Plumbing systems are becoming more and more complex. Not every blockage can be cleared with a plunger. In fact, a plunger can only clear small clogs, anything larger necessitates the expertise of a professional residential plumber.
If your sewer stack gets clogged, your plumbing system will no longer function properly and you should be able to detect a problem fairly quickly.
There are a few unmistakable signs that your sewer stack is clogged. Would you like to know what they are? Continue reading to learn the signs of a clogged sewer stack.
Strong Sewage Smells
Strong sewage odors are an obvious indication that your toilet vent pipe is obstructed.
Usually, your sewage stack is an airtight system, and one of its main jobs is to get rid of those unpleasant odors and pollutants. So, if you smell something out of the ordinary, a clog in your sewer stack could be the culprit.
Sewer gasses cannot escape properly if the sewer stack is clogged, meaning this distinct or unpleasant gas could re-enter your home through the drains. Not only does it stink, but methane is also something you do not want anywhere around you. It is flammable and can induce potentially fatal carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you smell something unusual or nasty coming out of your toilet or drain, it could signal a problem that must be addressed as soon as possible.
Gurgling Toilets and/or Drains
The next telltale sign of a clogged sewer stack on our list is gurgling toilets and/or drains.
Have you noticed any weird gurgling sounds coming from your toilet after you flush it or from your drains?
When a sewer stack becomes clogged, air cannot escape your plumbing system as it ideally should. In this case, the air will find the closest outlet, which is often your toilet or sink.
As the air escapes, it makes those gurgling sounds.
Sluggish Drains
Slow drains can be caused by a number of factors, and one of those is a clogged sewer stack.
If you find that one or more of your drains is blocked up and running slow, it is not a random occurrence. It could actually signal a problem with your sewer stack.
When a sewer stack becomes clogged, it is unable to regulate the air pressure within your plumbing system, causing things to flow improperly.
Why Do You Need to Call In a Pro?
Harsh drain cleaners will not work to unclog a clogged vent. Furthermore, the more you use those harsh cleaners, the more damage they cause to your sewer pipes. So, no matter what your plumbing situation is, it is always best to call a professional.
Plumbing jobs can also be messy and complicated. A clogged sewer stack may necessitate the use of a professional plumbing service provider to open up your home’s walls and inspect your drainage system.
Because most sewer stack pipes are located near the roof, debris from the roof can also choke a pipe. Bird nests and rodents can also cause clogged sewer stacks. Climbing up on a roof is risky, especially when trying to find the source of a clog. If you suspect a blockage in sewer stacks, it is in your best interest to call a specialist.
Don’t Wait to Get Your Sewer Stacks Inspected
One important thing to remember regarding plumbing issues, especially if they involve a clogged sewer stack, is not to put off addressing them for too long. If methane gas leaks into your home, you and your family could get sick or seriously injured because of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Furthermore, the sooner you call in a professional and get any plumbing problem fixed, the less likely it is that you will have to dig deep into your pockets to pay a hefty service bill. At E & K Contractors, we are here to help in any case. Do you have a question? Give us a call at 419.474.9454 or contact us online.