All drains within your home go to one main sewer line. This goes into your municipal system or your septic tank. It is important to know the exact location of your sewer line, especially when there are issues such as clogs, backups, or breaks. Find out how to locate the main sewer line from your home and yard. Mark your access points to ensure future service repair and replacement.
How to locate the main sewer line in your house
You will need to search for your indoor sewer clean-out point. You will find it in your basement, crawl space, or garage. Look for a pipe approximately 4 inches in diameter and with a cap that is screwed on top. Some homes may have an indoor clean-out point while others might be outdoors. You can also have none at all.
How to find the sewer line in your yard
You can find the main sewer line from your house if you cannot locate it. Access points for sewer lines outside the home are usually located near the street or at the foundation where the sewer line joins with the municipal main. The sewer line will usually be visible from the ground. However, it could be obscured by overgrown vegetation or other objects near the house. You could also have a hidden sewer clean-out. You might start by looking on the side closest to the main bathroom.
Are you still unable to find your sewer line?
If you are unable to locate the sewer line in your yard or house, there are three options:
- Contact the Previous Homeowner: If you speak to the homeowner, or have their contact information. It is worth asking them if the sewer line was located when they lived in your house.
- Call City Maintenance or Visit Your Local Municipality Hall: Many local municipalities have sewage and property maps that will help you locate the sewer line.
- Call a local Long Beach, CA Plumber: This is a great way to save time. They can not only locate your sewer line but can also offer sewer repair and replacement services.
How can I tell if my sewer drain is clogged?
You may want to check if your sewer lines are blocked. These are some possible symptoms of a clogged sewer drain.
- Slow drains may appear clogged.
- The usual unclogging fixes and methods don’t work.
- Multiple plumbing backups (sink, shower, toilet, etc. ).
- Backups can occur after flushing the toilet (shower drain, tub)
- Backup or overflowing the washer when it drains.
- A drain or toilet may be bubbling and gurgling. This could also indicate a blocked vent pipe .