Sep 09, 2024
When a sewer pipe, especially an 8-inch mainline sewer pipe, is compromised—whether through a break, crack, or intrusion—serious problems can occur. Homeowners, plumbing contractors, and municipal authorities all face risks (health, property damage, cost) when this happens. A customer of ours sent this in. They weren't sure which utility bored through their 8" sewer line.
How to Detect a Broken 8-inch Sewer Pipe
Here are some of the main ways you can tell there’s a problem:
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Sewer camera inspection
A professional uses a mainline sewer camera to look inside the pipe. This helps locate breaks, root intrusion, joint separation, or even exactly where another line has bored through. -
Signs above ground
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Sinkholes or depressions in yard
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Unusually lush green patches (from leaking wastewater)
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Foul odor near sewer cleanouts or trenches
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Signs inside the house
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Slow draining or backups in toilets, sinks
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Gurgling sounds when flushing or using drains
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Sewer gas smell
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Hydrostatic or smoke testing
Used to find leaks or breaks not visible via camera if there are cracks rather than obvious holes.