Few things can disrupt your day like a sewer backup. One moment everything seems fine, and the next, you’re dealing with a potential plumbing disaster. But is every sewer backup an emergency? The truth is, some backups require immediate action, while others might be manageable—but knowing the difference can save you time, money, and stress.
At Bulldog Rooter, we’ve seen it all, and we know how to assess the urgency of a sewer issue. If you’re experiencing a backup, don’t wait—call us, and we’ll determine whether it’s an emergency and get it resolved fast.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common causes of sewer backups, warning signs to watch for, and when you should immediately call a professional.
What Causes a Sewer Backup?
A sewer backup happens when wastewater can’t properly drain from your home and starts flowing back up through your pipes. This can lead to serious health hazards, costly damage, and major headaches. Some of the most common causes include:
- Clogged Pipes – Grease, hair, food debris, and non-flushable items can accumulate over time, leading to blockages.
- Tree Root Infiltration – Roots naturally seek out water sources, and your sewer line is the perfect target. Once inside, they can crack, clog, or even collapse the pipe.
- Heavy Rain or Flooding – During heavy storms, municipal sewer systems can become overwhelmed, forcing wastewater to back up into homes.
- Aging or Broken Pipes – Older pipes made of clay or cast iron can crack, collapse, or become misaligned, leading to frequent backups.
If any of these factors are affecting your home, it’s important to address the issue before it turns into a full-blown emergency.
Signs That Your Sewer Line Is Backing Up
A sewer backup doesn’t always happen all at once. Often, there are warning signs before disaster strikes. Here’s what to watch for:
- Multiple drains clogging at once – If sinks, tubs, and toilets are all draining slowly or backing up, the issue is likely in the main sewer line.
- Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets – Air trapped in the plumbing system is a red flag that something is blocking proper flow.
- Foul sewage odors – A strong, rotten smell coming from your drains means wastewater isn’t flowing correctly.
- Water backing up in showers or tubs – If running the washing machine or flushing the toilet causes water to appear elsewhere, the main sewer line may be blocked.
- Toilets not flushing properly – If your toilet is slow to flush or doesn’t flush at all, it could indicate a deeper sewer issue.
If you notice one or more of these signs, don’t wait for a complete backup. Call Bulldog Rooter right away—we’ll inspect your sewer line and take action before things get worse.
When Is a Sewer Backup an Emergency?
Some minor drain issues can be fixed with a plunger or drain cleaner, but when does a backup become an urgent situation? If you experience any of the following, you need professional help immediately:
- Sewage is actively backing up into your home – Raw sewage in your bathtub, toilet, or sinks is a serious health hazard. Call us ASAP.
- Multiple drains and toilets are backing up at once – This usually means the problem is in your main sewer line, not just one fixture.
- Wastewater is overflowing onto floors – Any standing sewage in your home requires immediate cleanup and professional repair.
- You suspect a city sewer main problem – If your neighbors are also experiencing backups, it could be a municipal issue. We can help assess the situation and provide guidance.
- There’s a risk of water damage or mold – The longer wastewater sits, the greater the chance of structural damage and mold growth.
If you’re dealing with any of these situations, don’t wait—call Bulldog Rooter now. Our team is available 24-hours to provide emergency sewer backup services in Spokane and the surrounding areas.
What to Do While You Wait for a Plumber
If you’re dealing with a sewer backup, take these steps to protect your home and health while you wait for our experts:
1️⃣ Stop using water immediately – Avoid flushing toilets, running sinks, or using appliances that drain water.
2️⃣ Turn off the main water supply – This prevents additional wastewater from entering the system.
3️⃣ Keep children and pets away from affected areas – Sewage contains harmful bacteria that pose health risks.
4️⃣ Ventilate your home – Open windows and use fans to help disperse odors and contaminants.
5️⃣ Avoid DIY drain cleaners – Harsh chemicals can worsen the damage if the blockage is deep in the sewer line.
The best thing you can do is call Bulldog Rooter immediately—we’ll take care of the rest.
Got a Clog? Call the Dog!
At Bulldog Rooter, we’re not just another plumbing company—we’re Spokane’s go-to sewer and drain specialists. When you call us, you get:
✔️ 24/7 Emergency Service – No extra charges for nights or weekends. We’re here when you need us. ✔️ Expert Diagnosis – Our advanced camera inspections pinpoint the exact problem. ✔️ Fast, Effective Repairs – From hydrojetting to trenchless sewer repair, we have the best solutions for your home. ✔️ Honest Pricing – No hidden fees, just reliable, professional service. ✔️ Long-Term Prevention – We’ll help you prevent future backups with expert advice and maintenance options.
🚨 Dealing with a sewer backup? Don’t wait—call Bulldog Rooter now at (509) 687-7001. 🚨
We’ll get your plumbing flowing smoothly again—fast. Because when you’ve got a clog, call the dog!