If you’re a homeowner, your sewer lines probably aren’t top of mind. That is, until a problem occurs. However, just like your car or HVAC system, your sewer line needs routine attention to avoid costly issues down the road. So, how often should sewer lines be cleaned? Below, the expert plumbers at Arnold & Sons answer this question.
Why Sewer Line Cleaning Matters
Sewer lines quietly handle all the wastewater from your home. When they’re working properly, you don’t think twice. But when tree roots invade, grease builds up, or debris clogs the system, you’ll quickly notice slow drains, foul odors, or even sewage backups.
Routine sewer line cleaning helps prevent:
- Costly emergency repairs
- Damage to your yard or foundation
- Health hazards from raw sewage exposure
- Frequent clogs in sinks, tubs, and toilets
At Arnold & Sons Plumbing, we’ve seen how proactive maintenance saves homeowners thousands.
How Often Should You Clean Your Sewer Line?
As a rule of thumb, you should clean your sewer line every 18 to 24 months. However, there are several factors that might warrant more frequent sewer line cleanings. They include:
1. The Age of Your Home
Older homes (especially those 40+ years old) often have clay or cast-iron pipes. These are more prone to root infiltration and deterioration. If this sounds like your home, you might need to schedule frequent sewer line cleanings.
2. Tree Coverage Around Your Sewer Line
Tree roots are a leading cause of sewer clogs. If you have trees or large shrubs growing near your sewer lateral (the underground pipe connecting your home to the city sewer), more frequent inspections and cleanings may be necessary.
3. Your Household Habits
What you send down your drains matters. Frequent grease dumping, using flushable wipes, or heavy laundry detergent use can all speed up the buildup. If you’ve had repeated clogs, consider more frequent cleanings and a drain inspection.
4. Past Sewer Issues
Have you dealt with backups, slow drains, or foul odors before? These could be signs of a chronic issue. In these cases, we recommend scheduling a camera inspection and cleaning.
Signs You Need Immediate Sewer Cleaning
While scheduled maintenance is best, certain warning signs mean you should call a plumber immediately:
- Multiple drains are backing up at once
- Gurgling sounds in toilets or drains
- Sewer odors coming from drains or your yard
- Water backing up into tubs or showers when you flush
Don’t ignore these red flags. Waiting too long can result in serious property damage.
Professional Sewer Line Cleaning: What to Expect
At Arnold & Sons Plumbing, we use state-of-the-art equipment like high-pressure hydro jetting and video camera inspection to clear your line thoroughly and safely. Our licensed and background-checked technicians will:
- Pinpoint the blockage with precision
- Safely remove grease, roots, or debris
- Inspect your line for cracks or wear
- Recommend a custom maintenance plan
Plus, we offer 24-hour scheduling, so your convenience always comes first, even when it’s an emergency.
How to Maintain Clean Sewer Lines Between Visits
Even if your sewer line is professionally cleaned every year or two, your daily habits play a huge role in keeping things flowing properly. Simple preventative steps can go a long way toward avoiding buildup, clogs, and emergency plumbing calls.
- Never pour grease down the drain
- Flush only toilet paper (skip the “flushable” wipes)
- Use strainers in the kitchen and shower drains
- Have trees trimmed and roots managed
- Schedule inspections before buying or selling a home
These small efforts don’t take much time, but they add up to big savings and peace of mind. If you’re ever unsure about what’s safe for your sewer system, our team at Arnold & Sons Plumbing is happy to answer questions and recommend best practices.
Why Homeowners in Peoria Trust Arnold & Sons
Since day one, Arnold & Sons Plumbing has put our community first. We’re proud to support local causes, offer upfront pricing, and treat your home like it’s our own. When you work with us, you’re getting:
- Screened, background-checked professionals
- 24/7 scheduling for your busy life
- Generations of experience in sewer and drain services
- Local community involvement and honest service
- Special offers that help you save
Schedule Your Sewer Line Cleaning Today
Don’t wait for a backup to cause costly damage. If it’s been over 18 months since your last sewer line cleaning (or you’ve never had one), the pros at Arnold & Sons Plumbing are ready to keep your sewer line flowing smoothly. Call us today at 309.691.8291 or schedule service online.
