A sewer line cleanout is a plumbing fixture that allows you to clean the sewer line from the inside of your house. This is a very important step in maintaining your sewer line, and it’s something that every homeowner should know how to do. In this article, we will answer some common questions about sewer line cleanouts and provide some helpful tips on how to clean your sewer line effectively!
What is a drain cleanout?
A drain cleanout is a plumbing fixture that allows you to clean the sewer line from the inside of your house. This is a very important step in maintaining your sewer line, and it’s something that every homeowner should know how to do. In this article, we will answer some common questions about sewer line cleanouts and provide some helpful tips on how to clean your sewer line effectively![4]
Before You Begin
Before you begin your sewer line cleanout, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to prepare. First, you’ll need to determine the location of your cleanout. This is usually located near the main sewer line or where the sewer line meets the house. Once you’ve found the cleanout, you’ll need to clear any debris or obstructions that may be blocking it. Finally, you’ll need to make sure that you have all of the necessary tools and supplies on hand before getting started.[2]
What You’ll Need
- gloves
- a plunger
- a snake or auger (a long, flexible metal rod with a spiral of wire at the end)
- a sewer line cleanout access point (this is usually located near your home’s foundation)[2]
The Reason You Need Cleanouts
Your sewer line is the main artery of your home’s drainage system. All the water that goes down your drains and toilets enters this line and is transported to the municipal sewer system or your septic tank. Over time, all that water can take a toll on your sewer line, causing it to become clogged with sediment, grease, and other debris.
A clogged sewer line not only backs up your drains but can also cause sewage to back up into your home through toilets, showers, and sinks. This backup can lead to extensive damage to your home and pose a serious health risk to you and your family.[4]
Do All Homes Have A Sewer Line Cleanout?
The answer is no, not all homes have a sewer line cleanout. However, many do and if your home was built after 1970, there is a good chance that you have one. If you’re not sure whether or not your home has a sewer line cleanout, the best way to find out is to contact a professional plumber. They will be able to take a look at your home’s plumbing and let you know for sure.
In most cases, a sewer line cleanout is located near the main sewer line that runs from your home to the city’s sewer system. It is usually located in the front yard, near the street or sidewalk. Sometimes it can be found in the backyard, but this is less.[3]
How To Locate The Cleanout
The first thing you need to do is find the cleanout. This is usually located at the point where your sewer line meets the city main. It will be a capped pipe sticking out of the ground. The cap will usually be round and made of metal or plastic. If you can’t find it, you can always call your city’s public works department for help.[3]
How Climate Affects The Location
The climate of an area can also dictate where a cleanout is located. For example, in cold climates, the cleanout may be located inside the home or business so that it is less likely to freeze. In warm climates, the cleanout may be located outside the home or business to keep it cooler.
No matter where your cleanout is located, it is important to know where it is and how to use it. If you have any questions about your cleanout or need assistance with cleaning your sewer line, contact a professional plumber.[1]
Locating Indoor Sewer Line Cleanouts
Follow the Drainage Pipes to the Main Sewage Line
The first step is to identify where your indoor cleanout access point is located. If you don’t have a sewer line cleanout, don’t worry – they’re not required by law. However, having one can save you a lot of time and money if there’s ever a problem with your sewer line.
There are two main types of sewer line cleanouts: those located inside the house, and those located outside the house. Indoor cleanouts are usually found in the basement or crawl space, near the floor drain. Outdoor cleanouts are typically found at ground level, near the foundation of the house.
To find your indoor cleanout, start by following your home’s drainage pipes until you reach the main sewage line.[2]
Look for a T- or Y-Shaped Pipe Fitting With a Cap or Plug
This is the cleanout. If you don’t see one, or if it’s buried, call a plumber to help you locate and access it. Once you’ve found it, remove the cap or plug. Now would be a good time to take a picture of what lies beneath so that you can reference it later.[2]
Check Bathrooms, Utility Rooms, and the Garage
The first places you should check are the bathrooms, utility rooms, and the garage. These are all places where there is a good chance of finding a cleanout. In the bathroom, look under the sink and behind the toilet. In the utility room, look in the laundry tub or near the water heater. The garage is a good place to check because many homes have an outdoor cleanout that is located here. If you find a cleanout in one of these places, great! If not, don’t worry, there are other places you can check.[2]
Test the Drain Cleanout Plug
If there is a cleanout plug installed at the sewer line, you can test it to see if it is working properly. To do this, simply pour a gallon of water into the cleanout and then wait 15 minutes. After 15 minutes have passed, check the cleanout plug to see if any water has leaked out. If no water has leaked out, then the cleanout plug is working properly.
If you don’t have a cleanout plug installed at your sewer line, don’t worry – you can still test your sewer line to see if it is working properly. Simply flush your toilet and then check the drain in your sink to see if any sewage has backed up into it. If you notice any sewage in your sink, then you know that your sewer line is not working properly and you will need to have it cleaned out.[2]
Locating Outdoor Sewer Line Cleanouts
Walk to the Septic Tank or Municipal Sewer Line
Most homes have just one cleanout, but if yours has more than one, choose the one that’s most convenient to access. You’ll need to dig down to reach it, so you might as well choose the spot that will require the least digging.[2]
Estimate the Direction of the Drainage Line
The first thing you’ll need to do is determine which way the drainage line slopes. This will give you a good idea of where the cleanout is located in relation to your home. To do this, you’ll need to find two points on the pipe that are at different elevations. Once you’ve found these points, use a level or a plumb bob to draw a line between them. The direction that this line points is the direction of the slope.[2]
Move Lawn Decorations, Foliage, and Other Obstacles
The first step is to remove any obstacles that might be in the way of the cleanout. This includes things like lawn decorations, foliage, and other objects that could get in the way. Once you have removed these obstacles, you will need to locate the cleanout. The cleanout is typically located at the end of the sewer line, near the street or property line.
Mark and Test the Drain Cleanout
If you’re not sure where your cleanout is located, look for a round or rectangular cover near the end of your home’s main drain line. The cover will be made of metal or plastic, and it will be slightly recessed into the ground. If you can’t find it, call your local utility company for help.
To mark the location of the cleanout, use a shovel to dig a small hole next to it. Then, use a marker to draw an X on the cover. This will help you find it easily after you’ve finished cleaning the sewer line.
Next, use a wrench to loosen the bolts that are holding the cover in place. Be careful not to remove them completely – just loosen them enough so that you can remove the cover.[2]
Using The Sewer Line Cleanout
Now that you know what a sewer line cleanout is and how to properly maintain it, you may be wondering when and how to use it. If you find yourself in need of a sewer line cleanout, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, always make sure that the area around the cleanout is clear and free of any debris. This will help ensure that the job is done correctly and efficiently. Second, always call a professional plumber to perform the task for you. While it may be tempting to try and do it yourself, it is always best to leave these types of jobs to the experts.[1]
Repairing A Sewer Line
If you’re lucky, a simple repair will do the trick. But if the cleanout is beyond repair, you’ll need to replace it. This job is best left to a professional, as it can be difficult and dangerous.
Replacing a sewer line cleanout isn’t something most people are comfortable doing, and it’s not a job that should be taken lightly. There are many things that can go wrong, and even the slightest mistake can cause major damage. If you’re not sure how to do it, don’t hesitate to call in a professional.[1]
What if I Don’t have a Sewer Clean Out?
Most homeowners who don’t have a sewer clean out are surprised to learn that they actually do need one. The fact is, over time, your sewer line can become clogged with all sorts of debris, including grease, hair, soap scum, and even tree roots. This can cause serious problems for your home’s plumbing system and may even lead to sewage backup into your home.[3]
Sewer Line Cleanouts: A Comprehensive Guide
A sewer line cleanout is a crucial component of plumbing systems that allows easy access for cleaning, maintenance, and addressing clogs. Below, we provide an in-depth exploration of sewer line cleanouts, discussing their purpose, types, location, benefits, maintenance, and significance in ensuring smooth plumbing operations within your property.
