Getting a sewer line cleaning often isn’t a priority until there’s a problem. But cleaning isn’t just an emergency response; it should be a part of regular sewer system maintenance. This guide shares what you need to know about keeping sewer lines clear.

Signs That It’s Time for a Sewer Line Cleaning

Drainage from sinks, toilets, showers, and laundry machines all eventually end up in the main sewer line. If you notice multiple slow drains, smells, gurgling noises, or clogs, the main sewer line may be blocked.

Or perhaps you’ve noticed when you flush the toilet, the shower or bath drain backs up. This indicates grey water trying to exit through sewer lines is being impeded somewhere along the way. 

Water collecting around floor drains is also not a good sign. If the water smells or looks like sewage, the lines are backed up, and you should call a professional right away. Don’t attempt to clean up hazardous sewage yourself.

Causes of Sewer Line Back Ups

Spreading tree roots can grow into underground pipes, blocking water flow and causing sewage backups. Before planting any new trees, always double-check your utility schematics. 

Grease and oil poured down the drain can solidify and form clogs in the main sewer line. You should never pour oil from cooking down the drain unless you have a grease trap that gets cleaned regularly.

Similarly, don’t put any kind of trash, feminine products, or diapers and wipes down the toilet or any other drain. These items may eventually clog sewer lines and lead to a potentially expensive mess. 

When to Have a Sewer Line Cleaning

To avoid clogs and emergencies, have sewer line cleaning done every 18 months or so. If you have persistent issues, call in a plumber to diagnose the problem. They can do a video inspection with a small camera to diagnose the cause of a clogged line. In the case of a blockage, they may use hydro-jetting to clear it.

To keep your sewer lines clear and plumbing problems to a minimum, turn to Bob’s Sweetwater Pumping Service on the Big Island of Hawaii. Their licensed and certified technicians have offered full-service plumbing solutions to Kona and Waimea for over 20 years, including drain, septic, and cesspool treatment and maintenance. Call (808) 885-7159 to schedule sewer line cleaning service, or visit their website to learn more about their offerings.