If you have a simple clog in a secondary line, it can eventually grow into something that causes a clog in your sewer line, as well. A small clog may move slowly down to the main line and combine with roots and other debris to create a big mess in a few months! It is pretty easy to tell if you have a clog that is in a secondary line, or if you have a problem with your main sewer line. Do an inspection of the plumbing in your home yourself, so you have a good idea of the problem before you call for plumbing services.
- If you run the water down a clogged drain and it backs up or gurgles, then you have a clogged drain. If the other drains, toilet, and kitchen have noises, gurgling, or something backing up in them because you run a faucet in the bathroom, then there is usually a problem with your sewer line. A sewer line issue will cause problems in all your drains, not just one.
- If you smell sewage in your pipes, even if it is faint, then the problem is in your main sewer line. The smell of sewage shouldn’t be in your home unless there is a problem with the sewer line, or the city sewer has backed up because of a storm or flood.
- Look around your property to see if there are signs of a sewer line leak or break. You can usually tell by an odor, a soggy yard in one area, or a different color of grass in one area. Pests and animals are also attracted to sewer leaks.
- If the clog in your sink or toilet is easily moved with a plunger and water runs freely again, then you probably don’t have a problem with your sewer line. Get some drain filters so you can collect debris and avoid clogs!