### Sewer Line Maintenance and Repair
Maintaining and repairing sewer lines is crucial for preventing sewage backups and ensuring proper drainage in your home.
**Maintenance:**
– **Regular cleaning:** Sewage lines should be cleaned periodically, usually every 18-24 months, to remove buildup that can cause clogs.
– **Camera inspection:** A camera inspection can identify potential problems, such as leaks, roots, and damaged pipes, before they become more severe.
– **Hydro jetting:** High-pressure water jets can effectively remove grease, scale, and other debris from sewer lines.
**Repair:**
– **Leak repair:** Leaks in sewer lines should be repaired promptly to prevent damage to your home or property.
– **Pipe replacement:** Severely damaged or broken pipes may need to be replaced with new ones.
– **Trenchless sewer repair:** This technique allows for pipe repair or replacement without extensive digging, minimizing disruption to your landscape.
### What Does a Sewer Cleanout Look Like in the House?
A sewer cleanout is a pipe that extends from the sewer line outside your home to a point inside your basement or garage. It provides access for cleaning and unclogging the sewer line.
**Appearance:**
– **Location:** Sewer cleanouts are typically located in the basement, utility room, or garage.
– **Pipe diameter:** The pipe diameter is usually 3 or 4 inches.
– **Plug or cap:** The cleanout is covered with a plug or cap that can be removed for access.
**Function:**
– **Access point:** The cleanout allows plumbers to insert cleaning tools and hydro jetting equipment to clear obstructions in the sewer line.
– **Inspection window:** The cleanout can also be used for camera inspections to assess the condition of the sewer line.
– **Emergency access:** In case of a sewer backup, the cleanout provides a convenient point for accessing and unclogging the sewer line.