A sewer drain clog is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. It will eventually affect all the plumbing fixtures in your house and can lead to serious problems. There are several signs that will alert you to the problem that your main sewer line is clogged.
Multiple plumbing fixtures clogged – One fixture that is backing up may only be a localized problem. However, when more than one fixture is backing up, this is a sure sign that your main sewer line is clogged. Since toilets have the biggest drain line and a direct path to the main sewer line, they are usually the first ones to show the problem. It would be unusual to have a clogged main line if your toilets continue to work properly. Next in line would be the bathtub and shower, as they are located lower than the sinks. Also, signs of a clogged drain will show up first in the lower levels of your house, so if the lower floor or basement toilet and sink are clogged, you need to call a plumber right away. Your local Rooter-Man of Charleston SC is available 24/7 to assist you, you can call us anytime at 843-766-3311.
Unusual events when using plumbing fixtures – This could be several different things. If you flush the toilet and the bathtub backs up, that is an unusual reaction. Another would be turning on the tap in the sink and seeing bubbles in the toilet, or the toilet begins draining, or the toilet water rises. Lastly, if the washing machine is draining and any nearby fixtures backup or a toilet overflows, then you have a clog somewhere.
Main line clean out – If your system has a main line clean out, that can help determine if you have a clog. The main line clean out is a three or four inch diameter pipe that comes up from the ground with a cap on it. Open the clean out by either pulling off the cap or unscrewing it and then you will be able to see if there is any backed up water in there. If water is flowing up and out of the clean out, or if there is standing water, that will tell you that you definitely have a main line drain clog.
There are also some other basic signs such as:
- The odor of raw sewage coming from your drains.
- A gurgling sound that might indicate a clog somewhere in the system.
- Water seeping out around a floor drain could be an indicator of a clog.
- Another thing to watch is the toilet as you flush it. If the water level is not the same after flushing as it was before, you might have a problem.
- Lastly, look outside along your sewer line. If there are trees nearby, their roots may have encroached into the pipes and could be clogging the drain.
A main line drain clog is considered a plumbing emergency. There could be water damage, mold could be forming, or the water could spread bacteria. If any of these signs are apparent, it is imperative to call a plumbing professional as soon as possible. For drain cleaning and plumbing services, call Rooter-man of Charleston SC at: 843-766-3311.
