As homeowners and landlords on the Wasatch Front, maintaining your home’s plumbing system is crucial to avoiding unexpected and costly repairs. The sewer line is one of the most critical yet often overlooked components of a property’s plumbing. This essential system ensures that wastewater flows safely away from your home. However, sewer lines can deteriorate over time like any other part of your property. Recognizing the signs that it’s time to replace your sewer line can save you from significant damage, health risks, and financial strain. Here are five key indicators that it might be time to consider a sewer line replacement.

1. Frequent Clogs and Slow Drains

If your sinks, bathtubs, and toilets are regularly clogging or draining slowly—even after professional cleaning—it could be a sign of a deteriorating sewer line. While occasional clogs are common, especially in older homes, chronic blockages may indicate a more severe problem, such as tree roots infiltrating the line, collapsing pipes, or accumulated debris. Over time, these issues worsen, reducing the effectiveness of temporary solutions like snaking or hydrojetting. If clogs persist, it is worth considering a professional inspection to determine whether a complete replacement is needed.

2. Foul Odors Around Your Property

A properly functioning sewer line should never release unpleasant odors. If you notice the distinct smell of sewage inside your home or around your yard, this is a red flag. Sewer gas leaking through cracked or broken pipes can pose health hazards, as it may contain harmful bacteria and gasses such as methane. Persistent sewer smells are not only a nuisance but also a clear indication that there is a breach or obstruction in your sewer line, potentially requiring replacement.

3. Lush, Soggy, or Sunken Spots in the Yard

While having a green yard may seem appealing, unusually lush or soggy areas around your property—especially in specific spots—can indicate a serious sewer issue. Sewer lines that have developed leaks often allow wastewater to seep into the surrounding soil, creating excess moisture. This can result in patches of grass that grow faster and greener than the rest of your yard or even cause puddles to form. In severe cases, the ground may sink or collapse. These changes are often signs that your sewer line has been compromised and should be replaced before the damage becomes more extensive.

4. Gurgling or Bubbling Drains

Is your plumbing making gurgling sounds? This often happens when there’s a blockage or buildup in your sewer line. As wastewater tries to flow past the obstruction, air pockets form, causing that distinctive gurgling noise. Common culprits include tree roots, grease buildup, or even a collapsed pipe. Ignoring this issue can lead to slow drains, sewer backups, or even flooding in your home. To prevent costly damage, it’s important to clear and inspect the blockage with a professional so you can address the root cause before it turns into a major problem.

5. Age of the Sewer Line

The material and age of your sewer line are essential factors in determining when it might be time for a replacement. Older homes, especially those built before the 1980s, often have sewer lines made from clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg (a type of bitumen fiber). These materials degrade over time, becoming brittle and susceptible to cracking or collapsing. Even with routine maintenance, these older systems have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. If your home is over forty years old and you have never had the sewer line inspected or replaced, it is wise to consult a professional to assess its condition.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of sewer line failure early can prevent costly repairs and protect your home from water damage, sewage backups, and health hazards. Suppose you have noticed frequent clogs, foul odors, changes in your yard, or live in an older home. In that case, it is worth having your sewer line professionally inspected. At Salt City Plumbing, Heating & Air, we provide expert sewer line services for homeowners and landlords on the Wasatch Front. Contact our experienced team for a thorough evaluation and to discuss your sewer line replacement options before minor issues become major headaches.