how much does it cost to clean out main sewer line

Highlights

• The cost of installing a cleanout depends on the accessibility of your main line.
• A simple cleanout installation can cost less than $1,000.
• A complicated installation with extensive excavation can cost more than $3,500.
• Installing a cleanout requires a permit.

Full Answer

How to keep your main sewer line clean?

Using Enzymes

• Access your sewer line in the most reasonable place. ...
• Mix up a batch of enzyme drain cleaner into a bucket. ...
• Run hot water down the drain and into the sewer line to slightly loosen the grease.
• Pour the enzyme solution into the sewer line. ...
• Repeat this procedure every day for the first week, and then continue to do this once per month thereafter. ...

How much does a new sewer line cost?

The price of replacing a sewer line is typically $3000 to $6000, without the cost of digging trenches or removing damaged pipes. The price also depends on the connection to the primary sewer system. A new line, extending away from your property, may cost as much as $25,000. The average price of the repair to a drain line is around $600.

How to unclog sewer line with chemicals?

• Hydraulic sewer cleaning methods involve the use of pressurized water to breakdown and push out the clogs. ...
• Mechanical sewer cleaning methods involve rodding, bucket machines and the use of capsules called pigs. ...
• Chemical sewer cleaning methods involve the use of chemicals to remove a blockage in pipes. ...

How do you clean out a sewer line?

• Release the pressure. When you first notice the symptoms of a clogged sewer line, turn off the water at the main supply (or street level).
• Chemical drain cleaning. If tree roots are the culprit behind your sewer line clog, you can use chemicals to remove them.
• Mechanical drain cleaning.
• Camera inspection.

How much does it cost to remove a clogged sewer line?

How Often Should a Sewer Line Be Cleaned?

How old is too old to have sewer lines?

What does it smell like when you drain a drain?

Can you clean a sewer line?

Can a clogged sewer line be expensive?

Can plumbers clean sewer lines?

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How much does it cost to clean a main line?

Cleaning Method Snaking a main line—also known as rodding or augering—costs between $100 to $250, but can leave residue or smaller debris. Hydro jetting uses a high-pressure hose for major clogs and more extensively clears out the pipe. This service runs a bit higher at $350 to $600.

How much does it cost to unclog main sewer line?

between $350 and $650The national average cost to unclog a main sewer line is between $350 and $650, with most people paying around $475 to clean a mid-sized clog by hydro jetting the main sewer pipe between a house and municipal main line.

How do I clear my main sewer line?

Steps For How to Clear A Main Sewer Line ClogLoosen the Drain Pipe Cap (Cleanout Pipe) The first step is to find your main drain cleanout location. ... Remove Cap, Allow Build-Up to Drain. Once you remove the cleanout cap, step away quickly. ... Insert the Snake into Pipe. ... Run the Tool Until Clog Is Gone. ... Clean Up.

How much does it cost to flush pipes?

The average cost to clear a drain is $250, but it can range from $99-$750. We know that's a large range, but there are several factors can impact your cost, including: The location of the clog. How difficult the clog is to reach.

How long does it take to clean out a main sewer line?

Depending on the severity of the problem, your sewer line could take anywhere from a half hour to 5 hours to be cleaned. A professional will come and talk to you about your issue. Then, they'll likely first try to resolve the problem with a drain clearing "auger" (a motorized snake-like tool that breaks apart clogs).

Is a clogged sewer line covered by insurance?

In most cases, damage to the sewer line is caused by something excluded from standard homeowners insurance. For example, if the pipe damage is attributed to faulty construction or poor upkeep, repairs usually won't be covered. Damages resulting from floods, pests, earthquakes, or tree roots are typically also excluded.

How do I know if my main sewer line is clogged?

4 Signs Your Main Sewer Line Is CloggedSign #1: Multiple drains are backing-up.Sign #2: Drainage appears in sewer clean out.Sign #3: Sewage in floor drain.Sign #4: Water backs up in shower when toilet flushes.

Can I unclog a sewer line myself?

Mix 1/3 of a cup of vinegar with 1/3 of a cup of baking soda and pour the fizzy mixture into the clogged sewer drain immediately. If you don't know how to unclog main sewer line, take advantage of vinegar to eliminate the grime, grease, and hair in the pipe. Flush the pipe with hot water after one hour.

