Is It a Sewer Line Clog?

Finding A Hidden Clog

Sewer line clogs are not easily detectable from above ground. Inspection cameras usually confirm their location since they are formed deep inside the plumbing system. Most homeowners do not have specialized plumbing equipment, but they can still find clues if they pay attention to their surroundings.

The Mouthwash Clue

Strange noises can often be heard in the event of a blockage. Because the clog effectively dams up running water, this causes a light gurgling sound. This can be heard in showers or bathtubs regardless of where they are located in the home.

Gurgling happens when air bubbles are trapped inside the piping. The blockage disrupts water flow and prevents smooth transfer from the outside to the indoors. Depending on what causes this noise, some blockages can be fixed within an hour. 

A partial or full clog can cause gurgling. In Chatham, most sewer line clogs are caused by garbage disposals, tree roots, and improper flushing. When homeowners discard nonbiodegradable materials down the drain, this will eventually cause a backup, even if it doesn’t happen until weeks after disposal. Materials such as tissue, chicken bones, and medication should never enter the plumbing system. 

Soupy Sinks

Excess water pooling at the sink or tub’s bottom indicates a drain line clog. If the sink basin is unusually large, it may look like a giant bowl of soup. Stagnant water is a nuisance and can become dangerous if the clogged sewer line or drain is not cleared.   

Clogs and backups can occur in the kitchen sink, tub, or toilet. If the toilet is backed up, it can overflow. If a suspected sewer line clogs, do not flush the toilet until a professional has inspected the plumbing. Household drain cleaning will not fix a modern toilet. 

Drain line clogs caused by hair in the shower is a simple fix. A drain snake can remove small clogs, and a shower screen can prevent them. Drain screens are easy to find and can be purchased for under $10. They work by trapping debris such as soap scum and hair before they enter the drain. Clogs formed by tree roots will likely need to be removed by hydro-jetting. This type of sewer line repair uses highly pressurized water to blast away tough blockages deep in the sewer line.

Sewer Backup vs. Drain Clog

Slow draining can happen in one sink or all of the sinks. If there is excess water in only one sink or tub, this usually means there is a drain clog. Drain clogs are caused by hair, grease, or oil. If the sewer is backed up, all drains in the home are affected. 

Sewer line clogs are more likely to cause foul odors and overflowing toilets. In addition to slow draining, backups can also create marshy patches in the lawn. If homeowners notice one part of the lawn is much lusher than the rest, this could be due to a leaky pipe. When sewage escapes the pipe, nutrients are dispersed to the area around it.

A clogged sewer line typically takes between one and three hours to clear. If the sewer line needs to be replaced, this will take longer. Thanks to modern technology, plumbers can replace and repair pipes without wrecking the yard due to trenching. Although sewer line clogs can happen to anyone, yearly maintenance significantly reduces the risk. 

About Sewer Surgeons

Sewer Surgeons is available 24/7 for residents of Chatham, NJ. They offer personal service, upfront pricing, and long-lasting solutions for any plumbing repair need. Call Sewer Surgeons today to schedule sewer line repairs.