Today, I share a guest post by Merrie Slavin from Rooter Ranger with a summary of early signs that your main sewer line may be getting clogged or blocked.

A leaking sewer line is downright unpleasant and unhygienic. Not to mention, it can be quite expensive to repair. And if you think it ends there, you’re wrong. If you are dealing with hidden leaks, you will never know you’ve got a serious problem until you receive your water bill.

Luckily, there are telltale signs that help you identify a problem with a leaking sewer line. Always check for these signs, and if you suspect you are dealing with a serious problem, seek help from professionals right away. Don’t wait for the problem to worsen and become more expensive to fix. Schedule a sewer line repair service immediately.

Sign 1: Unusual Sounds

Do you hear unusual flowing or running water in your sewer line? Then this could be a sign that something is wrong. The first thing you should do is check and confirm that your faucets are off. Then observe and listen closely. If you still hear the same sound, it could mean that your plumbing system leaks.

Sign 2: Moist Surface

Floors that seem moist or spongy may indicate a sewer leakage. Your plumbing network is very complex, and it goes through the house and into the main sewer line. If a leak is present in your plumbing system, water may seep around the surfaces near the leaking pipes, damaging the flooring or changing its color.

Sign 3: Unpleasant Odors

If you notice unpleasant odors around the walls or surfaces near the pipes, it is likely that you have a leak problem. Leaking sewer lines are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew. Once these organisms thrive in these spots, you will notice unpleasant odors.

Sign 4: Cracks in the Foundation of Your Home

Leaking sewer lines can cause cracks in your home’s foundation. As the water begins to pool around the leaky pipes, the soil or surface around them becomes saturated, affecting your home’s foundation and structural integrity.

Sign 5: Unusually High Water Bill

A sudden spike in your water bill is a surefire sign that a leak is hiding somewhere. However, it is normal for costs to fluctuate every now and then, especially since seasons are changing. But take note of major changes. It is likely that more water is flowing through your plumbing system since you are using way more water than usual to flush your toilet.

Sign 6: Discoloration on the Walls

Sometimes, a leak may go undetected for months, especially if it’s just small or slow. But as soon as you notice dark rings and damp spots on your walls, it could be another sign of a leaking sewer line.

Sign 7: Slow Drainage

Is your toilet overflowing? Is your kitchen sink no longer draining properly? These two locations are notorious for being clogged. This is because we use them every day, and hair and food can easily accumulate. So, when they begin to drain slowly, there may be a serious problem at hand.

Sign 8: Insect or Pest Infestation

A sewer house trap is a U-shaped pipe in the sewer line that prevents pests and other debris from causing contamination. When pests and sewer gases come in contact with this trap, they are immediately blocked, so don’t go up through your sewage system and into your home.

 

Over time, a house trap becomes clogged or corroded. And when this happens, leaks may appear in your sewer system.

Sign 9: Sinking Concrete Slabs

Cracked or damaged sewer lines can also cause serious problems along the patios, sidewalks, and walkways. As water comes out from the leaking pipes, the ground becomes wet and soggy, causing the concrete slabs to sink.

Sign 10: Slightly Indented Lawns

This is also the same case with sunken slabs. If you notice your lawn appears slightly indented, it could mean your sewer line has a problem.

Let the Professionals Handle Your Leak Problem!

The moment you notice any of the above signs, act quickly. Contact a professional plumber right away. If possible, hire someone with the necessary permits and licenses to ensure quality work. Also, it helps to work with a professional with a builder’s risk insurance to keep you protected against any unexpected costs.

 

You see, plumbing systems play a critical role in your health and safety. Therefore, if problems arise, make haste and have them fixed!

About the Author:

Merrie is a Marketing Manager for the Rooter Ranger brand. Her focus is on results driven strategic marketing efforts that deliver sales and profit growth. In her spare time she enjoys the outdoors and traveling the world.