How often should sewer lines be cleaned out?

every two yearsGenerally, homeowners can go quite a bit longer between cleanings, but it's still not a bad idea to have this done every few years or so. You should make sure it's done at least every two years if you have a large home and family, creating a large amount of sewage waste.

Why does my main sewer line keep clogging up?

Grease, fats, and oil are all some of the biggest culprits when it comes to clogging lines. It's NEVER a good idea to pour grease, oil, or other fats down a drain. Always pour hot grease into a coffee can or jar. Once it solidifies, you can throw it away.

Can you snake a main sewer line?

A main sewer line can be snaked with a professional drain snaking machine using a heavy duty cable and motor to push through the blockage. Main sewer snaking can be done through a ground level accessible cleanout, a roof vent, or by pulling the toilet and snaking through the flange.

Can you pour Drano in main sewer line?

Bust a Sewer Clog With Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaner It's hardly ever a good idea to put Drano or a similar product in the toilet because it contains sodium hydroxide, which generates heat and can damage the pipes.

Can I unclog a sewer line myself?

Mix 1/3 of a cup of vinegar with 1/3 of a cup of baking soda and pour the fizzy mixture into the clogged sewer drain immediately. If you don't know how to unclog main sewer line, take advantage of vinegar to eliminate the grime, grease, and hair in the pipe. Flush the pipe with hot water after one hour.

How much does Roto Rooter charge to unclog a drain?

between $160 and $450Hiring a Roto-Rooter professional for drain-clearing services costs between $160 and $450. This fee generally includes the price of the sewer inspection as well as the drain clearing.

How do you know if main line is clogged?

4 Signs Your Main Sewer Line Is CloggedSign #1: Multiple drains are backing-up.Sign #2: Drainage appears in sewer clean out.Sign #3: Sewage in floor drain.Sign #4: Water backs up in shower when toilet flushes.

How often should you clean out your main sewer line?

Although your water and plumbing are connected to a municipal source or a septic system, you are still responsible for maintaining the sewer lines on your property. A general recommendation for sewer cleaning is to have your sewer lines checked and cleaned every 2 years.

How much does it cost for a plumber to snake a sewer line?

Professional drain snaking 2 costs $150 to $375, but it may cost more or less depending on the clog location and type.

How much does it cost to unclog a sewer line?

The average costs range from $200 to $600, depending on the clog and level of work.

Can I unclog a sewer line myself?

It may be possible if the clog is small and close to the drain. However, you need professional help if it is the main sewer line.

Why does my house smell like sewer when it rains?

The most common cause is methane gas sitting too close to the ground after it rains due to atmospheric pressure. It is most common for homes with s...

Cost to Clean Sewer Line - 2022 Cost Calculator (Customizable) - Homewyse

The basic cost to Clean a Sewer Line is $275 - $336 per piping run in July 2022, but can vary significantly with site conditions and options. Get fair costs for your SPECIFIC project requirements. See typical tasks and time to clean a sewer line, along with per unit costs and material requirements. See professionally prepared estimates for sewer drain cleaning work.

How Much Does Sewer Cleanout Installation Cost? - Upgraded Home

Single Cleanout. Single cleanouts are essentially one pipe that is connected to your lateral sewer line at a 45-degree angle. Although it doesn’t allow for full access to the municipal sewer since it’s short by 45 degrees, it still offers a direct line from your residential plumbing system towards the municipality’s lateral line.

How much does it cost to unclog a sewer line?

Main sewer line clogs cost $150 to $800 to clear. Snaking a sewer line costs $150 to $500 on average. Hydro jet sewer cleaning costs $250 to $800 on average. Costs to unclog a main sewer line depend on the severity of the clog, accessibility, repairs, and local labor.

How much does a plumber charge to unclog a sewer line?

Plumbers charge $45 to $150 per hour to diagnose and unclog a main sewer line. Some plumbers charge a $50 to $200 service fee, which may cover the first hour of work. Other factors include:

How much does a roto rooter cost?

Roto-Rooter requires an on-site inspection before providing a flat rate water jet estimate. Some Roto-Rooter franchises charge a $70 to $200 trip charge, which may be deducted if you have the work done.

What is a sewer cleanout?

