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If you’re not a professional plumber, you likely won’t know that your sewer lines are breaking right underneath you. Sacramento homeowners need to be aware of the warning signs associated with sewer pipe breaks so they can take action before damage done to their property worsens.

Waiting too long to repair broken sewer pipes can increase your chances of more severe problems in the future that will only be more costly to resolve. Not only will attention to corroded to clogged pipes help keep your home in good condition, it can save you money in the long run.

We’ve compiled a list of six warning signs that your sewer pipes might be damaged to help you stay on top of your property’s conditions.

6 Signs of a Sewer Pipe Break

It may be time to have your sewer pipes inspected by professionals if you notice any of the following signs in your home or on your property.

1. Higher Water Bill

A high water bill is perhaps the most accurate sign of pipe breakage. If you have not changed your water usage but your monthly bill has noticeably increased, it is likely linked to a damaged sewer pipe. Your Sacramento area water bill provides an actual record of your water consumption rather than miscellaneous signs, which could be caused by various other plumbing problems.

Whether there is a crack or a slow leak somewhere in your pipes, it may be the result of damaged sewer lines that are depositing an above average amount of water. Typically your monthly water bill varies between $10-$15 a month; however, an excessive increase in your water bill is a strong indicator that there is a problem within your pipes.

2. Poor Water Pressure

Another common sign of pipe damage is low water pressure. Water pressure refers to the force of the water that is being pushed out faucets around your home. 

Some Sacramento homeowners assume that weak water pressure is a result of clogged pipes, but that is not always the case. When there is low pressure, it is a good indication that your piping has expanded, cracked, or burst.

There are several common causes for poor water pressure, so it’s always a wise decision to consult with a professional Sacramento plumber to be sure the problem is linked to a broken sewer pipe.

3. Low Water Flow

In contrast to water pressure, water flow refers to the physical volume of water you receive from your faucets and is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). 

You probably have a more widespread plumbing problem on your hands if using several water faucets or appliances simultaneously seems to result in poor water flow. If there is less flow, then you’re likely going to find a leak somewhere along your piping.

4. Funky Odors

Water should be odorless, but mold and mildew can produce abnormal, musty smells. These forms of fungus grow in moisture-rich environments and can yield adverse health effects if left untreated for too long. If you are smelling a strange odor in your home, then you likely have water damage or pockets of moisture built up as a result of a cracked pipe.

5. Persistent Clogging

A very simple sign of broken sewage pipes is persistent clogging. Most often clogs are associated with buildup of debris, grease, hair, etc. However, your pipes are also subject to clogging as a result of more serious damage. So, if your pipe is continually clogging after a video inspection or a thorough cleaning, then there is likely a break in your sewage system.

6. Damp Spots

Areas of abnormal moisture around your home or property can result from broken pipelines. This can include puddles on your lawn, wet spots on your ceilings, or moisture in your carpets. 

When you notice these damp spots, you should not take them lightly. If you allow more moisture to build up, then it will cause an excess amount of mold or mildew to grow in your home.

Don’t Wait to Repair Your Pipes 

Failing to address broken sewer pipes on your Sacramento property can have serious repercussions for you and your family. The longer you wait to have broken pipes inspected and repaired, the more damage will be done. 

Nobody wants to spend thousands of dollars on invasive repair services. However, broken pipes can damage the foundation of your home as a result of excess water. This will be more expensive to repair than regular maintenance work conducted by a local Sacramento professional plumber.

Allowing strange odors and clogs to continue to grow in your home might have serious impacts on the health of you and your family. Sewer pipe breaks that cause mold and mildew buildup can lead to persistent coughing and throat irritation, among other symptoms. Acting fast to have your broken pipes restored will be a step in the right direction to a happy and healthy Sacramento home. 

broken pipe leaking water

What Comes Next For Your Sacramento Sewer Pipes?

While it’s hard to break PVC sewer pipes, that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible. Environmental factors can play a role, including tree roots dislocating pipes underground. Additionally, lack of maintenance can impact the lifespan of your sewer pipes, so routine care from a professional plumber is essential. 

If your Sacramento home is experiencing any of the warning signs that your sewer pipes may be breaking, then you should contact a professional as soon as possible. Express Sewer & Drain is here to provide high quality services and restore the sewer pipes on your property.

To get started, feel free to give Express Sewer a call right away!

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Topics: Sewers