Top 5 Signs You Have a Clogged Sewer Line

Mark Higgins
Jun 5
3 min read

A clogged sewer line is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can cause major property damage, costly repairs, and serious health risks. At Higgins Sewer & Drain Cleaning, we proudly serve homeowners in Overland Park, Shawnee, and the greater Kansas City metro area, helping you spot sewer line problems early and fix them fast.

1. Multiple Drains Are Backing Up

When several drains—such as toilets, showers, and kitchen sinks—back up at the same time, it usually means the blockage is in your main sewer line rather than a single drain. The main sewer line carries all wastewater from your home to the city sewer system or septic tank. A clog here can cause sewage to back up into your home, damaging floors, walls, and belongings.

Ignoring this sign can lead to costly repairs and unhealthy living conditions.

2. Gurgling Sounds in Pipes

If you hear gurgling or bubbling noises after flushing a toilet or running water in sinks, it’s often caused by trapped air due to a partial clog in your sewer line. This blockage restricts the flow of water and air, forcing air bubbles to escape noisily through your drains.

These sounds may seem minor, but they indicate a problem that will worsen if left unchecked.

3. Water Pooling Near Basement Drains

Basement floor drains are the lowest points in your home’s plumbing system. When you see water backing up or pooling near these drains, it’s a red flag that sewage isn’t draining properly. This can lead to basement flooding, mold growth, and structural damage.

Immediate action is necessary to prevent serious property damage.

4. Foul Sewer Odors Indoors

A persistent, foul sewage smell inside your home or around your property usually means that wastewater isn’t flowing correctly through your pipes. Sewage gases can enter your living space through cracked or clogged pipes, posing health hazards and causing discomfort.

Professional inspection and repair are essential to eliminate these odors and protect your family.

5. Slow Drainage Throughout the House

If multiple drains in your home are slow to empty despite using drain cleaners or plungers, it may signal a growing blockage deep in your sewer system. Over time, debris like grease, hair, and tree roots can build up inside pipes, restricting flow and causing backups.

Early diagnosis can prevent a full clog and expensive emergency repairs.

What You Can Do to Prevent Clogged Sewer Line Problems

Avoid flushing anything but toilet paper. Wipes, feminine products, and grease can clog pipes.
Schedule regular sewer line inspections, especially if your home is older.
Be cautious of tree roots. They can invade pipes through small cracks and cause blockages.
Act quickly. Don’t ignore warning signs—early intervention saves money and stress.

Why Choose Higgins Sewer & Drain Cleaning?

We’re a family-owned business with over 40 years of combined experience, serving Overland Park, Shawnee, and the Kansas City metro area. Our expert plumbers use state-of-the-art tools like video pipe inspection cameras and hydro-jetting equipment to diagnose and clear sewer line blockages efficiently. We provide: