The Main Sewer Line Clog – Know the Warning Signs

The sewer line is one of the most vital parts of your household plumbing and can wreak havoc if it becomes damaged or clogged. Repairing or replacing pipes can quickly become quite expensive. The sooner you detect a breakage or clog, the more likely you’ll be able to fix it without a huge hassle or cost.

What Causes the Main Sewer Line to Clog

Common culprits of blocking your main sewer line are the root systems from nearby trees and large plants. Tiny feeder roots can work their way into your pipes through pipe joints seeking moisture. After these small roots have made their way into the pipes, they will start to grow larger and act as a net, catching toilet paper, waste, and other larger debris until a clog forms. Roots are much more likely to make their way into your pipes if they are older and made from clay or concrete. If you believe your pipes are susceptible to being invaded by tree roots, take preemptive measures and install metal or wood barriers around the pipes to protect against the roots.

Warning Signs of a Main Sewer Line Clog

When your sewer line is clogged, there are plenty of warning signs to alert you of the blockage. Your sinks, toilets, and bathtubs/showers may be draining slowly or even worse, not at all. The fixtures may also affect each other if there is a main sewer line clog. For example, if you are using the washing machine and a toilet or sink begins backing up, this is a clear sign of a blockage – after all, the water has to go somewhere.

If you notice gurgling sounds when flushing a toilet or while water is going down the drain, this might be an indication of a blockage in your pipe system. This may come with a frequent need to plunge your toilet or sinks. These are indicators that the blockage is farther down your drainage system and need professional assistance to remove. 

How to Clear a Main Sewer Line Clog

Sewer clogs cannot be treated with plungers or store-bought chemical drain cleaners. Professional cleaning is necessary, and your Donley Service technician can use a video camera to inspect the sewer line and confirm what is causing the blockage. Our professionals will be able to recommend repair options, such as the use of a heavy-duty cleaning machine with a stiff steel cable and a sharp blade on its tip. This cable spins as it moves through the sewer pipe to cut away any obstructions, even shaving tree roots right down to the pipe walls, restoring full flow in your sewer pipe.

Call your local Donley Service Comfort Hero to schedule a service when you begin experiencing signs of a sewer line clog. They will protect your home from any extensive damage and expensive repairs down the line.