Five Reasons Why You Might Need A Sewer Line Inspection

Sewer inspections are the best defense against sewer line failure. If you are experiencing any of the following problems, it is time to call for a professional inspection before too much damage has occurred.

Recurring Drain Issues 

If you constantly experience clogged or slow drains, it’s a sign that your sewer line could be blocked or buildup. A sewer line inspection can identify the root cause and help you address it before it becomes a bigger problem.

Unpleasant Odors

Sewer gas should never enter your home. To help keep sewer gases at bay, P-traps are installed at every plumbing fixture. These traps hold a small amount of water, which seals the pipe and prevents gases from entering living spaces. If you notice a foul smell coming from your drains, it’s a strong indication that there might be a crack or blockage in your sewer line or a failed P-trap that has dried out. An inspection can pinpoint the source of the odor.

Lush Patches In The Yard

Unusually green and lush patches of grass in your yard, particularly near where your sewer line runs, can indicate a leak. Sewage acts as a fertilizer, causing these areas to grow more rapidly than the rest of your lawn. Sewer line leaks also attract tree roots, so watch for trees that appear more advanced in growth than others not in the vicinity of the sewer line.

Foundation Issues

Cracks in your home’s foundation or walls can be a sign of a leaking sewer line. The water from the leak can cause soil erosion, which removes the soil indented as a support for your foundation’s walls. In turn, the walls are no longer supported and begin to shift and crack. 

Buying An Older Home

If you’re purchasing a home that’s more than 20 years old, it’s wise to have a sewer line inspection. Older homes usually have outdated or deteriorating plumbing systems, and an inspection can reveal any potential issues before you close the deal.

Signs And Causes Of Sewer Line Problems

Understanding the signs and causes of sewer line problems can help you catch issues early and prevent major headaches in the future. Here are some common indicators and causes of a compromised sewer line. 

Slow Drains And Backups

When multiple drains in your home are slow or backing up, it’s often a sign of a blockage in the main sewer line. Common causes include grease combined with hair that builds up, intrusive tree roots in search of water and nutrients, and foreign objects that have been playfully flushed down the toilet by curious children.

Gurgling Noises

If you hear gurgling noises from your drains or toilet when running the water or flushing, air is likely trapped in your plumbing system, usually due to a blockage. This can be a sign of a larger problem in the sewer line.

Sewage Backups

Sewage backing up into sinks, tubs, or toilets is not only horrifying but also a clear sign that there’s a serious blockage or damage in your sewer line. This is a serious health hazard and needs immediate attention.

Foundation Cracks And Settling

As mentioned earlier, leaks in the sewer line can cause soil erosion, leading to cracks in your home’s foundation or walls. This can compromise the structural integrity of your home and can also lead to sinkholes near the sewer line.

Increased Pest Activity

Having a sewer line issue is a big deal and only made worse by the rats and insects that are attracted to the smell of sewage. If you notice an increase in pests around your home, it could be due to a leak in your sewer line. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or the sound of scurrying pests inside your walls and ceilings.

Solutions To Prevent Sewer Line Issues

Preventing sewer line problems involves regular maintenance and being mindful of what goes down your drains. Here are some tips to keep your sewer lines clear and functioning properly.

Regular Inspections

Schedule regular sewer line inspections to catch potential issues early. A professional plumber can use a camera to inspect the inside of your sewer lines and identify any problems before they become major. This newer technology has saved homeowners time and expense and allowed plumbers to locate sewer issues accurately and promptly.

Proper Disposal

Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Avoid flushing adult or baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, and other items that can cause blockages. Similarly, be mindful of what goes down your kitchen sink. Dispose of grease, coffee grounds, and high in starch food scraps in the trash, not the drain.

Root Barriers

If you have trees near your sewer lines, consider installing root barriers. These physical barriers prevent roots from reaching your pipes and causing blockages. Additionally, be mindful of where you plant new trees, keeping them away from your plumbing system to avoid issues when the trees mature.

Drain Screens

Use drain screens in sinks, showers, and tubs to catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before they can enter your pipes and cause clogs. Remember to keep them clean and purchase low-sudsing soaps to help avoid this issue.

Professional Drain Cleaning

Schedule regular professional drain cleaning to remove any buildup in your pipes. Depending on your individual system, this should be done every few years or as often as a professional recommends. A drain cleaning service can help prevent clogs and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Looking For A Sewer Line Inspection?

Sewer line inspections might not be something you think about often, but they are crucial for maintaining the health of your home’s plumbing system. By understanding the common signs and causes of sewer line problems and taking preventative measures, you can avoid major headaches and costly repairs. Regular inspections, proper disposal practices, and professional maintenance are your best defense against sewer line issues.

Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call us at Aqua Bear Plumbing and Drain. We’re here to ensure your plumbing system remains in top shape, keeping your home safe, comfortable, and free of unwanted odors. So, keep those sewer lines clear, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about in your busy life.