At PM247, we understand how critical it is to have a fully functioning sewer system. Sewer line problems can be disruptive and costly if not addressed promptly, but they can also be difficult to identify without the right expertise. That’s where we come in. As specialists in drainage, available around the clock, we’ve helped countless homeowners tackle their drainage issues and keep their systems running smoothly. In this guide, we’ll explain how to spot sewer line issues, the common causes, and how we can fix them before they turn into major problems.
Understanding the Difference: Sewer Lines vs. Drains
One of the most common questions we get at PM247 is about the difference between drains and sewer lines. While both are part of your home’s wastewater system, they serve different functions and are often the responsibility of different parties.
- Drains: These are the pipes that carry water and waste away from your sinks, showers, toilets, and other fixtures inside your property. Drains lead to a lateral drain, which connects to the main sewer line.
- Sewer Lines: The sewer line, on the other hand, is a larger pipe that collects wastewater from multiple properties. Your home’s drains connect to this sewer line, which then transports the waste to sewage treatment facilities.
The key distinction is responsibility. You, the homeowner, are responsible for any issues with drains inside your property’s boundaries. Sewer lines, particularly those outside your property, are usually maintained by your local water company. However, some properties are connected to private sewer systems, and if that’s the case, you may be responsible for maintaining them.
At PM247, we’ve got the tools and expertise to handle problems on both sides of the system – whether it’s a blockage in your drains or a more serious issue with your sewer line, we’re here to help 24/7.
Signs of Sewer Line Issues
Sewer line problems often start small, but if left unchecked, they can escalate into major repairs. Spotting the signs early is key to avoiding bigger issues down the line. Here are some common indicators that your sewer line might be in trouble:
Multiple Slow Drains
If you notice that several drains in your home are running slow, it’s likely a sewer line issue. A single slow drain might just be a local blockage, but if sinks are blocked, showers, and toilets are all blocked and draining slowly, this points to a bigger problem in the main sewer line.
Sewage Backups
This is one of the most serious signs that your sewer line is blocked or damaged. If sewage is coming up back into your home’s drains, it’s a clear indication that wastewater has nowhere to go. Our PM247 team deals with these emergencies all the time, and we’re available 24/7 to clear the blockage and get your system flowing again.
Foul Smells
A well-functioning sewer system should be airtight, meaning you shouldn’t smell anything unpleasant. If you’re noticing foul smells around your drains or outside your home, this could mean there’s a crack or break in your sewer line, allowing gases to escape.
Gurgling Noises and Sounds
Gurgling noises and strange sounds coming from your toilet or drains are a sign that air is trapped in the sewer line. This is often caused by a blockage, which prevents wastewater from flowing freely. At PM247, we can assess the situation and find the root cause of these issues.
Lush Patches of Grass or Damp Spots in the Garden
If certain areas of your garden are suddenly looking greener and more lush than usual, it might not just be the weather—this could be a sign that your sewer line is leaking. Sewage acts as a fertiliser, and leaks can create patches of rapidly growing grass. Worse still, if you notice damp or soggy spots, this could be a sign that wastewater is saturating the soil.
Frequent Clogs
If you’re experiencing frequent clogs in multiple drains or toilets, even after using plungers or drain cleaners, this could indicate a blockage deeper in the sewer line. PM247 specialises in diagnosing and fixing these stubborn blockages to restore the flow in your system.
Common Causes of Sewer Line Problems
Once a problem is identified, it’s important to understand what caused it so that it can be fixed and prevent it from happening again. We often find that sewer line issues are caused by the following:
1) Tree Roots
Tree roots are a frequent culprit in sewer line blockages. Roots naturally seek out moisture, and sewer pipes provide a rich food and water source. Once roots have penetrated pipes, they can grow and cause unwanted damage to the system, rupturing pipes and causing them to break.
2) Debris Build-up
Over time, grease, food waste, hair, and other debris can build up inside sewer lines, leading to blockages or ‘fatbergs’. These blockages prevent wastewater from flowing through, causing backups and slow drains.
3) Old or Deteriorating Pipes
Older homes can often have sewer pipes made from materials like cast iron or clay, unfortunately, which are prone to deterioration.
4) Moving Ground
Natural shifts in the ground, caused by changes in weather, flooding or nearby construction, can place pressure on underground sewer lines.
How PM247 Fixes Sewer Line Issues
We’re available 24/7 to fix any sewer line issues you may have, and our experienced drainage team can help you to resolve your issue regardless of the severity of the problem. Here’s how we can help:
Clearing Blockages
For smaller blockages, we often use hydro-jetting. This involves blasting the blockage with high-pressure water to clear debris and restore the flow of wastewater. For tree roots, we use specialised cutting tools to remove them from the pipe – replacing or relining the pipe as we go.
Pipe Relining
If the sewer line is cracked or leaking but not completely collapsed, we can use pipe relining to repair it without digging up your garden. This involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the damaged pipe. Once it hardens, it creates a new, durable pipe inside the old one. It’s a quick and effective method that avoids the disruption of traditional pipe replacement.
Pipe Replacement
For more severe damage, such as a collapsed sewer line, pipe replacement is necessary. At PM247, we offer both traditional trenching methods and trenchless sewer replacement, which minimises disruption to your property. We’ll assess the situation and recommend the best option for your specific needs.
Tree Root Removal
When tree roots are the cause of the issue, we not only remove the roots but also repair any damage they’ve caused to your sewer line. In some cases, we’ll apply chemical root inhibitors to prevent future growth.
Preventing Future Sewer Line Problems
At PM247, we believe in not only fixing the problem but also helping you prevent it from happening again. After we’ve completed the repairs, we’ll provide you with advice on maintaining your sewer line and keeping it in good condition:
- Watch What You Flush: Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, sanitary products, and kitchen grease can cause clogs.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: We recommend having your sewer lines inspected regularly, especially if you live in an older home or near large trees. Regular inspections catch issues before they become serious problems.
- Root Barriers: If tree roots are a recurring issue, we may suggest installing root barriers to keep roots from infiltrating your sewer line in the future.
Final Thoughts on Sewer Line Issues
At PM247, we know that sewer line issues can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, but with our expertise and round-the-clock availability, we can quickly resolve any problems you may face. Whether it’s a blockage, a crack in the pipe, or more severe damage, we’ve got the tools and experience to identify the issue and fix it efficiently. By addressing the problem early, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your sewer system functioning smoothly. If you suspect a sewer line issue, don’t hesitate – contact us at PM247, and we’ll be there to help, day or night.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help with sewer line issues or any other drainage problems. Or call PM247 on 0808 258 0440 for urgent enquiries.
With PM247, you can rest easy knowing your drainage problems are in expert hands, 24/7.