A clogged sewer can be a messy business, with water leaks, bad odors, and damage to floors and appliances. Fortunately, these consequences only occur if the clogged sewer is not detected or treated in a timely manner. So what are some of the tell-tale signs that your sewer might be clogged, and how should you deal with it if there is a clog?
The four main warning signs of a possible reversal are the following:
Main line malfunction
If your home has a clean main line, you can use that to assess whether or not you are experiencing a sewer clog. Start by locating the cleanout drain and removing the cover. If you find water flowing up and out of the line or sediment within it, these signs indicate that you likely have a clogged sewer.
Obstruction in multiple devices
One of the most obvious signs of a clogged sewer is when multiple plumbing fixtures within the home have difficulty draining at the same time. Bathrooms tend to be affected the most, but many other fixtures may be involved. Sinks and shower drains can also experience backflow, which usually involves water going up the drain pipe. Note if any of your drains have started to underperform. If they drain slowly or not at all, there may be a problem with the main sewer line.
Bad smell from the drains
This is self-explanatory, but can be an important factor in determining whether or not there is a sewer problem. If there’s a stench emanating from multiple drains in your home, the smell could mean that a buildup has occurred, or at least has begun to
happen.
Malfunction of accessories
Unexpected accessory malfunctions are also a good indicator that there may be a backup. If, for example, when flushing the toilet, water comes out of the pipe again, this may be an indicator. Try opening the bathroom sink to see if there are any bubbles coming out of the toilet. Bubbling in the toilet means that air is trapped in the pipes, which is likely due to a clogged sewer main.
So what should you do if you encounter one or more of these signs or if a backup has already occurred?
Protect your family and pets
First, move your family and pets away from areas that have been affected by accumulated sewage. This water can be highly contaminated, so it is important not to attempt to clean it yourself and to avoid the area until a professional is available to assess and manage the situation.
turn off the air conditioning
Central air conditioning and heating units should be turned off as soon as a flashback is noticed. If they continue to run, sewage debris may enter the floor vents, causing additional damage and incurring more costs.
Contact a professional
Because backups can cause damage in the home, it’s best to call a professional at the first sign of a backup. Calling someone who understands plumbing is vital to getting your pipes under control.