A sewer line is one of the home’s most important drains. However, many homeowners don’t realize that it can become easily blocked. If not fixed, a clogged sewer line can end up significantly damaging flooring and walls, but your home’s foundation as well. Below is information about why a sewer line is so essential and the problems a blocked one can cause.

What is a Sewer Line?

A sewer line is the main pipe that connects your home to a sewage system. When waste is flushed down the sewer line it is generally connected to a city or county water treatment facility or a  septic system.

What Causes a Blocked Sewer Line?

Blocked sewer lines can be caused by quite a few things. This includes tree roots tightly wrapping themselves around the line, the line being punctured, or there being a build-up of grease in it.
Sometimes blocked sewer lines can be the result of incorrect plumbing connections. For instance, if a separate system, such as a backyard drain, was attached to the sewer line, it might not be connected properly which can result in the line getting clogged.

The Problems a Blocked Sewer Line Can Create

There are a handful of problems that a blocked sewer line can cause.

  • Low Water Pressure
    • If a sewer line is blocked, water will be unable to travel through pipes. Because of this, it will cause the water pressure to significantly drop.
  • Contaminated Water
    • Because the sewer line is blocked, the contents inside will try to find other areas to flow into. This can end up causing wastewater to get into water pipes that are used for bathing and drinking.
  • A Nasty Smell in Your Home
    • Blocked sewer lines will also produce a very nasty odor that fills your home. This is because the line is blocked, and since the waste has no place to go, it will end up sitting in the sewer line behind your walls. Eventually, the odor will seep through them.

Signs That You Have a Blocked Sewer Line

Some signs to keep an eye out for include:

  • Your toilets or sinks making strange gurgling sounds
  • The toilet fills up with water when you run a sink
  • You find yourself needing to plunge the toilet often

A blocked sewer line can result in a major mess if not fixed. If you’re concerned that your home in Santa Rosa, CA might have one, be sure to call Redwood Sewer & Drain. We will work to quickly fix the problem and prevent any future blockages from occurring.