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7 Signs of a Collapsed Sewer Line (with/Causes + Solutions)

Signs of a Collapsed Sewer Line

The signs of a collapsed sewer line can be obvious or subtle but almost always require swift attention. Most people think of clogs from sinks or toilets, but those clogs pale compared to a sewer line clog. Every drain pipe connects to the main sewer line outside or underneath your home.

Early detection is critical to reducing the overall costs of a sewer line collapse or potentially preventing a total collapse from occurring. Below, Enco Plumbing reveals seven signs of a collapsed sewer line.

1) Low-Level Backups

When first-story toilets, sinks, or bathtubs backup frequently, it’s a sign of an impending sewer line collapse. Most homeowners immediately call a plumber after a toilet soaks their bathroom. However, many hold off on contacting a professional when their sink or bathtub overflows.

The reality is that you should call a plumber as soon as you notice these backups. Your basement plumbing will also act up in this scenario as it’s closest to the sewer line. Failure to contact a professional may result in basement flooding and water damage. The flooding may be subtle initially.

2) Multiple Clogs

The main sewer line impacts all of your home’s drains, including bathroom sinks and bathtubs. So if you notice multiple fixtures acting up or failing to drain, it’s an obvious sign of a collapsed sewer line. Depending on the severity of the collapse, the water may still drain but much more slowly.

Contact a plumber who can use an inspection camera to identify the clogged pipe and mark the precise point of collapse. Most collapses stem from corroded pipes and grease build-up.

3) Soaked Yard

One of the less obvious signs of a collapsed sewer line is a soaked lawn. It may not be your sprinkler keeping your yard wet but a broken sewer line near a tree root. The dirt absorbs the excess water from your sinks, toilets, and other plumbing mechanisms. 

The yard will usually gradually saturate so that the problem won’t be readily noticeable. However, one day, you may notice an unusually moist lawn and even puddles near the underground pipes in your yard. In either case, you need to call a plumber ASAP.

4) Unusual Sounds

If your toilet or sinks make unusual sounds like gurgling, there may be a problem with your sewer line. Because sounds can crop up for various reasons, this is one of the more subtle signs of a collapsed sewer line. However, it makes sense to call a plumber, as something is amiss.

Your toilet is not the only fixture that can create strange sounds. Your sinks, bathtubs, and faucets may also emit disturbing sounds that activate your common sense danger signals.

5) Foul and Unpleasant Odor

Suppose your sewer line collapse is causing sewage not to drain correctly. In that case, your plumbing may omit a foul and unpleasant odor through the pipes. Make no mistake; these disturbing odors constitute a significant inconvenience and pose serious health threats.

The bacteria and wastewater mixture disseminate airborne pollutants inside your home. As a result, anyone living in your home may be at risk. Call a plumber as soon as possible whenever you smell something like this.

6) Cracked Walls

If you’re strolling through your living room and notice a crack in your wall, the problem may stem from a collapsed sewer line. Of course, various other ailments can create a wall crack, but a sewer line is among them.

The consequences can be severe if a sewer line problem causes the crack. It may be an indicator that your sewer line not only collapsed, but your entire house is about to collapse. You will want to call a professional plumber immediately.

7) Pest Infestation

The last thing homeowners want is pest infestation inside their property. However, a sewer line collapse can result in this widely feared nightmare.

If you notice an increase in insects or rodents, the sewer line may be the culprit. 

Think about it; rodents dwell in sewers, so a collapsed sewer line may result in them relocating. Aside from the obvious disturbance of pests, they also pose serious health risks for anyone inside your home, primarily because they spread airborne pollutants.

Collapsed Sewer Line Solutions

If your home has one of these problems caused by a collapsed sewer line, your best solution is sewer line repair. Call a professional plumber like Enco Plumbing to repair your main water line and prevent further damage to your home and property. Addressing the problem quickly will also save you money long-term.

What Are the Signs Your Hot Water Heater is Going Out?

storage room containing a hot water heater

Do You Need a New Water Heater?

If you are like most homeowners, your water heater is one of the most important parts of your plumbing system. It works day in and day out providing your home with hot water to be used for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and for many other purposes. However, all that hard work means your hot water heater is bound to experience some wear and tear over time. This is why you will eventually need a water heater replacement. If the time has come for a water heater replacement in The Colony, TX, our team can be there for you. Call 214-222-4464 for more information about whether a water heater replacement is right for your needs.

