Get matched with top sewer cleaners in Owosso, MI

Your home has a few telltale signs of a sewer line problem. If you notice multiple plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, or shower drains) appear to be clogged, call a plumber ASAP. Also, if water appears in the tub or shower when you flush the toilet, you likely have a sewer line issue. A sulfur (rotten eggs) smell and bubbling or gurgling noises at the drain also warrant a check. And keep your eyes peeled for changes to the yard, such as a new indentation or mysteriously soggy grass.

If the toilet is overflowing but there’s no clog, that’s a sign that the issue is deeper in the system, and plunging may not help. A blockage in your home’s plumbing, the plumbing vent, or even city sewer lines can cause toilets to overflow. The issue could also be the toilet itself if the filler float isn’t set to the correct height or if parts are damaged or worn out.

In most areas, drain cleaning professionals don’t technically need a license, as they aren’t altering your plumbing system in any way. However, we recommend hiring a drain cleaning professional with a plumbing license and certification. Certified plumbers are more likely to provide professional solutions to drain clogs without damaging your system. They’ll also have the diagnostic tools and experience necessary to remove the clog entirely rather than providing a temporary solution, as a handyperson might. Use Angi’s state licensing tool to check your plumber’s professional licenses before hiring.

If your drain doesn’t have metal crosshairs or crossbars, you should use a tub drain extractor. These tools create a grip on the drain so you can turn it using a 1/2-inch ratchet drive, drain key, or wrench. Your drain may not have crosshairs if it's old and broken.