Flushing the toilet should be simple, but when water comes back up instead of going down, it’s a clear sign of trouble. Slow-draining sinks and a bad smell spreading through the house often mean a clogged main sewer line. If left untreated, this can lead to serious problems like sewage backing up into the home.
Plungers and drain cleaners might seem like quick fixes, but they often don’t work for deep clogs. The longer the clog sits, the worse it gets. What causes this issue, and what’s the best way to clear it before it turns into a bigger mess?
7 Steps to Clear a Main Sewer Line Clog
There are different ways to clear a clogged main sewer line, and you can try more than one method to break up the blockage. If a few attempts don’t work, it’s best to call a professional. Some clogs may be too big to handle at home, or there could be a leak in the system that needs expert repair.
1. Pour Boiling Water
One of the simplest ways to clear a clog is by using boiling water. Fill a large pot or kettle with water and bring it to a boil. Slowly pour the boiling water down the drain in small amounts over five to ten minutes.
The hot water helps break down grease, soap buildup, and food particles that may be stuck in the pipes. This method works best for clogs made of soft materials but may not be effective for harder blockages like hair or solid debris.
2. Use a Plunger
A plunger can help push out a clog that is blocking a drain or toilet. Place the plunger firmly over the drain opening or inside the toilet bowl. Make sure there is enough water to create a good seal. Pump the plunger up and down several times to create suction, which can help loosen the clog.
If the water starts to drain, continue plunging a few more times to fully clear the blockage. If the clog remains, try using the plunger after pouring in boiling water for better results. This method is best for clogs that are close to the surface but may not work for deeper blockages.
3. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar
A simple and natural way to break up clogs is by using baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring about 1/3 cup of baking soda down the drain. Then, add 1/3 cup of vinegar. The mixture will create a fizzing reaction that helps loosen buildup inside the pipes.
Let the solution sit for about an hour to break down grease, soap, and small debris. After an hour, pour boiling water down the drain to flush out the clog. This method is safe for pipes and can help keep drains clear when used regularly.
4. Use Salt and Baking Soda
Another natural way to clear a clog is by mixing salt and baking soda. Combine one part salt with two parts baking soda and pour the mixture down the drain. Let it sit for at least a few hours or overnight.
The salt works as a scrubber, while the baking soda helps break down debris. After waiting, pour boiling water down the drain to wash away the clog. This method works best for minor clogs and can help prevent future buildup when used regularly.
5. Remove Debris With a Wet/Dry Vacuum
A wet/dry vacuum can help suck out debris from a clogged drain. First, remove the drain cover or stopper so there is a clear opening into the pipe. Block any overflow openings with a wet cloth to prevent air leaks. Set the vacuum to the “liquid” mode and place the hose firmly over the drain.
Turn the vacuum on and let it suck out the blockage. This method works best for clogs caused by loose debris like hair, paper, or food scraps. Be sure to remove the vacuum hose slowly to avoid sudden pressure changes that could damage the pipes.
6. Use a Plumbing Snake
For deeper clogs, a plumbing snake (also called a drain auger) can help break up the blockage. First, locate the sewer cleanout pipe, which is usually a white pipe sticking out of the ground near your home’s main sewer line. Wear gloves and boots to protect yourself, and remove the cap carefully. Insert the snake into the pipe and slowly feed it in until you feel resistance.
This means you have reached the clog. Turn the handle to break up the blockage, then pull the snake back out. Repeat this process a few times if needed. Afterward, rinse the pipe with clean water before replacing the cap. This method is effective for stubborn clogs caused by hair, grease, or small objects stuck deep in the sewer line.
7. Call a Professional
If none of these methods work, or if the clog keeps coming back, it’s time to call a plumber. Professionals use advanced tools like plumbing cameras to find the exact location of the blockage.
They can also use high-pressure water jets or industrial-strength drain snakes to clear the clog safely. If the clog is caused by tree roots, broken pipes, or other serious issues, a plumber can fix the problem before it gets worse. Getting professional help early can prevent costly damage to your plumbing system.
If you notice slow drains, frequent clogs, or bad smells from your sewer line, don’t wait too long to fix the problem. Trying these simple methods can help, but if the problem continues, professional help is the best option to avoid expensive repairs and water damage.
Ways to Prevent a Main Sewer Line Clog
A clogged drain is a common issue, but a blockage in the main sewer line can cause serious damage if not taken care of. Regular maintenance can help keep your sewer line clear and prevent costly repairs. Here are some simple steps to keep your pipes in good shape.
1. Use Drain Guards
Every day, drains collect soap, food crumbs, hair, and other debris that can build up and clog the sewer line. Placing drain guards in sinks, showers, and tubs helps catch this debris before it goes down the pipes. Cleaning these guards regularly will keep your drains flowing smoothly.
2. Clean Drains Regularly
Regular cleaning helps prevent buildup in your pipes. Once a week, run hot water down the drains to clear away grease and debris. Once a month, pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar into the drains to break down any gunk. For a deeper cleaning, hire a professional plumber every one to two years to check and clear the main sewer line.
3. Only Flush Safe Items
The only things that should go down the toilet are human waste, toilet paper, and water. Flushing items like paper towels, wet wipes, menstrual products, or other materials can lead to serious clogs. Even wipes labeled “flushable” don’t break down properly and can block the pipes over time. Keeping everyone in the household aware of this rule can help prevent problems.
4. Schedule Sewer Inspections
Regular inspections can help catch small problems before they turn into big ones. A yearly sewer inspection can check for clogs, cracks, or other damage in the pipes. If issues are found early, they can be fixed before they lead to costly repairs or backups.
Following these simple steps, you can keep your main sewer line clear and avoid major plumbing issues. A little maintenance now can save time, money, and stress in the future.
Even Pros Need Experts
Even the handiest homeowner sometimes needs a professional’s help. Think about how even top athletes, despite their skill and experience, still rely on coaches to fine-tune their performance. The same goes for plumbing—while DIY methods can solve minor issues, a clogged main sewer line isn’t always an easy fix. Sometimes, an expert’s tools and experience are the only way to get things flowing smoothly again.
Don’t let a stubborn clog disrupt your home. Vegas Plumbing Pros has the expertise and equipment to clear your main sewer line quickly and efficiently. Contact us today for reliable service and get your plumbing back on track!
FAQs
How do I unclog my main sewer line?
Unclogging a main sewer line can be tough, but there are a few things to try. First, turn off the water to stop more backup. Check the cleanout pipe outside—if it’s full of water, the clog is in the main line. A plumbing snake or a sewer jetter might help, but if the clog won’t budge, a professional plumber has the right tools to clear it. Acting fast can prevent bigger problems.
What is the best main line clog remover?
In our tests, the Green Gobbler Main Line Opener worked the best at clearing clogs. It’s also advertised as safe for toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, and even septic tanks. Unlike some harsh drain cleaners, it doesn’t contain bleach or acid, making it less likely to damage pipes.
What is the best chemical to unblock a sewer pipe?
Sulfuric acid is a very strong drain cleaner that works well on tough clogs. However, it can damage pipes and is dangerous to handle. A safer option is baking soda and vinegar, which can help with small clogs naturally.
What to do if main water line is clogged?
If the water pressure in your home gets weaker or some taps stop working, there might be a clog in the water supply line. Fixing this isn’t as simple as using a plunger—it needs a professional plumber to clear the blockage.
