Plan on hiring a plumbing pro every 18 to 22 months to keep buildup from turning into a full‑blown blockage. Mark a reminder on your calendar, even if everything seems to be flowing fine. Between visits, watch for early red flags—gurgling drains, slow water, or sewer odors—and call a plumber sooner if you notice them.
Most cleanouts wrap up in about two hours, but complexity drives the clock. A simple clog can be gone in under 60 minutes, while a stubborn blockage, especially one that needs repairs, can stretch to four or five hours. Major damage may push the job into a multi‑day project. Your plumber can give you an accurate time estimate after they’ve assessed your situation.
You can’t prevent every clog, as they naturally occur over time, but you can drastically reduce their frequency by following common-sense steps. Toss solids in the trash or disposal, and keep only water, approved liquids, and toilet paper down the pipes. Never flush problem items like dental floss, paper towels, cat litter, or “flushable” wipes. Finally, conduct regular inspections and perform routine maintenance and cleaning.
Start by confirming the company is licensed, insured, and certified. Next, dig into reviews and ask for references to be sure their work lives up to the hype. In addition, a company with several years of experience and recognized industry awards demonstrates reliability and quality. These factors altogether form the foundation for making an informed decision when hiring a sewer line professional.
Sewer line cleaning improves the overall performance of your home’s plumbing system by ensuring smooth operation throughout all connected pipes. Maintaining a clean main sewer line prevents backups and supports the efficient flow of water across your entire plumbing network. Regular maintenance not only minimizes the risk of unexpected repairs but also prolongs the life of your pipes, while seasonal care, such as winterizing, further safeguards your system’s performance.