Chances are, if you have a clog in your sewer line, you will not be able to see it. Sewer clogs can cause an extensive amount of damage. Most homeowners are aware that sewer lines help transport waste from the home into sewer mains located underground. Beyond this, homeowners do not give any thought to their homes sewage system, until something goes wrong.
Clogs within the sewer lines can cause raw sewage to backup into other drains around the home. As the other drains clog with waste, the damages that occur can be massive. Not to mention, the longer a homeowner waits to fix a sewage issue, the more expensive the repair. Homeowners that acknowledge warning signs quickly can eliminate expensive repairs. There are a few things that homeowners need to pay attention to.
Clogged Drains Or Toilets
A common red flag that signifies a possible sewer problem is water coming back up out of the drain. Gurgling sounds may accompany the issue, as the water raises to the surface of the sink or tub. According to DC sewer services, your home will speak to you if there is a sewage issue.
In a residence, all plumbing lines run together. If you start noticing after using your washing machine, that the toilets start making noises, or there is water around the basement floor drain, this could be a sign of a sewage problem. Most clogs will occur within the main sewer line or in one of the secondary lines supporting it.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are another common cause for clogged sewer lines. This occurs a lot in older homes. In newer homes, clogs commonly occur due to feminine hygiene products, thick toilet paper, or paper towels, being flushed down the toilet. Older pipes are different from newly laid pipes.
In places where vegetation is abundant, tree roots can crush piping systems. Remember, older piping systems were not built like modern systems. Overtime, the pipes will start to deteriorate, requiring them to have to be replaced. Slow flowing drains, and gurgling sounds coming from toilet bowls are the first signs to tell if the clog is caused by tree roots.
Shut Off The Water Source
If there is a clog in your plumbing system, and you suspect that the issue is caused by a sewer drain, there is one thing you must do first. You need to shut off the water at the source of the problem. If you do not know where the source of the issue is coming from, simply turn all water off in your home.
Homeowner that can access the sewer cleanout line in their homes can remove the cap to release the pressure in the line. The sewer cleanout line is normally a round, short, white pipe that has a rubber cap on top of it. Releasing this line will force the water that is clogged in the pipe, to be released outside, instead of coming back into your residence.
To maintain the sewage system in your home, fill your sinks to the top twice a month, and then let them drain. The added pressure ensures proper flow. This will help move any waste that is trapped in the line.