The Average Life Expectancy of a Water Heater

Most homeowners don’t think about their hot water heater until it stops working. And when it does stop working, they often wonder how long it’s been since it was last replaced or even serviced. The average life expectancy of a hot water heater is about 10 years. However, this number can vary depending on the type of water heater you have in your home and other factors such as the maintenance your hot water heater has received over the years. But overall, paying attention to the age of your hot water heater is often the best sign to indicate when a hot water heater replacement is necessary.

Dealing With a Lack of Hot Water

Among the biggest signs of a hot water heater that is going bad is an inability to produce enough hot water. When your home’s demand for hot water is greater than what your water heater can provide, it is usually time for a new one, though sometimes you may be able to get by with repairs. Additionally, if you notice that the temperature of the hot water in your home fluctuates or there are delays in getting hot water, this could also mean your water heater isn’t able to keep up and will need to be replaced sooner rather than later.

Unusual Sounds From Your Water Heater

Another sign your hot water heater may be going bad is if it begins to produce some unusual sounds. These sounds can be things like banging, clicking, or even gurgling noises. In many cases, these sounds are the result of sediment buildup in your water heater, in which case they can potentially be taken care of with a simple flush of the tank. However, if the problem persists, there may be bigger issues to deal with. In this case, you will likely need either repairs or a full replacement of your hot water heater.

Leaks Around Your Water Heater

Another big sign that you need a water heater replacement is also one that is often considered a plumbing emergency. Leaks from your water heater are typically indicators of a major problem. If not taken care of quickly, leaks coming from your water heater can lead to water damage in your home. If you notice any leaks, no matter how small, contact a professional right away to take a look at your water heater.

Your Water Heater is Getting Old

Of course, as we already touched on, one of the most common signs that you need to replace your hot water heater is simply its age. If your water heater is getting older, you likely want to begin considering and planning for a replacement. This is true even if you aren’t currently seeing any major signs of problems with your hot water heater. Preparing in advance for your water heater replacement can keep you from being inconvenienced by any major problems with the appliance later on.

Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater

Many people choose a water heater replacement simply because they are interested in the benefits a tankless water heater can provide. A tankless water heater is a newer, more efficient type of water heater that doesn’t use a storage tank. This means they are smaller in size and can be mounted on a wall, taking up even less space in your home. Additionally, they are not constantly heating up water in a storage tank, which also means they typically use far less energy than traditional tank-style water heaters.

Because they don’t have a storage tank, they are able to heat water much more quickly than traditional water heaters. In fact, they are often thought of as “instant” water heaters because you will not have to wait for your water to heat up with this option.

Is it Worth Repairing a Hot Water Heater?

In some cases, a hot water heater that is experiencing problems can be repaired. However, repairing a water heater is not always the best option. For example, if a hot water heater is already nearing the end of its lifespan and an expensive repair is going to be needed to get it functional again, it may not be worth having the repair done. Some homeowners may be more inclined to choose a hot water heater replacement if the repair they will need is expensive, in which case they may feel that their money would better be spent on a water heater replacement. Whatever the case, your plumber can work with you to decide which option is best depending on the factors that you are dealing with.

water heater standing by itself

Choosing a Professional for Hot Water Heater Replacement

If you are considering a hot water heater replacement, it is a good idea to reach out to a professional for help from the beginning. This is because there are many factors that need to be taken into account when making this decision, such as the size of your home, the type of water heater you currently have, and your budget. A professional can get things started by helping you determine whether a hot water heater replacement is really necessary. From there, they can help you choose the best water heater for your needs and provide the installation of your new unit. If you’re interested in a water heater replacement in The Colony, TX, we can help. Call us at 214-222-4464.

When is Drain Cleaning Necessary?

overflowing kitchen sink with clogged drain

The Importance of Drain Cleaning

When drains aren’t kept clean, they become clogged with debris, which can lead to a number of problems. From water damage and pest infestations to bad smells, there are many different issues that can arise due to simple neglect of the drains in your home. Clogged drains can also be a fire hazard in some situations. Drain cleaning services are important for a number of reasons and should be done on a regular basis to keep your home safe and healthy. However, drain cleaning may also be your best choice when you find yourself dealing with a plumbing emergency. If you need help with drain cleaning in The Colony, TX, the professionals at Enco Plumbing can help get things back into shape. Call 214-222-4464.

