Unclogging Main Lines and Branch Lines

Projections show that the global plumbing services market will reach a size of $802.37 million by 2026.

All kinds of issues may occur with your plumbing, and some can be quite urgent. If your main line or branch lines get clogged, it can cause sewage to back up in your house. Fortunately, an emergency plumber can usually fix this quite quickly.

For a rundown of what’s involved in unclogging main and branch lines, keep reading.

4 Signs Your Sewer Line Is Blocked

Main and branch line blockages are among the most common plumbing problems. There are several signs you can look out for which indicate a blockage.

Multiple Drains Backing Up

The drains in your system are interconnected, so if there’s a blockage, it can affect multiple lines. A clog in the main line may cause water to back up in all branch lines. This may be noticeable in sinks, showers, toilets, and bathtubs.

Drainage Appears in Sewer Clean Out

A clog can cause sewage to back up into your home’s sewer line cleanout pipe. You might also notice sewage standing in your yard. In either of these cases, you should immediately call a plumber.

Sewage in Floor Drain

Most modern homes have floor drains that are connected to a collection pit. These are typically in basements or on the base level floor.

A clogged drain line can force sewage to sit in a secondary drain. When this happens, you’ll likely see and smell it through your floor drains.

Water Backs Up in Shower When Toilet Flushes

Using one water fixture shouldn’t affect another. If you flush your toilet and water backs up into your shower or bathtub, it’s likely due to a clog. You might also notice similar effects when using your washing machine.

Unclogging Your Sewer Line

Regular plumbing maintenance will help keep your lines clear, but blockages can still occur. There are 2 main steps to drain unclogging.

1. Remove the Clean-Out Plug

Any plumbing system should have clean-out plugs in easy-to-access areas such as a basement, garage, or crawlspace. They’re generally found on a large drainpipe and just require a wrench to remove them.

At this point, some wastewater may flow out (and again when the clog is removed). Placing a bucket under the clean-out plug when removing it is a good idea.

2. Use an Auger or Rod

An auger is a special device that plumbers use to remove clogs. They can extend a long way through pipes and even around bends.

A sewer rod is similar, and both are quite effective at removing clogs. An emergency plumber may have both so that they’re ready to deal with any kind of clog.

Professional Plumbing Services

Unclogging main lines and branch lines can be quite tricky, depending on the location and severity of the clog. Hiring a professional plumber is the best way to ensure things are done properly without the risk of causing damage or making too much of a mess. Professional plumbers also already have the tools needed to locate and remove clogs effectively.

Port Orchard Plumbing offers a range of residential and commercial plumbing services. If you have a plumbing emergency, click here to contact us today.