Your sewer line plays a crucial role in your home’s plumbing system, even if it’s out of sight and often out of mind. Buried underground, it usually works without any issues. But when problems start, they can become major headaches if left unchecked. At Priority Plumbing & Drain, we’re here to keep your sewer line running smoothly. Knowing when to give us a call is essential. Here are eight clear signs that your sewer line might need professional plumbing services.
1. Pests in Your Home
If you spot more pests, such as mice, rats, or insects, inside, your sewer line might attract them. Leaks or small cracks in the line can attract unwanted visitors to your property. If other causes have been ruled out, consider having your sewer line inspected by us. Unseen leaks underground often invite pests, and a simple sewer line inspection could identify if this is the cause.
2. Higher Water Bills
A sudden spike in your water bill can indicate an undetected leak somewhere in your home. If you’ve had a plumber check your pipes and found nothing, it’s worth investigating the sewer line. Small, steady leaks in the sewer line can easily go unnoticed since they’re underground, but the continuous water flow will show up on your bill. This isn’t always obvious immediately, but a higher-than-usual water bill over several months could be a sign.
3. Soft or Wet Areas in Your Yard
Like your sewer line, leaks in underground pipes will eventually seep into your yard. If you notice soft or soggy areas in your lawn, especially if it hasn’t rained, this could be a sign of a leak. Pay attention to greener patches of grass as well. Water from sewer line leaks can create lush, green areas that stand out from the rest of your lawn, indicating that moisture is present where it shouldn’t be.
4. Slow or Clogged Drains
A damaged sewer line will often cause slow drains throughout the home. This is because water that should exit smoothly through the sewer has difficulty passing through the damaged line. If multiple sinks, bathtubs, or showers are draining slowly despite using drain cleaners or plungers, the issue might be further down in the sewer line. Persistent clogging across different drains indicates that sewer line maintenance or repair might be necessary.
5. Foul Smells in Your Home
Your sewer system is designed to operate without odor. You shouldn’t smell anything coming from your drains. So, if you notice a sewer-like smell, there’s likely a problem somewhere in the line. This foul odor often indicates a backup or break in the sewer line. Addressing this can prevent worsening issues and ensure your home remains a clean and healthy environment.
6. Gurgling Drains
Quiet drains are a good sign of a well-functioning system. If you hear gurgling sounds when water goes down your drains, especially in multiple drains, it may indicate an air blockage in the sewer line. When water can’t flow smoothly, air pockets form, creating that distinctive gurgling sound. While minor issues might be manageable, frequent or loud gurgling sounds often point to larger sewer line problems that need professional help.
7. Rising Water Levels in Your Toilet
You might notice the water level in your toilet varies slightly throughout the day, but significant changes, especially a rise, can be a red flag. If the water level in your toilet rises when it’s not in use or when other drains are in use, it could mean that your sewer line is experiencing a backup.
8. Invading Tree Roots
Trees around your home are naturally drawn to water sources, and unfortunately, your sewer line can be an ideal target. Tree roots can extend far underground in search of moisture. If they reach your sewer line, they can cause significant damage. Roots can intrude into the line, leading to blockages and even collapses.
Call Priority Plumbing & Drain for Expert Sewer Maintenance
If you’ve noticed any warning signs or concerns about your sewer line, don’t hesitate to contact Priority Plumbing & Drain. We’ve provided expert plumbing services to Pasadena, MD, and nearby areas since 2016, specializing in sewer repairs and replacements. Sewer issues can become costly if untreated, so prompt action is always best. Our experienced team can assess your water heater, filtration system, and gas line repair and recommend the right solution to keep your plumbing system in shape.
Contact Priority Plumbing & Drain in Pasadena today and let us help keep your sewer line running smoothly and efficiently.