Not all drain issues can be remedied with a plunger or drain snake, and some are directly related to sewer line damage. While you don’t want to ignore the signs of plumbing system and main sewer line problems, try to refrain from performing do-it-yourself plumbing fixes—only qualified individuals should be repairing sewer lines in Raleigh, NC.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at the top six warning signs that your sewer line needs to be repaired:
- Slow draining: A common indicator of a sewer line issue is a slow-draining shower or sink. Most homeowners will pour a chemical cleaner down a drain in an attempt to clear tough clogs, but many store-bought drain cleaners can cause other problems. For instance, if a sewer line is damaged, then harsh, corrosive chemicals in toxic drain cleaners may weaken pipes further. Try a natural DIY drain cleaner, such as a baking soda and vinegar combination, to release smaller clogs.
- Water backing up: Be on the lookout for water coming back up the drain—especially if it’s accompanied by slow draining. Don’t keep flushing when the toilet water is near the top of the bowl. Call an emergency plumber if water from clogged drains begins pouring out into your house.
- Fluctuating toilet water level: A telltale sign of a broken sewer line is noticing the water level of your toilets fluctuating on a regular basis. A toilet with high water levels one day and low levels the next is trying to tell you that your sewer line might be damaged. A professional plumbing inspection can identify the problem and the location of the damage within the system.
- Strange sounds and smells: Much like when you have a clog in a toilet or sink drain, you can expect to smell unpleasant odors if your sewer line is damaged. Smells from sewage gases will linger throughout your home, fumes which are unhealthy to inhale. Another sign of potential problems is hearing unusual clanking sounds when water is draining from any plumbing fixture. The presence of one or both signs likely indicates that sewage is leaking out of your sewer lines.
- Greener or soggy patches of grass: Some homeowners know where the sewer line runs through their yard. If you notice a sudden burst of green, healthy-looking grass above buried plumbing pipes, a sewer line may be broken. Your grass is greener because the waste seeping from the line is fertilizing your grass. Unexpected soggy patches on your lawn could also point to sewer line troubles. Be wary of raised, soggy patches of grass near the areas over your pipes.
- Foundation problems: It’s bad news if the portion of sewer line running under your house develops a problem. If left unchecked, damaged lines can cause some serious foundation issues. Small cracks in your foundation could lead to premature home settling, and even an increased potential for sinkholes.
Repairing sewer lines in Raleigh, NC is a must. If you notice any of these signs or suspect a problem with your plumbing, contact the professionals at Affordable Plumbing Call Us 1st, Inc.