Blog Post

Warning Signs Your Main Sewer Line Is Clogged

Admin • May 01, 2017

Every day, you rely on your sewer line to remove unwanted waste from your home. This plumbing feature is critical to keeping your house clean and your family safe. Unfortunately, if your sewer line becomes clogged and you ignore the issue, a minor problem can become a serious disaster that costs hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair.

There are several clear signs that your sewer line is clogged, and catching them early helps prevent further damage from occurring. Here are a few clear signs that you have a serious clog in your main sewer line.

Strange Gurgling Noise in Your Drains

A strange gurgling noise that only happens periodically isn't unusual. However, if you notice a gurgling noise occurring in several drains throughout your home, including the toilet, for several days or weeks, chances are your main sewer line is clogged.

The gurgling occurs because the clog causes the water to drain more slowly. The slow-moving water causes air bubbles to form, and it is these air bubbles that lead to the distinct gurgling sounds.

Once again, if the gurgling only occurs in a single drain, chances are the obstruction is minor and can be easily removed with a commercial product or a plunger. However, if the gurgling occurs in multiple drains, you should contact an emergency plumber right away.

Sinks and Toilets That Don't Work Properly

In addition to the gurgling noise, if you notice that the drains throughout your home aren't working properly, a clogged sewer line could be the culprit. For example, many times when a sewer line is clogged and you try to flush the toilet, water will back up into your tub or shower. This backup occurs because the toilet empties directly into the main sewer line, and the tub or shower is typically the lowest point of entry in the house.

Additionally, if you use your washing machine, the water will also often back up into the toilet or shower.

If you notice that water backs up in your home or the drains throughout your home run slowly or are clogged at the same time, chances are the issue is an obstructed sewer main.

Waste Water in the Clean Out

Finally, if you suspect your sewer line is clogged, the best way to make a final determination is to find the main sewer clean out. The clean out is an access point to your home's main sewer line, and you can typically find it around the perimeter of your home. This access point is often used by plumbers or technicians to eliminate any clogs.

Depending on when your home was built, the main sewer clean out will be located in any number of spots. Often, it will be found on a concrete slab within three to four feet of your house. The cap will feature the words "clean out." Some homes are constructed with several clean outs, which makes it easier for the plumber to access the line and eliminate any clogs.

Once you locate the clean out, remove the cap. Typically, the cap will either screw off, or you will need to use a little elbow grease to pull it off. Then look for any wastewater or water flowing up and out of the cap. If you notice any standing water in the clean out or if the clean out is overflowing, contact a plumber right away.

A clogged sewer line is a serious problem that requires immediate action. If you suspect your sewer line is clogged, or you have any other plumbing needs, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at Express Plumbing & Drain Services.

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