Your sewer line is a vital part of your home’s plumbing system, carrying wastewater from your home to the city’s treatment plant. Most homeowners don’t give their sewer line a second thought. After all, it is discreetly hidden out of sight.  However, a broken or collapsed sewer line can cause property damage and be hazardous to you and your family’s health.  It can be difficult for the average person to realize that their sewer line needs replacing because the signs are not always immediately obvious.  In this post, we’re going to discuss when and why a sewer line replacement is necessary.

Why is a Sewer Line Replacement Necessary?

First, let’s discuss why it’s important to replace a damaged sewer line as soon as possible:

• Property Damage – A broken sewer line can cause extensive water damage, resulting in costly repairs.
• Health Hazards – Damaged sewer lines can pose a health risk to you and your family.  Raw sewage may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. Exposure to these contaminants can cause a range of health issues including gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, skin irritation, or serious infection.
• Environmental Impact – Untreated sewage that seeps into the ground can contaminate local water sources, threatening public health and the environment.

How do I know when my sewer line needs replacement?

Sewer lines don’t last forever and wear and tear can cause damage that requires immediate action. Here are some signs to look for:

• Slow Drainage -If you notice your sink, shower, bathtub, or toilet won’t drain or is draining slowly, this could be a sign of damage in the main sewer line leading to your home. Remember, it’s not uncommon for one drain to move slowly on occasion, for example, your bathtub may get clogged with hair or soap scum and the issue is usually easily resolved. However, if all or almost all of the drains in your home are draining slower than usual, you might have a serious problem. This scenario often indicates it’s time to consider new sewer installation services to ensure your home maintains proper sanitation.  
• Foul Odors – Have you noticed your home has a distinct sewer smell?  Not only will this be very unpleasant for anyone living inside the home, but a foul odor might be a sign of a damaged sewer line.  Call a professional immediately, as these fumes may be harmful to your health.
• Standing Water in Your Yard – If you notice a pool of water or wet patches on your lawn, this could be a sign a pipe has ruptured. Once the line breaks, water begins to seep through the ground and floods the area. This water may also produce a foul smell.
• Water Damage – A broken sewer pipe can cause damage to your home, including cracks in the foundation. Every once in a while, you should go outside your home and inspect the condition of your foundation. Promptly replacing your sewer line is essential to minimize any further extensive damage.

• Mold and Mildew – When your sewer line is leaking, it may cause wet spots to form on your home’s ceilings, walls, and floors. This often results in mold and mildew, which can result in a variety of health issues for you and your family including long-term respiratory problems.
• Gurgling Sounds – If your toilet makes an unusual gurgling sound each time you flush it (or even when you don’t), this is often an indication of a blocked or broken sewer line. 
• Pest Infestation – Many rodents and insects make their home in sewage pipes. When a breakage occurs, these pests may gain access to your home in a hurry. If you’ve noticed a sudden influx of rodents or bugs, have your sewer line inspected right away.
• Sewer Backup – The most obvious sign of a sewer line breakage is when the sewer starts to back up inside your home. If you don’t notice the early signs of damage we’ve mentioned above, the final result is raw sewer coming back up through your toilet, bathtub, or other drains. This is a severe health hazard and you should call a professional right immediately.
• Frequent Repairs – In the best-case scenario, it’s possible to have your sewer line repaired rather than needing to replace it entirely. However, if you find you’ve needed frequent repairs, it’s best to have a professional replace your sewer line.

Most homeowners leave their sewer line “out of sight, out of mind” until damage occurs. If you suspect your sewer line needs replacement or repair, call a professional immediately. Contact us at Mr. Trenchless Sewer and Water for a free consultation.