10 Signs of a Clogged Drain

As a homeowner, plumbing repairs are probably the last thing you want to worry about. When it comes to a clogged drain, it is better to get the professionals involved. If not taken care of right away, a clogged drain can result in potential replacements or costly repairs. Here are 10 signs that you may be experiencing a clogged drain in your home and when is the best time to call your local plumber to clean your drain for you. 

1. Strong Sewer Smells

When you start to notice unpleasant odors coming from your plumbing, then you could be experiencing a clogged drain. As more debris accumulates in your pipes, it can decompose and cause a foul smell. 

The more persistent and unpleasant the odor becomes, the more likely it is time to call your local plumber to take care of the problem. Your plumber has the skills and experience to unclog your drain and eliminate the strong odor for you. 

2. Slow Draining

Slow drainage is one of the most common signs of a clogged drain and this simply could be coming from your bathroom routine. While taking a shower or washing your hands, you might notice the water is taking longer to drain than usual. If that’s the case, you most likely have a blockage in your pipes. Blockages are typically caused by buildup of hair, soap, grease, or other debris. 

3. Gurgling Sounds 

If you start to hear strange sounds coming from your sink, shower, or toilet, then you most likely have a clogged drain. These sounds are normally caused by air bubbles that can’t flow freely in a blocked pipe. 

4. Higher Water Bills

It is normal for your water bill to change monthly, but if you start to notice a dramatic change in costs, this could mean that there is a problem with your plumbing. A leak in your plumbing system or a clogged drain can cause water to back up. This can result in excess water usage and a higher utility bill. 

5. Multiple Clogs

Several clogged drains in the home means a bigger problem is going on with your main sewer line. This can cause a serious problem and costly repairs to your plumbing if you avoid immediate attention. 

6. Standing Water

Standing water in your sink, bathtub, or toilet is a sign that your pipes may be leaking from a clogged drain. This could result in a bigger issue, if not taken care of right away. Standing water could become puddles of water under the sink, in your basement, or garage. If that’s the case, then you definitely should call a professional to clean your drain.

7. Visible Debris

If you start to notice debris coming out of your water fixtures every time you turn on the tap, then you most likely have a clogging issue coming from your pipes. It’s important to avoid putting certain items down your kitchen drain. To prevent clogs, we highly recommend avoiding things like cooking oils, fats, animal bones, grease, flour, fruit pits, or vegetable and fruit skins. These items are hard on the drain and can cause severe clogging issues.

8. Inconsistent Water Pressure

Do you start to notice your water pressure acting differently? Changes in the water pressure could mean that a pipe is cracked, leaking, or clogged. There are a few things you can do to determine the cause of your water pressure’s inconsistency. 

9. Wet Spots 

Look for damp spots on the floor, ceilings, or walls of your home. This could be an indicator of a possible clogged drainpipe. Keep in mind that wet spots in your living spaces can cause mold to grow.

10. Mold in the Home

Mold loves a moist environment and if water starts to back up from a clogged drain, it may start to become more visible. A sudden musty smell coming from your drain can help you to determine if you have a plumbing issue. 

Call Shamrock Plumbing Today!

Unfortunately, clogged drains are a common problem and depending on how severe the clog may be, there may be some ways you can unclog it yourself. However, a clogged drain can become a huge hassle and take up a lot of time and money you might not have. 

Leave the drain cleaning to the professionals! At Shamrock Plumbing our team of experienced plumbers can provide the services you need to get the job done correctly. We can help with any drain clog issue or drain cleaning you need. Whether residential or commercial, when it comes to drain cleaning our services include unclogging your:

• Kitchen Sink
• Bathroom Sinks 
• Showers
• Garbage Disposal
• Sewer Drains
• Water Heater Drains
• And More!

We are proud to serve our customers and strive to offer you with a fast, stress-free experience. Our services are offered around the Salt Lake City, Utah area. Visit our site and request a free quote today! For any questions you have about our other installation or repair services, call us today!