ERM Plumbing & Heating

September 23, 2022

A clogged sewer drain can cause serious problems and may be considered a plumbing emergency. If there is no way for the wastewater to reach the main sewer system or septic field, it may back up into fixtures or floor drains. Do not use any plumbing in the home until the clog is cleared.

What Causes Sewer Drain Clogs?

There are many things that can cause a sewer drain clog, but the most common are:

  • Tree roots: Tree roots can grow into the sewer line and cause a blockage.
  • Grease: Grease can build up in the sewer line and cause a blockage.
  • Foreign objects: Foreign objects can get flushed down the toilet and cause a blockage.
  • Flushing non-flushable items: Flushing non-flushable items, such as diapers, sanitary napkins, and paper towels, can cause a blockage.

If your sewer drain is clogged, it's important to take action immediately to clear the blockage. A clogged sewer drain can cause serious problems, including backups, flooding, and sewage spills. There are seven main symptoms of a clogged sewer drain:

1. Slow Drains

If your drains are draining slowly, the most common cause is a clog in your sewer line. Slow drains can be caused by various things, including grease, hair, soap scum build-up, and foreign objects that have become lodged in the line.

2. Gurgling Sounds

If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, it is another sign that you may have a clog in your sewer line. Gurgling sounds are caused by air bubbles that are trying to escape from the clogged sewer line.

3. Bad Odors

If you notice bad odours coming from your drains, it is another sign that you may have a clog in your sewer line. The bad odours are caused by the buildup of sewage and other organic matter in the clogged sewer line.

4. Overflowing Toilets

If your toilet is overflowing, it is a sign that you have a serious clog in your sewer line. When a toilet overflows, it is usually because there is a blockage in the line that is preventing the water from draining properly.

5. Flooding

If you have flooding in your home, it is a sign that you have a serious clog in your sewer line. Flooding can be caused by various things, including a blockage in the line, a broken pipe, or a faulty sump pump.

6. Sewage Spills

If you have sewage spills in your home, it is a sign that you have a serious clog in your sewer line. Sewage spills can be caused by various things, including a blockage in the line, a broken pipe, or a faulty sump pump.

7. Water Backflow

If your toilet is flushing by itself or you have water coming up through your drains, this is a sign of a serious clog. This is because water is being forced back up through the pipes and into your home. This can cause extensive damage to your home and should be fixed immediately.

Conclusion

There are many potential causes of a sewer drain clog. Some of the most common include tree roots, grease, and foreign objects. Symptoms of a sewer drain clog include slow draining, gurgling noises, and sewage backup. If you suspect you have a sewer drain clog, it's important to contact a professional plumber for help. Trying to fix the problem yourself can often make matters worse.

If you need plumbing repair services in Calgary, don’t hesitate to call ERM Plumbing & Heating. Our company was established in 2010 with a simple vision to help people with plumbing and heating problems. Contact us now and get your pipes fixed right away.

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