How Professionals Do a Sewer Cleaning Job

You might not think about your sewer line very often, but you will when it starts to back up. Blockages and clogs can lead to a smelly mess in your yard or basement. Luckily, one way to avoid this is with regular sewer cleaning. Keep reading to learn how sewer line cleaning works and what you can expect when you call in Roto-Rooter for the job.

What Is Professional Sewer Line Cleaning, and How Do You Know If You Need It?

Sewer line cleaning is the process of removing blockages, buildup, and intrusions from the pipes that carry wastewater away from your home. Over time, sewer lines can become clogged with tree roots, grease, soap scum, debris, or even small objects flushed down toilets. These blockages can cause slow drainage, backups, and foul odors.

You might need sewer line cleaning if you notice these signs:

• Multiple slow drains in your home at the same time
• Gurgling sounds from sinks, tubs, or toilets
• Foul odors coming from drains or your yard
• Standing water near sewer lines outside your home
  
  

How Does a Roto-Rooter Work?

Little-known fact, but our company is actually named after a device we created in 1933 to remove sewer clogs. Today, a Roto-Rooter is one of our handiest tools for unblocking sewer lines.

A Roto-Rooter is a motorized plumbing tool designed to clear clogs and debris from sewer and drain lines. It uses a flexible cable with a spinning blade at the end. When inserted into a pipe, the spinning blade cuts through roots, grease, and other blockages, shaving away buildup and restoring proper flow.

What Does a Roto-Rooter Main Sewer Line Cleaner Do?

When the Roto-Rooter plumber tells you your sewer pipe is clogged with tree roots and you need a sewer cleaning, what exactly do they do? Here’s how cleaning sewer lines works:

1. Conducts an initial assessment. The plumber first identifies the clog, which is often caused by tree roots, debris, or buildup in the sewer line.
2. Feeds a cable into your drain. The plumber then inserts a small, flexible cable with a sharp blade — the Roto-Rooter — into the pipe to bore through the initial clog and restore some drainage.

• Uses a larger cable machine. Next, the plumber uses a larger motorized cable with a 4- or 6-inch C-shaped blade. The spring-loaded blade is compressed to fit inside the pipe and then expands to press against the pipe walls.

• Shaves the pipe walls. Once the machine is running, the spinning blade removes roots, scale, and debris that have penetrated the pipe joints or cracks. This process thoroughly cleans the pipe and helps prevent future root intrusion for about a year.

• Checks for more damage. If the cable comes out with mud or significant residue, this can indicate a break or severe damage in the sewer line.

• Conducts a video inspection. In such cases, the plumber inserts a camera into the sewer line to provide a live view of the pipe’s condition. The plumber can then explain the damage and recommend repair or replacement options along with estimates.
  
  

The Benefits of Having a Professional Cleaning on a Sewer Line

A sewer line cleaner protects your home and plumbing system in the following ways:

• Removes roots and debris that could be causing slow drainage or blockages.
• Keeps future problems at bay.
• Helps detect damage, like cracks or breaks in your sewer line, before they become major disasters.
• Eliminates the need for harmful chemicals that can damage your plumbing.
• Reduces the chances of stagnant water in your yard.
• Reduces your stress and provides peace of mind.
  
  

Ready for a Main Sewer Line Cleaner to Get to Work?

Don’t wait for a small clog to turn into a major emergency. When you’re constantly dealing with slow drains and foul odors, it’s time for cleaning up your sewer backup. Roto-Rooter’s professional sewer cleaning services can restore flow and protect your home. Schedule an appointment today or call our 24/7 line at 800-768-6911 for fast, reliable service.

FAQs on Cleaning a Sewer Line

What’s the best way to clean a sewer line?

Professionals usually use a motorized auger or Roto-Rooter to remove roots, grease, and buildup. For stubborn clogs, hydro jetting can flush the line with high-pressure water to fully clear it.

How often should a sewer line be cleaned?

Most homeowners benefit from cleaning every 1–3 years, depending on tree roots, pipe age, and overall use. Homes with lots of trees or older pipes may need it more often.

What is the average sewer line cleaning cost?

Costs vary by location and severity of the clog. Additional services, like hydro jetting or video inspections, may increase the price. Roto-Rooter’s sewer line cleaning costs are always in line with local averages.

How often is hydro jetting recommended for a sewer line?

Hydro jetting is typically done once every 1–2 years for preventive maintenance or when heavy buildup is present. A plumber can recommend the right frequency based on your pipe condition and household needs.