A clogged main sewer line is no one’s idea of a good day. It’s not just annoying — it can bring your plumbing to a halt. A backed up sewer line, gurgling toilets, unpleasant smells, or worse, sewage coming out of the outside drain? That’s not just gross—it’s a red flag waving at you to act, fast.
But don’t panic. Understanding the signs of a clogged sewer line and knowing how to respond can mean the difference between a quick fix and a costly repair. And when you’re in over your head, Ben’s Plumbing is ready with the expertise and tools to make that problem disappear—for good.
Spotting the Signs of a Sewer Line Clog
The first hint that something’s wrong often comes quietly—a sink that drains slower than usual, a toilet that bubbles when you run the shower. But soon enough, the evidence becomes impossible to ignore.
If your sinks, shower, and toilet all start acting up at the same time, that’s a solid hint the problem’s in the main sewer line. That’s not a coincidence. It’s a system-wide cry for help. Because when the main sewer line keeps clogging, the whole plumbing network feels it.
You might hear gurgling noises. That’s air trapped behind a blockage, trying desperately to escape. Or you catch a whiff of sewage near your cleanout. Not exactly what you want greeting you in the backyard.
Worst-case scenario? Sewer cleanout overflowing or standing water in the sewer cleanout. If you’ve reached that point, the clock is ticking—and fast.
So, How Do You Unclog a Main Sewer Line?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—the right method depends on what’s causing the clog and how severe it is. Let’s explore the three main approaches.
1. Chemical Cleaning Methods
Yes, there are chemical cleaners on store shelves. And yes, they promise miracles in a bottle. But here’s the catch—they’re often loaded with harsh ingredients that can corrode older pipes and barely touch solid obstructions like tree roots or heavy debris.
While some homeowners may be tempted to try over-the-counter chemical solutions, we never recommend using them—these substances can do more harm than good, especially if used improperly.
🔹 Pros: Simple to use, great for maintenance or light clogs.
🔹 Cons: Not effective on roots or solid blockages. It can be risky for old pipe systems.
2. Mechanical Cleaning Methods
When chemicals fall short, it’s time to bring in the muscle. Mechanical methods involve physically breaking through the clog using tools designed for the job.
The drain snake alternative (also called an auger) is the go-to for many plumbers. It’s a long, flexible cable with a cutting or grabbing head that dives deep into the pipes and breaks up obstructions.
Warning: If used incorrectly, this powerful tool can actually damage the sewer line. That’s why it’s best left to professionals who understand how to operate such equipment safely and effectively.
But for the really stubborn stuff—think tree roots, compacted grease, or hardened deposits—professionals turn to motorized rotary tools. These machines spin powerful cutting heads that chew through whatever stands in their way.
🔹 Effective for: Solid blockages, roots, or heavy buildup.
🔹 Best used by: Skilled pros who know how to wield the equipment safely.
3. Hydro Jetting: The Heavy Artillery
Picture a pressure washer—now imagine it inside your sewer pipe. That’s hydro jetting.
Using high-pressure water jets, this method scours the inside of your pipes clean, removing grease, sludge, roots, and pretty much anything else lurking down there. No chemicals. Just raw power.
It’s not only great for clearing blockages—it’s one of the most thorough preventative main sewer line cleaning techniques available. And when done correctly, it’s completely safe for your plumbing system.
🔹 Pros: Deep cleans pipes, removes tough clogs, environmentally friendly.
🔹 Cons: Requires professional expertise and specialized equipment. Even with a seasoned pro, if your pipes are too far gone, then it’s possible this won’t be the final solution, and you may need a repipe or pipe liner.
Keep the Clogs Away: Prevention Tips
Once your main drain clog is cleared and your sewer line is flowing freely again, you’ll want to keep it that way. Here’s how:
Be mindful of what you flush. Only human waste and toilet paper belong in the toilet. Wipes (even the “flushable” kind), sanitary products, and paper towels? Big no. Avoid trying any home remedy to unclog the main sewer line that might do more harm than good.
Use drain screens. A simple mesh cover can stop hair and food bits from slipping into your pipes.
Schedule regular maintenance. Don’t wait for disaster. Have a pro clean your clogged drain line before buildup becomes a full-blown blockage.
These small habits can save you big money and even bigger headaches down the line.
Why Call Ben’s Plumbing?
Because your pipes deserve a solution—not just a temporary fix.
When you work with Ben’s Plumbing, you’re choosing a team that gets to the root of the issue (sometimes literally). Our licensed plumbers use cutting-edge tools and techniques to inspect, diagnose, and resolve blocked sewer line problems—quickly and safely.
Here’s what we offer:
✅ Thorough camera inspections to find the source of the blockage.
✅ Custom cleaning solutions—from snaking a sewer line to hydro jetting.
✅ Friendly advice to help you avoid repeat problems.
✅ Transparent pricing with no surprise fees.
We’re not just fixing pipes—we’re restoring peace of mind.
Don’t Wait—Call Today
A stopped-up sewer line isn’t just unpleasant—it’s urgent. If you’ve spotted the signs or just want to schedule preventive maintenance, Ben’s Plumbing is ready to help. With expert technicians, fast response times, and trusted solutions for sewer blockage removal, we’ll get your home flowing smoothly again.
