A blocked sewer line is not something you want to ignore. A clog can quickly cause problems throughout your home, such as leaking pipes and a rising water bill.
No one plans for a clog in the main sewer line, but when it happens, it’s best to know what you’re dealing with and how to fix it. Here’s how to identify a clogged or damaged sewer line and determine whether to DIY or call in a professional plumber for a sewer line repair.
How Do I Know If My Sewer Line Is Clogged?
Before working on your sewer line, you need first to evaluate whether it is clogged at all. Here are a few key indications you need a sewer line repair:
- Strange gurgling sounds
- Slow drain of water in sinks, toilets, and bathtubs
- Sewage backups in toilets or tubs
- Persistent foul odors in the basement or yard
If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait to fix the problem. Ignoring these signs can lead to water damage, bacterial growth, and a hefty water bill.
Two Approaches to Clear a Sewer Line
Once you’ve found a clog, it’s time to act. Before calling in a professional plumber, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. There are two common homemade plumbing repairs to try, depending on your comfort level and the tools you have on hand:
- With a plumbing snake
- Without a plumbing snake
How Do You Unclog a Sewer Line with a Plumbing Snake?
A common DIY method to clear a sewer line is the use of a plumbing snake — a long, thin tube with a hooked end designed to break up blockages. Plumbing snakes can be manual, which is best for shallow clogs, or electric, which is better suited for deeper, more severe clogs.
Here are the steps to take:
- Locate the cleanout access (usually a capped pipe near your home’s foundation, or in the basement)
- Feed the end of the snake slowly into the pipe until you feel resistance, which means you have reached the clog
- Break the clog by slowly rotating the snake and pushing it forward
- Pull the snake out and flush the line with hot water to clear remaining residue
How to Unclog the Main Sewer Line Without a Plumbing Snake?
If you don’t have access to a plumbing snake, there are some alternative DIY solutions for clearing a minor sewer line blockage yourself.
- Boiling Water: By intermittently pouring boiling water down the drain, hot water can break up the grime that causes blockages.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mixing vinegar with baking soda produces a fizzy mixture that can be poured down the sewer drain to help break down a clog. Let the mixture sit for several hours before flushing, then drain with hot water.
- A Bent Wire Hanger: By straightening a simple wire hanger and bending a hook at the end, you can create a “semi-plumbing-snake” to break up or grab out debris.
Is It Safe to Clear A Sewer Line Myself?
The answer to this question is generally yes, and indeed, many homeowners may choose to unclog a sewer drain by themselves. However, note that these solutions are typically effective for minor clogs or partial blockages.
If you’re experiencing a major sewer drain issue, calling a professional plumber is the only reliable way to unclog your main line without risking significant damage. A licensed plumber has the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to clear your main sewer line safely and effectively.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Sewer Clogs?
This is a common question we hear from our clients when they call us for help, and the answer is that homeowner’s insurance may cover damage to the main sewer line, depending on the circumstances.
In instances such as fire, damage from vehicles or fallen objects, or weather events excluding earthquakes and floods, damage is often covered. If damage is a result of faulty construction, improper maintenance, or tree roots, it is not likely to be covered by homeowner’s insurance.
Many insurance companies offer sewage backup endorsements that cover damage from water and sewage backups. This endorsement typically covers damage to your home and personal possessions in the event of a sewage backup, but does not cover physical damage to your sewer line.
Still Dealing with a Clog? Ken’s Plumbing Can Help
A main sewage line clog isn’t something to put off. At Ken’s Plumbing, our team is expertly equipped to clear your sewer line and prevent future damage. We’re here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Don’t wait until the damage is already done. Schedule a service today or contact us online, or call us at (864) 661-4890.
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