drain

7 Signs There’s a Problem with Your Sewer or Drains

Your home’s drainage and sewer system carries away wastewater and sewage. The system consists of a network of pipes connecting to your home’s main sewer line. The main sewer line is the large pipe that carries wastewater and sewage from your home to the municipal sewer system or septic tank.

The Home Drain and Sewer System

A home drain and sewage system typically consist of a mainline, cleanout, trap, and vent stack. The mainline is the large pipe that carries wastewater from the home to the sewer or septic tank. The cleanout is a Y-shaped fitting that allows access to the mainline for cleaning purposes. 

The trap is a U-shaped section of pipe that holds water and prevents sewer gasses from entering the home. The vent stack is a pipe that runs from the trap to the roof and allows air to enter the system, preventing a vacuum from forming.

There are several signs of an issue with your home’s drainage system. If you notice any of the following, you should contact a professional for help:

  • Backups, Blockages, and Slow Drains

If you notice issues with your home’s drainage or backup systems, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. This could include an obstruction in the pipes, cracks in the system, or a general error in the piping.

  • Sewage Odour

Sewage and drainage systems should be completely sealed to prevent odours from entering the home. If you smell sewage, there is likely a crack or break in the piping.

  • Insects and Rodents

If your sewage system is damaged, rodents and insects can enter your home. This can be a health hazard, so getting help from a professional is important if you’re experiencing this issue.

  • Mould Growth

If you notice mould randomly growing in your home and there are no other leaks, you may have sewer problems. If there are strong odours accompanying the mould, you likely have a break in your home’s pipes.

  • Septic Waste in Yard

If you see sewage waste pooling in your yard, it is a sure sign of a problem with your septic system. Your septic tank may have broken, or there is a clog in one of the drains along the line.

  • Green Grass

This means that your yard is getting an extra boost of nutrients from sewage. This is because when sewage leaks, it releases fertilizer into the ground. So, if you have a green yard, your soil is getting an extra boost of nutrients!

  • Landscaping and Foundation Issues

If you find cracks or sinkholes in your yard or your home’s foundation, this could be a sign of serious sewage pipe deterioration. Contact a professional immediately if you see these signs.

Conclusion

If you have a problem with your sewer or drains, the best action is to call a professional. Sewer and drain problems can be very complex, and attempting to fix them yourself can often make the situation worse. A professional will have the tools and knowledge necessary to diagnose and fix the problem properly, ensuring that your sewer or drain functions properly for years to come.

Bromac offers plumbing and heating solutions and is willing to go above and beyond to serve our customers. We service gas fitting, hot water heating, boiler installations, bathroom and kitchen installations, constructions, and renovations in Abbotsford, BC. If you need reliable plumbing services, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today!

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