Spring Office : (832) 898-3806 / Houston Office : (832) 434-5936
E-mail us: alrooterplumbingllc@gmail.com
24/7
Plumbing is an essential aspect of any household, and it is crucial to take care of all the components involved in the plumbing system.
One such component is the plumbing clean out, also known as a cleanout.
In this ultimate guide, we will cover everything you need to know about plumbing clean out:
A plumbing clean out is a place in your home’s plumbing system that provides direct access to the sewer or drainage line. It is usually a capped pipe.
It is used to clear clogs or debris from the main line when the usual methods, such as plunging or snaking, don’t work.
A sewer cleanout provides a direct access point to your home’s drain line, allowing you to clean your sewer and remove any blockages.
You can access the cleanout using a cleanout cap, which can be unscrewed to expose the interior of the drain pipe. This allows you to clean out any clogs or debris.
Clogs and blockages in the main sewer line can cause sewage backup in your home, leading to significant health hazards and costly repairs.
A plumbing clean out provides a safe and accessible way to clear blockages and avoid any potential backups.
Plumbing cleanout is usually located outside your home or in the basement.
In some cases, they can be located on the main line near the street, providing direct access to the municipal sewer system.
If you notice any:
it could be a sign that you have a clogged drain line. In such cases, you may need to use a clean out to unclog the drain line.
If you have a septic tank, then a frequent smell of sewage or a swampy yard could be an indication that you need a septic cleanup.
The most common causes of blockages in the main drain lines are:
There are several measures you can take to prevent blockages, including:
Al Rooter Plumbing team offers drain cleaning services
There are different types of clean outs, such as indoor clean out or outdoor drain clean out.
Indoor clean out are usually located in your basement or crawlspace and can be accessed using a threaded cap.
Outdoor drain clean out are located outside and can be accessed using a clean out wrench.
The indoor clean out is usually located on the main drain line and can be found near the basement wall.
You may need to remove the cap and unscrew the clean out plug to access the drain pipe.
To locate it, you need to look for a capped pipe with a clean out cap.
If the cap is threaded, you can remove it by turning it counterclockwise.
If the cap is glued to the pipe, you may need to use a wrench to break the seal.
It’s best to call a professional plumber if you’re unsure about locating and accessing the indoor clean out.
If your home is an older one, you may have a different type of plumbing clean out that is not commonly found in modern homes.
In this case, it’s best to call a professional plumber who can help locate the clean out.
To clean your plumbing system using a clean out, you will need a clean out wrench or pliers, a bucket, a drain snake or auger, and a garden hose.
How to open and close the clean out cap?
To open the clean out cap, you will need to use a clean out wrench or pliers to unscrew the cap.
To close the cap, use the wrench or pliers to screw it back in place tightly.
What are the safety measures to take?
Be sure to wear protective gloves, eyewear, and clothing before starting the cleaning process.
Do not use harsh chemicals, such as drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes and cause more harm than good.
If you’re not comfortable with DIY cleaning or if you face a challenging blockage, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
Get rid of clogging in your sewer line with our team
How to choose a reliable professional plumber?
Make sure to do your research and choose a licensed and insured plumber with good reviews and fair pricing.
Ask for estimates and compare prices to find a reliable plumber who fits your budget.
Regular plumbing clean out can prevent potential sewer system problems, such as clogs and blockages, from turning into costly repairs.
A clean sewer or drain line also ensures the proper functioning of your plumbing system, resulting in a healthy environment for you and your family.
Do you have sewer line problems? our team at Al Rooter Plumbing got you covered
Costs of Ignoring Plumbing Clean Out
If you ignore plumbing clean out, the consequences can be severe.
Ignoring early warning signs of sewer line problems can lead to a clogged sewer line, which may cost thousands of dollars to repair or replace.
Moreover, sewage backup can also damage your home’s foundation and cause health hazards to you and your family.
If you’ve tried DIY plumbing clean out and the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
They have the expertise and specialized equipment to diagnose and fix the problem efficiently.
How to Choose a Reputable Plumbing Professional?
When choosing a plumbing professional, make sure they are licensed, insured, and have positive reviews from previous clients.
Moreover, ask for an estimate of the cost and ensure that it covers all possible expenses.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Hiring a Professional Plumber
Hiring a professional plumber may cost more than DIY plumbing clean out, but it’s worth the expense in the long run.
A professional plumber can solve the problem efficiently, saving you time, effort, and money in the long term.
Before starting plumbing clean out, make sure you have the necessary tools and supplies, including:
Step 1 – Turn off the water supply to your home to prevent any accidental flooding.
Step 2 – Remove the clean out cap from the plumbing clean out using a wrench or pliers.
Step 3 – Insert the clean out snake into the clean out pipe and push it through the sewer or drainage line.
Step 4 – Move the snake back and forth to loosen any blockages in the pipe.
Step 5 – Use a plunger to clean any remaining blockages.
Step 6 – Flush the system with water to ensure its proper functioning.
Follow these steps and if it isn’t working, don’t hesitate to contact us at (832) 434-5936
To prevent future plumbing clean out needs, avoid flushing anything down your drains that may cause blockages, such as grease, oil, and food scraps.
Moreover, regular maintenance of your septic system or municipal sewer line can also prevent potential problems.
In conclusion, understanding the basics of plumbing clean out is crucial for homeowners to prevent potential sewer system problems and avoid expensive repairs.
Whether you choose to DIY plumbing clean out or call a professional plumber, make sure to:
