Most homeowners think about a sewer cleanout only when they face clogged sewer lines. Any problem with the sewer line hampers the smooth functioning of the plumbing system as all of the plumbing fixtures, pipes, and drains are connected to it. Sewer line problems occur when the pipes get damaged due to corrosion, root intrusion, leaking joints, misalignment, and drooping soil lines. If you suspect damage to the sewer line, call a plumber immediately.
What is a sewer cleanout?
A sewer cleanout is a vital part of a house’s plumbing system. It is a capped pipe that facilitates easy access to the home’s sewer system to help clear blockages. The pipes are made of PVC piping or cast iron, with a plastic, cast iron, or brass cap on the tip. It is usually located outside the home in the front or back yard along the lateral sewer line, strategically placed to give access to any section of the sewer line. A lateral sewer line connects your home sewer line to the public sewer system or septic tank. When you face issues with the sewer pipes, the plumber will send a camera down through this sewer cleanout into the main sewer drain to identify the extent of the problem. Based on it, the plumber decides whether to use a plunger, a drain snake, or hydro jetting to unclog. He will run the camera again through the sewer cleanout to ensure that the drains have fully unclogged.
Reasons you might need a sewer cleanout
While newer homes have a sewer cleanout, the older homes may not. It is best to have one installed for the safety of the plumbing system. Common sewage problems include blockages, leaks, foul odor, slow internal plumbing drains, crack in the lines, mold, cracks in the home’s foundation, and pest invasion poses a threat not only to the plumbing system but also the health of your home and family. Without a sewer cleanout, there is always a risk of dangerous gases that build up in the pipes to get in and around the house. You can be fined for not having a proper sewer cleanout if it is required according to the local or state plumbing codes. Having a sewer cleanout is an invaluable asset when you need to clear sewer line blockages. Without one, you will have to insert the large auger through toilet or fixture drains, which can cause it to crack. It is beneficial to know its location, especially when plumbing services are required to treat sewer line problems. In larger homes, it is pretty common to have multiple sewer cleanouts. Call a plumber or a plumbing contractor to get one installed on the property. The cost of sewer cleanout installation will depend on the condition of the existing pipes, and the excavation work involved.Â
If you suspect sewer line blockages, turn off the water supply and stop using all the plumbing fixtures immediately. Look for the sewer cleanout outside the home to check for any sign of blockages. If you don’t have one, consider installing it by a professional plumber.
Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.