Clogged Sewer Line: What Plumbers and Homeowners Should Know

A clogged sewer line can be a major inconvenience and a potentially expensive problem. It can also pose serious health risks if not addressed in a timely manner. A clogged sewer line can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from foreign objects to tree roots, and can range in severity.

The most common cause of a clogged sewer line is the build-up of grease, soap, food particles, and other debris, basically all the things you throw into the sync or toilet. This type of clog is often caused by pouring greasy liquids or food particles down the sink. Over time, these materials can accumulate and form a thick, gummy substance that will eventually clog the line.

A more severe cause can include tree roots that have grown into the line, or even a broken pipe.

When a clog is suspected, the first step is to look and see if you can identify the problem. If only one sink or toilet is backed up, it may just be an issue before the sewer line. However if multiple sinks or toilets drain slowly then the clog may be deeper in the line. Simple home remedies include using a plunger or chemicals (Draino, Liquid Plumber) that you can find at the local hardware store. If you want to take it to the next level, you can buy a snake and try to break through the clog that way using the cleanout (if you have one). If those don't work, it's time to call a plumber.

Plumbers will typically use a snake or auger to remove the obstruction. IF that doesn't work, they may use a camera to inspect the line and determine the exact location and cause of the clog. In some cases, they may need to use special tools to break up the clog and flush it out. If the clog is caused by something more serious, such as a broken pipe, they may need to replace the pipe.

You should also be aware of the signs of a clogged sewer line. If the toilets or drains in the home are slow to drain, gurgling noises are heard from the pipes, or foul odors are present, then it is likely that there is a clog somewhere in the sewer line. In addition, if sinks or toilets back up or overflow, then a clog is likely present.

There are some simple steps you can take to prevent clogging your sewer. This includes not pouring grease or food particles down the sink, using a drain strainer in the shower or bathtub, and periodically checking for tree roots (close to where your sewer line runs).

While a clogged sewer line can be a major headache, with a little knowledge and preventive action, they can avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with a clogged line. However, should you find that your sewer has an issue, a plumber is just a phone call away.