A sewer clean out line is a critical component of a building’s plumbing system that provides access to the main sewer line for cleaning and maintenance purposes. It is typically located near the property line, in the front or back yard, or at a convenient location within the home and is usually identifiable by a round or rectangular cover or cap marked “sewer”. This line is essential for the proper functioning of the plumbing system and must be easily accessible and in good working order.
Sewer Clean Out Line Info

The sewer clean out line is connected to the main sewer line, which carries all of the wastewater from a building to the public sewer system or a septic tank. The main sewer line is usually a large diameter pipe that is buried underground and must be able to accommodate the necessary tools and equipment for cleaning and maintenance. The sewer clean out line provides access to this pipe for these purposes.
The sewer clean out line is usually made of PVC, ABS, or cast iron and is designed to withstand the harsh conditions in the sewer environment. It must be able to withstand exposure to wastewater, chemicals, and other harsh elements that can cause corrosion and damage over time. In addition, the sewer clean out line must be able to accommodate the necessary tools and equipment for cleaning and maintenance, so it is usually larger in diameter than the rest of the plumbing system.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the sewer clean out line is essential for the proper functioning of the plumbing system. This includes checking the line for any blockages, cracks, or other damage, and clearing any debris that may have accumulated. Plumbers may use specialized tools and equipment, such as sewer snakes or high-pressure water jetting, to clear blockages and maintain the sewer line.
In addition to regular maintenance, it is also important to be mindful of what is flushed down the toilets and drains in a home. Items such as grease, oil, and non-degradable materials can cause blockages in the sewer line and should not be disposed of in this manner. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of what is poured down the drains, as items such as cooking oil, grease, and other non-degradable materials can also cause blockages in the sewer line.
Blockages in the sewer line can cause significant damage to the home and create health hazards. For example, sewage backups can result in the release of wastewater into the home, causing damage to flooring, walls, and other surfaces. Additionally, exposure to raw sewage can pose a serious health hazard, as it can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
To avoid these problems, it is important to have the sewer clean out line inspected and maintained on a regular basis. Plumbers can use video inspections to inspect the interior of the sewer line and identify any issues that may need to be addressed. If a blockage or other issue is found, the plumber can then use specialized tools and equipment to clear the blockage and resolve the issue.
In conclusion, a sewer clean out line is a critical component of a building’s plumbing system that provides access to the main sewer line for cleaning and maintenance purposes. Regular maintenance and inspection, as well as being mindful of what is flushed down the toilets and drains, can help prevent problems with the sewer clean out line and keep the plumbing system in good working order. It is important to address any issues with the sewer line promptly, as blockages or other problems can cause significant damage to the home and create health hazards.