10 Signs that Sewer is Blocked

A blocked sewer can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. It causes inconvenience and poses health risks and potential damage to your property. Identifying the early signs of a blocked sewer can help you take prompt action and prevent further complications. In this article, we will discuss ten common signs that indicate your sewer is blocked and needs immediate attention. Suppose you're experiencing any of these issues. In that case, it's essential to contact a professional sewer repair service in Phoenix like Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air of Phoenix to address the problem promptly and efficiently.

Foul Odors Lingering Around Your Property

One of the first signs of a blocked sewer is the presence of foul odors around your property. If you notice persistent sewer-like smells coming from your drains, toilets, or even outside in your yard, it's likely that your sewer is clogged. These odors occur when the wastewater cannot flow freely through the sewer lines, causing it to back up and release unpleasant smells.

10 Signs that the Sewer is Blocked

Slow-Draining Sinks, Bathtubs, and Toilets

Another telltale sign of a blocked sewer is slow-draining sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. When your sewer is obstructed, it hampers the proper flow of wastewater from your plumbing fixtures. You may notice that water takes longer to drain or that it accumulates in the sink or bathtub before eventually draining away. Similarly, a slow-flushing toilet can also indicate a blocked sewer. We urge you to immediately contact expert plumbers in Phoenix for expert advice and solutions before this obstruction creates a huge problem in your plumbing system.

Gurgling Sounds from Plumbing Fixtures

If you hear strange gurgling sounds coming from your sinks, toilets, or drains, it could be a sign of a blocked sewer. These gurgling noises occur when air trapped in the sewer lines tries to escape through the plumbing fixtures. The blockage prevents the air from escaping smoothly, resulting in a distinctive gurgling sound.

Water Backing Up in Multiple Drains

One of the more alarming signs of a blocked sewer is water backing up in multiple drains simultaneously. For example, you may notice that flushing the toilet causes water to rise in the bathtub or that running the dishwasher causes water to gush out of the kitchen sink drain. This simultaneous backup of water indicates a blockage in the main sewer line.

Sudden Increase in Pest Activity

A sudden increase in pest activity around your property, such as rats, cockroaches, or flies, can be a sign of a blocked sewer. Sewage attracts pests, and when your sewer is blocked, it creates an ideal environment for them to thrive. If you notice an unusual influx of pests, it's crucial to investigate the possibility of a blocked sewer.

Sewage Backup in the Basement or Lowest Point of Your Property

A severe blockage in your sewer can result in sewage backup at the lowest point of your property, such as the basement or ground floor. If you find wastewater or sewage pooling in these areas, it's a clear indication that your sewer line is obstructed. This situation requires immediate attention to prevent further damage and health hazards.

Lush and Unusually Green Patches in Your Yard

When your sewer line is blocked, the wastewater can escape and seep into your yard. Consequently, you may notice lush and unusually green patches in specific areas of your lawn. This occurs because the wastewater acts as a fertilizer, causing the grass and plants above the blocked sewer line to grow faster and greener than the rest of your yard.

Cracks or Sinkholes in Your Lawn or Driveway

A blocked sewer can lead to serious damage to your property's infrastructure. If you observe cracks or sinkholes in your lawn, driveway, or other paved areas, it could result from the ground shifting due to a blocked sewer line. The increased pressure and moisture from the backed-up wastewater can cause the soil to erode and create voids, leading to these visible signs of damage.

Multiple Plumbing Fixtures are not Functioning Properly

When your sewer is blocked, you may experience problems with multiple plumbing fixtures in your home. For instance, if several sinks, toilets, or showers are not draining correctly or are exhibiting similar issues simultaneously, it's likely that the blockage is in the main sewer line rather than individual drains. This widespread malfunctioning of plumbing fixtures is a strong indication of a blocked sewer.

Previous Sewer Issues or Tree Root Intrusion

If you have experienced sewer issues in the past, such as blockages or tree root intrusion, there's a higher likelihood of recurring problems. Tree roots are known to seek out water sources, and if they find their way into your sewer lines, they can cause blockages. If you've had previous sewer-related issues, it's crucial to monitor your system closely and address any signs of blockage promptly.

Conclusion

A blocked sewer is a significant problem that requires immediate attention. By recognizing the ten signs discussed in this article, you can identify a potential sewer blockage early on and take appropriate action. Remember, if you notice any of these signs, it's important to contact a professional sewer repair service like Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air of Phoenix. We have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and resolve sewer blockages efficiently, ensuring the smooth and safe operation of your plumbing system.