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Sewer line cleanouts provide a convenient entry point to clear clogs, perform inspections, and maintain the sewer system. |
| Types | There are two main types: capped cleanouts with a removable cap and rodding cleanouts with a threaded plug for inserting tools. |
| Location | Cleanouts are strategically placed along the sewer line, often near the house, where clogs are most likely to occur. |
| Access and Benefits | Cleanouts offer easy access for plumbers to remove blockages, perform hydro jetting, and inspect the sewer line’s condition. |
| Preventive Maintenance | Regular maintenance of cleanouts prevents severe clogs, backups, and potential damage to the sewer system. |
| Importance for Homeowners | Understanding the location of cleanouts empowers homeowners to respond promptly to clogs and perform maintenance. |
| Professional Assistance | Complex clogs or issues beyond basic maintenance may require professional plumbers to use cleanouts effectively. |
| Diagnostics | Cleanouts enable the insertion of cameras for video inspections, diagnosing hidden issues within the sewer line. |
| Do’s and Don’ts | Guidelines for proper usage and precautions, such as avoiding chemical drain cleaners, are essential for cleanout maintenance. |
| Emergency Situations | Cleanouts play a critical role in quickly resolving sewer line emergencies and preventing extensive damage. |
Explanation of the Table:
- Purpose: Explains the primary function of sewer line cleanouts.
- Types: Describes the two main types of sewer line cleanouts.
- Location: Highlights the strategic placement of cleanouts along the sewer line.
- Access and Benefits: Discusses the advantages of having cleanouts for maintenance and inspections.
- Preventive Maintenance: Emphasizes the importance of regular cleanout maintenance to prevent issues.
- Importance for Homeowners: Stresses the significance of homeowners’ awareness of cleanout locations.
- Professional Assistance: Explains when professional plumbers are needed for cleanout-related issues.
- Diagnostics: Discusses the use of cleanouts for diagnosing sewer line problems.
- Do’s and Don’ts: Provides guidelines for proper cleanout usage and maintenance.
- Emergency Situations: Highlights cleanouts’ role in addressing sewer line emergencies.
By understanding sewer line cleanouts comprehensively, you can effectively manage your plumbing system, prevent clogs, and respond promptly to any issues that arise.
FAQ
How many sewer cleanouts does a house have?
A typical house will have one or two sewer cleanouts. The main sewer line typically has a cleanout near the street, and there may be a cleanout inside the house as well.
How do I unclog my main sewer line with a cleanout?
If your home is connected to a municipal sewer system, you probably have a cleanout somewhere on your property. This is a small access point that allows you to get into the sewer line and clear any blockages that may be present.
If you’re not sure where your cleanout is located, start by looking for a small cap or cover on the ground near your home’s foundation. It may be buried under a layer of dirt or grass, so it’s important to look carefully. Once you’ve found the cleanout, use a shovel to dig around it and expose the access point.
Do older homes have a sewer cleanout?
Older homes may not have a sewer cleanout. If your home was built before the 1970s, it’s possible that the only way to access your sewer line is through the main cleanout located at the street. In this case, you’ll need to call a professional plumber to help you with any cleaning or repairs that need to be done.
If your home does have a sewer cleanout, it will most likely be located in the basement or crawl space. The cleanout is usually a white plastic cap with a round handle on top. It will be connected to the main sewer line with a pipe coming out of the ground.
Can sewer cleanout be inside the house?
In some cases, your cleanout might be inside the house. This is more common in older homes where the sewer lines are made of clay or iron. If your home has a cleanout inside, it will usually be located in the basement or crawl space. You can identify it by looking for a round or square cap that says “sewer” on it.
