Common Sewer Problems: Causes, Signs, and Solutions

Aug 26

Sewer systems play a critical role in keeping homes and businesses clean and sanitary. When sewer lines develop problems, they can lead to costly repairs, property damage, and health hazards. Knowing the most common sewer issues, their causes, and how to address them can help homeowners and business owners protect their properties and avoid emergencies.

This guide covers the most frequent sewer problems, the signs to watch for, and the best ways to maintain a healthy sewer system.

Understanding Sewer Line Issues

A sewer system is designed to carry wastewater away from sinks, toilets, showers, and floor drains to a municipal treatment facility or septic system. When part of the system becomes blocked, damaged, or deteriorated, it can disrupt the flow and cause backups or leaks.

Common sewer problems can happen in both residential and commercial sewer systems. They range from minor clogs to serious pipe damage that requires extensive repair.

1. Clogged Sewer Line

One of the most common sewer line issues is a clog in the main sewer pipe. This happens when debris builds up and restricts the flow of wastewater.

Causes of Clogs:

Grease buildup in drains from kitchens
Foreign objects flushed down toilets
Accumulated hair, soap scum, and food particles
Excessive paper products in the system

Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line:

Multiple drains are backing up at the same time
Slow-draining sinks and tubs
Gurgling sounds from toilets and drains
Unpleasant sewer odor indoors

Solutions:
Professional drain and sewer cleaning methods, such as snaking or hydro jetting, can remove the blockage. In severe cases, a sewer camera inspection can identify the exact location of the clog.

2. Tree Roots in Pipes

Tree root intrusion is another frequent problem, especially in older neighborhoods with mature landscaping. Roots are naturally attracted to moisture and can enter small cracks in sewer pipes, eventually causing blockages or even pipe collapse.

How to Identify Tree Root Intrusion:

Repeated clogs in the same area
Reduced water flow in multiple fixtures
Backups that occur after heavy rainfall

Prevention and Repair:
Installing root barriers and removing problem trees can help. If roots are already inside the pipes, hydro jetting and specialized cutting tools can clear them. In cases of severe damage, pipe relining or replacement may be necessary.

3. Aging Sewer Infrastructure

Older sewer systems, especially those made of clay or cast iron, are more likely to experience corrosion, cracks, and breaks. Over time, these materials weaken, leading to leaks and collapses.

Common Signs of Aging Sewer Pipes:

Frequent repairs in the same area
Persistent foul odors
Sinkholes or depressions in the yard above the sewer line

Repair Options:
Pipe relining can extend the life of old pipes without digging up the entire yard. In cases where the pipes are beyond repair, trenchless sewer replacement is a faster and less disruptive option.

4. Broken or Collapsed Pipes

Pipes can break or collapse due to shifting soil, freezing temperatures, or heavy vehicle traffic over the sewer line.

Warning Signs:

Sudden sewage backups
Standing water or wet spots in the yard
Sewer gas odor outdoors

Solutions:
A professional sewer inspection using a camera can confirm the damage. Depending on the severity, repair options may include trenchless pipe bursting or full excavation and replacement.

5. Sewer Backup Causes

Sewer backups occur when wastewater cannot flow through the system and instead returns into sinks, tubs, or floor drains. This can be caused by clogged sewer lines, blocked municipal mains, or stormwater overload.

Risks of Sewer Backups:

Property damage to flooring, walls, and furniture
Mold growth due to excess moisture
Health hazards from contaminated water

Prevention:
Regular sewer system maintenance, installing a backwater prevention valve, and avoiding the disposal of grease and non-flushable items can reduce the risk of backups.

6. Heavy Rain Sewer Overflow

Heavy rain can overload municipal sewer systems and cause temporary backups. This is especially common in combined sewer systems, where stormwater and wastewater share the same pipes.

Signs of Rain-Related Sewer Issues:

Backflow into the basement drains after storms
Temporary foul odors during heavy rainfall

Solutions:
Sump pumps, backwater valves, and proper yard grading can help manage excess water and reduce the risk of overflow.

7. Grease Buildup in Drains

Grease buildup is a common cause of blocked drain pipes in both homes and commercial kitchens. Grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to the walls of the pipes and narrowing the flow.

Prevention:

Dispose of cooking grease in the trash, not down the drain
Use strainers to catch food particles
Schedule preventive drain cleaning

8. Mineral Deposits and Scale

In areas with hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium can accumulate inside pipes. Over time, these deposits reduce the diameter of the pipes and slow drainage.

Maintenance Tip:
Periodic hydro jetting can help remove scale buildup and restore normal water flow.

9. Sewer Camera Inspections

When sewer problems persist, a sewer camera inspection can provide a clear view of the inside of the pipes. This helps identify cracks, blockages, and root intrusion without unnecessary digging.

Benefits of Sewer Camera Inspections:

Accurate diagnosis of the problem
Location-specific repair planning
Reduced labor costs by avoiding guesswork

10. Hydro Jetting Service

Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clear blockages, grease buildup, and debris from sewer lines. This method is highly effective and can also help maintain a clean sewer system over time.

When to Consider Hydro Jetting:

Recurring clogs that snaking does not solve
Heavy grease buildup in commercial kitchens
Preventive maintenance for older sewer systems

Preventive Sewer System Maintenance

Preventing sewer problems is more cost-effective than dealing with emergencies. Both residential and commercial sewer systems benefit from scheduled inspections and cleaning.

Maintenance Best Practices:

Schedule sewer inspections at least once a year
Use proper waste disposal habits
Avoid planting trees and shrubs near sewer lines
Install backwater valves for flood-prone areas
Have a professional perform hydro jetting every 1–2 years

When to Call a Professional Sewer Service

Some minor clogs can be cleared with a plunger or drain snake, but persistent or severe sewer problems should always be handled by a professional. Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive damage and higher costs.

Reasons to Hire a Professional:

Access to advanced diagnostic tools like sewer cameras
Expertise in both residential and commercial sewer repair
Ability to provide trenchless repair options
Compliance with local building and plumbing codes

Conclusion

Common sewer problems can disrupt daily life and create serious property risks. Issues such as clogged sewer lines, tree root intrusion, aging pipes, and sewer backups require prompt attention. Regular sewer maintenance, proper disposal habits, and preventive cleaning methods can significantly reduce the likelihood of these problems.

For homeowners and business owners, partnering with a trusted sewer and drain service provider ensures that problems are diagnosed accurately and resolved efficiently. With professional care and ongoing maintenance, you can protect your property, avoid costly repairs, and maintain a safe, sanitary environment.