Sewer lines are the unseen hero of your home’s plumbing system- while largely invisible, they are essential to the functionality of your home! Because they are underground, it is easy to overlook their importance or recognize when maintenance is needed. At I Fix Pipe, we specialize in sewer line repair and replacement, using trenchless plumbing to make necessary repairs with minimal digging. If you notice plumbing issues in your home, read on to discover if your sewer line is the culprit and what can be done to help.
Common Sewer Line Issues
Sewer lines play a critical role in removing wastewater from your home, but when they fail, they can cause significant problems. Here are some of the most common sewer line issues homeowners face:
- Clogged sewer line: Buildup of hair, grease, soap or other debris can block sewer lines, leading to slow draining or backups.
- Cracked sewer line: Cracks in your sewer line can develop due to age, corrosion, or shifting soil, leading to leaks and water damage.
- Offset sewer line pipes: Shifting soil or low-quality craftsmanship can result in misaligned pipes, which obstruct the flow of water.
- Sewer line collapse: An entire sewer line collapse can be costly and is usually a result of old pipe materials, severe corrosion, or external pressure, like heavy machinery.
- Invasive root growth: Roots from trees and shrubs are drawn to pipes because of extra moisture and nutrients, causing blockages, cracks, and long-term damage.
It can be hard to recognize if your sewer line has these issues, so it is important to learn what signs to look for in your plumbing system.
Signs Your Sewer Line Needs Repairs
If you notice any of the following signs in your home, it may be time to call a professional to inspect your sewer line:
- Mold, mildew, or foul odor near drains
- Frequent toilet backups
- Slow draining tubs or sinks
- Random lush spots in your lawn
- Gurgling sounds when draining
- Pest control issues (pests like cockroaches can enter the home through cracked pipes)
How to Approach Sewer Line Issues
If you suspect a sewer line problem, the safest decision is to call a professional. Because sewer lines connect to the municipal sewer system, there is a chance of encountering hazardous chemicals or diseases if you attempt DIY repairs.
However, there are few steps you can take to contain minor issues until professional help arrives:
- Use a drain cleaner for minor clogs (natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar work well).
- Flush pipes with a high-pressure hose to dislodge debris.
- Use a sewer rake to cut and remove invasive tree roots.
Keep in mind that most DIY fixes will not address the root cause of the problem and can be dangerous. We recommend erring on the side of caution when you have a sewer line issue and consider hiring a professional that specializes in trenchless plumbing solutions, like I Fix Pipe.
Preventative Sewer Line Maintenance
While sewer line issues can be overwhelming to handle, the good news is that there are steps you can take to help prevent problems before they happen.
- Watch What Goes Down the Drain: Avoid putting grease, oils, and fats down the drain, and never flush wipes or hygiene products.
- Plant Smart: Plant trees and shrubs at least 10 feet away from sewer lines to avoid root invasion.
- Use Drain Protectors: Install a drain cover to catch hair and debris before they clog pipes- you can find these at most hardware stores or supermarkets.
- Use Garbage Disposals Wisely: Always run water down the drain before and after using the garbage disposal and avoid putting starchy foods like potato peels in the disposal. When in doubt about what you can and can’t put in the disposal, throw it away instead.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Hire a professional plumber to inspect and clean your sewer line regularly, about every 2 years. Modern inspection methods are non-invasive and can catch cracks, clogs, or backups early.
Trust I Fix Pipe for Your Sewer Line Repair
Your sewer line is an integral part of your home and can lead to serious issues if not handled properly. You need a team of experts that can ensure your home’s plumbing is in top shape. With over six decades of experience and 24/7 emergency plumbing services, you can trust I Fix Pipe’s expert plumbers for affordable sewer line repair, replacement, or cleaning in Midland and Odessa.
Contact us today to schedule a service or get a free second opinion on your sewer line repair needs!
