Since your sewer line is buried underground, you can’t exactly keep an eye on it for possible damage. However, there are some revealing signs inside that might indicate when a problem is afoot. Below are some red flags that could arise when you have a broken line.

7 Signs of a Broken Sewer Line

1. Sewage Odor

One possible sign  of a broken sewer line is a prominent sewage smell that emanates throughout your home. When these pipes are in good working order, they should be airtight, except where vent stacks are present. a sewer line cleaning and video pipe inspection are recommended to determine its condition.

2. Slow Drains

When drains begin emptying slowly, or gurgling, it is one of the first signs a blockage is growing. If the problem continues after having the lines cleaned, you could have tree roots growing through them, channeling (a course cut in the line by running water), or cracks, or other possible pipe issue.

3. Clogs & Backups

Often, drain backups are caused by a clog somewhere in the sewer line. While it is common for homeowners to develop a blockage occasionally, frequent sewage backups can be due to a problem  in the main line.

4. Foundation & Wall Cracks

If your sewer line has been damaged for a prolonged period, it might have created an empty space underground. This can cause settling, which could result in cracks throughout the foundation and the walls inside your home. If it’s not corrected, you might even develop a sinkhole.

5. Lush Green Lawn Area

If you happen to spot a really green, lush area on your lawn, it could be a signal of a sewage leak or failing septic system. When a main line breaks and sewage seeps into the ground, or a leaching field becomes saturated, the surrounding grass and soil use it as fertilizer and tend to be healthier than the surrounding vegetation.

6. Insect & Rodent Infestations

Rats and numerous insects can travel through sewer lines. When they crack, these pests can sometimes make their way inside the walls of your home. You’ll need to have video pipe inspection performed to determine the condition of your sewer or septic line.

7. Mold & Mildew Growth

If you’ve recently noticed mold or mildew growing on one or more of the walls, you may have a plumbing leak or ground water problem. Once this happens, the humidity level in the home doesn’t have to be high to encourage fungus growth.

 

 

If you have these or other puzzling plumbing issues, don’t wait to take action. Not dealing with a broken sewer line could cause more problems down the road. For immediate help in the Eastern Connecticut region, contact Service Plus. They provide numerous plumbing services, including pipe inspections and tree root removal. Schedule an appointment today by calling (860) 234-9346, and visit their website to learn more about their services.