What is a ground cleanout?

The main cleanout is located outside and is called the ground level sewer cleanout, or outside sewer cleanout. This outside cleanout is crucial because if your drain or sewer line is backed up, the ground level cleanout is the one we will need to access to resolve the problem.

How do you clean out a sewer line?

Your step-by-step guide: How to clear a main sewer line clog

  1. Loosen the cap on the drain pipe. …
  2. Allow any sewer buildup to come out of the drain. …
  3. Gently feed the auger cable into the main line drain. …
  4. Run the auger until the clog is broken up. …
  5. Hose out leftover debris. …
  6. Pull the auger cable back out of the main line drain.


What is a clean out piping?

WHAT IS A CLEAN-OUT? A sewer clean out is a capped pipe that connects to your home’s main sewer line. It is installed outside the home to be able to easily access your main sewer line, which is the main drainage line leaving your home.

How often should you clean out your sewer line?

A good general rule is to have your home’s sewer lines cleaned out every 18 to 22 months.

What is the purpose of clean-out?

A cleanout is an easily accessible section of pipe with a removable cover that makes it easier for you or a plumber to access your pipes. This access lets you run an auger or snake into the pipes to clear clogs and provides easy access for a plumber with a camera to check your pipes for other issues.

Where should Cleanouts be located?

A cleanout shall be installed above the fixture connection fitting, serving each urinal, regardless of the location of the urinal in the building. Exceptions: (1) Cleanouts shall be permitted to be omitted on a horizontal drain line less than 5 feet (1524 mm) in length unless such line is serving sinks or urinals.

Can I unclog a sewer line myself?

It is possible to unclog drains yourself, but it can lead to more problems. Therefore, it is a good idea to call a professional plumber. A professional drain contractor can inspect your system and clean it.

How do you know if your main line is clogged?

Some signs that your main sewer line is clogged include:

  1. Water Backing Up in Your Toilet or Sink. One of the first signs there’s a problem with the main sewage line is water backing up in the sink or toilet. …
  2. Slow Drains. …
  3. Funky Smells. …
  4. Flooded Yard.


How do you unclog a main sewer line without a snake?

All you need to do is take a cupful of baking soda and pour it down the drain. Consequently, pour a cupful of white vinegar down the same drain. Thereafter, wait for around 10-15 minutes for the baking soda and vinegar solution to break up and clear the clog.

Why does my main sewer line keep clogging up?

Grease, fats, and oil are all some of the biggest culprits when it comes to clogging lines. It’s NEVER a good idea to pour grease, oil, or other fats down a drain. Always pour hot grease into a coffee can or jar. Once it solidifies, you can throw it away.

How long does it take to clean out a sewer line?

Depending on the severity of the problem, your sewer line could take anywhere from a half hour to 5 hours to be cleaned. A professional will come and talk to you about your issue. Then, they’ll likely first try to resolve the problem with a drain clearing “auger” (a motorized snake-like tool that breaks apart clogs).

How do you stop a sewer line from clogging?

5 Steps to Prevent Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines

  1. Step 1: Never Put Greasy Food Down the Kitchen Drain. …
  2. Step 2: Stop Letting Hair Down the Shower Drain. …
  3. Step 3: Prevent Soap Scum From Forming. …
  4. Step 4: Have Your Drain Lines Cleaned Regularly. …
  5. Step 5: Use Copper Sulfate to Prevent Root Growth.


What is a sewer cleanout used for?

The sewer clean out is a pipe or pipe(s) with a cap that provides access to the sewer line so that blockages can be removed. The lateral sewer line is the sewer line that connects your home to the main public sewer system. Usually, the sewer cleanout is located somewhere along the lateral sewer line.

What is a two-way cleanout?

An opening in pipes or sewers designed for rodding or working a snake into the pipe in either direction. Two-way cleanouts are most often found in building lateral pipes at or near a property line.

Why do you need a two-way cleanout?

Most modern homes already have a sewer cleanout installed, but some older homes don’t. A two-way sewer cleanout differs from other cleanouts because it allows hydro jets and drain snakes access to both sides of the pipe—the side going into your home and the side going into your septic tank or the municipal sewers.

What is a one way cleanout?

A one-way cleanout gives access in only one direction. A two-way cleanout has a U-shape and allows access in two directions, toward the yard and the house lines.