Sewer cleanouts provide access to the main sewer line for plumbing snakes and hydro jets to clear clogs or drain a backup. Most homes built after 1970 have one or more cleanouts due to plumbing code. For older homes with the original plumbing, it's best to have one installed.

How long does it take to hydro jet a sewer line?

Hydro jetting takes 2 to 3 hours on average, depending on the sewer length, configuration, and type of debris clogged. After the equipment is set up, pumping water through the drains takes about an hour. A final sewer camera inspection takes another hour to ensure the pipes are clean.

How far away from the house is the main sewer line?

Main sewer pipe cleaning should always be handled by a professional. Main sewer line blockages could run under the home or be up to 100' away from the house, requiring expensive hydro jets, cameras, and augers.

How much does it cost to remove tree roots from sewer lines?

Removing tree roots in a sewer line costs $200 to $600, depending on the method. Once removed, plumbers recommend annual or bi-annual chemical treatment that helps prevent tree roots. Sewer lines with severe tree root damage require replacement at $1,000 to $4,000.

How much does a plumber charge to clean a sewer line?

Plumbers typically charge an average hourly rate of $45-$200 for work that falls outside of specific jobs like those discussed above. Cleaning a sewer line can be accomplished through hydro-jetting, snaking, or the use of chemical drain cleaners. In extreme cases, full or partial replacement of the drain lines may be required, which will of course exponentially increase the cost of the repair project.

How much does it cost to fix a clogged sewer line?

If the sewer line is clogged, it could be from tree roots, dirt or sewage buildup, or even crumbling pipes that have aged and need to be completely replaced. The average backed up sewer line repair cost is around $250, provided that no camera inspection is needed. A video inspection with more work required can cost up to $600, on average.

What Causes Sewer Backup?

This is a very common occurrence in older homes or in homes where materials like clay or iron were used. This can cause severe deterioration and corrosion over time, leading to breakdown and eventual failure. Because all this is happening underground, many people don’t notice until it’s too late and a lot more expensive than they anticipate.

Why is my drain backed up?

A backed up drain could have several causes, including improper maintenance, putting things down the drain that shouldn’t be, or even a grease or hair blockage that’s slowing down the flow. If it is a main drain or line outside, tree roots could be in the way or there could be other dirt and debris built up due to breakdown and age. Depending on where the drain is located and how difficult it is to clean, the cost ranges between $150 and $200.

How much does it cost to snake a drain?

This can be dangerous, again, however, because the average person may not know how to properly snake a drain. While rentals start around an affordable $55 on average, it’s best to pay a professional, which will usually cost somewhere between $150 and $175, depending on the severity of the clog and how easy it is to access. Severe clogs, or those difficult to access, could cost twice as much or more.

How much does hydro jetting cost?

However, this process also costs a bit more. When performed by Roto-Rooter technicians, hydro-jetting will cost an average of $500-$900.

Why is sewage back up in my house?

It may be related to the improper installation of a cleanout, lack of access to proper drainage, or even improper flow of the drain system that is driving the waste right back into the home. Either way, this is a very dangerous situation and one that needs to be resolved immediately. Not only does it smell terrible and risk ruining your home, but it’s dangerous for your health to be breathing in raw sewage. You should call the professionals immediately and stay out of your home until the problem is resolved for your safety.

How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Main Sewer Line Near You?

While $320 is the national cost to unclog a sewer line, where you live can also impact the final price of hiring a sewer cleaner near you. Costs vary by company, region, and the type of job, as well as some more specific details:

How much does it cost to replace a sewer line?

Repairs and sewer line replacements run between $1,000 and $7,500, depending on:

What Main Sewer Line Services Can I Get on My Budget?

The warning signs of a sewer main clog can build up over time. The good news is that catching the problem early means less money down the drain, so to speak.

Why should I hire a sewer main line company?

Call a sewer line company if you detect any of the following plumbing red flags:

What should I consider when hiring a sewer line company?

Research sewer line businesses just as thoroughly as you would any other contractor that comes into your home.

What is the main sewer line?

Hidden just below the surface of your lawn, the main sewer line is a pipe that transports wastewater from your home to the town sewer system. In other words, if something stands in the way of your sewer line, the rest of the home's pipes can't do their job. Tree roots, hair, grease, and even scale deposits can clog up the works or damage older ...

