A sewage pipe in a house carries waste water and sewage from fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and showers to the main sewer line. This then transports it to a treatment facility. They are an essential component of a home’s plumbing system and play a crucial role in maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene. Therefore, it is important to know when they are blocked to fix the blocked sewage pipe sooner rather than later.
Signs that a sewage pipe is blocked
1. Slow Drainage:
Slow drainage from sinks, toilets, or bathtub could indicate a blocked sewage pipe.
2. Gurgling Sounds:
Air can get trapped in a blocked sewage pipe which then causes gurgling sounds. If you hear gurgling sounds, it could mean that there is a blockage.
3. Bad Odors:
A blocked sewage pipe can emit unpleasant odors, indicating that there is a buildup of waste and sewage in the pipes.
4. Backflow:
A clear indication that the pipe is blocked is when sewage starts to backflow into your home.
5. Toilet Backup:
A sign that the sewage pipe could blocked is when the toilet is not flushing properly and it starts to backup.
6. Multiple Clogs:
If multiple fixtures in your home are clogged, it’s likely that there’s a blockage in your main sewage pipe.
7. Flooding:
If your basement is flooding, and it’s not due to heavy rain or a broken pipe, it could be a sign of a blockage in your sewage pipe.
It’s important to note that these signs may indicate other issues as well. However, it’s worth checking the sewage pipe for blockage if you are experiencing any of these signs. You can contact Emergency Drains to get a free quote and diagnosis of the issue.
What Causes A Blocked Sewage Pipe
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can grow into and block sewage pipes, causing blockages and backups.
- Fats, oils, and grease: These substances can solidify in the pipes, causing blockages, particularly in older pipes.
- Foreign Objects: Pipes can be blocked by foreign objects. Including toys, sanitary products, or debris, which can accumulate and cause blockages.
- Corrosion: Over time, corrosion can weaken pipes and cause them to break, resulting in blockages.
- Scale Buildup: Minerals and hard water can deposit on the inside of pipes. As they form a scale that can eventually blocks the pipes.
- Weather and Temperature: Extreme weather and temperature changes can cause the ground to shift and damage pipes, leading to blockages.
- Lack of Maintenance: Not regularly maintaining and cleaning the pipes can lead to blockages and backups. A drain plumber or an emergency plumber in Sydney can assist you in that matter.
- Age: Old pipes can become worn and brittle over time, making them more susceptible to blockages.
- Improper Installation: If the pipes were not installed correctly, it can lead to blockages over time.
It’s important to note that most of these causes are preventable by regular maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to the sewage pipes. It’s also important to be aware of what you put in the pipes and avoid flushing down anything that may cause blockages in your sewage pipe. It is also important to know what to do in the case of a blocked pipe that affects your neighbourhood. As it might or might not be your responsibility.
If you determine that you have at least a blocked sewage pipe or you’re unsure about what the problem is, the best solution is to contact a blocked drains and pipes specialist. Emergency Drains is a family-operated plumbing business operating 24 hours all over Sydney to fix plumbing and drainage issues, no matter how big or small.
