Is the Clog in Your Drain or Your Sewer Line? Here’s How to Tell

When water isn’t draining as it should, the first step is recognizing the source of the problem. A clog in a household drain and an obstruction in the main sewer line may cause similar issues, but they may be completely separate problems with different solutions. As the go-to expert in drain cleaning in Snohomish County, WA, Sewer Solutions NW shares insight on determining whether the clog is in your drain or sewer line.

Identifying a Clogged Household Drain

Household drain clogs are usually localized to one fixture, such as a sink, shower, or toilet. Common signs include slow drainage, standing water, or gurgling sounds when the water flows. If you're having trouble with only one clogged drain, the issue is most likely within that specific area. These blockages can be due to a variety of reasons, from hair and soap scum buildup in bathroom drains to food scraps in kitchen sinks.

Minor clogs can often be cleared with a plunger or through professional drain snaking services. Chemical drain cleaners may also provide a temporary fix, but using them too frequently is not recommended as they can damage your pipes.

Symptoms of a Sewer Line Clog

A sewer line clog typically affects multiple fixtures in your home. For instance, you may notice that water backs up in the shower when you flush the toilet or that several drains are slow at the same time. Foul odors from drains or water pooling in your yard near the sewer line are also warning signs. These blockages can be caused by tree roots, sediment buildup, or items flushed down toilets that shouldn’t be.

It's important to address a sewer line clog immediately, as it can lead to serious issues such as sewage backups and pipe damage. A professional sewer and drain cleaning company will have the proper equipment and expertise to locate and remove the obstruction.

What to Do If You’re Unsure

In some cases, it's simply challenging to ascertain where the problem is coming from. The most foolproof way to get the situation resolved is to call a professional technician for an inspection. This removes any guesswork and ensures that proper recommendations are made for the best course of action.

Sewer Solutions NW offers comprehensive sewer and drain cleaning services for residential and commercial properties. We have access to state-of-the-art equipment and years of experience in tackling all types of clogs and obstructions. Contact us today or fill out our online form to request a service visit.