Plumbing · triage
Drains backing up, or sewage in a floor drain
The short answer
One slow drain: a local clog. Several drains, gurgling toilets, or water coming up in a basement floor drain or tub: the main line is blocked. Stop using water and call a plumber today.
Sewage is a health hazardKeep children and pets away from sewage, wear gloves and boots, and keep it away from electrics. Don’t mix drain chemicals with anything else.
Know your shutoffs
Every outcome on this card
This weekA local clog
This week.
- Use a plunger (a flange plunger for toilets)
- Clean the sink stopper or tub hair catcher
- If it keeps clogging, call a plumber Repeated clogs can mean a partial main-line blockage.
TodayThe main sewer line is blocked
Stop using water. Plumber today.
- Stop running water: no laundry, dishwasher, showers or flushing
- If sewage is coming in, keep away and keep it from electrics
- Call a plumber or drain service Roots, grease and collapsed pipe are typical. Ask for a camera inspection if it recurs.
TodayA septic backup
Stop using water. Call a septic service today.
- Stop using water
- Keep people off the drain field area if it is wet or smells
- Call a septic service Ask when the tank was last pumped.
EPA advises having septic systems inspected regularly and pumped as needed; a full tank or a failing field backs up into the house.
Related
Written from
Original casaq guidance, updated 2026-10-05. General guidance, not a diagnosis; licensed-pro review pending. Severity levels: Emergency now / Today / This week / This month / Watch. Send a correction.
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