If you live in an older house, the chances are good that your main sewer line has become clogged with tree roots, debris, and other organic matter. This clog can result in unpleasant smells, sewer backups, and costly repairs. Fortunately, there are several ways to remedy this problem. The first step in any solution is to identify where the clog is located. If you’d like to avoid calling in a plumber and spending a lot of money on repairs, consider trying these methods first before turning to chemical or mechanical cleaners that could make the problem worse if they fail to clear the line. You should also know that some of these methods may be illegal if they occur in a home that isn’t your own. For example, you cannot dig up your neighbor’s yard without their permission; you also cannot dig up the backyard of a friend or relative who lives nearby if they have not given you written permission to do so. However, if the person whose backyard you’re digging in owns a similar sized property in an older home, we’re sure they’d understand if you’re trying to clear their main sewer line while avoiding the expense and hassle of a contractor – as long as you don’t go above and beyond what’s necessary. That said, here are some ideas on how to get rid of the clog in your main sewer line:

Bubble Wand and Tube

This is one of the most affordable solutions to clearing a main sewer line. It requires a bit of preparation before you start, though. You’ll need to find a section of your main sewer line that’s clogged. Once you have located the location of the clog, you’ll need to dig a small hole with a shovel so you can get the bubbling process started. To do this, dig a hole about 3 inches deep. Once you have dug the hole, place the bubbler tube inside. The tube should be about a foot long and have a small opening on one end. After you have placed the bubbler tube in the hole, use a hose to fill the tube with water. Once the water reaches the opening on the top, it will begin to create bubbles that will push the clog out of the line. These bubbles will help you find the clog and break it free. Once you have located the clog and have broken it free, you can then move on to the next step in the process.

Chemical Cleaners

Depending on the type of clog in your main sewer line, you may want to use a chemical cleaning solution. One of the most effective chemicals for this type of situation is a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. You can also try a product called “B-Sol.” This chemical mix is a bit more powerful than the baking soda-hydrogen peroxide mixture. Before using a chemical cleaner, make sure you have the pipe completely cleared of debris and roots. If there is any debris left behind, it could create a clog further down the line. Once you have cleared the pipe, put down towels or a plastic sheet to protect your flooring. Next, mix the cleaning product with water, and slowly drip the solution down the pipe. Make sure the water is flowing in the opposite direction of the flow of sewage. This will help push the clog further down the pipe.

Mechanical Cleaners

If you are able to access the main sewer line in the home, you can use a mechanical cleaning device to remove the clog. The best type of device for this job is a camera inspection tool, also called a “camera-operated bore scope.” These scopes are used to inspect and repair main sewer lines in buildings. You can find them at any plumbing supply store. Once you have found a model that works for your specific type of sewer line, you can use this tool to break through the clog. You’ll need to shut off the water and turn off the power to the line before you start using the camera. The first step is to find the clog. Once you have located the clog, you may want to use a cable or rope to keep the scope from getting stuck in the clog. Once you’ve found the clog, use a pipe cutter to remove it. Once you have broken through the clog, you can use a pipe cleaner or plunger to clear the line.

Digging Out the Roots

This is a more expensive solution, but it is also one of the most effective ways to clear your main sewer line. Before you start digging, make sure you have first called a plumber to mark the location of your sewer line. You should also have a shovel and a wheelbarrow to collect any excess soil. Also, be sure to wear old clothes, a face mask, and work gloves. You also might want to bring a friend along to keep you company. When you are ready to dig, start by searching for a tree that is growing close to the roots of your main sewer line. Once you have found the correct tree, you can dig a large hole around it. Be sure to leave the tree undisturbed and do not cut it down. Instead, wrap the tree in burlap or another heavy fabric to protect the roots from being damaged. Once you have wrapped the tree, cover the roots with soil from your wheelbarrow. This will help protect the roots and keep them from being damaged further.

Summary

The best way to unclog a main sewer line is to use a camera inspection tool. After you have found the location of your clog, you can break through it with a pipe cutter. Once you have broken through the clog, you can use a pipe cleaner to clear the line. If you are unable to access the main sewer line, you can break through the clog with a shovel and burlap. After you have broken through the clog, you can clear the line with a plunger or cable. If you are unable to break through the clog with these methods, it may be necessary to call a plumber.