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A saturated leach field can result from various underlying issues, so it's best to call a professional septic company to diagnose and treat the problem. Depending on the cause of the saturation, potential fixes include pumping out a full septic tank, adding more bacteria to the tank, or regrading the soil to fix low spots. It may also be necessary to reroute rainwater and runoff away from the leach field using gutters, downspouts, and extenders. Once the primary issue is resolved, planting specific types of vegetation over the area can help absorb excess water. In more severe cases, you might need to install a larger septic tank or replace the leach field entirely.

While technically possible, it is unlikely that a clogged toilet will fix itself. Clogs caused by water-soluble materials like toilet paper or human waste may eventually break down in the water, allowing flow to resume. However, this can take time, and any clogs from solid objects require manual removal. In most scenarios, especially if you don't have another bathroom, it is best to fix the clog yourself or call a plumber.

The cost to unclog a drain varies based on the location and severity of the clog. For simple clogs within your home, such as in a sink, toilet, or shower, hiring a plumber typically costs between $110 and $350, with an average of around $200. Snaking a toilet or sink usually costs between $110 and $275, while a bathtub or shower clog costs about $225.

For a more serious clog in the main sewer line, the cost is higher. Clearing a main line clog generally costs between $200 and $600, with an average of about $380. However, prices can range from as low as $100 for snaking a minor clog to over $1,600, particularly if advanced methods like video inspection and hydrojetting are needed for a large or hard-to-reach blockage. Some severe main line clogs can cost upwards of $1,000 to clear depending on factors like the cause of the clog, its distance from an accessible cleanout, and whether the pipe is located beneath an occupied space (e.g., in an apartment building). You may be able to save money on minor clogs by using a drain snake or bladder yourself.

There are several common signs that your main sewer line may be clogged. Key indicators include multiple fixtures in your home draining slowly, gurgling sounds coming from drains or toilets, and water backing up into showers, sinks, or toilets. You might also notice water backing up from the plumbing system's drain cleanout, water in your basement drain, or unexplained wet patches on your lawn. Foul odors, such as the smell of raw sewage or rotten eggs, are another common symptom. The most reliable way to confirm a main sewer line clog is to hire a professional plumber to perform a camera inspection.