Why is Drain Cleaning Necessary?

One of the most common problems associated with clogged drains is water damage. When water can’t flow freely through the drain, it can start to back up and overflow. This can lead to water damage in many different parts of the home. Meanwhile, standing water can attract pests, which can lead to an infestation. Clogged drains can also cause bad odors as the debris that’s trapped in them starts to decompose. This can make your home smell unpleasant and make it difficult to breathe.

In some cases, clogged drains can even be a fire hazard. This is something that can occur if grease or other combustibles get caught in the drain and build up over time. When a fire starts, it can quickly spread to other parts of the home through the drains. These are all things that make drain cleaning so important. Proper maintenance of your drains can prevent many of these issues from occurring.

How Often Should Drain Cleaning be Done?

Drain cleaning should be done on a regular basis to keep your home safe and healthy. Depending on the type of drains you have, it may need to be done as often as every month or as seldom as every few years. Many homeowners opt for annual drain cleanings to help ensure their plumbing system is always in the best shape possible. The best way to determine how often you need a drain cleaning is to consult with a professional. They’ll be able to take a look at your drains and let you know how often they should be cleaned.

While it is often done as a preventative measure, drain cleaning may also be necessary if there is a clog deep inside your drains that can’t be taken care of through other means. A proper drain cleaning will remove all the debris that’s trapped in your drains so they can function properly again.

What is Involved in Drain Cleaning?

There are a few different methods that can be used for drain cleaning. The most common method and the most basic is to use a plunger to try and dislodge a clog. This is often effective for minor clogs but typically won’t do much for a far bigger clog or one that is deeper in your plumbing system. Additionally, plunging a drain will not do much to prevent future clogs.

If your drains are clogged, using a drain cleaner may seem to be the best way to clear them. There are a number of different types of drain cleaners available, but the most common is a chemical cleaner. These cleaners come in a liquid or powder form and are poured down the drain. They work by breaking up the clog and dissolving the material to leave your drain clear and functional. However, while a drain cleaner may be okay to use in an emergency situation, it may not be the best option for regular use. This is because the chemicals in drain cleaners can be corrosive and may damage your plumbing system over time.

This is why the best way to clean your drains is to have a professional do it. They have the tools and expertise necessary to get your drains cleared quickly and efficiently. They can also do a more thorough job than most homeowners due to their experience and the equipment available to them, which also means that they can do more to prevent future drain issues.

Are You Due for Drain Cleaning?

Homeowners may not know when they need a drain cleaning, but there are some telltale signs. In addition to water damage, pest infestations, bad smells, and even fires, a clogged drain can lead to various other issues. Some plumbing problems that indicate the need for drain cleaning include:

  • Slow drainage: If it takes longer than usual for the water to go down the drain, it’s a sign that the drain is clogged.
  • Water backup: This occurs when water starts to come back up through the drain instead of going down. It’s often accompanied by slow drainage.
  • Gurgling sounds: These sounds occur when air is trying to escape through a clogged drain, and are often a good indicator that drain cleaning may be ne
  • Foul odors: A bad smell coming from the drains is often an indication that they need to be cleaned.

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s important to call a professional for drain cleaning. This will help to ensure your home stays in the best shape possible.

How Does Professional Drain Cleaning Work?

If you’re experiencing any of the problems listed above, it’s important to reach out for professional help. Professional drain cleaning can ensure your home stays in the best shape possible. This type of cleaning involves a team of professionals who will use specialized equipment to clean your drains. This equipment can include high-pressure water jets, augers, and rooters. Your plumbing professionals may also perform a plumbing video camera inspection to get a good look at the drains and determine the best way to clean them.

Once the professionals have determined that you do in fact need a drain cleaning, they will get to work right away. The process usually takes anywhere from one to four hours, depending on the severity of the problem. In some cases, a clog may be so bad that it will take longer to clear, though in the majority of cases the problem will be taken care of within a day or so.

plumber providing drain cleaning

Scheduling Your Service

If you believe you may need drain cleaning in The Colony, TX or the surrounding area, our team can be there for you. We can provide drain cleaning services using the latest equipment and the latest techniques. To schedule your service, reach out to us at 214-222-4464.

