5 Common Signs Your Sewer Line Needs Repair

A damaged sewer line is every homeowner’s nightmare, yet it’s often one of the most overlooked parts of a home. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But here’s the thing: ignoring your sewer line can lead to costly repairs, health hazards, and even structural damage to your
property. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sewer backups cause billions of dollars in property damage annually. That’s a staggering number—one that many homeowners could avoid with early intervention.

The good news? Your sewer line often sends warning signals before things spiral out of control. From unexplained foul odors to persistent slow drains, these signs can help you spot trouble early. In this blog, we’ll explore five of the most common indicators that your sewer line
needs professional attention. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to act quickly, save money, and protect your home from bigger issues. Let’s dive in!

1. Persistent Slow Drains
A slow drain here and there is normal, right? Not necessarily. If multiple fixtures in your home are draining slowly, it’s often a sign of a deeper issue within your sewer line. While minor clogs can cause slow drains, a sewer line that’s cracked, collapsed, or clogged by tree roots can restrict the flow of wastewater.

To differentiate between a minor issue and a serious one, pay attention to patterns. If your sinks, showers, and toilets are all experiencing slow drainage simultaneously, it’s time to call a plumber for an inspection. Ignoring this issue can lead to a total sewer backup. But why do sewer lines get clogged in the first place? Over time, debris such as grease, soap scum, and food particles build up within pipes. In some cases, older pipes can corrode or collapse, creating blockages. Tree roots are another major culprit, as they grow toward moisture and invade sewer lines through tiny cracks. These issues worsen over time, making early detection critical.

2. Unpleasant Odors
That foul smell wafting through your home? It could be your sewer line crying for help. A properly functioning sewer system is designed to contain unpleasant odors. If you’re noticing a persistent sewage smell inside or around your home, it’s likely due to a crack or break in your
sewer line. Sewer gas can seep into your home through damaged pipes or faulty seals, posing not only a discomfort but also a potential health hazard. Hydrogen sulfide, the gas responsible for the “rotten egg” smell, is toxic in high concentrations. Even at lower levels, prolonged exposure can cause respiratory issues and headaches.

These odors are also a sign that your plumbing system is compromised, allowing wastewater to stagnate or leak. If left unaddressed, this can lead to mold growth, soil contamination, and costly structural damage. The moment you detect an unusual smell, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection.

3. Frequent Backups or Overflows
Few things are as frustrating as a toilet or sink that constantly backs up. If you’re dealing with recurring backups, it’s not just bad luck; it’s a red flag for a serious sewer line issue. Blockages caused by tree roots, grease buildup, or other debris can prevent wastewater from flowing
properly, causing it to come back up into your home.

In some cases, these backups are isolated to one fixture, but if you’re noticing backups across multiple drains, it’s likely a sewer line problem. A professional plumber can perform a camera inspection to pinpoint the cause and recommend the right repair. Backups are more than just an inconvenience. They pose serious health risks by exposing your family to raw sewage. Pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella thrive in wastewater, and contact with these contaminants can cause severe illnesses. Acting promptly can prevent a minor backup from escalating into a hazardous situation.

4. Lush, Green Patches in Your Yard
A lush, green lawn might seem like a good thing, but if certain areas of your yard are thriving more than others, it could be a sign of a leaking sewer line. Sewage acts as a natural fertilizer, and when it escapes into the soil, it can cause patches of grass to grow more vigorously than
the surrounding area. If you notice unusual wet spots, sinkholes, or areas of your yard that are greener than others, don’t dismiss it as coincidence. These are common indicators of a sewer line leak that needs to be addressed before it worsens.

Leaking sewer lines don’t just affect your lawn; they can also destabilize the soil around your home’s foundation. Over time, this can lead to cracks in your foundation or even structural collapse. Addressing leaks early can save you from costly landscaping and foundation repairs.

5. Sudden Spike in Water Bills
An unexpected increase in your water bill can be a financial headache, but it’s also a clue that something is amiss with your plumbing. While leaks in fixtures like faucets or toilets are common culprits, a broken sewer line can also contribute to higher water usage. Sewer line leaks can cause water to continuously flow, leading to a noticeable jump in your bill. If you’ve ruled out other potential causes, it’s worth having a professional inspect your sewer line for leaks or other damage.

Beyond water bills, unnoticed sewer line leaks can cause extensive damage to your property. Over time, these leaks erode the surrounding soil, creating voids that can lead to sinkholes or collapsed driveways. Monitoring your water usage and acting on sudden spikes can help you
catch these issues before they escalate.

How Sewer Line Repairs Are Done
Once you’ve identified signs of sewer line trouble, the next step is to resolve the issue. Modern plumbing techniques have made repairs faster and less invasive than ever before. Here are some common methods:

• Camera Inspections: Plumbers use small, high-resolution cameras to visually inspect the sewer line and locate damage or blockages.
• Hydrojetting: This method uses high-pressure water jets to clear clogs and clean the pipe walls. It’s effective for removing grease, sludge, and even tree roots.
• Pipe Relining: A durable epoxy lining is inserted into the damaged pipe, creating a seamless, new interior without the need for excavation.
• Trenchless Replacement: For severely damaged pipes, trenchless technology allows plumbers to replace the line without digging up your yard.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, it’s crucial to act quickly. Ignoring sewer line problems can lead to more extensive damage, costly repairs, and even health risks. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Schedule a Professional Inspection: A licensed plumber can perform a camera inspection to assess the condition of your sewer line and identify the cause of the problem.

2. Consider the Best Repair Option: Depending on the severity of the issue, your plumber may recommend hydrojetting, pipe relining, or full replacement of the sewer line.

3. Take Preventive Measures: Once the repair is complete, consider regular maintenance to prevent future issues. Hydrojetting, for example, can keep your pipes clean and clear of buildup.

Final Thoughts
Your sewer line is one of the most critical components of your plumbing system. While it may not demand attention as often as other fixtures, staying alert to the warning signs of damage can save you from costly and stressful repairs. From persistent slow drains to unexpected water bills, these indicators shouldn’t be ignored.

At A+ Drain Cleaning and Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing sewer line issues with precision and care. Whether you need a camera inspection, hydrojetting, or a full sewer line replacement, our team is here to help. Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major
disaster—contact us today for expert assistance!