A blocked sewer line is a serious plumbing problem that can disrupt your home and lead to costly repairs. It’s inconvenient, yes, but it can also pose health risks if you leave it unresolved. Knowing the signs of a blocked sewer line and what to do when it happens can save you time, money and stress. Acting quickly helps avoid any further damage to your home’s plumbing system.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the signs of a blocked sewer pipe, what could cause a main sewer line clog and the steps you can take to fix it.
Did you know all members of Swan’s Professional Plumbing receive a FREE annual plumbing health check? This gives you peace of mind that any early signs of a clogged sewer line could be picked up before they cause problems.
What are the signs of a blocked sewer line?
Like most plumbing issues, there are various different signs of a clogged sewer line to look out for. Here are some of the early signs that may indicate you have a problem with your sewer line:
Multiple drains backing up
Several slow draining sinks or recurrent blocked drains can often be a sign of a clogged sewer pipe. You might also notice water pooling in the shower when you flush the toilet or sinks that won’t drain at all.
Unpleasant odours
A sure sign of a blocked sewer line is a foul smell coming from your drains. This indicates that sewage isn’t flowing out of your home properly and could be backing up in the pipes.
Gurgling noises
Hearing gurgling or bubbling sounds from your toilet or drains is another clear sign. You will hear the noises when air is trapped in the pipes due to a sewage drain blocked by debris or tree roots.
Water backing up in low areas
If water starts to back up into a basement or low-lying area of your home, this could point to a main sewer line clog. In this instance, it’s important to act immediately to prevent major water damage.
What causes a blocked sewer line?
Now that you understand the signs of a blocked sewer line. It’s important to understand what causes them in order to both prevent and fix the issue. Several things can cause a clog in the sewer line. The most common reasons for a blocked sewer pipe are:
Tree roots
Over time, tree roots can invade underground sewers, crack or cause complete blockages. Roots are attracted to moisture in pipes and can quickly cause a lot of damage.
Grease and fat
Pouring grease, oil or fat down your drains may seem harmless, but these substances become solid in your pipes and create stubborn blockages. They can build up and cause a blocked sewer line.
Foreign objects
Flushing anything other than toilet paper can lead to a sewage drain blocked by foreign objects. Sanitary products, baby wipes and even excess toilet paper can all cause issues if they get stuck.
How to clear a blocked sewer line
If you see signs of a blocked sewer line, try clearing it before it gets worse. Here are a few ways you can try to fix the clog:
Plunge the drains regularly
The plunger or drain snake are simple and effective tools to use on a blocked drain, further preventing the clog from moving deep into the sewer line. Make sure to use a heavy-duty plunger, especially for toilets. Press down firmly and repeat plunges to loosen the blockage. However, for sewer line clog, this might not be enough.
Try a chemical drain cleaner
If plunging and snaking don’t solve the problem, then a chemical drain cleaner might help dissolve the clog. However, you should use these products with caution. Overuse of chemical cleaners can damage your pipes. Therefore, it’s always best to advise a plumber first.
Call a professional plumber
A clog located deep into the sewer line is unlikely going to be removed with DIY methods, so you need to enlist the help of your local Perth plumbers from Swan’s Professional Plumbing. Our plumbers have the tools and expertise to tackle even the toughest main sewer line clogs without causing damage to your pipe system. Plumbers can dislodge a sewer line clog by:
- Hydro-jetting: This powerful technique uses high-pressure water jets to clear away blockages and debris. Hydro-jetting effectively removes stubborn clogs, grease buildup, and tree roots, restoring your sewer line to optimal flow.
- CCTV camera inspection: Our plumbers use advanced video inspection technology to assess the condition of your pipes. This allows us to identify the exact location and nature of the clog, ensuring we use the most effective method for removal.
- Drain snake or auger: For more severe blockages, our plumbers may employ an auger, a specialised tool designed to cut through and remove tough clogs. This method can be particularly effective for solid obstructions and is safe for your plumbing system.
- Pipe-repair or replacement: If the sewer line is damaged or severely blocked, our plumbers may need to repair or replace sections of the pipe. This is why it’s important to investigate the early signs of blocked sewer lines before it gets to this point.
- Chemical blocked sewer drain treatments: Our plumbers have access to specialised eco-friendly chemical solutions that could be applied to dissolve organic matter and buildup, successfully dislodging the clog.
Got a blocked sewer line that needs a plumber’s attention? Avoid a plumbing emergency by calling the friendly team at Swan’s Professional Plumbing today.
The importance of addressing a blocked sewer drain quickly
Dealing with a blocked sewer pipe is not something that you can put off. Here’s why you should resolve a clogged sewer line asap:
- Prevent water damage: A main sewer line clog can cause water to backflow up into your home and damage structures. Flooding in your home, particularly in basements or low-lying areas, can ruin flooring, furniture and your foundation.
- Avoid health risks: Sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that threaten your health. If it starts to come up through your drains, it can contaminate your home’s air and surfaces, creating an unsafe environment for you and your family.
- Save money on repairs: The longer you wait to address a blocked sewer line, the worse the damage will get. Fixing the problem early can save you from expensive drain pipe repairs and replacing sections of your sewer line.
Preventing blockages in your sewage system
Now that you know the risks of a clogged sewer line, here are some measures to keep your plumbing system running smoothly:
Dispose of grease properly
Never pour grease, oil or fat down the drain. Instead, let it cool down and then throw it in the rubbish bin. This simple step can prevent a blocked sewer pipe.
Be careful what you flush
Only flush toilet paper. Items like baby wipes, tissues and sanitary products should always go in the bin, even if the package says that they are flushable.
Regular plumbing inspections
Schedule regular plumbing health checks if you have old pipes or large trees near your home. Our plumbers at Swan’s Professional Plumbing can check for signs of tree root invasion and other possible issues before they become huge problems.
When to call a plumber about a potential blocked sewer line
While some small drain clogs can be handled with DIY methods, it is best to let a professional deal with persistent or severe sewer line clogs. If you have tried plunging and using a drain snake without success, then don’t hesitate to call us. Our plumbers have the right tools and knowledge to fix the main sewer line clog safely and effectively. Plus, they can help you determine if your sewer line needs repairing or replacing.
Act fast on blocked sewer lines by calling Swan’s Professional Plumbing
A clogged sewer line is not just a minor inconvenience, it can bring serious damage and cost you a lot of money. By knowing the warning signs of a blocked sewer line and addressing the issue promptly, you can protect your home and avoid health risks.
If you suspect a clog in your sewer line, don’t hesitate to get in contact with the friendly team at Swan’s Professional Plumbing today!