What is Considered a Plumbing Emergency?

young woman dealing with a burst pipe

Dealing With Plumbing Emergencies

There is always a lot to deal with during a plumbing emergency. And for many people, one of the biggest challenges of dealing with an emergency plumbing issue is knowing whether their problem really counts as an emergency. Sometimes it’s obvious that a plumbing issue is an emergency. If there is water flooding your home, you probably already know you will need to reach out for the help of an emergency plumber. However, there are many other plumbing problems that count as plumbing emergencies, some of which may not seem all that urgent at first glance. Fortunately, there are a few things you can keep in mind to help you decide whether you need emergency plumbing repair for your issue. And if you need an emergency plumber in The Colony, TX right now, you can give us a call. Dial 214-222-4464.

Is a Leak a Plumbing Emergency?

Everybody will need to deal with a leak in their home from time to time. Whether it’s a small drip from a faucet or a more significant issue like a leaking pipe, they will all need to be repaired at some point. But not all leaks are considered plumbing emergencies. If the leak is minor and isn’t causing any damage to your home, you can probably wait to call a plumber, at least for a little while. However, it will still need to be taken care of quickly. Even a small leak can lead to water damage in your home if it’s ignored, along with a spike in your water bill.

There are many situations in which you may want to reach out to a 24/7 emergency plumber for help if you have a leak as well. For example, if the leak is coming from a pipe that is underground and there is a visible problem like pooling water in your yard, you will need to call for professional help as soon as possible. It can be difficult to find and repair leaks in these types of pipes without the help of an emergency plumber, and it can lead to significant damage if left unchecked. This is especially true if you notice signs of a slab leak, which can be incredibly damaging to your home and its foundation. If you aren’t certain whether emergency repairs are needed, it is generally best to go ahead and call for service.

What is an Emergency Plumbing Situation?

There are a few things that can help you identify whether an issue is an emergency situation. Any time the plumbing issue you are dealing with has the potential to cause water damage, you can consider it an emergency. Additionally, any plumbing issue that could expose you and your family to hazardous waste can be thought of as an emergency. For example, if a toilet is overflowing, you could end up with large amounts of hazardous wastewater on your bathroom floor. Not only is exposure to this wastewater dangerous, but special care will be needed to properly clean up the mess. This is something that may require professional assistance, and that can therefore be costly.

What Do You Do in a Plumbing Emergency?

The first step on what to do in a plumbing emergency is also the simplest: don’t panic. This is important because there are generally a lot of things you will need to do right away to take care of your plumbing issue. If you are dealing with a problem such as a burst pipe or a broken faucet that has left large amounts of water pouring out into your home, one of the first things you will need to do is shut off the water at the main valve.

Another important thing to do when dealing with a plumbing emergency is to determine whether the problem is something you will be able to take care of yourself. There are some small repairs and types of plumbing maintenance you will likely be able to do even if you don’t already have much experience in dealing with plumbing issues. However, in the majority of cases, you will want to go ahead and reach out for the help of an emergency plumber. Often, attempting to solve a plumbing problem on your own will only lead to far bigger issues.

How Do I Prepare for a Plumbing Emergency?

Plumbing emergencies can be difficult to deal with, especially if you aren’t familiar with plumbing procedures. If a plumbing emergency arises, it is always important to know what to do and who to call for help. Many people do not know how to handle emergency plumbing issues, and trying to take care of the problem yourself if you don’t have the experience can lead to further damage and costly repairs.

As mentioned, one of the first things you will need to do in many emergency situations is cut your water off at the main valve. The last thing you want to be doing in an emergency is searching for this valve, which is why preparing for a plumbing emergency includes finding the main water cut-off valve in advance of any problem.

And finally, remember that in most cases, you will need to reach out for the help of an emergency plumber to help you deal with your problem. You don’t want to be outside in the middle of the night searching for the main water cut-off valve, and you don’t want to be going through Google search results in an attempt to find an emergency plumber who offers 24/7 service.

plumber providing emergency repair

Finding an Emergency Plumber

It’s always a good idea to find an emergency plumber in advance and to be certain they are a plumber capable of handling a wide range of plumbing problems. While you can plan for a plumbing emergency, you can’t plan for the kind of emergency you will experience. You could be dealing with anything from a burst pipe to a water heater that has sprung a leak, and you need to know you have someone on your side able to help you take care of any problem. If you need an emergency plumber in The Colony, TX, our team can be there to help. Give us a call at 214-222-4464.