Slow Drains Everywhere? Look at the Sewer Line

If only one fixture drains slowly while others work just fine, you’re likely dealing with a localized drain clog. A single slow drain is relatively easier to fix, depending on the culprit. You can plunge the drain, opt for a drain snake, or call a local plumber if DIY fixes fail. However, multiple drain clogs point to a clogged sewer line.

Why Multiple Slow Drains Are a Warning Sign

Your home’s plumbing system is designed so that all wastewater flows through a single main sewer line before exiting the property. When that main line becomes partially or fully blocked, wastewater has nowhere to go. As a result, water begins to drain slowly from sinks, tubs, showers, and floor drains throughout the house. Unlike a single clogged drain, which typically affects one fixture, a sewer line issue impacts multiple areas at once.

Common Causes of Sewer Line Blockages

One of the common causes of sewer line clogs is flushing the wrong items down the toilet. The sewer line is designed to only handle human waste and septic-safe toilet paper. Items such as baby diapers, flushable wipes, cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, and condoms do not belong in the sewer line. Similarly, it’s advisable to keep grease, oil, and fats out of your kitchen sink drains.

If you have trees on your property and they’re too close to your sewer line, they might grow into the lines, resulting in clogs. Our plumbers advise keeping trees at least 10 to 30 feet away from sewer lines to prevent tree root intrusion. If this isn’t possible, there are other effective root protection methods like installing physical root barriers or using chemical root killers. If tree roots have already infiltrated your sewer lines, reach out to a local plumbing service for repairs.

Mineral deposits from hard water are also a common culprit for clogged sewer lines. Over time, the hardness-causing minerals accumulate inside the lines, resulting in blockages. It’s advisable to have a plumber inspect your sewer lines regularly and determine when hydro jetting is necessary. Water softener installation is recommended as a long-term solution for hard water.

Aging pipes, pipe misalignment, corrosion, or collapsed sections can also restrict wastewater flow and lead to widespread slow drains. As a homeowner, it’s important to watch out for signs of deteriorating sewer lines and schedule sewer line replacement before it’s too late.

Why Ignoring the Problem Makes It Worse

Any plumbing problem, including sewer line damage, needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Delaying action when you suspect a sewer line issue can lead to serious consequences. Continued pressure from wastewater buildup can cause pipes to crack or collapse entirely. Sewage backups can damage flooring, walls, and personal belongings while posing health risks due to bacteria and contaminants. Sewer repair may not be the most glamorous home maintenance task, but it matters when your family’s health and the structural integrity of your home are at stake. Get in touch with a local plumbing service when you notice signs of sewer damage.

Reach Out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Sewer Repair

If you need sewer repair services, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is your answer. We’ve been offering top-rated sewer line services for decades, helping countless property owners keep their plumbing working properly. Whether you’re in need of hydro jetting to remove mineral buildup, tree root removal, or sewer line leak repair, we’ve got you covered. We offer fast and convenient scheduling so you can get the problem fixed as soon as possible.