The most prominent early warning sign is unpleasant odors. Food particles, hair, soap scum, and other waste cause these. When these blockages prevent wastewater from going to the main sewer line, they can cause sewage and water to back up into your sinks, tubs, and toilets. Pay attention to how quickly your drains clear. Slow-draining fixtures indicate that a clog is forming or developing.
Increased Water Bills
If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your water bill that has nothing to do with gardening, swimming pool fills, or hosting more guests, it could indicate a drainage issue. Standing water or a clogged drain isn’t just inconvenient; it can also attract pests and cause mold and mildew. If you have tried plunging and using drain cleaner without success, it’s time to call Drain Solvers. Recurring clogged drains are often the first sign of a more significant blockage in the main sewer line. A clog in your toilet can also lead to water backing up into tubs and showers, which can be challenging to detect and require immediate attention. Getting a professional in when you notice these signs is essential to prevent further issues and costly repairs.
Slow Draining
If you notice your sinks, tub, or shower draining slowly, it’s essential to act. It is a sure sign that a blockage is starting to form, and left unchecked, it could turn into a significant drainage issue, such as a clogged sewer pipe. The same materials that cause slow drains in individual sinks can work their way into your home’s plumbing system to create a more significant blockage throughout multiple drains. The resulting pressure strains and potentially breaks water pipes, leading to severe, costly repairs. Additionally, a peculiar gurgling sound emanating from your drains may indicate that air is trapped in your pipes. It is a clear sign that you must call a professional plumber before the problem worsens.
Pooling Water
One of the most significant early warning signs of a drain or sewer issue is pooling water. It can be caused by a few different things, from a blocked drain to roots that have invaded a sewer line. Water pools can damage your property and lead to mold growth. It would help if you always watched for signs of water pooling on your property. Standing water also attracts pests, including mosquitoes, flies, and roaches. It could put your staff and clients in danger and result in a violation of the health code. If you have a problem with water pools, you can use a French drain to channel stormwater away from the area. These drains consist of a gravel-filled trench that slopes down and has perforated drain pipes to move water quickly to an appropriate area.
Foul Smell
Over time, debris such as soap residue and hair can build up and clog drains. These problems could result in expensive plumbing repairs if ignored. A foul smell is another warning sign of a significant drainage problem. The odor is usually associated with a sewage leak or septic tank malfunction. In addition, a gas leak can also cause a foul smell. During routine inspections, examine all accessible drainage system parts for damage or blockages. Examine drain covers, stoppers, and escutcheons to ensure they are in good condition and caulked tightly. Test all sinks, bathtubs, and shower drains for slow drainage or gurgling sounds. Also, check around all gas appliances for any signs of a leak. It would help if you also looked for any visible signs of plant growth around drainage lines.
Unpleasant Smells
While every drain clog will cause some unpleasant smells, when it’s consistent across multiple drains or the whole house, you have a severe problem. It can indicate a significant break or clog in the main sewer line, which is dangerous. The sewer line removes wastewater and takes it to the city’s central system or your septic tank. Without a properly functioning line, sewage will return to your home, causing foul smells like rotten eggs. Sometimes, such as when a sink’s p trap has dried out, the smell can be easily remedied by pouring water down the drain. However, other solutions for the more significant issues need professional attention. If the odors persist, we recommend having a plumber assess your plumbing system.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.