Whether you’re washing dishes, flushing the toilet, or taking a shower, it’s easy to forget about the important work your drains do. But as soon as a clog develops, these plumbing fixtures might be the only thing you notice. While some clogs can be quickly remedied, there are times when blockages signify a more serious problem that requires professional attention. If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to call a drain cleaning service to help restore your home’s plumbing.

5 Signs Your Clogged Drains Are Becoming a Serious Problem

1. Plunging Doesn’t Clear Pipes

Plungers can be fairly effective at removing stubborn drain clogs from sinks and toilets by creating pressure to dislodge matter. If a plunger isn’t working, the blockage may be too large or deep to be removed without professional help.

2. Repetitive Clogging

Even if a plunger or plumbing tool seems to help ease flow issues, you may find that certain drains experience chronic clogging. When you have a drain that continuously requires unclogging, there may be a bigger blockage that’s out of your reach. In other cases, an improperly installed pipe may be creating flow issues that contribute to repetitive problems.

3. Hot Water Doesn’t Help

In kitchen sinks, it’s common for excess grease and oil to collect along pipes and slow drainage. If the problem is small enough, pouring hot water down the drain can help clean the pipe and clear the blockage. If this method doesn’t help, a professional drain cleaner may need to treat the pipes to remove the buildup.

4. Water Backup

If water or sewage is coming out of your drains, you could be facing a dangerous clog that could destroy your home and create unsanitary living conditions. For example, a clog in the septic or sewer line may force matter back up the pipes and out of your drains.

5. Foul Odors

Bad smells are a strong indicator that your drains are clogged. If the smell is minor, try rinsing the pipes with baking soda and vinegar. If that doesn’t resolve the problem, the odor may be coming from a bacteria-infested sewage-related clog that requires expert care.

Whether you’re facing a stubborn clog or experiencing an emergency sewer backup, you can trust in American Rooter Sewer & Septic Service to help. Backed with years of experience, this licensed plumber of Albany, OR can quickly identify plumbing problems and provide a reliable fix—such as drain cleaning and sewer line repair. Visit this plumbing and septic service online to learn more about their capabilities or call (541) 926-1185 to request responsive assistance from a friendly professional.