Nobody enjoys having a plumbing problem in their home. This might be especially true if the problem has something to do with the home’s drains or sewer line. The wastewater you wash away needs to disappear so you don’t have to think about it again. But this is one of those situations when a little thinking and consideration could help you find the right solution faster.
Sometimes, a problem lies within a specific drain. It can likely be addressed with simple home remedies. At other times, the problem is deeper within the drainage system, or even in the sewer line. How can you tell if you have a drain clog or a sewer line problem? Do you need to call the plumber? We’ve got some straightforward tips for you.
If the Problem Is Recurring
If it was only one drain, and you resolved the clog, but it returns within days or weeks, it’s likely that the blockage you addressed was only the tip of the iceberg. Something deeper inside the system is causing a partial blockage that just keeps repeatedly getting clogged the rest of the way. For this, you’ll definitely need a reliable drain cleaning company in Cedar Grove, NJ.
If the Problem Is in One Drain
If the rest of your home is fine, and only a single drain is experiencing a clog, you should be able to resolve this yourself. Try a plunger—a small, clean one if the clog is not in the toilet. Keep the handle vertical as you thrust, and remember, you’re trying to push a clog through, not pull it out. If this doesn’t work, a plastic drain snake or a hand-cranked auger might be able to snag the clog.
If the Problem Is in Multiple Drains
While there may be small, localized clogs in more than one drain, if you have multiple clogged drains within the house, it’s more likely that the problem is deeper in the system. You can try the above methods, but they won’t reach a deep clog or affect anything that’s blocking the sewer line, so you’re more likely to end up calling a plumber.
If You Notice Smells or Sounds
A blocked drain is one thing. But if you hear burbling sounds within your drains or coming from your toilet, or if there is an odor of gas or sewage, you might have a different problem. While there could be a partial blockage decomposing down there, causing odors and trapped air, it’s also possible that your sewer vent is blocked or damaged. This can release dangerous sewer gasses into your home, so get a plumber immediately.
If Your Yard Is Affected
The sewer line crosses from your home to your septic tank or to the municipal sewage pipe. That means it runs under your lawn. If you notice soggy places, puddles, sewage odors, or a patch of surprisingly green grass—as though it has a mysterious source of fertilizer—it’s likely that the problem is with your sewer line. It may be cracked or broken. This requires prompt professional attention.
We hope we’ve helped to point you in the right direction. Whether you’ve got a small issue you can sort out with a plunger or a serious problem that requires qualified help, we’re always happy to answer any questions you have.
Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. today with drain concerns or any questions about your plumbing!