How much does it cost to clean a clogged pipe?

Cleaning Method. The size of the clog dictates the best cleaning method. Snaking a main line—also known as rodding or augering—costs between $100 to $250, but can leave residue or smaller debris. Hydro jetting uses a high-pressure hose for major clogs and more extensively clears out the pipe.

How much does it cost to do a sewer line inspection?

If the clog is more severe, or your contractor is unsure of the cause, they may do a sewer line video inspection for an additional cost of $200 to $800. To perform the main sewer line inspection, the technician places a small camera on the end of the auger and runs it through the sewer pipe 1 to detect the exact location of the clog or assess the risk of your pipes getting clogged in the future.

How much does it cost to snake a sewer line?

The cost to snake a main sewer line is $100 to $500, depending on if you will use a regular snake or an auger 2. This is the most common and cheapest unclogging method that involves inserting a coiled metal auger into the sewer line and pushing away any buildup down the plumbing system.

What does it mean when your drains are clogged?

Kitchen and bathroom drain clogs. If you notice that several fixtures and drains in your home are clogged at once, this may indicate a clog in the main sewer line. Typically, a clog in your kitchen sink or a clogged toilet at the same time are signs that you need to inspect your main sewer line.

How much does it cost to remove tree roots from a sewer line?

Cost to Remove Tree Roots From Sewer Line. Removing tree roots that may be causing a clog in the sewer line costs $100 to $600 depending on the size of the tree and the extent of the damage, plus the cost of the replacement of the pipe if required. Tree roots can pose an obstacle when unclogging the main line.

How much does a plumber charge per hour?

When this is an hourly project, plumbers charge an hourly rate of $45 to $200, with the whole unclogging main sewer line process taking one to four hours. Urgent jobs and more severe clogs take a lot longer and cost more to complete.

Why do trees block sewer lines?

Over time, the roots block the line, and other dust and debris get stuck in the roots and cause a clog.

What are the factors that affect the cost of a sewer line?

The main factors that affect the cost to solve your clogging problem are access to the main sewer line and the severity of the clog. Some older homes don’t have a sewer cleanout, so the sewer lines are harder to access. Others have multiple turns and connection points that may make them harder to clean.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Sewer Cleanout?

Installing a two-way cleanout in your main sewer line will run the average homeowner about $2,000. It can cost less than $1,000 or more than $3,500, but it all depends on the job. The more excavation required, the higher the cost.

How much does it cost to dig a sewer line?

The average residential excavation costs $50 to $200 per cubic yard. If your main sewer line isn’t easily accessible, your plumber will need to use heavy-duty machinery. The rental costs amount to $120 to $150 per hour, which usually includes the labor of a licensed operator. Most of the time, there’s a rental minimum of one working day (or eight hours).

What Is a Two-Way Sewer Cleanout?

A sewer cleanout is an opening that plumbers can use to access your main sewer line in the event of a clog. You’ll often see these pipes sticking out of the ground in a home’s front or backyard. Most modern homes already have a sewer cleanout installed, but some older homes don’t.

Why should I install a two-way cleanout in my sewer line?

Most homes already have a cleanout, but you may want to install a two-way cleanout if:

How can I prevent clogs in my main sewer line?

A two-way cleanout can help if there’s already a clog, but the best strategy is to prevent one with the following tips:

How to save money on sewer line?

The best way to save money is to prevent costly problems. Have a plumber look at tree roots that could potentially impact your main line. Always clear clogs correctly the first time to avoid the type of clean-ups that lead to large bills. You may also want to look into trenchless sewer replacement if your pipes are damaged.

How much does a cleanout cost?

A simple cleanout installation can cost less than $1,000.

How much does it cost to repair a sewer line?

The average cost to repair a main sewer line is $3,818 with most homeowners spending between $2,250 and $5,750. A full sewer line replacement ranges from $8,000 to $30,000, or $50 to $200 per linear foot, depending on the length and width of sewer pipe needed.

How much does it cost to replace a sewer line under a slab?

The cost to replace a sewer line under a slab costs $3,000 to $5,000 for smaller jobs and $15,000 to $20,000 total for larger jobs. Trenching under a slab can cost an extra $150 to $200 per foot.

How much does trenchless piping cost in Orangeburg?

