Question 1

Is a sewer smell outside dangerous?

Accepted Answer

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Sewer gas in any location can cause eye and respiratory irritation if you’re exposed at low levels, or more severe symptoms if you’re exposed at high levels—but fortunately, the fresh air outside means it’s less likely to affect your physical health. However, sewer smells outside can still indicate significant plumbing problems that will need to be dealt with, such as a potentially damaged sewer line or roof vent pipe.

Question 2

How long does it take to fix a main line clog?

Accepted Answer

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It can take anywhere from half an hour to a few hours to fix a main line clog, depending on the cause and severity of it. The job should not take more than a day to complete. Keep in mind that the main line is not the same as your home’s sewer lines (which connect to the main line and run to your house). Your city is responsible for any clogs or damage to the main line itself.

Question 3

How long does a sewer inspection take?

Accepted Answer

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Your sewer pro will take about an hour to complete your sewer line camera inspection. However, if your home does not have cleanout access and the pro needs to remove the toilet to access the sewer line, the time to completion will take longer. Note that this estimated time does not include the time for repair, drain cleaning, or any other services you may need.

Question 4

How do I stop sludge buildup in my sewer line?

Accepted Answer

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Your sewer line can get grimy quickly. To prevent sludge buildup in your sewer line, pour a mixture of 1/3 cup of vinegar and 1/3 cup of baking soda down each drain in your home once a month. After about 30 minutes, flush the drain with hot water.

Some plumbers recommend 3/4 cup of bleach instead to clean any germs and bacteria that may build up in your sewer line. But this won’t break down any active clogs, and it cannot be combined with vinegar, as the mixture will create a toxic, hazardous gas.

Question 5

How do I know if my basement floor drain is clogged?

Accepted Answer

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Water leaking through your basement floor is a good sign of a clogged drain, but another sign of a clogged basement floor drain can include unpleasant odors coming from the drain. Also, hearing gurgling noises when water drains from the basement or having other plumbing fixtures (like toilets or other drains) backing up is a good indicator.