14 Warning Signs Your Sewer Pipes May Be Leaking
A sewer leak at your home or business is no laughing matter. Besides being highly unsanitary, it’s also extremely unpleasant! Hidden sewer leaks can be costly to repair and even more expensive to ignore. Unfortunately, with concealed sewer leaks, you may not realize there’s an issue until you receive a shockingly high water bill. A bill for hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars is a strong indicator that you could be dealing with a hidden sewer leak.
What’s worse than a leaky sewer pipe? A burst sewer pipe. That’s when you’re faced with an even bigger mess and extensive clean-up. Fortunately, there are several signs to watch out for that can help you detect a sewer leak before it escalates into a major problem.
Uncommon Sounds
The sound of constantly running water is a red flag for sewer line trouble. Ensure all faucets are off and check the toilet. If you still hear trickling sounds in the walls or overhead, that sustained flow through your plumbing system could indicate a leak in the sewer pipes.Moist Floors
Floors that feel spongy or moist underfoot can suggest a sewer leak. Your plumbing network runs throughout your home, connecting to the main sewer line. Seeping water around these connections can damage and discolor interior flooring. A damp spot on the carpet might also indicate that hidden sewer leaks are causing water to seep upward.Unpleasant Odors
Foul odors behind walls are often caused by mold and mildew thriving in damp areas. Leaky sewer lines create an ideal environment for bacterial growth around indoor drains. You might also notice unpleasant smells outside where faulty pipes leak wastewater into the yard.Cracks in Your Home
Cracks in your home’s foundation can result from shifting ground caused by dripping sewer lines. As water pools around leaks, it saturates the soil and undermines your foundation’s structural integrity. Sewer leaks can also cause concrete sidewalks, driveways, and patios to buckle.Unusual Landscape Growth
Unusual landscape growth is often accompanied by sunken, wet patches that signal sewer pipe failure. Leaks can cause grass to appear lush in concentrated areas, but unhealthy bacteria in underground wastewater will eventually ruin lawns and gardens.Rat Problems
Rats are attracted to the odors of leaking sewer lines, and their keen sense of smell alerts them to the problem before you notice it. While you don’t want rodents in the yard, their sudden presence can be a sign that your sewer pipes are leaking.Higher Water Bill
As we mentioned, an unusual spike in your water bill is a clear sign that there’s a leak lurking somewhere. It’s normal for costs to fluctuate slightly with seasonal changes, but keep an eye out for significant increases.The Water Meter Keeps Running
When all the taps are closed and appliances are off, your water meter should sit at zero. If the meter’s needle keeps moving, it could be a sign of a sewer leak.Excess Water Pooling Outside
After rainfall, it’s normal for a puddle or two to form, but if you notice puddles when it hasn’t been raining, that could mean a hidden sewer leak or an issue with your drain system. Look out for sudden changes in elevation as well, which could indicate a collapsed sewer pipe.Discoloration on the Walls
Often, a slow leak goes undetected for months if it’s behind a wall. Damp spots, dark rings, or discoloration can indicate a hidden leak. Peeling or bubbling paint and uneven wallpaper can also be signs of a hidden sewer pipe leak.Water Pressure Drops Off
A significant drop in water pressure while showering or washing dishes might be due to your municipal water supply. However, if water pressure is low at every tap and drainage is slow, you might have a hidden leak in your mainline.Old-Looking Pipes
Inspecting your home’s pipes regularly can help you identify small issues before they become bigger problems. Check under sinks and behind hidden pipes for signs of leaks. Condensation can also be a warning sign that something is amiss.Slow Drainage
Occasional slow drains are often caused by blockages. However, when every drain in the house is slow, there might be a more significant problem at play.Water Changes Color
Water from your faucet should be clear. If it turns brown, yellow, or green, it could indicate a hidden leak. While colored water doesn’t always mean a sewage issue, it can be a sign of a leaking pipe or rust in your plumbing system.
Contact Us Today
If you suspect a sewer problem, contact our team at Pipeliners as soon as possible. Our experts provide maintenance on existing sewer systems, drain line replacement, drain cleaning, underground plumbing repair, sewer drain pipe repair, and fixing leaking sewer mains.
At Pipeliners, we handle large-scale commercial excavation for main sewer line replacement and leak repair. All jobs are done to proposed specifications at a fixed cost, and all work is tested and comes with a comprehensive warranty upon completion.
Pipeliners also specializes in residential plumbing services, commercial plumbing, and trenchless sewer repairs that save time and money. We provide the best plumbing services in Arizona, so give us a call for a FREE quote today!