Although you probably don’t think about it too often, your sewer line is one of the most important parts of your home’s plumbing system. After all, it is responsible for ensuring that all generated waste exits your home as it should, and it’s definitely no slouch in the comfort equation.
Like any other system in your home, your sewer line is no stranger to being affected by problems that meddle with its ability to work functionally. From minor clogs to strange smells, there are all sorts of problems that the system can face. However, no bigger issue can be more challenging than broken sewer lines.
But how do you know if you’re dealing with a broken sewer line in the first place?
Key Indicators to Watch Out For
Broken sewer lines are causes for concern that should be taken seriously because of the potential damage they can cause. On top of bringing unwanted smells into your home, the problems in question can also bring forth additional issues such as:
- Larger water bills
- Immense property damage
- Health problems such as cholera, amoebiasis, jaundice, or hepatitis A, E. Coli, and salmonella infections
Given the immense risks associated with broken sewer lines, you must remedy any potential cases of breakage in your home’s system. Fortunately, you won’t have to wait until disaster strikes to call in the services of a skilled specialist like Candu Plumbing & Rooter.
Spotting these signs can help you act ASAP:
Telltale Sign #1: It Takes Longer for Liquids to Drain
Has it been taking longer to clear your basin, tub, or bathroom sink after a long wash because of how slow it drains? Well, you might be dealing with a broken sewer line.
Generally speaking, slow drains are mainly caused by blockages in the pipes, resulting in a much longer emptying time. Any blockage is most likely linked to a separation in your sewer line because of the following:
- Sudden ground settlement in the areas where your sewer lines are located
- Tree root infiltration
- Vandalism
- Construction mishaps
Telltale Sign #2: Your Lawn Is Soggy and Foul-Smelling
No, this is not us making fun of your lawn—these are two actual signs of broken sewer lines that you need to watch out for.
Whenever a line is broken, it can cause the land over the damaged portion to become soggy and foul-smelling because of the sewage waste seeping into the foundation. In more severe cases, sinkholes can develop around the break until a portion of your lawn becomes completely unusable.
Telltale Sign #3: There Are Multiple Clogs All over Your Home
Typically, a single, isolated clog in your toilet, faucet, or bathtub is an innocuous indicator that there’s a clog in a particular pipe. However, the story is entirely different if multiple drains and fixtures in your home are experiencing backups or clogs.
Multiple clogged fixtures are often considered key indicators of broken sewer lines. Even a small issue in one section of your sewer system can affect the whole thing and all the fixtures linked to it. If more than one of your plumbing fixtures is stubbornly clogged, it’s best to call in an expert ASAP!
Conclusion
While there are many types of housekeeping problems you should be aware of and remedy right away, a broken sewer line issue is something that bears an especially urgent need for action. By watching out for the three signs above, you’ll be able to take the right steps moving forward and ensure that you protect yourself, your pipes, and your home.
Candu Plumbing & Rooter is an expert plumbing and & rooter specialist in Van Nuys that handles all sorts of household repairs and maintenance needs. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment!
