Signs That Your Sewer Lines Need To Be Replaced

3 January 2024
A man wearing blue gloves is working on a pipe in the dirt.

Sewer lines are essential for any home or business, but they can also be a source of trouble if they are not maintained properly. Sewer lines can deteriorate over time due to various factors, such as age, corrosion, tree roots, ground movement, or clogs. If your sewer lines are damaged or broken, you may face serious problems such as sewage backups, foul odors, mold growth, water damage, or health hazards.


That's why you should know the signs that your sewer lines need to be replaced and act quickly before the situation gets worse. Discover some of the common signs that indicate you need to replace your sewer lines.

Frequent Clogs or Slow Drains

If you notice that your sinks, toilets, showers, or bathtubs are draining slowly or not at all, or if you have to deal with frequent clogs, this could be a sign that your sewer lines are blocked or broken. Clogs can be from grease, hair, food scraps, sanitary products, or other foreign objects that accumulate in the pipes over time.


Sometimes, a simple drain cleaning can solve the problem, but if the clogs persist or recur, you may need to replace your sewer lines.

Sewage Backups or Overflows

One of the most obvious and unpleasant signs that your sewer lines need to be replaced is when sewage comes back up through your drains or toilets. This can happen when there is a severe blockage or a break in the sewer line that prevents the wastewater from flowing out of your property.


Sewage backups or overflows can cause damage to your floors, walls, furniture, appliances, and belongings, as well as create a health risk for you and your family.

Foul Odors

Another sign that your sewer lines need to be replaced is when you smell foul odors coming from your drains, toilets, or yard. This can indicate that there is a leak or a crack in the sewer line that allows sewage gas to escape into the air. Sewage gas can contain harmful substances such as hydrogen sulfide, methane, ammonia, and bacteria that can affect your health and well-being.

Mold Growth

If you notice mold growing on your walls, ceilings, or floors, this could be a sign that your sewer lines need to be replaced. Mold thrives in moist and humid environments, and it can be due to a leaky sewer line that creates excess moisture in your home. Mold can also cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, skin irritations, and other health issues for you and your family.

Water Damage

Another sign that your sewer lines need to be replaced is when you see water damage on your floors, walls, ceilings, or foundation. This can happen when a broken sewer line causes water to seep into your home or property and create cracks, stains, warping, buckling, or sagging. Water damage can also lead to structural problems and lower the value of your property.

High Water Bills

If you notice a sudden spike in your water bills without any change in your water usage habits, this could be a sign that your sewer lines need to be replaced. A leaky sewer line can waste a lot of water and increase your water bills quickly and significantly.

Soggy or Sunken Spots in Your Yard

If you notice soggy or sunken spots in your yard or lawn, this could be a sign that your sewer lines need to be replaced. A broken sewer line can cause sewage to leak into the soil and create wet patches or depressions in the ground. This can also kill your grass or plants and attract pests such as rodents or insects.


If you notice any of these signs that your sewer lines need to be replaced, contact AZ Emergency Plumbing LLC. Replacing your sewer lines can prevent further damage to your home or property and save you money and hassle in the long run.

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