Sewer line blockages are one of the most frustrating plumbing issues a homeowner or business can face. When a clog occurs, wastewater has nowhere to go, leading to slow drains, gurgling pipes, or even sewage backups. While minor clogs can sometimes be cleared with household drain cleaners or plungers, deeper blockages in the main sewer line require professional solutions like sewer rodding.
At Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve seen it all—tree roots invading pipes, grease buildup causing stubborn clogs, and everyday debris leading to slow drains. In this blog, we’ll cover the most common causes of sewer line blockages and explain why sewer rodding is an effective solution to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
Common Causes of Sewer Line Blockages
1. Tree Root Intrusion
Tree roots are one of the biggest threats to your sewer line. If you have older pipes made of clay or cast iron, tiny cracks or loose joints can allow tree roots to sneak in. Once inside, the roots grow rapidly, feeding off the moisture and nutrients in the wastewater. Over time, they form thick blockages that restrict water flow and can even break your pipes.
Signs of tree root intrusion:
- Slow-draining sinks and tubs
- Gurgling noises from toilets
- Recurring clogs in multiple drains
- Patches of lush, green grass near the sewer line
2. Grease and Fat Buildup
Pouring grease, fat, and oil down the drain is a common mistake that leads to sewer blockages. When hot grease goes down the drain, it may be liquid, but as it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the walls of your pipes. Over time, this buildup traps food particles and other debris, creating a stubborn clog that won’t budge with simple drain cleaners.
How to prevent grease buildup:
- Never pour grease down the sink; instead, dispose of it in a sealed container.
- Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing.
- Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps.
- Run hot water down the drain regularly to help flush out minor buildup.
3. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Flushing items like baby wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs can quickly lead to clogs. Even “flushable” wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper, making them a major cause of sewer backups.
Common culprits:
- Wipes (even if labeled “flushable”)
- Paper towels and tissues
- Feminine hygiene products
- Dental floss and cotton swabs
4. Foreign Objects and Debris
It’s not just toilets that are at risk—kitchen and bathroom sinks often fall victim to clogs caused by soap scum, hair, food scraps, and other debris. Over time, these materials accumulate inside the pipes, reducing water flow and leading to slow or completely blocked drains.
Tips to avoid debris buildup:
- Use drain screens to catch hair and food scraps.
- Run hot water after using the sink to help clear small clogs.
- Avoid washing large food particles down the drain.
- Clean drain stoppers regularly to prevent buildup.
5. Collapsed or Broken Pipes
While most blockages are caused by buildup inside the pipes, sometimes the problem is structural. Old or damaged sewer pipes can collapse or crack, causing obstructions that prevent wastewater from flowing freely. This is especially common in homes with older plumbing systems.
Warning signs of pipe damage:
- Frequent clogs in multiple drains
- Unusual wet spots in your yard
- A strong sewage smell near your home
- Water backing up into sinks or tubs
How Sewer Rodding Clears Tough Clogs
When a sewer line blockage becomes too severe for a plunger or drain cleaner, sewer rodding is the most effective way to clear the obstruction. This professional plumbing technique involves inserting a flexible steel rod with a cutting head into the sewer line to break up and remove blockages.
1. Identifying the Blockage
Before sewer rodding begins, a professional plumber will inspect your sewer line to determine the cause and location of the clog. This is often done using a sewer camera, which allows for a precise and targeted approach.
2. Breaking Through the Clog
Once the problem area is identified, the rodding tool is inserted into the sewer cleanout or an accessible pipe opening. The rotating cutting head works to break up tree roots, grease, and other obstructions, restoring normal flow.
3. Flushing Out the Debris
After rodding, the debris is flushed through the system with water, ensuring your pipes are fully cleared. In some cases, hydro jetting (a high-pressure water technique) may be used to further clean the pipe walls and prevent future buildup.
The Benefits of Sewer Rodding
- Immediate Results: Unlike chemical drain cleaners that can take time to work (and may damage your pipes), sewer rodding provides instant relief by removing clogs on the spot.
- Long-Lasting Solution: By thoroughly cutting through roots and debris, rodding offers a more effective, long-term fix compared to temporary solutions like plunging or snaking.
- Protects Your Plumbing: Keeping your sewer lines clear with regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road.
- Environmentally Friendly: Unlike harsh chemical treatments, rodding is a mechanical solution that doesn’t introduce harmful substances into your plumbing or the environment.
Preventing Future Sewer Clogs
While sewer rodding is a fantastic way to clear blockages, preventing them in the first place is even better. Here are a few simple steps to keep your sewer lines flowing smoothly:
- Be mindful of what you flush. Stick to toilet paper and waste—avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, and other non-degradable items.
- Dispose of grease properly. Instead of pouring it down the drain, collect grease in a container and throw it in the trash.
- Trim trees near sewer lines. If you have trees growing near your sewer system, regular root maintenance can prevent invasive growth.
- Schedule regular sewer inspections. Professional inspections can catch potential problems before they become major issues.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional for sewer rodding:
- Multiple drains in your home are slow or backed up.
- You hear gurgling sounds coming from the toilet or drains.
- There’s a foul sewage odor coming from your drains.
- You’ve tried plunging or using drain cleaners without success.
- Water is backing up into sinks, tubs, or floor drains.
Ignoring sewer line issues can lead to bigger problems, including pipe damage, flooding, and expensive repairs. Regular maintenance and professional sewer rodding can keep your plumbing system in top shape and prevent unexpected emergencies.
Keep Your Sewer Lines Clear with Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing
At Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing, we specialize in sewer rodding and drain cleaning to keep your pipes flowing smoothly. Whether you’re dealing with a minor clog or a major sewer line blockage, our team is ready to help with fast, reliable service.
If you’re experiencing slow drains, backups, or unusual plumbing noises, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule a sewer rodding service and get your plumbing back on track!
