Jul20

By Dave Bangar

How To Clear a Sewer Line Clog

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The Risks of a Clogged Sewer Line and How to Address the Issue

A clogged sewer line is a common issue faced by many Kelowna homeowners, but when the obstruction is significant and is left unaddressed, it can lead to serious problems like sewage backups, water damage, plumbing issues, and even health problems. For this reason, sewer line clogs should always be taken seriously and swiftly resolved by a plumber. 

In this article, we will explore what causes a sewer line clog, the risks of leaving it unaddressed, and how a plumber will fix the issue. 

What Is A Sewer Line Clog?

A sewer line is the main pipe responsible for carrying wastewater from your home to your municipal sewer system or septic tank. When a blockage forms at any point in this pipe, it prevents the proper flow of wastewater. The wastewater then backs up into drains, toilets, or other access points within the property, leading to:

• Foul odours coming from your drains and toilets
• Gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from drains or toilets
• Strange wet patches in your yard
• Health issues from sewage exposure
• Damage to your plumbing system

What Causes a Clog in a Sewer Line?

A sewer line clog typically occurs due to any of the following reasons:

• Buildup of debris and residue – When hair, soap scum, food debris, grease, and other solid materials end up in your drain, they can cling to the walls of the sewer pipe, resulting in a clog and constricting the flow of wastewater.
• Tree roots – Tree roots are attracted to sources of water, so if there are cracks or gaps in your sewer pipe, roots can get in and cause a serious blockage along with other major issues. 
• Flushing inappropriate items – Flushing items that don’t belong in toilets like sanitary napkins, baby wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and other non-biodegradable materials can not only clog your toilet but your sewer line as well. 
• Pipe misalignment or collapse – Sewer pipes can sometimes shift or become misaligned due to age, ground settling, shifting soil, or extreme temperature changes. When this happens, it can cause an obstruction in the sewer line.
• Grease buildup – A buildup of grease and fat in your kitchen drain can solidify in your pipes, clog the sewer line, and impede the flow of wastewater. 
• Structural defects – In rare cases, structural pipe defects like improper slope, inadequate pipe size, or other design flaws can lead to sewer line clogs. 

How To Remove a Sewer Line Clog

A sewer line clog is a serious issue that requires specialized tools and expertise in order to be cleared without damaging the plumbing system. For this reason, you should never try to clear a sewer line on your own, as doing so without help from a plumber can often lead to more serious issues. 

Always call a plumber if you suspect you have a clogged sewer line and they will take care of the issue by following these steps:

Inspection

The plumber will thoroughly inspect the sewer line using specialized tools that will help them identify the severity, location, and cause of the clog, along with any potential damage to the pipe.

Clearing the Clog

Depending on the severity of the obstruction, the plumber may first attempt to clear it using drain snakes or hydro jetting. Both tools can be incredibly effective at removing clogs caused by grease, food debris, or mineral buildup. If this doesn’t work, more powerful techniques may be deployed. 

Removing Tree Roots

If tree roots have infiltrated the sewer line, the plumber may use root-cutting tools or hydro jetting with specialized nozzles to remove the roots from the pipe. 

Pipe Repair or Replacement 

If the sewer line becomes damaged or misaligned, the plumber may need to repair or replace the affected section of the pipe. 

When to Call a Plumber

When left unaddressed, a sewer line clog can lead to serious issues. So, if you suspect you have a clog, give us a call. 

At My Plumber Kelowna, we have a team of licensed, trained, and highly experienced plumbers who can help you dislodge large, hard-to-remove clogs and resolve any other plumbing issues you may be experiencing.
Call us today at 250-601-0000 or fill out a form on our website and we will be in touch ASAP.