Signs That Your Sewer Line is Backed Up

• Backed-Up Drains

One clogged drain is annoying, but when multiple drains back up at the same time, it’s a sign of a major blockage. If your sinks, tubs, and toilets are all struggling to drain, the problem likely isn’t isolated—it’s in your main sewer line. Call a trusted plumber specializing in sewer repair to find the source of the problem and restore your sewer line to good working order.

• Your Drains are Slow

Water should flow down your drains without any issues. If it lingers, pools, or takes forever to disappear, your sewer line may be partially blocked. Sometimes, a plunger or drain cleaner helps, but if the issue keeps coming back, it’s time to call a sewer line repair specialist. A slow drain today could turn into a full backup tomorrow.

• Foul Odors

A sewer line in good working condition shouldn’t smell. If you catch a whiff of sewage near your drains, toilets, or yard, something is wrong. That musty odor means waste isn’t flowing out as it should. The longer you wait, the worse it gets. A persistent odor coming from your drains can render your house uninhabitable and attract fruit flies. Contact a professional plumber to find the root cause of the unpleasant smell and provide you with a solution.

• Standing Sewage in Your Basement

Few things are worse than discovering stagnant sewage pooling in your basement. This is a sign of a severe backup, and at this point, DIY solutions won’t cut it. Call a professional immediately to prevent further damage to your home and health.

• Sewage in Your Sewer Cleanout Pipe

The sewer cleanout pipe gives direct access to your main line, and it shouldn’t contain standing sewage. If you open the cap and see wastewater inside, your sewer line isn’t draining properly. This is one of the surest signs that a clog is forming—or has already formed.