What Is a Sewer Clean Out?
If a plumber has ever mentioned a “sewer clean out” while diagnosing a clogged toilet or slow draining shower, you might have wondered what they meant. A sewer clean out is a capped access point that connects directly to your home’s main sewer line. This critical part of your plumbing system allows professionals to reach and remove tough blockages using tools like a drain snake, auger, or rooter machine.
In neighborhoods throughout North Dallas, Plano, and Carrollton, many homeowners don’t realize the importance of this pipe until a major backup occurs. Whether your drains are gurgling or wastewater is returning through the tub, a sewer clean out can be the key to solving the issue quickly and cleanly.
Where Are Sewer Cleanouts Located?
Most sewer clean outs are made of 3” or 4” white PVC or cast iron pipe with a threaded cap on top. You’ll typically find them sticking up a few inches from the ground near the foundation—usually on the side or front of the home. In many homes across Plano and North Dallas, the clean out may be hidden under mulch, grass, or decorative landscaping. In fact, some homeowners don’t even know they have one until a plumbing emergency uncovers it.
Keep Your Clean Out Accessible
Knowing where your sewer clean out is—and keeping it accessible—is essential. Avoid covering it with soil, stone, or concrete. If it’s buried, even a simple fix can turn into an expensive excavation. Our team at Harmony Plumbing & Drain Cleaning often finds clean outs hidden under flower beds, driveways, or patio additions.
Do All Homes Have a Sewer Clean Out?
Most modern homes in Carrollton and surrounding areas are required by plumbing code to have a sewer clean out. However, many older homes, especially those built before the 1980s, may not have one at all. Without a clean out, plumbers may have to remove a toilet or dig up part of the yard just to access your main sewer line.
If you live in an older home in North Dallas or Plano and have experienced repeated backups or slow drains, it’s worth asking about installing a sewer clean out. Doing so can save time, money, and property damage during your next emergency.
Need Help? Call Harmony Plumbing & Drain Cleaning
At Harmony Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we specialize in helping homeowners in North Dallas, Plano, and Carrollton locate, service, and install sewer clean outs. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn blockage or just want peace of mind before the next storm season, our team is here to help.
