How Often Should Sewer Lines Be Cleaned?

Your home’s sewer line works hard behind the scenes, carrying wastewater away from your home. But just like any other part of your plumbing system, your sewer line needs attention to keep running smoothly. Regular sewer and drain cleaning helps prevent unpleasant surprises — like sewage backups in your bathtub or slow drains in your kitchen sink.

At Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer, we understand that homeowners want reliable plumbing without constant worry. Knowing how often to clean your sewer lines can help you avoid serious damage and keep your system running smoothly.

General Sewer Maintenance Timeline For Homeowners

Homeowners should schedule sewer maintenance about every 18 to 24 months. This gives plumbers a chance to inspect the line, clear out any minor buildup and prevent small clogs from turning into major blockages.

However, this is just a general guideline. The right timeline for your home depends on several factors, including:

• The age of your plumbing system — Older pipes may need more frequent checks
• Whether your yard has large trees — Roots could infiltrate the sewer line
• The size of your household — More people using your plumbing means more strain on your system
• Your history of clogs or backups — Homes with recurring problems may need more frequent cleanings

If you’ve never had your sewer line cleaned or inspected, it’s worth scheduling a visit from Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer to establish a baseline and create a custom maintenance plan.

Signs You May Need Immediate Sewer And Drain Cleaning

Sometimes, your home will give you warning signs that your sewer line needs attention sooner rather than later. Common red flags include:

• Slow drains throughout your house, not just in one fixture
• Gurgling noises coming from toilets, especially after flushing
• Foul odors near drains or outside near your main sewer cleanout
• Water backups in tubs or showers when you flush the toilet

These symptoms often point to a partial blockage that could turn into a complete clog if left untreated. Prompt sewer and drain cleaning can save you from bigger headaches down the road.

What Is A Main Sewer Cleanout — And Why Does It Matter?

Your main sewer cleanout is a critical access point in your home’s plumbing system. This capped pipe is usually located outside, near your home’s foundation, and it allows professional plumbers to quickly access your sewer line for inspection, snaking or hydrojetting.

Keeping your cleanout accessible is important. If it’s buried under landscaping or debris, it can delay service when you need it most. During routine sewer maintenance, plumbers can also inspect the cleanout for signs of leaks, cracks or tree root infiltration.

What Happens If You Skip Sewer Maintenance?

When sewer maintenance is ignored, small problems can turn into expensive repairs. Grease, food particles, soap scum and debris gradually collect inside your pipes, restricting flow. Over time, tree roots can work their way into small cracks, expanding as they search for moisture and nutrients.

Without regular sewer and drain cleaning, you could end up with sewage backing into your home, unpleasant odors in your yard, or even damage to your home’s foundation caused by leaks. Regular care helps prevent these costly scenarios and keeps your plumbing system in top shape.

Professional Sewer And Drain Cleaning Methods

When it’s time to clean your sewer line, professional plumbers have two primary tools:

• Snaking — This method uses a flexible cable with a rotating head to break up clogs and clear blockages. It’s ideal for minor buildups or clogs close to the drain.
• Hydrojetting — For more stubborn clogs, including tree roots or heavy grease buildup, hydrojetting uses high-pressure water to scour the inside of your pipes.

Both methods are effective when performed by trained plumbers like the team at Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer.

Trust Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer For Reliable Sewer Maintenance

Proactive sewer and drain cleaning helps protect your home from costly repairs and unpleasant surprises. With regular maintenance and expert care from Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer, you can trust that your plumbing system will continue to serve your home for years to come.

Whether you need a routine inspection or a full main sewer cleanout, our experienced team is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule your service and enjoy the peace of mind that you deserve.