When it comes to your home’s wellbeing, it’s always better to be proactive than reactive. As a homeowner, you are responsible for any repairs that need to be made within your property lines. This responsibility includes, but is not limited to, your sewer lines.
A clog in your main sewer can cause severe problems for the rest of your house. It renders your plumbing system unusable and possibly uninhabitable, depending on the extent of the clog. Clogged sewage lines contaminate your water, making it unsafe for cooking, drinking, and even the most basic handwashing.
Signs Your Main Sewer Line May Be Blocked
If you suspect your main sewer line is blocked, there are a few tell-tale signs to check for. Keep an eye out for the following:
- When you flush the toilet, you see the sink or bathtub has water coming up from the drain.
- When you run the washing machine, you may notice your sink overflow.
If you notice either of these signs, it’s important to act fast before the problem can worsen. Call a plumber before you try to fix the problem yourself, as you can actually make it worse without the proper experience.
Something’s Wrong — Is It My Main Sewer Line or a Drain Clog?
If you notice the above signs, but they are isolated to one part of your house, you may only have a drain clog. Still, a drain clog can lead to a more serious problem if it’s not addressed quickly.
The main sewer line is connected to all drains in your home. It transports the water from your sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. If you notice issues with all the drains in your home, you are likely dealing with a clog in your main sewer line.
I Think I Have a Clog in My Main Sewer Line — What Should I Do Next?
If you suspect your main sewer line is clogged, it’s always a good idea to call a professional as soon as possible. While it is not recommended you attempt repairs on your own, there are certain things you can do to help ensure the process goes smoothly.
First, you’ll want to clean the area. If you have pets or small children in the home, it’s a good idea to sequester them away from the area. Cleaning up the sewage in tubs, sinks, and other fixtures will also make the job more sanitary for your plumber.
Second, you should clean to the best of your ability. However, avoid products such as drain cleaner. Drain cleaner can cause severe damage to old pipes, and it’s always best to leave thorough sewer and drain cleaning services to the professionals.
If you continue to notice water coming up from your drains, shut off your water and keep it off until a plumber can investigate further. For more information about sewage line clogs and what to do about them, contact our team today!