Home Improvement: How to Fix A Clogged Sewer Line?

Table of Contents

1. How to Fix A Clogged Sewer Line?[+]
   1. Locate the Main Sewer Line
   2. Inspect the Line
   3. Contact a Professional
   4. Clean Out the Line
2. What Causes Sewer Lines to Become Clogged?[+]
   1. Tree Roots
   2. Grease Build-up
   3. Flushing Items that Shouldn’t be Flushed

A clogged sewer line is a major problem that no homeowner wants to deal with. Not only is it a huge inconvenience, but it can also lead to serious health hazards if not dealt with promptly. So, what causes sewer lines to become clogged first, and how can you fix the problem?

How to Fix A Clogged Sewer Line?

Locate the Main Sewer Line

The main sewer line is the pipe that runs from your home to the public sewer system. It is usually located in the front or back of your property and can be easily identified by its diameter and shape. Once you have found it, use a plumber’s auger to clear any blockages in the line. The sewer line access pipe is usually located outside the home, but you can also find it in a basement or crawlspace. You should locate it when moving into your home since this will make repairs easier.

Inspect the Line

Before you start working on your sewer line, it is crucial to inspect it for any potential issues. Look for cracks or leaks that are easily fixed with a plumber’s patch kit. If you cannot locate any visible damage, use a special camera to look inside the pipe and check if there is any blockage or damage that is not visible from the outside. If you can’t find the cause of the clog, use a plumbing snake to unclog the line. The auger will travel through your pipe and remove any debris or blockages that are present. Be careful not to damage the pipe during this process, as it can be expensive to repair. If the drill doesn’t do the job, it is time to call an expert for a more detailed inspection.

Contact a Professional

If your sewer line is still clogged after trying the above steps, it is time to contact a professional for help. A sewer repair company will be able to identify the cause of the clog and fix it accordingly. They will also be able to provide you with valuable advice on how to prevent future clogs. This will help you save time and money by avoiding costly repairs down the line.

When choosing a professional to clear your line, ensure you get the most qualified and experienced help possible. The first step is to research the different companies in your area. Once you have chosen a few companies, you can compare their prices and reviews. When you have made your decision, you can then contact the company and schedule an appointment.

After the company has arrived, they will inspect your sewer line and determine the best course of action. In most cases, they will use a high-powered motorized auger to clear the line. However, in some cases, they may need to use a hydro jet to break up the clog. In either case, once the line is clear, you can be sure that your sewer line will be working properly again.

Clean Out the Line

After inspection, you can identify the specific cause of the clog and take steps to address it. If solid materials cause the blockage, a plumbing snake or auger can help remove them from the line. You can also flush the pipe with water pressure to help clear any smaller debris. If you suspect that the cause of your clog is grease and other fatty substances, then you can use a special chemical cleaner to dissolve it. This is a more effective and efficient way of clearing the line. You should avoid using chemical cleaners regularly, as they can be corrosive and may cause damage to your pipes over time. If you do decide to use them, then make sure you follow the instructions carefully and always wear protective gear when handling these products. You can also use chemical and non-chemical cleaners in combination with a plumbing snake or auger to ensure that all blockages are cleared out.

What Causes Sewer Lines to Become Clogged?

There are a few different things that can cause your sewer line to become clogged. Here are some.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line blockages. The roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients found in the pipes, and they will grow into the pipes in search of these things. Once they’ve infiltrated the pipe, they can cause major blockages that will prevent wastewater from flowing through as it should. Tree roots can also damage the pipe itself, causing cracks and leaks. In some cases, the roots can grow so large that they break through the pipe entirely. If you suspect tree roots are causing a problem with your sewer line, having a professional plumber inspect the line as soon as possible is essential.

Grease Build-up

That seemingly innocent act of pouring grease down the drain can come back to haunt you later. As the grease hardens and builds up on the sides of the pipe, it will eventually cause a blockage. Once that happens, you’ll need to call a professional to remove it. In the meantime, you may face slow drains, bad odors, and flooding. It’s best to dispose of grease properly in the first place. Pour it into a container and throw it away in the trash. It may take a little more effort upfront, but avoiding a messy and expensive problem is worth it.

Flushing Items that Shouldn’t be Flushed

Most people know that certain items, such as feminine hygiene products, shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet. However, there are also many other items that people may not realize can cause problems in their sewer lines. This includes baby wipes, often advertised as “flushable.” While they may be safe for typical residential toilets, they can cause clogs in sewer lines. In addition, these wipes don’t break down as quickly as toilet paper does, which means they can end up causing even more problems further down the line. As a result, it’s best to throw them in the trash instead of flushing them.

Sewer lines can be a significant source of problems regarding your home’s plumbing system. Please pay close attention to any signs of blockages or leaks and address them as soon as possible before they become more serious. Regular inspections and maintenance of your sewer line can help you to avoid costly repairs and keep your plumbing system functioning properly. It is best to call a professional for help if you ever encounter severe issues. With the proper care, your sewer system will remain in good condition for many years.

Thank you for reading!