A professional will be able to determine if trenchless lining is best for fixing Orangeburg pipes. Trenchless piping costs $75 to $250 per linear foot and will line the old pipes, so they don’t need to be dug up.

What is lateral sewer?

A lateral sewer refers to the part of a sewer pipe on a homeowner’s property. If the plumber recommends replacing the sewer line from the house to the main in the street, the city may need to be involved.

What to do if a sewer line cracks?

For any size crack on a sewer line, a repair should be made immediately to avoid bigger problems. Replacement will be needed if the pipe isn’t structurally sound enough to repair. A professional will be able to say whether a repair or replacement is required.

How much does ABS sewer line cost?

The preferred pipes for drain lines in a home are ABS pipes made from rubber-based resins, which range in price from $1.87 to $5.35 per foot for 10’ sections.

Why is my sewer line backed up?

Several factors go into why a sewer line is backed up or decaying, but when the repairs or replacement is done, there will be several issues that still need to be addressed. When it’s time to clean up the mess caused by seepage, flooding , or excavation, the cost can be high.

How much does it cost to clean a sewer line?

Cost to Clear or Clean a Sewer Line. Most homeowners pay anywhere from $100 to $900 to clean a sewer line. Extreme cases that require a dig and replace run upwards of $4,000 or more. To remove a clog from a sewer line, professionals may rely on several different tools and appliances. Here are two commonly used methods:

How much does it cost to pull a clogged sewer line out?

Snaking or rodding: For about the cost of a service call, between $100–$250, the plumber will send a thin metal wire down the line to pull out the clog.

How long does a snake need to be to break a clog?

Most professional plumbers have snakes that are at least 50 feet long to reach most clogs easily. If the clog is minor, they can break it up using an auger in a matter of minutes. Then the plumber runs some water through the pipes to flush them out.

Why is my sewer line clogged?

This clog can be due to normal blockages from grease and household items or outside problems like encroaching root systems. Whatever the reason, a blocked sewer line is going to cause problems.

What does a professional sewer do?

Your professional will work with the city to connect your sewer line to the city system.

How to tell if sewer line is bad?

If you notice water backing up in a toilet or sink, low water pressure, slow drains, an unpleasant smell, or water pooling in your yard, it could be a sign you have a sewer main line that needs addressing. A local sewer company will send a camera down the sewer line to identify the problem, which usually costs $100 to $500. From there, the sewer plumber will recommend a fix.

What is a cleanout in sewer?

Cleanouts are an opening for access to the main sewer line for snakes and hydro jets for clearing clogs. It’s been part of building code in the United States for decades.

How much does it cost to remove a clogged sewer line?

The line is a long cable that is fed or ‘snaked’ down a drain hole, forcing the clog to go through the blockage and into the main sewer system. The cost for this procedure averages about $100-$200.

How Often Should a Sewer Line Be Cleaned?

A standard rule among plumbers to have a sewer line cleaned is about 22 months. But this rule applies to homes newer than 40 years old. Homes older than 40 years have an accumulation of grease, hair, potential roots and other sediments that build up and cause the older sewer lines to be higher risk for blockages.

How old is too old to have sewer lines?

But this rule applies to homes newer than 40 years old. Homes older than 40 years have an accumulation of grease, hair, potential roots and other sediments that build up and cause the older sewer lines to be higher risk for blockages. If your sewer line has any of the following problems, it is recommended for you to have ...

What does it smell like when you drain a drain?

You can smell the sulphur, rotten egg-like stench coming from the drains

Can you clean a sewer line?

Cleaning out a sewer line does not have to become a difficult task. Before it becomes an emergency, schedule a routine cleaning with a professional plumber. They can save you thousands of dollars’ worth of damage caused by a neglected, and clogged sewer line.

Can a clogged sewer line be expensive?

A clogged sewer line can be an expensive problem if you’re not careful. You’ll want to clear it out as soon as possible, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to do so. Not all clog removal methods are the same, and some cost much less to remove than others. Knowing your options can help you save time and money, ...

Can plumbers clean sewer lines?

Chemical Cleaning. Chemicals are not a preferred method by plumbers to clean your sewer lines. However, there are times when they will recommend a maintenance chemical you can use between plumber visits to save money. These are name-brand chemicals which have been deemed environmentally safe.