Drain clogs are usually caused by the buildup of grease, soap, hair, food waste, minerals, and other dirt or debris in your pipes. Aside from causing inconvenience in your daily routine, clogged sinks and drains may lead to more severe plumbing problems, including leaks and sewer backups. Because of this, learning about some common signs of drain blockage is essential. Read on to learn more.
- Slow Drains
This is one of the first signs you might notice if you have clogged plumbing. Water draining slowly from your sink, bathtub, shower, and other drainage indicates pipe blockage, disrupting water flow. Slow drains often occur in the kitchen or bathroom, where soap residue, hair, food waste, and grease may build up.
- Unpleasant Smells
When food waste and other organic debris get lodged in your pipes, they may rot and emit foul odors, which can travel back up and into your home, causing discomfort. Severe clogs can result in wastewater backup, causing more unpleasant sewage smells, so it’s best to consult a plumber immediately when you notice this warning sign.
- Gurgling Sounds
Hearing strange, gurgling noises from your plumbing fixtures when someone flushes the toilet or even when they’re not in use is a cause for concern. These unusual sounds are typically caused by a clog, where trapped waste or debris makes it difficult for water to drain properly.
- Rising Toilet Water Level
Another common sign of a plumbing clog is fluctuating toilet water levels. If the water seems higher or rises more than normal when flushing, it indicates that something is blocking the drain line. If left unaddressed, this issue may lead to an overflowing toilet that can cause flooding and water damage.
- Standing Water
Drain blockage can cause standing water in your shower or bathtub. Besides that, severe clogs may lead to pipe leaks, resulting in puddles near your sink or toilet. Talk to an experienced plumber to find out the exact cause of standing water in your home.
Get Professional Drain Cleaning Services
Identifying warning signs of blocked drainage and addressing them during their early stages can help prevent problems that might require more costly plumbing solutions. If you suspect clogged drains at home, contact HJ Pertzborn Plumbing & Fire Protection in Madison, WI. Besides professional drain cleaning services, our team of experts can perform various plumbing repairs, replacements, and preventative maintenance.