Standing water worsens over time

Floor drain with increasing depth of water over several days, marked with a ruler

Quick Answer:

If standing water in a drain or low spot is slowly increasing day by day, treat it as a progressive problem rather than a temporary annoyance. Measure and record the water depth daily, check upstream fixtures and intermittent discharges, and open the exterior cleanout to see whether flow is moving downstream. If levels keep rising despite isolating possible sources, schedule a camera inspection of the sewer lateral—this pattern can mean a blockage, root intrusion, or a failing pipe.

Why This Happens

  • Partial blockages (debris, grease, or roots) can allow some flow but cause gradual backup that worsens as material builds.
  • Intermittent discharges from appliances or leaks add water at times and make a small problem look worse over days.
  • Sewer lateral collapse, severe bellied pipe, or misaligned joints may allow progressive pooling rather than clear flow.
  • Groundwater or stormwater infiltration after heavy rain can raise levels near drains and sumps.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Measure and record water depth daily

  • Use a stick, ruler, or tape measure and note the date and time with each reading.
  • Record depth in the same unit each time (inches or centimeters) and keep notes on weather and recent appliance use.
  • Daily entries show a trend—steady rises indicate a progressive issue; flat or falling levels suggest intermittent sources.

2. Inspect upstream fixtures for slow leaks

  • Check toilets, tubs, sinks, laundry machines, water softeners, and hose bibs for slow leaks or continuous drips.
  • Listen for running water and check tank fill valves and inlet hoses for small leaks that add up over time.
  • Turn off water to a fixture briefly to see if the standing level stabilizes—this helps isolate a source.

3. Isolate appliances and intermittent discharges

  • Temporarily disconnect or shut off appliances that drain to the affected line (washing machine, dishwasher, water softener backwash) and watch levels for 24–48 hours.
  • If the rise stops when appliances are isolated, you’ve identified an intermittent discharge. Repair or adjust appliance plumbing or schedule service.

4. Open exterior cleanout to verify downstream flow

  • Locate the exterior cleanout (usually a capped pipe near the house sewer connection). Wear gloves and eye protection.
  • Carefully loosen the cap—do not stand over it. If water and waste flow out freely, the blockage may be farther downstream; if water backs up, the problem is between the cleanout and the main.
  • Do not probe or stick instruments into the sewer. If you smell strong sewer gas or see heavy solids, close the cap and call a pro.

5. Schedule a camera inspection of the lateral if levels keep rising

  • If daily measurements show steady increases despite isolating sources and checking the cleanout, request a licensed plumber or sewer contractor to run a camera down the lateral.
  • A camera will reveal roots, collapses, offsets, or heavy buildup and guide repair choices (cleaning, root cutting, lining, or excavation).

For related reading, see Standing water in basement drain for tips specific to basement-side issues.

What Not to Do

  • Avoid waiting too long to act—small steady rises can become large costly failures.
  • Don’t repeatedly pour chemical additives or drain cleaners into a sewer line; they often mask symptoms and can damage pipes or kill beneficial bacteria in septic systems.
  • Call a pro when water levels steadily increase, when multiple fixtures show reduced flow, or if you detect structural cracking or a foul sewer odor.

When to Call a Professional

  • If daily records show continuing rise after you’ve isolated appliances and checked the cleanout.
  • If multiple fixtures back up, toilets bubble, or there is a persistent sewer smell in the house.
  • If you observe foundation cracking, wet spots against the foundation, or see signs of pipe collapse at the cleanout.
  • When in doubt about opening cleanouts or interpreting camera reports—use a licensed plumber or sewer contractor for diagnosis and repairs.

Safety Notes

  • Wear gloves, safety glasses, and old clothes when handling sewage or opening drains. Wash hands thoroughly afterward.
  • Open exterior cleanouts cautiously—stand to the side to avoid exposure to splashes and sewer gases. Keep children and pets away.
  • Do not enter standing sewage water or confined spaces. Some gases are toxic or explosive; ventilate areas and call professionals for confined-space work.
  • If you smell strong sewer gas inside, ventilate and leave the house until a professional confirms it’s safe.

Common Homeowner Questions

  • How fast should water depth change before I worry?
    Any steady rise over several days is a concern; measure daily to confirm trend.
  • Can I clear this myself with a drain snake?
    You can clear small blockages inside the house, but do not attempt to snake the main lateral beyond the cleanout unless experienced.
  • Will a camera inspection damage my pipes?
    No—camera inspections are noninvasive and are the best way to identify internal damage without digging.

More in this topic

For more related fixes and similar symptoms, see Standing Water in Floor Drain.

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