A common question that is mostly unanswered in people’s brain is how do I know if my sewer is blocked. A blocked sewer line can be a major inconvenience and cause significant damage to your home if left untreated.

It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of a clogged sewer line early on to prevent further issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the top 7 signs that your main sewer line is clogged and provide tips on how to address the problem.

What is a Main Sewer Line?

The main sewer line is the primary pipe that carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. It’s typically made of cast iron, PVC, or clay and runs underground from your home to the street. All the secondary drain lines in your home, such as those from sinks, showers, and toilets, connect to the main sewer line.

7 Signs Your Main Sewer Line is Clogged

Experiencing a blocked drain can be frustrating, but it might indicate a more severe problem like a clog in your main sewer.

One of the warning signs of a blockage in the main sewer is when multiple plumbing fixtures, such as the kitchen sink and toilets, are affected simultaneously.

If you notice raw sewage coming from the drain or a persistent clogged drain, it could mean your main sewage line is compromised. Let’s take a look at the seven main signs that your main sewer line is clogged:

1. Multiple Drains are Backing Up

One of the most obvious signs of a clogged main sewer line is when multiple drains in your home are backing up simultaneously. This happens because a blockage in the main line prevents wastewater from flowing out of your home, causing it to back up into various fixtures.

If you notice that water is draining slowly or not at all in multiple locations, such as your sink, shower, and toilet, it’s a strong indication that the main sewer line is clogged. The water may even back up and overflow from one fixture when you use another like water coming up in the shower when you flush the toilet.

2. Gurgling Sounds from Drains

Another sign of a main sewer line clog is gurgling sounds coming from your drains. As water tries to flow through the blockage, it creates air bubbles that make a gurgling noise. The more water that’s trying to pass through the clog, the louder the gurgling will be.

If you hear gurgling sounds coming from multiple drains, especially after using water in another part of the house, it’s a good idea to investigate further for a potential main sewer line blockage.

3. Slow Draining Fixtures

Slow draining sinks, showers, and tubs can also indicate a problem with the main sewer line. If you notice that water is taking longer than usual to drain from your fixtures, it could be due to a partial blockage in the main line.

Over time, a slow drain can turn into a complete clog, so it’s important to address the issue promptly. If you find yourself plunging your toilet frequently or dealing with slow drains in multiple locations, it’s time to investigate further.

4. Sewage Odours

A foul sewage odour coming from your drains is a clear sign that something is amiss with your plumbing system. When the main sewer line is clogged, sewage can back up into your home, causing unpleasant odours to waft through your drains.

If you notice a persistent sewage smell in your home, especially near plumbing fixtures or in the basement, it’s crucial to address the issue immediately. Sewage odours not only indicate a clogged sewer line but also pose health risks if left untreated.

5. Water in the Sewer Cleanout

Most homes have a sewer cleanout, which is a pipe with a cap that provides access to the main sewer line. If you remove the cap and see standing water or sewage in the cleanout, it’s a clear sign that the main line is clogged.

The water in the cleanout may be stagnant or slowly draining, depending on the severity of the blockage. If you notice water in the cleanout, it’s best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide a solution.

6. Sewage Backing Up into Floor Drains

If you have a floor drain in your basement or garage, it can be a good indicator of a main sewer line clog. When the main line is blocked, sewage can back up into the lowest drain in your home, which is often the floor drain.

If you notice sewage or foul-smelling water coming up through your floor drain, it’s a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Sewage backups can cause significant damage to your home and pose health risks, so it’s crucial to address the problem promptly.

7. Lush, Green Grass Over the Sewer Line

If you notice an unusually lush, green patch of grass over the path of your main sewer line, it could be a sign of a leak or blockage. When a sewer line is cracked or clogged, it can cause water and nutrients to seep into the surrounding soil, promoting excessive plant growth.

While a green lawn over the sewer line isn’t always a cause for concern, it’s worth investigating further if it’s significantly greener than the surrounding area. A professional plumber can use a sewer camera to inspect the line and determine if there’s an issue that needs to be addressed.

Causes of Main Sewer Line Clogs

There are several common causes of main sewer line clogs in Australia:

1. Tree roots: Tree roots can grow into the sewer line, causing blockages and damage to the pipe.
2. Grease buildup: Pouring grease, oil, or fat down the drain can cause it to accumulate over time, leading to blockages.
3. Foreign objects: Flushing items like paper towels, diapers, or feminine products down the toilet can clog the sewer line.
4. Pipe damage: Cracked, collapsed, or misaligned pipes can cause blockages and allow roots to enter the line.
5. Improper installation: If the main sewer line was not installed correctly, it can lead to issues like sagging pipes that trap debris.

How to Prevent Main Sewer Line Clogs

To prevent main sewer line clogs, it’s important to be mindful of what you put down your drains and toilets. Here are some tips to help keep your sewer line clear:

1. Avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down the drain. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Don’t flush items like paper towels, diapers, or feminine products down the toilet. These items can easily clog the sewer line.
3. Use a hair catcher in your shower drain to prevent hair from going down the drain and contributing to blockages.
4. Consider having your sewer line professionally cleaned every few years to remove any buildup or debris.
5. Plant trees and shrubs an appropriate distance away from the sewer line to prevent root intrusion.

What to Do if You Suspect a Main Sewer Line Clog

If you suspect that your main sewer line is clogged, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Here are the steps to take:

1. Identify the signs of a clogged sewer line, such as multiple backed-up drains, gurgling sounds, slow drainage, or sewage odours.
2. Locate your sewer cleanout and remove the cap. If you see standing water or sewage in the cleanout, it’s a clear sign of a blockage.
3. If you have a floor drain, check for sewage or foul-smelling water backing up. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
4. If possible, use a plunger or drain snake to try to clear the blockage yourself. However, if the clog is severe or you’re not comfortable using these tools, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
5. If you notice an unusually lush, green patch of grass over the sewer line, it’s worth having a professional inspect the line to ensure there are no leaks or blockages.
   

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some minor clogs can be cleared with a plunger or drain snake, it’s often best to call a professional plumber, like Plus Plumbing, when dealing with a main sewer line blockage. Here are some reasons why:

1. Sewer line clogs can be difficult to locate and clear, especially if they’re deep in the line or caused by tree roots or pipe damage.
2. Attempting to clear a severe clog yourself can cause further damage to the pipes, leading to more costly repairs.
3. Professional plumbers have access to specialised equipment, such as sewer cameras and high-pressure water jets, that can effectively clear even the toughest blockages.
4. If the sewer line needs to be repaired or replaced, a professional plumber has the expertise to assess the damage and provide the best solution.

When calling a plumber, be sure to choose a licensed and experienced professional who specialises in sewer line repair and maintenance. They should be able to quickly diagnose the issue and provide a solution to get your sewer line flowing smoothly again.

Conclusion

A clogged main sewer line can be a frustrating and costly problem, but being able to recognize the signs early on can help prevent further damage. 

Remember, if you suspect a main sewer line clog, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and health risks. With the right knowledge and Plus Plumbing experts, you can keep your sewer line flowing smoothly and your home safe from sewage backups.