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A Plumber Explains The Importance Of A Sewer Cleanout | Callahan, FL

A Plumber Explains The Importance Of A Sewer Cleanout | Callahan, FL

Most homeowners don’t often think about their home’s sewer system, but it’s an important part of the house that should not be overlooked. When this system isn’t taken care of properly and drains become clogged or backed up, it can cause a headache for you as a homeowner, but it can also result in costly damage to your home if left untreated. A key component of sewer maintenance is regularly inspecting the system’s cleanouts, which are strategically-placed access points that provide plumbers access to restricted sewage systems within the drains below. This blog post will examine in detail what makes a sewer cleanout important.

What is a Sewer Cleanout?

A sewer cleanout is a pipe fitting typically made of plastic or cast iron with a removable plug or cap at one end. These fittings are usually installed on the main sewer line leading away from your home or at the junction between the building and the public sewer mains. The purpose of cleanouts is to make it easier for plumbers to have access to the drain pipes when needed. Through sewer cleanouts, plumbing technicians can inspect the pipes for blockages or other issues without tearing up flooring or digging a large trench to gain access to the line.

Types of Sewer Cleanouts

Interior Sewer Cleanouts

Interior sewer cleanouts are located near the foundation walls within a home. Depending on how your home’s plumbing system is structured, they can be either floor or wall mounted. Usually, interior cleanouts are built with a PVC cap with a threaded end that can be unscrewed using a pipe wrench or other tool.

Exterior Cleanouts

Exterior cleanouts are those located outside of the premises. These can be found near sidewalks, roadsides, or front yards, providing access to the main sewer line without entering a house or building. These cleanouts often have a long stem that extends out of the ground, allowing it to remain accessible even when buried under dirt or debris. While exterior cleanouts can be useful for clearing away blockages from outside the property, they require additional excavation work during installation since it is necessary for them to be placed underground.

Why Are Properly Functioning Sewer Cleanouts Important?

Easier Handling Of Emergency Repairs

A properly functioning sewer cleanout in your home can make a huge difference when an emergency repair is needed. When emergencies in your sewer line arise, prompt attention is key to prevent further damage and costly repairs. For example, if you have a blockage in your main sewer line, the plumber must quickly access the drain pipe. Failure to take quick action can cause the blockage to worsen and lead to backups, flooding, and potentially hazardous waste spilling into your home.

If there is no cleanout, the plumber would have to dig up a large section of your yard to reach the blocked pipes. This would take far longer and be much more costly than simply accessing the line from an existing cleanout. Besides, with strategically-placed cleanouts, the plumber doesn’t have to guess where the pipes are located as they will be visible, further simplifying the repair process. Therefore, if you don’t have a sewer cleanout in place, have one installed today.

Prevents Damage To Your Yard During Repairs

A properly functioning sewer cleanout can also help prevent damage to your yard during plumbing repairs. With an existing cleanout, plumbers can quickly access the pipes and clear out any blockages or other issues without digging up large sections of your property. This saves you time and money on repairs and ensures your yard stays in good condition. You won’t have to worry about having a giant trench in your yard after the plumber is done with repair or maintenance services.

FAQs About Sewer Cleanouts

How Often Should I Check My Sewer Cleanouts?

It is recommended to check your sewer cleanouts regularly to ensure they function properly. If you notice any cracks, corrosion, or other signs of damage to the cleanout plug or cap, it’s best to call a professional plumber for help immediately.

How Much Does It Cost To Have A Sewer Cleanout Installed?

The cost of installing a sewer cleanout depends on various factors, such as the type of material used and its location. When you hire a plumbing professional for this job, they will give you the exact installation cost.

Do Sewer Cleanouts Require Regular Maintenance?

Yes, sewer cleanouts require regular maintenance to ensure they’re functioning properly. This includes checking for signs of damage or corrosion and ensuring the cap is sealed securely to prevent potential problems. You should also clear any debris or dirt accumulated around the cleanout. It’s also recommended to have a professional plumber inspect the sewer cleanout annually to ensure everything is in working order.

When Should I Replace My Sewer Cleanout?

If you notice any signs of damage or corrosion to the cleanout, it’s best to have a plumbing professional inspect it as soon as possible. Depending on their assessment, they may recommend replacing the cleanout.

Sewer cleanouts play an important role in keeping your drainage system functioning properly. Whether you need interior or exterior sewer cleanouts installed for your property, hiring a qualified plumbing contractor who can inspect your system regularly and perform necessary repairs or maintenance as needed is essential. Properly maintained sewer systems will help prevent costly repairs while ensuring your drainage system works smoothly year-round.

We Are The Plumbing Experts You Should Call

If you are looking for an experienced plumbing professional to install a sewer cleanout on your property, don’t hesitate to contact us at Bert Norman’s Plumbing. We have the expertise and experience to help you install, maintain, and repair sewer cleanouts providing excellent services throughout the process. We also offer other plumbing services, including water heater repairs, pipe repairs, and more. Call us today to schedule a service.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

Photo By Robin Gentry at iStock

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