Protect Your Home: Common Signs You Need a Sewer Line Inspection
Introduction
Having a functioning sewer line is essential for any home or business, as it helps to keep your property clean and safe from health hazards. A sewer line inspection can help identify any potential problems with your system, allowing you to take the necessary steps to protect your home or business.
At Northern Services, we understand the importance of having a reliable and properly functioning sewer line. That’s why we offer comprehensive solutions for residential and commercial plumbing, heating and cooling services since 1981. We are committed to providing first-class work and customer service to Olivia and the surrounding communities.
In this blog post, we will discuss 8 common signs that it may be time for a sewer line inspection. We will explain what causes each issue, how you can diagnose the problem yourself, and what steps you should take if you find that you need a sewer line inspection. By understanding these signs, you can make sure that your home or business remains safe and healthy.
Slow Draining Sinks and Toilets
One of the most common signs that you need to have your sewer line inspected is slow draining sinks and toilets. This issue can be caused by a variety of different things, ranging from a clogged drain to a broken pipe in your home’s plumbing system. It’s important to diagnose the cause of this problem as soon as possible, as it can lead to serious damage if left unchecked.
Causes of Slow Draining Sinks and Toilets
The most common cause of slow draining sinks and toilets is a blockage in the pipes. This can be caused by a buildup of debris such as hair, food scraps, or soap scum. Other causes include broken or cracked pipes, tree roots growing into the pipes, or even collapsed pipes due to age or shifting soil.
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you notice that your sinks and toilets are draining slowly, then it’s important to take steps to diagnose the problem. The first step is to try using a plunger or an auger (or “snake”) to clear out any blockages in the pipes. If this doesn’t work, then it may be time to call in a professional plumber who can use specialized equipment such as video cameras and hydro-jetting machines to inspect your sewer line for any issues. In some cases, they may even recommend having your sewer line inspected with a camera so they can pinpoint exactly what is causing the issue.
| Cause | Diagnosis Method |
| Blockage in pipes | Plunger/Auger |
| Broken/Cracked pipes | Professional plumber with specialized equipment |
| Tree roots in pipes | Professional plumber with specialized equipment |
| Collapsed pipes due to age or shifting soil | Professional plumber with specialized equipment |
Foul Odors Coming from Drains
Foul odors coming from drains are a sign that something is wrong. This could be an indication of a blockage in the sewer line, or it could be due to a buildup of bacteria or mold. Either way, it’s important to get your sewer line inspected as soon as possible so that the cause can be identified and remedied.
Causes of Foul Odors from Drains
The most common cause of foul odors coming from drains is a blockage in the sewer line. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including tree roots growing into the pipes, broken pipes, or an accumulation of debris such as grease or food particles. In addition, bacteria and mold can build up in the pipes over time, leading to unpleasant smells.
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you notice foul odors coming from your drains, it’s important to have your sewer line inspected right away. A professional plumber will be able to identify the source of the problem and determine whether it’s caused by a blockage or something else. They will also be able to recommend the best course of action for remedying the issue.
Gurgling Sounds from Drains
Gurgling sounds coming from your drains is a sign that you may need to have your sewer line inspected. This sound occurs when air bubbles are released from the pipes and is an indication that there could be a blockage in the system. The gurgling can also be caused by air pressure changes in the pipes due to water running through them.
Causes of Gurgling Sounds from Drains
The most common cause of gurgling sounds from drains is a blockage in the sewer line. This blockage can be caused by tree roots, debris, or other objects that get stuck in the pipe and prevent water from flowing freely. It can also be caused by a buildup of grease or other substances that clog up the pipes.
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you hear gurgling coming from your drains, it’s important to diagnose the problem as soon as possible. You can start by checking for any visible signs of damage or blockages in your sewer line. If you don’t see anything obvious, you should call a professional plumber who can use specialized equipment to inspect your sewer line and determine what is causing the issue. A professional plumber will also be able to recommend solutions for fixing any issues they find with your sewer line.
