"We called him and he came right over that evening, started the next morning. Was a big job but they completed, and cleaned up so you hardly knew they were there. Everyone working on this job was able to answer all my questions."
Yes. Sewer cameras are invaluable tools that can help pros safely diagnose problems with your septic system. Without a camera to look into your system, septic issue diagnoses would be a combination of guessing and past experience. However, a camera can help confirm ideas that your pro may already have about what’s wrong.
Bleach isn’t likely to help unclog a sewer line. Bleach isn’t useful in this situation because it won’t dissolve the grime and debris in the clog. Instead, you want to use ingredients that will have a chemical reaction to clear out the buildup, like vinegar or salt and baking soda.
There are several common signs that your main sewer line may be clogged. Key indicators include multiple fixtures in your home draining slowly, gurgling sounds coming from drains or toilets, and water backing up into showers, sinks, or toilets. You might also notice water backing up from the plumbing system's drain cleanout, water in your basement drain, or unexplained wet patches on your lawn. Foul odors, such as the smell of raw sewage or rotten eggs, are another common symptom. The most reliable way to confirm a main sewer line clog is to hire a professional plumber to perform a camera inspection.
Some experts estimate that descaling your cast iron pipes can extend their lifetime by upwards of 50 years, although there’s not a lot of research to prove it. But we do know that without proper maintenance, cast iron pipes can quickly rust—leading to more expensive issues like burst pipes or main line clogs.
The cost to clean a sewer line is about $370, ranging from about $190 to $550 on average. The specific cleaning method and the problem's severity will impact the project's overall cost.
Some of the most common sewer line cleaning methods include:
Snaking or rodding: $100–$250
Hydrojetting: $350–$600
Chemical treatments: $600–$1,000
Repair or replacement: $1,000–$7,500
The Ellendale, ND homeowners’ guide to sewer cleaning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A clogged main sewer line can lead to gas or wastewater leaks. Find out what main sewer line clog repair costs by type of service, clog severity, and more.
The best way to keep your sewer line running smoothly is with some regular maintenance. But don’t worry—it doesn’t take much effort. Read on to learn how.
When was the last time you gave your sewer system some attention? If it’s been a while, it might be a good idea to clear any debris out of your sewer line.