Many homeowners only think about their sewer lines once they encounter problems. But catching problems earlier is the best way to prevent costly repairs. One clear sign you need a sewer inspection is if you smell foul odors in your home. These odors are caused by a build-up of sewage inside your pipes.
Unpleasant Smells
A problem with your sewer line might be indicated if you detect an unpleasant, rotten egg-like odor throughout your house. This odor comes from methane and other harmful bacteria leaked into your home from a damaged or clogged sewer pipe. If inhaled for extended periods, it can cause lung problems, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. If your home has older pipes, scheduling a regular sewer inspection is especially important. These pipes have a higher likelihood of malfunctioning and seriously damaging your house. A wet spot in your yard is another sign that your sewer line needs to be inspected ASAP. It can be caused by a leak, tree roots, or even a collapsed pipe. A qualified plumber can examine your sewer line to identify the issue’s origin and take care of it before it worsens.
Slow Draining
The sewer system is one of the most essential parts of any home. It’s responsible for safely and efficiently transporting waste to the city sewer line or septic tank, but it can only do so if the drain pipes that connect to it work properly. Problems with the home sewer line are often expensive and difficult to fix, so knowing when to call for an inspection is essential. Slow drainage indicates that your sewer line needs to be inspected. Usually, this means that there’s a problem with the line itself or the drain pipes connected to it. It can happen for various reasons, such as aging pipes that have deteriorated or become blocked with clogs or tree roots that have grown into and around the drain lines.
If you’re experiencing slow draining in multiple rooms of your house, this is a sure sign that it’s time to call for an inspection. Leaving these problems unchecked can lead to serious plumbing emergencies, so acting quickly when you notice them is essential.
High Water Bills
Many homeowners don’t only think about their sewer lines once something goes wrong. If an issue does emerge, it may result in serious harm that is costly to fix. It’s essential to get your sewer lines inspected regularly to prevent any serious problems from occurring. If you’ve noticed that your water bills are getting higher than usual, it could indicate an issue with your sewer line. Several things, including a blockage or damaged pipes, can cause it. If an issue does emerge, it may result in serious harm that is costly to fix. A plumber can then use a camera to see what is causing the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Other signs that you need a sewer inspection include:
- Low or fluctuating water pressure.
- Toilets that take longer than usual to drain.
- Strong and unpleasant odors.
Contact a plumber right away if you notice any of these signs. By acting quickly, you can prevent expensive and messy problems.
Mold or Mildew
Most homeowners give more thought to their sewer lines when something goes wrong. Then, it becomes a significant problem that requires professional attention. If your home has begun to smell musty or sour, this may indicate a problem with your sewer line. Roots and other debris frequently clog sewer lines, endangering the plumbing system in your house. A professional can use a camera to pinpoint the issue and determine the best solution. Two types of fungi that thrive in damp conditions are mold and mildew. Homes start as tiny spores and thrive in dark, damp, water-damaged areas. They also require a porous surface to grow on, such as wood, paper, food, or insulation.
Mold and mildew can lead to several health issues, such as coughing, wheezing, and irritation of the throat, nose, or eyes. Both can also aggravate allergies and asthma. Arrange a sewer inspection as soon as possible if you see any signs of mold or mildew. Before the issue gets worse, a trustworthy plumber will be able to locate it and solve it.
Clogged Toilets
If you are dealing with clogged toilets regularly, it’s likely time for an inspection. These clogs can lead to messy, costly repairs.
Your toilet is designed to do one thing – flush away waste and suck it down into your home’s sewer system or septic tank. When you flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper, you are likely to create a clog. It can include cotton swabs, paper towels, and home toiletries. Ensure your family members know not to flush these things and keep trashcans within easy reach in every bathroom.
Clogs can also be caused by roots that have grown into the pipes. Your home won’t sustain additional damage if you hire a professional plumber to locate the problem quickly.