By being aware of the common signs that you need a sewer line inspection, you can help protect your home and ensure that any plumbing issues are dealt with quickly and effectively. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional plumber right away so they can inspect your sewer line and recommend appropriate solutions for dealing with any problems they find.
Gurgling sounds from drains indicate a potential blockage in the sewer line, caused by tree roots, debris, or grease buildup. Diagnose the issue with a professional plumber to ensure proper solutions are implemented.
Water Backing Up into Showers and Tubs
It is not uncommon for homeowners to experience water backing up into their showers and tubs. This can be a sign that your sewer line needs to be inspected as it could indicate a blockage or other issue with the line.
Causes of Water Backing Up into Showers and Tubs
The most common cause of water backing up into showers and tubs is a clog in the drain or sewer line. If the clog is located further down the line, it can prevent water from draining properly and cause it to back up into your fixtures. Other causes include tree roots infiltrating the line, broken pipes, or an accumulation of debris in the line.
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you are experiencing water backing up into your shower or tub, you should first try using a plunger or snake to unclog the drain. If this does not work, then it may be time to call a professional plumber for an inspection of your sewer line. They will be able to determine if there is a blockage in your line that needs to be cleared out or if there is another issue that needs to be addressed.
It is important to have any issues with your sewer line inspected and repaired as soon as possible in order to avoid further damage and costly repairs down the road. A professional plumber will be able to diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently so that you can get back to enjoying your home without worry.
Unexplained Increase in Water Bills
An unexplained increase in water bills can be an indication that something is wrong with the sewer line. This could be caused by a variety of issues, such as a broken pipe, a blockage, or even tree roots growing into the pipe. If you notice an unexplained spike in your water bills, it may be time to have your sewer line inspected.
Causes of Unexplained Increase in Water Bills
The most common cause of an unexplained increase in water bills is a broken or leaking pipe. When a pipe breaks, it can allow water to escape and flow freely through the sewer line, resulting in higher water bills. other possible causes include blockages due to debris or tree roots that have grown into the pipe, as well as corrosion due to age.
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you suspect there may be an issue with your sewer line, it’s best to call a professional plumber for an inspection. They will be able to use specialized equipment to locate any potential problems and determine what needs to be done in order to repair them. In some cases, simply repairing or replacing the damaged pipe may be enough; however, if there are more extensive issues, such as tree root infiltration or blockages, further repairs may be necessary.
In conclusion, if you notice an unexplained increase in your water bills, it’s important to have your sewer line inspected right away in order to identify any potential issues and prevent further damage from occurring. A professional plumber will be able to properly diagnose and repair any problems with your sewer line so that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.
Sewage in Your Yard or Basement
Causes of Sewage in Your Yard or Basement
Sewage in your yard or basement can be caused by a variety of factors, including a broken sewer line, a blocked drain line, or an improperly installed sewer system. The most common cause of sewage in your yard is a broken or blocked sewer line. If the sewer pipe is not properly connected to the main line, it can cause sewage to back up and overflow into your yard or basement. Additionally, if there are tree roots growing around the sewer line, they can block the flow of wastewater and cause sewage to back up into your yard or basement.
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you notice any signs of sewage in your yard or basement, it’s important to contact a professional plumber right away. A qualified plumber will be able to inspect your sewer system and determine the source of the problem. They may use video camera technology to inspect the inside of your pipes and identify any blockages or damage that could be causing the issue. Once they have identified the problem, they will recommend a solution such as repairing or replacing damaged pipes, removing tree roots from around the pipe, installing new piping systems, or installing a new drainage system.
Conclusion
It’s important for homeowners to be aware of common signs that indicate their home may need a sewer line inspection. Slow draining sinks and toilets, foul odors coming from drains, gurgling sounds from drains, water backing up into showers and tubs, unexplained increases in water bills, visible leaks or damage around your home’s foundation and sewage in your yard or basement are all signs that indicate you may need an inspection by a qualified plumbing professional. By being aware of these signs and taking action quickly when necessary, you can help protect your home from serious plumbing issues and maintain its value over time.
