Signs of a Pipe Clog
A clogged pipe is a common plumbing issue almost every homeowner deals with sooner or later.
Plumbing pipes running through the home serve different functions, from delivering clean water to the faucets and fixtures to transporting waste to the sewage system. Therefore, properly installed and efficiently functioning pipes are critical to the comfort, health, and safety of the home and the occupants.
A clogged pipe is a common plumbing issue almost every homeowner deals with sooner or later. Besides causing problems for the pipes, a clog can lead to other hazardous issues like mold, foundation shifting, and significant water damage. However, pipes do not clog overnight. Instead, it is a gradual process. Familiarizing yourself with the early indicators that a clog is developing within the pipes can prevent a minor problem from turning into a huge nightmare.
Here are the telltale signs of a clogged pipe:
Slow drains
When the toilet, bathtub, shower, or kitchen and bathroom sink takes longer than expected to empty, a clog is slowly building up somewhere in the pipe. Severe clogs do not allow water to drain at all. If multiple pipes in the home have slow drainage, the problem of a clog is most likely with the sewer line. Call a plumber if plunging and other DIY methods fail to restore proper drainage. Experienced plumbers use different advanced techniques to identify the clog location and clear it quickly.
Sewage smells
A clear sign that the pipes are developing clogs is noticing a foul, sewage, or rotten egg-like smell near the sink, shower, toilet, or bathtub. This is because the hair, food, soap scum, and other debris that accumulate in the pipes decompose over time and give off a bad smell—a significant blockage results in stronger odors.
Odd noises
Clogs reduce the ability of pipes to drain correctly. Hearing bubbling, hissing, dripping, or gurgling sounds after flushing the toilet or running water through the sink or shower hints toward a clog. Odd noises from the plumbing system are never a good sign, and it is best to get it evaluated by a professional plumber.
Water backing up
A clear indicator of a clog in the pipe is when the water backs up through any drain. An overflowing toilet or shower when using a washing machine or shower or tub drain backing up after flushing the toilet points to a bigger problem. Water backing up can create a big mess and is also not good for the health and safety of the home and family.
Changes in water pressure and flow
A quick change in the water pressure and flow signals that something is wrong with the home drainage system. It indicates that the pipe is cracked or broken, or a clog is blocking the water flow. Any or all faucets can experience water pressure change, depending on the location and severity of the clog. A plumber can identify the cause of obstruction and fix it before it turns severe.
Keep the pipes sparkling clean!
Most pipe clogs are simple and inexpensive to repair when fixed on time. The above signs can help in the early identification of pipe clogs and allow homeowners to deal with them promptly. It can avoid the need to schedule emergency plumbing services and helps save money on costly repairs. Contact a local residential plumbing company if you need professional help to clear pipe clogs and restore their functioning.
Water Wise Plumbing is a local, full-service residential plumbing company serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Paradise, Boulder City, Pahrump, and North Las Vegas. We provide Tankless water heater service, water softeners, water heater flush, leak detection and repair, water line rerouting, pipe installation, hydro-jetting, sewer services, and more. We are family-owned and operated, certified, and insured. We offer flat rate pricing and 24-hour emergency service. Call us today at (702) 605 - 6408
