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Discovering a clogged sewer line in a house is a nightmare no homeowner likes to deal with. It’s a severe problem that
can be considered a plumbing emergency if left overlooked. While modest drain clogs can be fixable with DIY fixes, sewer
line blockages require professional assistance. The sewer line is out of sight and out of mind. Thus, it becomes hard
for homeowners to pay attention to their sewer lines until something goes amiss. However, addressing this issue is vital
as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Most importantly, only use the house’s plumbing if the blockage is
cleared.
This blog has covered all the nitty-gritty surrounding the blocked sewer line, helping you avoid additional issues down
the line.
What Happens If There’s a Blocked Sewer Pipe?
The blocked sewer line is undeniably a concerning problem, triggering a slew of issues. It can range from inconvenient
to potentially hazardous situations. Hence, it’s best to call licensed plumbers in Sacramento to have your clogged sewer line
fixed and prevent the following consequences:
• Back Ups
The most discernible result of a blocked sewer pipe is often sewage backup. It unfolds when the flow of wastewater is
impeded and has nowhere to go but to back up into your fixtures—sinks, toilets, or showers. Consequently, it causes
nuisance and perhaps damages your property.
• Health Hazards
Sewage lines are notorious for containing dangerous bacteria, diseases, viruses, etc. However, sewage backing up into
your living area can inflict major health problems for you and your family, like digestive issues and infections.
• Nasty Odors
You may notice noxious odors if there’s a blocked sewer line due to sewage stagnation. These stinks can be harmful and
unpleasant and can disseminate throughout your home or property.
• Property Damage
You shouldn’t take blocked sewage lines for granted, as they can cause considerable damage to your house, like ruining
walls, floors, and belongings. It can become a cause of concern for your electrical systems, appliances, and personal
possessions if left unaddressed.
• Pest Infestation
Insects and rodents are largely drawn to the stink of stagnant water and sewage, inflicting further issues on your
property.
The Prime Reasons for Clogged Sewer Lines?
Keep your eyes out for the following reasons that can contribute to causing clogged sewer lines. Get them cleared by an
expert team of trusted plumbers in San Jose and enjoy clog-free sewer lines and a flawlessly working plumbing system.
• Grease and Fat Accumulation
Pouring grease, fats, and oils instantly down the drain is a feasible task homeowners often do without realizing that it
can adversely impact their drain lines. Hot liquids can solidify once the cold water flows down the drains. Eventually,
it can cause sticky residue inside the sewer lines, catching other debris and further contributing to pesky blockages.
• Tree Root Intrusion
In the quest for water or moisture, tree roots are drawn naturally to water sources, including sewer pipes. However,
with time, tree roots enter and permeate sewage pipes through minor gaps or joints, triggering clogs and pipe damage.
• Foreign Objects
Flushing or disposing of unusual things down the trains or toilets are the prevalent reasons for sewage line clogs. The
biggest mistake homeowners usually make is treating their toilet like a trash can. Your toilet is designed only for
disposing of toilet paper and human waste. Even things labeled as flushable shouldn’t be poured down your toilet. Paper
towels, hygiene items, diapers, oil, food scraps, and even tree roots can lodge in sewage lines and inflict stubborn
clogs that might be hard to clear.
• Hair
Another prime cause of sewage line obstruction is hair accumulation. When it comes in contact with soap scum and other
debris, it can extensively clog pipes, inflicting further damage. So, before a shower, consider combing your hair to
avoid accumulation. Alternatively, you can install a hair catcher to prevent hair from entering the drains. Schedule a
professional sewer and drain cleaning annually to keep your drain and sewer lines clog-free.
• Poor Installation
Inappropriately built sewage lines or improper grading can produce low spots or drooping proportions, paving the way for
debris accumulation and developing clogs.
• Mineral Deposits
Areas with hard water are susceptible to the build-up of mineral deposits inside sewage pipes. Consequently, it may
reduce the diameter and restrict steady wastewater flow. So, if you reside in an area with hard water content, you
should install a water softener and have your pipes inspected annually by professionals.
The Telltale Signs Indicating Blocked Sewer Lines
You might wonder, “How can you determine if your sewer line is clogged and needs professional intervention?” If you
notice any of the below signs, consider it a warning from your sewage system. Comprehending the prime red flags of a
clogged sewer line can assist you in addressing the issue before it escalates.
• Sluggish Draining
If you notice your house’s multiple fixtures — sinks, tubs, showers, or toilets — drain slowly or are backed up
simultaneously, a clog might be to blame in the main sewer line.
• Gurgling Noises
If you hear strange gurgling or bubbling noises from your drains, toilets, or plumbing fixtures, there’s probably a
blockage in the line that has trapped the air, causing the pipe to trigger peculiar noises.
• Water Pooling in the Basement
Water gathering in unexpected places in your home, especially in the basement or yard, signifies a clogged sewage line.
As a result, it allows wastewater to back up and overflow. Seek professional assistance from reliable plumbers in Modesto as soon as possible to fix this issue and prevent additional damage to the property.
• Lush Grass in the Yard
You might not know, but sewage line leaks or deterioration can inflict excess moisture in the soil, triggering
exceptionally lush grass areas in the yard. If you notice an unusually lavish green grass patch in your garden, it
indicates a sewer line leak somewhere in the property.
Final Thoughts
As discussed, a clogged sewer pipe can trigger considerable risks and hassle for homeowners. It accompanies severe
consequences, like sewage backups, foul odors, and potential health hazards, to name a few. Therefore, understanding its
early telltale signs is critical to spot and solve the issues before they worsen. Overlooking them can trigger expensive
repairs and extensive damage. So, staying proactive toward your house’s drain and sewer lines can help you restore
proper drainage and functionality to your plumbing system.
