Do You Fear That Your Sewer Line is Backed Up?
Common red flags that suggest a sewer line clog:
- Gurgling sounds coming from the drain
- Toilets constantly running
- Water backing up out of a drain or toilet
- Foul odor may be apparent, starting in the basement
What causes sewer lines to clog?
- Tree roots – Tree roots are the primary cause of a clogged sewer line, especially in older homes. The trees in the yard can actually crush the pipes in the ground. Slow-flowing drains and gurgling noises from the plumbing, usually toilet bowls, are often the first signs that your sewer system is being affected by tree roots.
If you don’t take action to remove the roots, a complete sewer line block may occur! Even if the area directly above your sewer lines is free of trees, roots from a neighboring yard may be the cause of your sewer problem.
- Grease – Pouring grease down the drain may lead to a sewer line clog. Grease and fat, although liquid when poured down your drain, can harden within your plumbing. collecting debris and creating a stubborn clog.
- Flushing anything down the toilet (besides toilet paper and waste) – Don’t use your toilet like a trash can! Flushing facial tissues, napkins, paper towels, baby wipes, diapers, and other waste down your toilet can create clogs.
- Broken sewer lines – The average lifespan of a sewer line is 40-60 years. Over time, the sewer lines may begin to sag.
If your home is older, broken, cracked or collapsed lines may cause a sewer backup. Plastic sewer lines have now become the norm. Many older homes still have cast iron and clay piping that can break down over the years and create sewer problems.
Diagnosing your sewer problem…
Zeek Plumbing would first snake the drain in an effort to clear the clog. This clean out, many times, solves the problem. If not, we recommend using a camera to inspect the line.
Zeek Plumbing will conduct a camera inspection to show you if the problem is inside the house or outside in the yard. By running the camera down your line, the condition of the piping may be seen, as well as, any damage. A camera, or video inspection, will pinpoint the cause of your sewer backup and show the exact location of the blockage. Then we can prescribe the most appropriate, safest, and least expensive solution!
Do not wait for a complete failure of your sewer line!
It is understandable that a property owner may not want to deal with potential sewer line issues as it can be stressful and costly. Sewer lines trouble will only worsen over time, so it is best to diagnose the issue quickly. Most importantly, address any troubling red flags immediately in order to prevent a major problem.
Should you wish to consult with one of our licensed plumbers, please contact Zeek Plumbing at (866) 635-0200. We would be happy to diagnose any sewer problems and discuss your options.
