When is a plumbing problem more than just a blocked toilet or leaky faucet? There are several warning signs to watch for that can indicate your plumbing woes go deeper than just an annoying drip. Here are a few indicators that the problem lies in the main sewer:
Everything Goes Wrong
A main sewer drain clog is like the morning you wake up on the wrong side of the bed–nothing will go the right way. Multiple drains throughout your home will back up. Sinks, toilets, and showers all start to drain slowly. If you find yourself reaching for a plunger every time you turn on the water, regardless of what room you are in, then the culprit is usually the main sewer.
A single clogged pipe generally won’t affect anything but the appliance being used. However, with a sewer drain clog, the entire plumbing system suffers. As all the pipes lead to same main sewer, water will be redirected, and back up through different pipes. You may notice that while washing your hands the water in the toilet begins to rise. Or maybe when you flush the toilet, water seeps up from the bathtub drain. These are all warning signs of a main sewer drain clog.
Noises Everywhere
Household plumbing can be quite noisy from time to time. There are normal plumbing sounds–a toilet tank refilling, water draining from a washing machine after a cycle, an occasional drip from the kitchen sink. Then, there are the noises that will accompany a main sewer drain clog–constant gurgling from all the drains. This sound indicates that all pipes in the house are struggling to drain properly. Bubbling sounds can also indicate that air is trapped in the lines due to a clog.
If you notice these types of sounds each time you use a fixture, you should consider contacting a plumber in Las Vegas to help you put an end to all the noise.
Bad Odor
Most people ignore the slow drains and noisy pipes, but it might be impossible to ignore the rancid smell created by a main sewer drain clog. Due to a blockage, sewage and other forms of waste will buildup within the pipes. As they fester, and water becomes stagnant, the stench will travel back up through fixture pipes and into your home. You may also notice the smell in certain areas of the yard, another strong indication of a main sewer problem. The strong smell and clog will become the least of your worries, though. Sewage leaking back into the house can create health hazards, so don’t take any risks.
Wet Spots
Clog or no clog, water and waste must move somewhere. If you notice soggy patches in your yard, this can be a sign that a main sewer drain clog has damaged the pipes, leading to leaks. Pressure will gradually build up around obstacles in the pipes. Once this pressure becomes too great, the pipes can crack or burst. The clog will continue to hold some water in, but plenty of sewage will also begin to leak out and into the soil. Look for puddling in the same areas and do a sniff test. You may also notice plants or grass dying off in one specific area, which can be due to excessive water from beneath or sewage destroying them.
Don’t Wait!
If you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned problems, don’t wait any longer to get this problem fixed. Besides being a smelly nuisance, a sewer problem can pose many potential problems, both to your home and your health. Having an experienced emergency plumber come out and assess the problem is always wise. The sooner the better. The longer you wait to take action on this issue, the worse it is going to get.
If you are having a plumbing problem, and need help ASAP, contact Pure Plumbing today! We will take care of all your plumbing problems in a fast an effective fashion.