How do you fix a blocked sewer line?

Answer

Fixing a blocked sewer line is an important task, as a blockage can cause sewage backup, unpleasant odors, and significant water damage. Depending on the severity and location of the blockage, there are various ways to address it. Below is a step-by-step guide for fixing a blocked sewer line.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Blocked Sewer Line:

1. Identify the Source of the Blockage:

Signs of a Blocked Sewer Line:
Multiple drains in your home are slow or clogged (sink, shower, toilet).
You notice foul odors coming from drains.
Water backs up into drains, particularly the lower ones.
Gurgling sounds in the toilet or sinks.
Tools you may need:

Plunger
Drain snake (manual or motorized)
Pipe wrench
Wet/dry vacuum (for clearing small obstructions)
Camera inspection tool (for locating severe blockages)

2. Try Clearing the Blockage with a Plunger:

Plunge the Toilet:

If the blockage is in a toilet, try using a plunger to clear the obstruction. Place the plunger over the toilet drain and push down firmly, then pull up quickly to create suction. Repeat several times.

Plunge Other Drains:

For sinks, bathtubs, or showers, use a plunger to try and clear the blockage. Make sure to block other openings (like overflow holes) to ensure the plunger creates enough suction.
Be careful not to force the plunger, as it could damage the pipes.

3. Use a Drain Snake or Auger:

If plunging doesn’t resolve the issue, a drain snake (also known as an auger) can help break through the blockage.

Using a Manual Drain Snake:

Insert the drain snake into the drain, and slowly push it through the pipe while turning the handle.

Continue feeding the snake until you feel resistance (indicating you've reached the blockage). Once you feel the resistance, try rotating the snake to break up or grab the clog. Pull it out.

If the blockage is cleared, run water through the drain to make sure it flows properly.
Using a Motorized Drain Auger:

A motorized drain auger is ideal for tougher, more stubborn blockages deep within the sewer line. This tool is available for rent at most hardware stores, or you can call a plumber who has access to professional equipment.

Insert the auger into the sewer line and feed it in while operating the motor. The auger will grind through debris and clear the obstruction.

4. Try a Hydro Jet (Professional Method):

Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clear blockages and clean the sewer line. A licensed plumber typically performs this method. It’s very effective for:

Tree roots

Heavy grease and debris build-up

Tough clogs deep in the sewer line

The plumber will insert a high-pressure hose into the sewer line and blast water through the pipe to clear the blockage.

5. Inspect the Sewer Line (for Major Blockages):

If you suspect a more serious blockage, such as tree roots, collapsed pipes, or long-term buildup, it’s best to have a camera inspection done.

A sewer camera inspection involves inserting a small, waterproof camera into the sewer line. This allows the plumber to visually inspect the inside of the pipes and pinpoint the exact location and cause of the blockage.

The plumber can identify tree root infiltration, cracked pipes, or other issues causing the blockage.

6. Remove Tree Roots (if Applicable):

If tree roots are infiltrating the sewer line and causing the blockage, you may need to:
Use a mechanical root cutter (a tool that cuts through tree roots inside the sewer pipe).

Alternatively, a plumber might recommend using chemicals to kill the roots (though this is usually a temporary solution).

In severe cases, the pipes may need to be replaced or repaired to prevent future root intrusion.

7. Repair or Replace Damaged Sections of the Pipe (if Needed):

Cracked or Collapsed Pipes:

If the sewer line has cracked or collapsed (due to age, shifting soil, or tree roots), the damaged sections of the pipe will need to be repaired or replaced.

Depending on the severity, the pipe may need to be excavated and replaced.
Trenchless Pipe Repair:

In some cases, if the sewer line is damaged but accessible, trenchless pipe repair can be done. This method involves inserting a new pipe liner inside the old pipe, effectively "replacing" the old pipe without digging up the yard.

8. Clean and Flush the Line:
After the blockage is cleared, it’s important to clean the sewer line to ensure no debris or buildup is left behind.

Run water through all drains in your home to flush out any remaining debris.

If the blockage was caused by grease, it may take additional flushing to fully clear the line.