Mix baking soda and vinegar in the ratio of 1:2 and add the mixture in 60 gallons of water. Use the plunger or drain snake as you pour the water into the drain. If you are wondering how to unclog main sewer line, the pressure of the water will dislodge the debris easily.
A plumbing auger — also known as a plumbing snake — and a sewer rod are effective against some clogs in the main drain line. If you suspect a blockage in the main drain line, don't use the plumbing system in your home until it's cleared. Getting more water into the line could cause wastewater backups in the home.
Clean Your Drains
One way to try to clear a clogged sewer drain is to create a solution out of vinegar and baking soda. Mix 1/3 cup of each and pour them down the drain lines immediately, while they're still fizzy. The chemical reaction should help break down any build-up that could be causing a sewer clog.
Professional plumbers have access to several tools that can safely clear sewer clogs. Video sewer line inspection cameras help plumbers diagnose the issue, augers (drain snakes), high-power hydro jetters, and professional-strength drain cleaners help plumbers break up or dissolve any clog.
The Plunger Method
A plunger works to unclog the main sewer line because it creates an airtight seal with the drain. In the process, it helps force the stubborn clog out of the plumbing system drains. The perfect airtight seal will create additional pressure and help dislodge the main sewer line blockage.
How Long Does it Take to Clean out a Main Sewer Line? That is totally dependent on what the clog is. Clogs caused by tree roots can take minutes to several hours depending on the amount and length of the infestation.
Basic clogs are by far the most common cause of sewer lines backing up. They are typically the result of not being careful with what goes down your drains. Failing to clean up hair from the shower drain, pouring oil down the sink, and using “flushable” wipes are the most common paths to backups.
Why You Should Not Use Drano. Many people associate drain clogs with Drano or other products with toxic chemicals that are supposed to clear or prevent clogs. Plumbers, in general, do not suggest using these caustic and harsh chemicals since they can cause damage to the pipes and fittings in the house.
Pouring vinegar and baking soda into your drains once a month with extremely hot water will cause a chemical reaction that will loosen any debris settling in the pipes. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then pour another cup of hot water down to wash away what the baking soda and vinegar loosened up.
For main line clogs, simply pour it into the first floor toilet, flush, and refrain from use for 10-12 hours. It's safe for all pipes and septic systems and free of sodium hydroxide.
A sewer drain snake is used to clear a main line stoppage. If you have confirmed that you have a main sewer line clog you may wish to attempt to clear it yourself. Fortunately, like other drain snakes, a sewer drain snake can be rented for the day from a tool and equipment rental location.
With time, baking soda and vinegar may work as a natural drain cleaner on weaker drain clogs, and the benefits of regular drain cleaning can help keep your drains free of clogs. But for tough drain clogs that need to be dissolved right away, you may want to use a stronger drain cleaner, like Liquid-Plumr.
But if you do have a normal, household clog, you can always use Liquid-Plumr® Foaming Clog Fighter™ to dissolve clogs within an hour.
Using a snake is also more invasive and time-consuming than using a chemical cleaner is, and can often become a dirty job. When it comes to getting at and removing major clogs or clogs that are deep down in your pipes, however, a plumber's snake is your best bet.
The longer you let them go unchecked the worse the problem can grow and the sooner you can recognize the warning signs of a main sewer line blockage, the better. A clog in the main sewer line that goes ignored or unrecognized can lead to costly repairs or can expose you and your family to contaminated water.
Your sewer lines are out of sight and out of mind for the most part. You want to avoid any issues which can become quite costly, so knowing when and how often to have your sewer cleaned out is knowledge you'll want to retain. A good general rule is to have your home's sewer lines cleaned out every 18 to 22 months.
Too much toilet paper can clog the sewer line. Toilet paper combined with other materials causes frequent clogs, causing you to call a plumber repeatedly every other day. Switch to one-ply toilet paper if you experience this issue frequently.
The first answer is YES: Your sewer drains should hold water in certain locations. The reason for the water in the drainage fixture is to prevent rodents and smells entering the building. For example a toilet pan has water in its bowl always this is to prevent foul smells entering the building.
Clogged sewer line cleanouts typically require professional help due to the need for a camera inspection and special equipment. The average drain cleaning product or snake won't cut it.
What's the problem? Failure to tighten the thumbscrew is a common reason behind drain snakes that are not working. You must make sure that the thumbscrew that secures the cable inside the drum or handle is securely tightened. If it is not, the cable will not rotate at all when you twist the handle.
Use a Plunger
This is a lot better in terms of performance than the standard cup plungers. It would be best if you used the plunger on the toilet drain or a sink. First, ensure the plunger seals the drain completely, and then apply the plunger. This allows pressure from the plunger to remove the clog.