How to Clean a Sewer Line Blockage

A blocked sewer line can cause a multitude of problems for your plumbing system.

A clogged sewer line can present a problem to homeowners. The unpleasant smell associated with a blockage can be almost unbearable. Obstructions in the sewer line can cause your shower, sink and toilet to have water drainage problems too, making for unsanitary conditions. Although cleaning a sewer line blockage can potentially be a nasty job, you can save the expense of a plumber with a little patience and the right tools.

Things You'll Need

• Plumbing snake
• Pipe wrench
• Waste bucket
• Hot water

Instructions

1. Locate the cleanout plug in your sewer system. If you have a basement, this will usually be found overhead in the plumbing system. If you have a single-story home look for the plug in your crawlspace. This cleanout plug will be found near where your main sewer line goes through the foundation wall of your home and out to the sewage system.

2. Place a waste bucket underneath the cleanout plug before you begin. Once removed, waste material may fall out of the open plug cover depending on the severity of the blockage.

3. Loosen the cleanout plug cover with the pipe wrench. Turn the drain cap in a counter-clockwise direction. If you find that water sprays out as though it is under pressure, allow this pressure to release itself before you completely remove the plug. Once it is relieved, completely remove the plug from the cleanout drain.

4. Insert the end of the plumbing snake into the cleanout drain hole. Begin unrolling the snake as you feed it into the sewer system, using firm pressure to force it through the pipes. If you feel an obstruction this is likely the blockage. Pull the snake back a bit and force it forward again to dislodge the blockage. Feed the snake until the blockage is completely removed.

5. Remove the snake from your cleanout drain. Pour several buckets of hot water into your cleanout drain to help cleanout any remaining residue or clogs.

6. Replace the cleanout drain plug and tighten it with the pipe wrench. Test the drainage of your plumbing fixtures. If water drainage still seems slow, repeat the process as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• If a blockage seems specific to your sink, shower or toilet drain you may also insert the snake through these openings to remove clogs.

References

• Aubuchon Hardware: How To Unclog Drains, Toilets and Sewers
• This Old House: Clear Any Clogged Drain