If you have a cleanout inside your home, you’re in luck! This means that it will be much easier to access if you ever need to do a sewer line cleaning. However, you should still call a professional plumber to do the job for you. They will have the proper equipment and experience to get the job done right.
How often do you need a cleanout?
The frequency of your cleanings will depend on a few things. For example, how many people live in your home? What kind of activities go on in your house (i.e. cooking, pet ownership, etc)? How old is your sewer line? All of these factors play a role in how often you’ll need to have your sewer line cleaned out.
As a general rule of thumb, most experts recommend having your sewer line cleaned out every one to three years. However, if you have a newer home or live alone with no pets, you may be able to stretch that time frame to five years between cleanings.
What is the purpose of a sewer line cleanout?
A sewer line cleanout serves as an access point to the main sewer line of a property. It allows for easy maintenance, inspection, and clearing of blockages or clogs that can occur within the sewer system.
Where is a sewer line cleanout typically located?
A sewer line cleanout is usually located along the main sewer line, often near the building’s exterior. It might be found in the yard, basement, crawlspace, or other accessible areas. The cleanout is identifiable by its capped or threaded opening.
How does a sewer line cleanout work?
A sewer line cleanout is designed with a removable cap or plug that provides direct access to the sewer line. When there’s a blockage or clog in the sewer system, a plumber can remove the cap to insert specialized tools or equipment for cleaning and clearing the line.
Can a sewer line cleanout prevent sewer backups?
While a sewer line cleanout itself doesn’t prevent backups, it enables quick access for addressing and resolving backup issues. Regular maintenance and addressing blockages promptly can help prevent sewer backups from occurring.
Who is responsible for maintaining and using the sewer line cleanout?
Property owners are typically responsible for maintaining the sewer line cleanout on their premises. If a blockage occurs within the property’s sewer line, it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to address the issue or call a professional plumber.
What tools are used to clean out a sewer line through the cleanout?
Professional plumbers use specialized tools to clean out a sewer line through the cleanout, including drain snakes, augers, hydro-jetting equipment, and sewer inspection cameras. These tools are designed to break up clogs and remove debris from the line.
Can a sewer line cleanout be added to a property if it doesn’t have one?
Yes, a sewer line cleanout can be added to a property if it doesn’t already have one. However, the feasibility and cost of installation depend on factors such as the sewer line’s location, the property’s layout, and local regulations.
Is it possible to perform DIY sewer line cleaning through the cleanout?
While minor clogs may be cleared using DIY methods, it’s recommended to hire a professional plumber for sewer line cleaning through the cleanout. Professional plumbers have the expertise and equipment to effectively clear stubborn clogs and prevent damage to the sewer system.
Are there any safety precautions to consider when using a sewer line cleanout?
When using a sewer line cleanout, it’s important to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to avoid contact with wastewater and debris. If you’re not experienced in plumbing, it’s best to leave sewer line cleaning to professionals to ensure safety and proper handling.
Can a sewer line cleanout be used for regular maintenance even if there’s no blockage?
Yes, a sewer line cleanout can be used for regular maintenance and inspections even if there’s no current blockage. Periodic maintenance helps identify potential issues early and ensures the sewer line operates smoothly, reducing the risk of future blockages or backups.
Useful Video: MSDGC Cleanouts
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, a sewer line cleanout is an important part of maintaining your home’s plumbing system. By regularly cleaning your sewer lines, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe and healthy.
If you have any questions about sewer line cleanouts or need help with one, be sure to contact a licensed plumber. They’ll be able to assess your situation and recommend the best course of action. Thanks for reading!
References
- https://newflowplumbing.com/what-is-a-sewer-line-cleanout/
- https://www.thespruce.com/sewer-clean-out-where-to-find-it-3973572
- https://augerpros.com/what-are-sewer-cleanouts-and-how-to-locate-them/
- https://www.hunker.com/13719081/what-is-a-sewer-cleanout