When we think about our sewer system, most of us immediately think of our toilet. And while toilets are part of it, all of the sinks, bathtubs and other drains are also tied to your home’s sewer system. This is why sewer backups can be a huge headache if they’re not caught early enough.
While the signs may be subtle, it’s fairly easy to tell if you’re bound for a backup. Gotelli Plumbing is here to lay out four signs that can help you identify a sewer backup early!
Causes Of Sewer Backups:
- Oil or grease build-up – oil and grease solidify in your pipes when they cool, if dumped down the drain. The best way to dispose of them is to let them cool completely in a disposable container before throwing them in your trashcan.
- Flushing products that aren’t septic-safe – unlike toilet paper, products such as paper towels, wet wipes and feminine hygiene products don’t break down when exposed to water and can cause clogs, if flushed.
- Old, decaying sewer lines – older sewer lines break down over time, so waste is unable to flow smoothly into your septic tank or sewage system.
- Tree roots – large root systems can grow around or into pipes, which can restrict water flow or cause damage.
- Severe rainstorms – large amounts of water flowing into the city’s sewage system can cause backups.
Although some of the main causes are preventable, things like tree root growth and rainstorms are unavoidable. Regardless of the cause, it’s tough to see exactly what’s happening down a pipe or underground. Luckily, there are a few noticeable signs that will help you find out what’s causing the backup.
Gurgling Sounds And Air Bubbles
Gurgling sounds can be an indicator of a punctured sewer line, usually by a tree root. A sewer line puncture can cause air bubbles to rise up the pipe and make noise as they reach the drain when water is flowing through. You may also notice small air bubbles rising through the drain in your toilet.
Slower Drains
You might notice that water isn’t traveling down your sink or bathroom drains as quickly as it used to. This is usually because a material, such as food and hair, builds up in the pipes over time. To combat this, try using mesh drain covers to prevent matter from clogging the pipes.
Foul Drain Odors
If your sewer lines are clear, you should never smell any foul odors coming from your pipes. Foul odors coming from the drains whenever you wash the dishes or take a shower can be a sign of decaying waste stuck in the sewer line.
Pest Problems
When there are cracks in your sewer line, they create access points for cockroaches and other insects to enter your home. Foul odors and built-up food waste from a backup also have a tendency to attract these pests. You might even see roaches crawling up through the pipes!
If your pest problem persists no matter how much you spray or trap them, a damaged sewer line may be the culprit.
Your San Rafael Sewer Service Specialists
Even if you’re used to doing repairs on your own around your home, it’s always best to call in the pros when it comes to your septic system to prevent further damage. Contact Gotelli Plumbing for help with your next sewer backup and all of your other sewer service needs in San Rafael!
