A clogged sewer line is a plumbing issue that no homeowner wants to deal with. When a sewer line becomes blocked, it can lead to serious problems, such as backups, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your property. Recognizing the early signs of a backed-up sewer line and taking action can prevent a messy and costly situation.
To help homeowners in the Chicago area know when their sewer lines are showing problems, our plumbers at Goode Plumbing have put together this guide on how to identify a clogged sewer line and when to call our team.
5 Common Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line
If you’re experiencing plumbing problems in your home, a clogged sewer line could be the culprit. Here are some common signs to watch for:
1. Slow Drains
If multiple of your drains are moving slowly, it could indicate a blockage in your main sewer line. While a single slow drain usually signals a localized clog, slow drainage throughout the house points to a larger issue.
2. Gurgling Sounds
Hearing gurgling or bubbling sounds when you flush the toilet, run the washing machine, or use sinks can indicate a sewer line clog. This noise occurs because trapped air is struggling to escape, which is a common sign of a blockage in the line.
3. Frequent Backups or Overflows
If your toilets, showers, or sinks are backing up regularly, it’s time to consider that your main sewer line may be clogged. A sewer line blockage can cause waste to back up into the home, creating an unpleasant and unsanitary mess.
4. Unpleasant Odors
Sewer line blockages can cause foul odors to escape from drains or the yard near your home’s sewer line. A sewer line clog can trap sewage gases and release them through your plumbing fixtures or the ground outside.
5. Puddles or Lush Patches in the Yard
If you notice soggy patches or water pooling in your yard, particularly around where your sewer line runs, it could be a sign of a sewer line leak or blockage. Tree roots are often a cause of sewer line damage, as they can grow into the pipes and cause obstructions.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While there are a few diagnostic steps you can take on your own, a clogged sewer line is often best left to professional plumbers. Most DIY methods run the risk of pushing the blockage further into the pipe and worsening the issue. Also, any instance of sewage backup into your home is a serious health hazard and should be handled by a professional immediately.
Professional plumbers have specialized equipment to tackle sewer line clogs safely and effectively. At Goode Plumbing, we can use methods such as hydro jetting to remove stubborn blockages, and our video inspection cameras can help pinpoint the exact location and cause of the clog. If the clog is caused by tree roots, corrosion, or pipe collapse, we offer the sewer line repair and replacement services you need to get things working right again.
Dealing with a clogged drain? Let Goode Plumbing get it flowing again! Contact our team today to schedule sewer services in the greater Chicago area.
