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4 Signs It’s Time To Worry About Sewer Line Issues

Tony Brown Plumbing & Gas Services • December 4, 2024

Your sewer line plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and safety of your home. If left unchecked, a damaged or compromised sewer line can lead to extensive repairs and pose serious health risks. Recognising the warning signs early can help homeowners, renters, and property managers act promptly. In this blog post, we’ll delve into four key indicators that it might be time to call a professional plumber for sewer line inspection and repair.

1. Persistent Drainage Problems

If your sinks, tubs, or showers drain slowly or frequently clog, the issue might extend beyond a simple blockage in individual pipes. Persistent drainage issues often signal a problem with the main sewer line.


Common signs include:


  • Water pooling in sinks or bathtubs.
  • Gurgling sounds coming from drains or toilets.
  • Sewage backup or foul odours emanating from fixtures.


Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe problems, such as backflow into your home. Skilled plumbers can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue.

2. Unpleasant Smells from Drains or Outdoors

A healthy sewer system should contain unpleasant smells. If you notice foul odours near your drains or outdoors, it could be due to a crack or break in the sewer line, allowing gases to escape.


Watch for:


  • Persistent sewage odours near indoor drains, even after cleaning.
  • Foul smells outdoors, especially in low-lying areas or around your yard.


These odours disrupt your home environment and pose potential health risks. To ensure your safety, it is essential to call a professional plumber to investigate and repair the issue.

3. Soggy or Flooded Spots in Your Yard

Unusual wet patches or areas of your lawn that appear greener and more lush than others might be a sign of a leaking sewer line. Wastewater from a compromised pipe can seep into the soil, creating soggy spots or promoting excessive plant growth.


Key indicators include:


  • Soft or spongy ground, even in dry weather.
  • Unexplained flooding or standing water in your yard.
  • Rapidly growing grass or vegetation in isolated areas.


Ignoring these signs can result in further damage, such as sinkholes or structural instability in your yard. Engaging an emergency plumber promptly can help mitigate these risks.

4. Sudden Spikes in Water or Sewer Bills

A sudden, unexplained increase in your water or sewer bills could indicate a hidden leak in your sewer line. Damaged pipes can allow water to leak undetected, driving up your costs.


To confirm this issue:


  • Compare your current bill with previous months for anomalies.
  • Rule out increased usage due to lifestyle changes or additional occupants.


If you suspect a sewer line issue, call professionals for a comprehensive inspection. Early detection can save you money on both repairs and utility bills.

Rely on Us for Professional Plumbing Services in Grafton

Recognising early signs of sewer line problems is crucial to prevent costly repairs and health hazards. If you notice persistent drainage issues, unpleasant odours, unexplained wet spots in your yard, or sudden increases in water bills, it’s time to consult professionals.


At Tony Brown Plumbing & Gas Services, we pride ourselves on delivering prompt, reliable, high-quality plumbing solutions in Grafton and surrounding areas. Our experienced team is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of your property’s plumbing system. Contact us today!

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