Sewer Trouble and 5 Signs You’ve Got a Broken Sewer Line
If not detected in time, a broken sewer line could have adverse effects on your water bills, property, and even your health. For this reason, it’s essential to identify and resolve any issues with your sewer lines before they get out of control. The first step is knowing the telltale signs of a broken sewer line.
If you experience any of the signs below, have your sewer line inspected and repaired immediately.
Foul smell
Sewer lines carry all sorts of wastes that can produce a strong, unusual odor. However, since the sanitary sewers are always airtight, you shouldn’t experience an odor of sewer gas. The strange smell is a clear sign of a cracked drain pipe. If so, have your sewer system inspected right away to repair the cracks.
Slow drains and backup
Slow drains could be a sign of clogs in your plumbing, at the same time a sewer issue. If the pipes are draining slowly, it could be a problem with the blockage and could result in a backup problem if not addressed in time.
If you’re not sure whether it’s a slow drain or backup, try running some water down your bathtub drain or sink. If the water keeps coming back, then your sewer line could be damaged. Note that all drains depend on the main sewer line to work correctly.
If there are trees around or above your sewer line, the roots could obstruct the flow of the pipes, causing obstruction and blockage.
Soggy lawn
A soggy lawn could be a sign of a broken sewer line. If you notice swampy areas around your yard, have your sewer line inspected for damages. Look for an indentation above the sewer line. The dip/indentation occurs due to a leakage from the main sewer line that saturates the ground. This makes the lawn unusable until the sewer line is repaired.
A soggy lawn will attract rodents and insects, which will then find their way to your house, risking the spread of diseases and filth.
If the sewer line runs below pavers, the asphalt may start to deteriorate and sometimes sink. Don’t wait until the damage gets to this extreme.
Mold growth
Mold grows in moist areas. If you notice molds and mildew thriving and spreading on the walls, floor, or ceiling, accompanied by sewer odor, you may have a broken sewer line. Water infiltration from the fractured pipes moistens surfaces, catalyzing the growth and spread of mold and mildew.
If left unchecked, the growth could damage your foundation, interior, and exterior while posing a health threat to the house occupants.
Green lawn
If you notice the grass or plants around your lawn getting greener than everything around them, you may have a broken sewer line. Sewage comprises water and nutrients that will fertilize any greenery around your lawn area or yard. So if there’s a leak in your sewer line, the grass and greeneries around will have extra nutrients that will make them lush and vibrant.
Conclusion
It’s easier to detect a broken sewer line. If you experience the signs above, have your sewer line inspected to identify and repair the damaged areas to prevent further damage. Also, you don’t have to wait for visible signs to take action. Check your sewer system regularly to detect any problems before they escalate. It’s worth noting that a sewer line repair isn’t a DIY job as it requires special tools, skills, and above all, permits. Besides, it’s a dangerous job to be left to skilled professionals. Solutions Plumbing is always here to take your call!
