Your sewer lines are one of the most important parts of your home. They are responsible for carrying all of your wastewater away from your home. That’s why ensuring they are in good working condition is important. The last thing you want is for your sewer lines to fail, causing sewage to back up in your residence.
These are 10 signs that you should replace your sewer lines to avoid a potentially disastrous situation.
You Have Multiple Clogged Drains
Having a single clogged drain is annoying, but it’s not usually an indication of a serious problem. However, if you have multiple blocked drains, particularly in different areas of your home, there could be a blockage somewhere in your sewer lines.
This blockage can be anything from tree roots to grease buildup, and it’s not something you can clear on your own. Most of the time, the only way to remove a blockage like this is to replace the sewer line.
There Is Sewage Backing Up In Your Home
A sewage backup is the most obvious sign of a problem with your sewer line. If sewage is backing up into your home through toilets, showers, or drains, it’s a sign that your line is blocked and needs replacing. Sewage backup is an extremely serious problem that you should deal with immediately for good sanitation and to avoid further damage to your home.
The Water in Your Toilet Is Constantly Draining Away
If your toilet is constantly running, your sewer line could be blocked. The water can’t drain away properly, so it constantly backs up in the toilet bowl. If you notice this problem, you should call a plumber immediately to diagnose the issue. Your sewer line may need to be replaced.
There Is a Strong Sewage Odor Coming From Your Drains
A strong sewage odor from your drains means your sewer lines may be damaged or blocked. Not only can this be a health hazard for you and your family, but it can also be a nuisance for your neighbors. The smell can also indicate a leak in your sewer lines.
Your Drains Are Making Gurgling Noises
Gurgling noises coming from your drain can be caused by gas and may indicate a problem with your sewer lines. A blockage or leak can cause this problem. You’ll often hear this gurgling noise when water is running down your drain.
Your Lawn Is Soggy or Flooded
If you notice that your lawn is soggy or flooded, a broken sewer line could be the culprit. When a sewer line is damaged, sewage can leak and cause flooding. Whether you have a small puddle or a large pond, it is best to call a professional to take a look.
Your Sewer Line Is Over 50 Years Old
If your sewer line is over 50 years old, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it. Sewer lines don’t last forever, and they become more likely to fail as they age. If your sewer line is over 50 years old, it’s time to have it inspected by a professional to see if it needs replacing.
There Are Sinkholes in Your Yard
When your sewer line fails, one of the telltale signs is the formation of sinkholes in your yard. Sinkholes form when the ground can no longer support the weight above it, and a collapsed sewer line often causes them. If you see sinkholes forming in your yard, it’s time to replace your sewer line.
Your Foundation Is Cracking
Another sign that you need to replace your sewer line is if you start to see cracks in your foundation. Sewer lines are often near your home’s foundation, so the foundation can be affected when they fail. If you see cracks in your foundation, it’s vital to have them inspected to see if a failing sewer line is causing them.
You See Rodents or Insects Around Your Drains
Rodents and insects are attracted to the waste that can build up in a failing sewer line. If you start to see rodents or insects around your drains, it’s a good sign that your sewer line is failing, and it’s time to replace it.
Tips for Maintaining Your Sewer Line
While you can’t prevent your sewer line from aging, there are some things you can do to help it last longer.
Have Your Sewer Line Regularly Inspected by a Professional
One of the best things you can do for your sewer line is to have it regularly inspected by a professional. They will be able to catch any problems early on and prevent them from worsening. A good rule of thumb is to have your sewer line inspected every five years.
Clean Your Drains Regularly
Another way to help prolong the life of your sewer line is to clean your drains regularly. Cleaning will help prevent waste or debris from building up in your line. You can clean your drains yourself with a plunger or a drain snake. You can also use a natural drain cleaner like baking soda and vinegar.
Repair Any Cracks or Damage as Soon as Possible
If you notice any cracks or damage to your sewer line, it’s crucial to repair them as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become. A small crack can grow into a big problem if it’s not repaired on time.
Don’t Flush Objects Down the Drain
One of the main causes of sewer line problems is flushing objects down the drain. You should never flush cigarettes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products down the toilet. They can clog and damage your line.
Replacing your sewer lines can be a big project, but you must do it if you want to avoid any major problems. If you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s time to call a professional and have your sewer line inspected. A small problem can turn into a big one down the road, so it’s best to stop it as soon as possible.
Fletcher’s Plumbing & Contracting can help with your sewer line replacement if you are in Northern California. We have Yuba City plumbers with the experience and knowledge to get the job done right.
Whether you need a new sewer line installed or your existing sewer line repaired or replaced, we can help. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to helping you with all of your plumbing needs!
