5 Signs Your Sewer Line Is Broken

Knowing as soon as your sewer line is broken can mitigate the cost and escalation of additional plumbing issues. When a sewer line is broken it can introduce a number of bacteria into your home, including E Coli, salmonella, and pinworms, which can cause serious digestive issues. Raw sewage can also cause cholera, amoebiasis, jaundice, and hepatitis A.

1-Critters and Crawlers

Have you noticed an increase in the number of bugs and rodents? It could be an indication of a clogged sewer pipe. Rodents are frequently seen in sewers. They can, however, enter your home by squeezing through the slightest breaches in the sewer pipe. You might also see more insects and nats around your plumbing fixtures. This is because standing sewage is an excellent breeding ground for bugs and a good sign you might have a problem. 

 2-Lawn Patches Look a Little Too Good

You might find that you have a section of your lawn that is thriving, perhaps a little too green. A clogged sewer line is essentially spilling fertilizer on your grass. Those nutrients will make any patch of grass appear lush and green compared to the rest of the lawn.  You might also notice that there is a puddle or wet spot on the lawn. This can indicate that you have a broken sewer line.

3-Funky Odors and Mold

When moisture is present, mold and mildew grow and produce a musty odor. Mold exposure has several adverse health effects, so you should take action as soon as possible.

Water damage or moisture pockets may result from cracked pipes if you smell a funky, musty smell in your home.  You also might have the smell of raw sewage.  This smell is a tall tale sign you have a sewage pipe issue.

4-Consistent Clogging

Consistent clogging is one of the most apparent signs of a broken sewage pipe. There is usually a buildup of debris, grease, hair, etc., that causes clogs. More severe damage, however, can also clog your pipes. Hence, your system is likely broken if your sewage system continues to clog, despite a good cleaning.

5-You Have Sluggish Drains

If your drain pipes are slow, you may have a clog somewhere that will eventually cause a backup. If you clear the clogged sewage line, but the problem persists, you may have a tree root problem. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners at all costs. They have the potential to erode cast iron and PVC drain pipes. To discover out what's going on, contact a professional straight away and schedule an inspection.

What Should You Do If Your Pipes Are Broken?

A broken sewer line can damage your home's foundation. Voids can form that can destabilize the foundation, causing settlement, cracks, and sinkholes. You risk further damage and repair costs if you ignore funky odors, backed-up drains, or other signs you might have a sewage line break.

You should immediately contact a High-Speed Plumbing professional whenever you notice any of the above warning signs of a broken sewer pipe.