In an effort to reduce the costs of running their household, some homeowners are resolute on fixing their own plumbing issues. If the issue is minor, this gamble usually pays off, but if it's a major one, a DIY fix might not work out.   

Clogged drains tend to be one of those plumbing issues many homeowners don't take seriously until it's too late. By watching out for early signs of stopped-up drains, you can stop the problem before it can lead to costly plumbing repairs. Here are a few warning signs you need to immediately grab a plunger and clear your drains. 

1. Slow Drains 

This is perhaps the most obvious sign your residential plumbing drains are clogging up. However, many people usually ignore it as long as wastewater isn't getting backed up or flooding their abode. Residential drains are designed to allow fast and efficient flow of wastewater. If the wastewater from your kitchen, toilet or shower tub starts going down the drains at a sluggish rate, it is likely there is an obstruction stopping it from flowing efficiently.

The best course of action when you notice slow drains is to tackle the problem immediately with a plunger. This will help restore normal flow rates in your residential drains, but also prevent major clogs that may require professional help to fix.

2. Gurgling Drains

Do you hear a gurgling noise when you flush wastewater down your residential drains? In a well-functioning plumbing system, water and air should flow fast, efficiently and almost noiselessly, with both elements being expelled in the appropriate places. 

Gurgling drains are usually an indication your drains aren't correctly vented or they are partially blocked. The gurgling sound usually comes about when an air vacuum is formed in part of the drains. As water travels down the drains, the pockets of air escape from the vents, thus creating gurgling sounds. Gurgling sounds are quite common in clogging toilet drains and bathroom and kitchen sink drains. 

3. Sewage Odour

If you detect the smell of rotten eggs coming from your drains, usually after gurgling sounds, you might have a clogged sewer pipe. If ignored, the problem could lead to burst pipes, which can be a public and environmental health hazard. Thankfully, you can easily clear any blockage and fix the issue with a sewer auger.

There you have it – three common signs of clogging residential drains. The most important thing to do when it comes to dealing with blocked drains is to be proactive. Rather than try to fix clogged drains when they occur, isn't it best to prevent the problem altogether? Talk to a qualified residential plumber near you today to find out how.

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