Sewer pipe in your yard can be a major eyesore and can even cause problems with your home’s foundation. If you think you have a leak in your sewer pipe, it is important to determine where the leak is coming from and how to fix it.
Many of us don’t know how to determine a leak in sewer pipe in yard. The most common sign is to decrease water flow in your drains. If water flow decreases when more than one fixture is running, it’s likely the main sewer line problem.
There are also other signs that yo u may have a sewer line leak. In this article, we will discuss to determine a leak in a sewer pipe in the yard, the causes of a leak, and how to fix it.
How to Determine a Leak in Sewer Pipe in Yard & When to Check?
Every homeowner has the occasional sewer pipe problem. You can look for some signs to determine whether or not you have a sewer leak.
Decrease Water Flow:
One of the most common signs of a sewer pipe leak is decreased water flow. If water flow decreases when more than one fixture runs, it’s likely a damaged sewer line problem.
Gurgling Noises:
Another sign of a sewer pipe leak is gurgling noises from your drains. This happens when air enters the system and causes the water to bubble up.
Gushing Water:
There is likely a major sewer leak if you see water gushing from your drains. You should address this immediately to avoid further damage.
Water Bubbling Up Through the Ground:
If you see water bubbling up through the ground, you probably have a sewer water leak. If you don’t fix it right away, further damage might occur.
Overflowing:
If your yard is constantly overflowing, you may have a sewer leak. Taking care of it immediately will prevent further damage.
A Foul Odor Near Drains or in Your Yard:
You likely have a sewer leak if you smell a foul odor near your drains or in your yard. Get the leak fixed as soon as possible to prevent further problems.
Draining Difficulties:
If you have difficulty draining water from your sink, shower, or toilet, there may be a sewer leak. Fix it quickly to avoid further damage.
Mold Spreading:
You are probably dealing with a sewer leak if you see mold spreading. You should fix it right away to prevent further damage.
Sewer Gas Excursion:
If you smell sewer gas, your sewer system is leaking. This must be addressed right away to avoid further damage.
What are the Causes of Sewer Line Damage?
There are a few different causes of sewer line damage. If you know what the causes are, you can take steps to prevent them from happening. Here are some of the most common causes of sewer line damage:
Tree Roots:
This is another cause of sewer line damage by tree roots. If your pipes are close to a tree, the roots can grow into them and cause damage.
Corroded Pipes:
As sewer lines age, they can start to corrode and break. This can cause a leak in the pipe. A metal pipe may start to rust, while a PVC pipe may crack.
Particles and Debris:
If there is a lot of debris in your sewer line, it can cause the pipe to clog up. This will create a back-up and can cause the pipe to leak.
Extreme Temperatures:
If your pipes are exposed to extreme temperatures, they can start to crack or break. This is especially common in areas that have a lot of temperature variation.
High Water Pressure:
If there is too much water pressure in your sewer line, it can cause the pipes to burst. This can be a big problem, especially if the leak is close to your home.
How to Fix a Leak in Sewer Pipe in Yard?
If you have determined that you have a sewer leak, it’s important to take action right away. Here are a few ways to fix a leak in your damaged sewer pipe:
Method 01. Replacing the Pipes:
One of the most common methods of fixing a sewer leak is sewer line replacement. If the leak is too big to fix with one of these methods, you may need to use pipe bursting. This can be a big project, but it will fix the problem permanently.
Method 02. Pipe Repair:
If you don’t want to replace the entire pipe, you can also repair the leaky section with a special sealant. This will fix the leak for a while, but it may need to be repeated.
Method 03. Trenchless Sewer Repair:
If you don’t want to dig up your yard, you can also use trenchless sewer repair. This involves using a special machine to fix the leak without digging.
Method 04. Pipe Lining:
Another option for repairing a leaky sewer pipe is to use pipe lining. This involves inserting a new liner into the old sewage pipe. This is a temporary fix, but it can be helpful in some cases.
Method 05. Call a Professional Plumber:
If you are not comfortable doing any of these repairs yourself, you can always call a plumber for drain cleaning. They will be able to help you find and fix the broken sewer line or free the clogged drain.
How to Prevent a Sewer Pipe from Leaking?
If you take steps to prevent a sewer pipe from leaking, you can avoid a lot of headaches down the road. Here are a few ways to prevent a sewer pipe from leaking:
1. Call a Plumber for Regular Maintenance:
One of the best ways to prevent a sewer pipe from leaking is to call a plumber for regular maintenance. They will check the pipes for any problems and fix them before they become a bigger issue.
2. Keep Debris out of the Sewer Line:
If you keep debris out of the sewer line, it will help to prevent clogs and sewer leaks. Make sure to sweep up leaves and sticks from around your house and avoid putting grease down the drain.
3. Inspect Your Pipes Regularly:
Another way to prevent a sewer pipe from leaking is to inspect them regularly. This can help you catch any problems before they become too big. You can use a leak detection Camera to help you find any leaks in your sewer line.
4. Use a Pipe Protector:
If you are worried about your pipes getting damaged, you can use a pipe protector. This special shield goes around the pipe and protects it from damage.
5. Install a Backwater Valve:
If you are worried about a sewer pipe leaking, you can install a backwater valve. This is a special valve that prevents wastewater from flowing back into your home.
6. Remove Tree Root near the Sewer Line:
If you have a tree root near the sewer line, it can cause problems. You can remove the root with a special tree cutting tool.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent a sewer pipe from leaking and keep your home safe.
FAQs
01. How Long Will a Sewer Line Last?
A sewer line’s lifespan depends on a number of factors, including the material it is made from, the climate, and how well it is maintained. However, most PVC sewer lines should last between 20-40 years. Metal pipes last longer than PVC, but they are also more expensive.
02. How Long Does Trenchless Sewer Line Repair Last?
Trenchless sewer pipes are known for their durability. Most trenchless sewer repairs last for around 50 years. However, this depends on the type of climate used and how well it is maintained.
03. Can I Fix a Leaky Sewer Pipe Myself?
If you have some plumbing experience, you may be able to fix a leaky sewer pipe yourself. However, if you are not comfortable doing this, you can always call a plumber. They will be able to fix the water leak underground.
Conclusion:
Sewer pipes need care and attention to keep them from leaking and causing other issues in your yard. If you’re dealing with a leaky sewer pipe, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
This article discussed five methods for fixing a leaky sewer pipe. We also answer some FAQs about sewer lines. If any of these repairs seem too complicated for you, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. They will be able to take care of everything for you.
By following these tips, you can help prevent a sewer pipe from leaking in your home in the future. Have a safe and leak-free day!