa Plumbing Service. Call our trusted Ottawa plumbers at (613) 317-1682 or email us at info@ottawaplumbingservice.com.