Frequently Asked Questions About Preventative Sewer Cleaning

Posted on: 1 November 2017

If your sewer line backs up, you may need emergency sewer cleaning. But when you are having your sewer line cleaned out, the plumber may talk to you about preventative sewer cleaning. Many people only think about sewer cleaning when there is a problem; however, preventative cleaning can help prevent problems. If you have never had preventative sewer cleaning done, you may have many questions about it. Here are a few answers to some of the questions you may have. 

How Often Should Preventative Sewer Cleaning Be Done? 

It is recommended that preventative sewer line cleaning be done every 18 to 22 months. If your sewer lines are older, you should have your cleaned closer to the 18-month mark. Likewise, if you have a large family, you may need yours cleaned more frequently. If your sewer lines are relatively new and you only have a couple of people living in your home, you can stretch cleanings out closer to the 22-month mark. 

How is Preventative Sewer Cleaning Done? 

When emergency sewer cleaning is done, an auger is typically used. An auger helps to break up large items that are clogging your sewer lines, including branches, toilet paper, and other waste. But when preventative sewer cleaning is done, hydro jetting is typically used. Hydro jetting involves inserting a hose into the sewer line and spraying pressurized water in the line. This helps to remove grease and soap residue from the pipes and also move along smaller clogs, like those caused by hair and food. Hydro jetting cannot break up large clogs, but if your line is not yet clogged, chances are, you don't have a large clog that needs to be broken up. 

What Are the Benefits to Preventative Sewer Cleaning? 

The primary benefit to preventative sewer cleaning is that you help to keep the line free of clogs, which helps to prevent your drains from backing up. This can help to prevent plumbing emergencies in your home. The other benefit is that routine cleaning helps to extend the life of your sewer line. Your sewer line is less likely to crack or burst due to a large clog if the lines are frequently cleaned. 

If it has been longer than two years since your sewer line was last cleaned, now is the perfect time to schedule your next appointment for sewer cleaning. This helps to prevent clogs from forming in your sewer line, which in turn, helps to prevent water from backing up in your drains. 

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