5 Questions to Ask About Your Sewer Main

How often do you think about your sewer? Probably not too often—unless you have a smelly problem. In that case, you’re going to be thinking about your sewer main nonstop. When talking to a plumber or sewer cleaning pro, get ready to answer these questions to help you get back on track.

1. What problems are you noticing?

Sewer main problems can take many forms. You may notice an unpleasant odor coming from your sink drains, or the drains may take forever to clear. When you flush the toilet, it may gurgle and water may back up into the bowl. Let the professional know about any plumbing irregularities you're seeing.

2. Where is your sewer located?

A plumber or sewer cleaning pro needs to know the location of your sewer main before they can clean it out. One way to find your sewer is to look at the plans and blueprints for your home. Another option is to call 811 and have someone come out and mark the location of the sewer and other utility lines in your yard. 

You can also look in your yard to see if you can see the sewer cleanout, which is usually a white PVC pipe that sticks out of the ground. The pipe provides easy access to your sewer main for cleanouts and inspections.

3. When was the last time you had your sewer main serviced?

Ideally, your home's sewer main should be cleaned every 18 months. If it's been a bit longer, let the plumber know, as that may affect the project's length and complexity. Also let the pro know about past sewer problems you may have had, such as tree roots invading the pipes.

4. How long will the project take?

Talk to the sewer cleanout professional about the expected duration of the project and when you'd like the work performed. Usually, sewer clearing can take anywhere from under one hour to several hours, depending on the severity of the clog and how tricky it is for the plumber to access your sewer line. 

Ask your professional about the estimated project start date, too. You should have your sewer cleared sooner rather than later, even in a non-emergency situation. 

5. How can you protect my sewer main?

Regular cleanouts are part of sewer maintenance. A plumber or cleanout pro may recommend paying close attention to what gets poured down the drains. Dumping cooking oil or other grease down your kitchen sink is usually a big no-no and can clog the lines. 

If you have trees and shrubs in your yard, pay attention to their roots. Next time you have a landscaping pro or an arborist come out to your property, ask them to inspect these plants. These experts may offer solutions to keep the root systems under control.