Learning a bit about these common sewer issues and monitoring your home’s plumbing system regularly can help you detect and address problems before they turn into a plumbing emergency. If you experience any signs of sewer issues, such as slow drainage, gurgling noises, foul odors, or sewage backups, reach out to AZ Family Plumbing for a sewer inspection and repair.

 

SEWER CLOGS - One of the most common sewer problems is clogging. If you notice slow drainage, backups, and of course a sewage leak, you may have a clog. Debris in your pipes like grease, hair, pasta, rice, egg shells, and coffee grounds can lead to a sewage clog.

 

TREE ROOT INTRUSION - Tree roots are attracted to moisture, so they’re naturally attracted to pips. They can break through sewer lines through small cracks or joints, causing blockages and damage to the pipes.

 

SEWER LINE BREAKS - Sewer lines can break or crack due to age, shifting soil, or external factors such as construction work or tree root intrusion. Broken sewer lines can result in sewage leaks, foul odors, and contamination of the surrounding area.

 

PIPE CORROSION - Over time, sewer pipes can corrode and deteriorate, especially if they are made of older materials such as cast iron or clay. Corrosion can lead to leaks, collapses, and other structural issues like cracks on the bottom side that can’t be seen without expert sewer inspection.

 

BELLIED PIPES - If a sewer line was originally installed improperly or even if the soil shifts or settles, it can cause sections of the line to sink or sag. Plumbers refer to this as bellied pipes. Bellied pipes create a low spot where waste and debris can accumulate and cause backups.

 

SEWER LINE MISALIGNMENT - Misaligned sewer pipes can occur due to ground movement or improper installation, leading to leaks, blockages, and other problems.

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SEWER GAS ODORS - If you notice foul odors coming from drains or toilets, it could indicate a problem with the sewer line, such as a leak or blocked vent pipe. The foul odor can also be caused by a bad toilet wax ring or broken vent line in the wall. It’s important to have a plumber check all possibilities before attempting a repair.

 

OLD OR DETERIORATING SEWER INFRASTRUCTURE - Homes with older plumbing systems may be more prone to sewer issues. Older homes were typically built with cast iron or Orangeburg pipes that are more susceptible to damage and deterioration over time.

 

BLOCKED SEWER VENTS - Sewer vents allow air to enter the plumbing system and prevent sewer gases from backing up into the home. If these vents become blocked or obstructed by debris like leafs or even in rare cases dead birds, it can lead to drainage problems and unpleasant odors indoors.