Sewer lines are one of the most important but least visible parts of any home or commercial property. When they work properly, you never think about them. When they do not, the result can be sewage backups, slow drains, foul odors, and costly repairs. One of the most common questions homeowners and property managers ask is how often should sewer lines be cleaned.
The answer depends on usage, pipe condition, and history of clogs. Below is a clear, experience-based guide to help you understand the right cleaning schedule and how to keep your sewer system running smoothly.
General Rule for Sewer Line Cleaning
For most residential properties, sewer lines should be professionally cleaned every 12 to 24 months.
This schedule helps prevent buildup before it turns into a blockage. Homes with higher usage or older plumbing may need more frequent cleaning, while newer systems with light use can often stay on the longer end of that range.
When Sewer Lines Need More Frequent Cleaning
Some properties require sewer line cleaning more often than average. You should consider cleaning your sewer line every 6 to 12 months if any of the following apply:
- Older homes with clay or cast iron pipes
- Large households with multiple bathrooms
- Trees or shrubs growing near the sewer line
- Previous sewer backups or recurring clogs
- Heavy grease usage from cooking
- Rental properties or multi-family buildings
Commercial properties such as restaurants, apartment complexes, and office buildings usually require scheduled sewer maintenance due to higher volume and grease buildup.
Residential vs Commercial Sewer Line Cleaning
Residential sewer line cleaning
Most single-family homes benefit from cleaning every 1 to 2 years. Annual cleaning is often recommended as preventive maintenance for peace of mind.
Commercial sewer and drain cleaning
Commercial properties usually require cleaning every 6 to 12 months. Restaurants, food service businesses, and facilities with high water usage may need even more frequent service.
Regular maintenance reduces emergency calls, downtime, and costly damage.
Signs Your Sewer Line Needs Cleaning Now
Do not wait for a full sewer backup. Schedule sewer drain cleaning if you notice:
- Multiple drains slowing down at the same time
- Toilets bubbling or gurgling when water runs
- Water backing up into tubs or showers
- Strong sewer odors inside or outside the building
- Basement floor drains backing up
- Repeated clogs that return quickly
These symptoms usually point to a main sewer line clog rather than a single fixture issue.
How Sewer Lines Are Cleaned
Professional sewer line cleaning services typically use one or more of the following methods:
Snaking or Augering
This method clears localized blockages and is effective for basic clogs. It does not fully clean pipe walls and is usually a short-term solution.
Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting drain cleaning use high-pressure water to thoroughly clean the inside of sewer pipes. It removes grease, sludge, scale, and tree roots. Hydro jetting is ideal for preventive maintenance and recurring sewer issues.
Sewer Camera Inspection
A sewer camera inspection allows technicians to see inside the pipe to locate blockages, root intrusion, cracks, or sagging sections. This inspection helps determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.
Empire Sewer and Water Inc often recommends pairing Sewer Camera Inspection with Sewer Line Cleaning for long-term results.
How Long Sewer Line Cleaning Lasts
A properly cleaned sewer line can remain clear for:
- 1 to 2 years in most homes
- 6 to 12 months in high-use or commercial properties
Regular maintenance greatly reduces the risk of unexpected sewer backups and emergency plumbing calls.
How to Keep Sewer Lines Clean Between Services
You can extend the life of your sewer system with simple habits:
- Never pour grease or oil down the drain
- Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products
- Use drain strainers in sinks and showers
- Limit chemical drain cleaners which can damage pipes
- Keep trees and roots away from sewer lines
- Schedule routine sewer maintenance instead of waiting for clogs
These steps help reduce buildup and protect your plumbing system.
Sewer Line Cleaning Cost Considerations
The cost to clean a sewer line depends on pipe length, clog severity, access points, and cleaning method. Preventive maintenance is almost always less expensive than emergency service or sewer repairs caused by neglect.
Routine cleaning is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your property and avoid major plumbing failures.
Final Thoughts
So how often should sewer lines be cleaned?
For most homes, every 12 to 24 months is ideal. Properties with heavy use, older pipes, or recurring issues should be cleaned more frequently. Regular sewer maintenance helps prevent backups, protects your plumbing system, and saves money over time. Working with experienced professionals like Empire Sewer and Water Inc ensures your sewer line is cleaned safely and correctly using the right method for your system.
