When you flush the toilet or rinse off dishes in the sink, it’s easy to assume that once the water goes down the drain, it just disappears. But beneath your home lies a network of sewer lines that carries all the waste away. Have you ever wondered if there’s more than water and waste hiding in those pipes? Let’s find out. 

Blockages 

Many things can end up in your sewer line and cause stubborn clogs:

1. Grease and Food Waste

That leftover pasta, bacon fat, or cooking oil you rinsed down the sink might seem harmless at the moment, but over time, these substances can stick to pipe walls and harden. Grease build-up remains one of the most common causes of residential sewer line clogs. It may start small, but as it accumulates, it can choke your sewer line and cause sewer water to back up into your sink and tubs, causing a mess.

 2. Tree Roots

Tree roots are drawn to moist areas, thus, they are notorious for invading sewer lines, especially older clay or concrete pipes. Roots are drawn to the moisture in the lines and can squeeze into the smallest cracks. Once inside, they grow, tangle, and cause blockages that can lead to major damage and expensive repairs.

 3. “Flushable” Wipes and Hygiene Products

Despite the marketing, “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They can snag on the rough spots in the pipe or clump together to create serious clogs over time. The same can be said for feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, and paper towels. These materials can cause blockages that lead to major damage and expensive repairs. 

4. Lost Items

It happens more often than you think. Wedding rings, children’s toys, toothbrushes, and even cell phones can end up in your sewer line. These foreign objects not only block flow but can also cause lasting damage. 

5. Sediment and Sludge

Over time, debris like dirt, sand, hair, and soap scum can accumulate into a think sludge, espeically in homes with older plumbing or those on well water. This build-up narrows the amount of room the water can flow, reducing efficiency and increasing the risk of backups. 

6. Vermin and Insects

Rats, cockroaches, and other critters often take residence in your sewer system. In rare cases, they can even make their way up into toilets — a nightmare no one wants to experience. 

Other Sewer Line Issues

If you notice issues with your plumbing system, you may be experiencing:

1. Sewer Line Bellies

A sewer line belly is a sag or indentation in a pipe that causes it to dip lower than the surrounding area. It is caused by ground settling, soil erosion, or changes in soil composition. A belly can cause frequent clogs, backups, slow draining, and even sewage smells from pooling water. 

2. Bacteria 

Sewer lines are home to beneficial and harmful bacteria. Some bacteria break down waste and contribute to the creation of biofilms, which can affect the sewer’s function and pose health risks. Harmful pathogens, such as E. coli and Salmonella, may reside in your system, but they shouldn’t affect you as long as you keep your sewer and plumbing system clean and maintained. 

3. Collapsed or Broken Pipes 

Older homes often have clay or cast iron pipes that can corrode or deteriorate over time, leading to collapses or cracks. A collapsed pipe can allow sewage to back up into your home. Ground settling can also cause shearing, which is when pipes sink and disconnect, leading to slow drainage or even backups. 

Signs You Have Sewer Line Issues

A lot of things can lurk and get stuck in your sewer line, causing issues. Here are some signs you have a problem:

Slow Drains — Multiple slow-running drains may indicate a main sewer blockage. 

Sewer Odors — A foul odor coming from your drains or yard may suggest a blockage or leak in your sewer line. 

Gurgling Toilets — Gurgling noises in your sinks or when flushing your toilet could indicate an issue.

Pipe Backups — Raw sewage backing up into your tubs, showers, or sinks is a sign of a serious problem. 

Sinkholes — Sinkholes or overly lush spots in your yard could be a sign of a collapsed or broken sewer line. 

Cracks in the Foundation — Cracks in the foundation can also be a sign of a collapsed sewer line. 

What’s Hiding in Your Sewer Line?

What’s lurking in your sewer line may surprise or horrify you. But with regular maintenance and proper disposal of food and other items, you can keep your pipes clear and your home safe. If you’re experiencing slow drains, strange smells, or suspect an issue, call a professional plumber. Because what you can’t see can hurt you.