Leaking Sewer Line: Identifying the Warning Signs

  • Home
  • Leaking Sewer Line: Identifying the Warning Signs

A leaking sewer line is not only a health hazard, but it can also lead to significant water wastage and potential damage to your property. Therefore, it is recommended to have sewer leaks fixed by a qualified professional as soon as you identify them. Since sewage systems are concealed underground, sewer issues are not always apparent. Nevertheless, a damaged sewer line exhibits several distinct indicators. By familiarizing yourself with these signs, you can promptly identify problems with your sewer line and arrange for necessary repairs.

Foul Odors

One of the most conspicuous indicators of a sewage leak is the presence of a musty odor within your house or compound. When a pipe is damaged, sewage gases can infiltrate the surrounding air through the drains. Therefore, if you detect a reek of sewer emanating from your drains despite having properly functioning household plumbing, schedule a sewer inspection with a professional plumber to check for any leakages within your drainage system.

Slow Drains

When a sewer line develops a leak, it can cause a decrease in the drainage speed across your entire plumbing system. If numerous drains within your household exhibit slow drainage or emit gurgling noises, it could signify a breach in the sewer line. The sluggishness is likely attributed to a fractured sewer line that has become dislodged due to settlement around your residence or the infiltration of tree roots obstructing the flow of water in the pipes.

Infestation of Insects and Rodents

An increase in the presence of insects and rodents may signal an issue with your sewer line. Rodents utilize sewers as their habitats and can enter your home by squeezing through even the smallest openings. Likewise, insects can maneuver through cracked drain pipes and flourish in stagnant water, causing them to grow in numbers. As a result, address any sewer line leaks immediately to eliminate potential habitats for pests and rodents and prevent their entry into your home.

Lawn Patches and Soil Indentations

Since the sewage system is situated underground, inspect your lawn for indications of a leak. A leakage in the sewage system can result in fertilization of the surrounding area due to fecal matter, potentially causing the grass to appear greener. Furthermore, a leak can contribute excessive moisture to your lawn, saturating the soil and causing it to shift, thereby leaving noticeable indentations.

Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

A sudden and unexplained spike in your water bills could result from a sewer line leak. Leaking sewer pipes release water continuously, causing water usage to spike even when you are limiting the amount of water you are consuming within your household.

At Mountain Valley Plumbing and Heating, we hold a strong sense of pride in the level of service we provide to our valued clients in Bozeman, MT. Our team is committed to putting in the utmost effort to ensure that your sewer line repairs are swiftly and efficiently resolved. Contact us today for more information on our services.