How To Diagnose Plumbing Drain Problems

Plumbing issues such as clogs, slow-draining sinks, and unpleasant odors can be huge headaches for homeowners, and they can get worse if they go unaddressed. Before you can fix plumbing drain problems, though, you have to diagnose the root causes. Read our guide below to learn how to confirm the causes of common plumbing drain problems, and watch the video above for tips from plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey.

Is Diagnosing Plumbing Drain Problems a DIY Project?

Homeowners don’t need lots of plumbing experience to troubleshoot drain problems at home. If an issue looks like it needs more than do-it-yourself attention, though, call a professional plumber. 

Common Signs of Plumbing Issues

Recognizing the early warning signs of plumbing drain issues can help you to prevent more serious issues. Below are some common signs you might encounter.

• Frequent clogs in multiple fixtures
• Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets
• Slow-draining sinks, showers, or tubs
• Unpleasant odors that come from drains
• Water that backs up into sinks or tubs

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to start investigating.

Essential Tools for Diagnosing Drain Problems

Professionals rely on specialized equipment to diagnose plumbing drain issues. Below are some similar tools you can use to diagnose.

Tools:

How to Diagnose Plumbing Drain Problems

The correct way to diagnose a plumbing problem may vary depending on the issue, but consider the general strategy below.

1. Conduct a visual inspection of all accessible plumbing fixtures and pipes.
2. Use a drain camera to inspect the main drain line for obstructions or damage.
3. Reset the distance meter on the drain camera before you enter the pipe to accurately measure the location of any issues.
4. Use a line locator tool to confirm the camera’s position and map out the pipe’s route.
5. Test drainage by flushing toilets or running water while you observe the camera feed.
6. Analyze the data you collect to determine the nature and location of the problem.

Common Causes of Plumbing Issues

Understanding the potential causes of drain issues can help you to better communicate with plumbing professionals. Some frequent causes of drain issues are below.

Pipe Sagging

The soil beneath pipes can settle over time and cause sections of the pipe to sag. This creates low points in which water and debris accumulate, which can lead to blockages and slow drainage.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots that seek moisture can infiltrate small cracks or joints in underground pipes, which can cause blockages and damage. This is a common problem in older properties that feature mature trees. Roots can create blockages and even break pipes, so you must fix tree root issues before they cause any extreme damage.

Outdated Plumbing Features

Some older homes may feature antiquated plumbing features such as house traps, like the one in the video above. These can hinder efficient drainage and cause ongoing maintenance issues.

Pipe Corrosion and Damage

Aging pipes that are susceptible to corrosion, such as iron pipes, can develop leaks, cracks, or complete breaks. 

Improper Installation

Some older homes may feature plumbing fixtures and piping that the previous owner installed incorrectly. These issues usually require professional solutions.

When To Call a Professional Plumber

You can resolve certain issues with DIY methods, but others require the help of professionals. Consider calling a plumber if any of the issues below apply to you: 

• Persistent sewer odors linger.
• The problem affects multiple drains in the home.
• You need specialized equipment to perform a thorough diagnosis.
• You suspect there are issues with the main sewer line.
• Your DIY efforts can’t solve the problem.

Licensed plumbers have the expertise and tools necessary to accurately diagnose and address complex plumbing issues. Don’t try to fix complex issues yourself if you don’t have any plumbing experience. This could make matters worse. When in doubt, call a plumber and leave the specialized work to the professionals.