What is a Sewer Clean Out?

A main line sewer clean out is one or two pipes that normally stick up a little out of the ground, usually in the front or back yard of the home, and typically in the flower bed areas around the home. Basically this would normally be with-in 2 to 4 feet of the edge of the foundation. This clean out is one or two pipes that tee directly into the main sewer line, its purpose is to allow for something, normally a sewer machine cable to be inserted into the sewer line to unstop a plugged sewer line as necessary. We use these clean outs in order to insert a rubber inflatable test ball into the sewer line, or a sewer camera for testing purposes. Why is it necessary to install a main line sewer clean out? Answer: Main line sewer clean outs are used to gain access into the sewer line in order to unstop a clogged or plugged sewer line, test for leaks, locate leaks, and video inspect the sewer pipes if necessary. Sewer Pipe Camera Inspection A video camera snake can be inserted into the sewer li ... more

A sewer clean out is a capped pipe which provides access to a sewer line, allowing people to clean out blockages in the sewer. In many regions, sewer clean outs can be found along the lateral sewer line, the sewer line which connects a home's plumbing to the municipal plumbing. Lateral clogs and the sewer clean out are the responsibility of the property owner. Larger sewer clean outs are also located at intervals along the municipal sewer line, so that water and sewer employees can clear blockages in the part of the sewer system which is the city's responsibility. Most home owners are concerned with the clean outs on their properties. Sewer clean outs are often situated near each home on a property, and at the property line, providing several points of access. It is a good idea to know where each one is located, and to keep the surrounding area clear so that the clean outs can be accessed in a hurry. When a blockage does arise, quick access can be critical to prevent overflow. In regio ... more