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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.

Your septic tank naturally contains the good bacteria it needs, so you typically don't have to add more as the system produces them on its own. However, if you wish to replenish the bacteria, you can use natural methods. For example, you can add three rotten tomatoes to your garbage disposal or flush 1/4 ounce of active yeast down the toilet every three months. While store-bought septic enzymes and chemicals are available, many additives are unnecessary and may even harm your system. The most effective way to maintain a healthy bacterial balance is to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank.

Roto-Rooter does not charge by the hour, so the quote you get after your in-person consultation should cover the whole project. This includes the time it takes a technician to get to your house and the time it takes to complete the job. For context, a plumber will charge anywhere from $45 to $200 per hour, but you may also pay a service fee or flat fee. 

The best thing to unclog a septic tank is a mechanical auger, especially if the clog is far down the line or particularly dense. You can also clear a clog in a septic line with a wooden pole or steel rod. Be sure to follow safety precautions when working in a septic tank, including wearing heavy-duty work gloves, goggles, and a gas mask.