How To Find A Cleanout For Septic Tank? (TOP 5 Tips)

Here are some simple tips to help you find it:

1. Walk around the perimeter of your house and look at the area close to the foundation.
2. A sewer cleanout is generally, but not always located outside a bathroom.
3. Since cleanouts aren’t needed often, yours may be covered by bushes, underbrush or grass.

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• How To Find Septic Tank Cleanout Consult a septic tank diagram or map. Determine the location where the drain leaves the house and its direction of travel.Dig to uncover the septic tank lid;Drain fields would be the a part of your septic system in which natural liquid squander drains from the septic tank and is.

How do I find my main cleanout drain?

Follow the drainage pipe in your home to find the cleanout. The line will often be right outside your home, but it could also be on the inside. The cleanout is usually right next to the foundation of your home, so look for a plugged pipe coming out of the floor.

Where is the cleanout on a concrete septic tank?

The septic tank should be cleaned from a cleanout port – usually located in the center of the tank.

Where is the clean out pipe located?

The cleanout is usually a 4-inch-diameter pipe with a screw cap that has a square knob or indentation on the top. It’s most likely going to be popping up from the ground outside your home between the foundation and the street. The cleanout might also be on the side of the home, closest to the bathroom.

Does every house have a cleanout?

Every house should have one, although unfortunately, some houses don’t. Not only do all homes not have plumbing clean-outs, often those that do have an insufficient number. The Licensed specialists at Augerpros Plumbing can provide the installation of extra clean-outs if needed, and in the recommended locations.

How do I find the underground sewer line?

Call 811 in the United States to find underground lines on your property.

1. Calling 811 is a completely free service, so you don’t have to pay utility companies to mark your yard.
2. The utility companies that are contacted depends on the area where you live, so they may not mark sewage lines.

How do I find my main drain line?

It can usually be found in the basement, garage, or crawl space. You will want to look for a pipe that is about four inches in diameter with a screw cap on the top with a notch or a square knob at the top. Note that some houses have an indoor sewer line cleanout point, while others might be located outdoors.

Will metal detector find septic tank?

If it’s Concrete or Steel, Use a Metal Detector. Based on your conclusions in Step 3, if your septic tank is likely made from concrete or steel, a metal detector can make the task of locating it much easier. But not just any metal detector will do.

Do all septic tanks have filters?

First, not all septic tanks have a filter, especially the older septic tanks. Now many government agencies require or recommend a filter when a septic tank is installed. Cleaning a septic tank filter is different than pumping out a septic tank and cleaning it.

How do you tell if your septic tank is full?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

1. Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
2. Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
3. Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
4. You Hear Gurgling Water.
5. You Have A Sewage Backup.
6. How often should you empty your septic tank?

Do all septic tanks have lids?

Find the Lid. If your septic tank was installed after 1975, it will probably have two polyethylene or fiberglass lids centered at opposite sides of the perimeter. Older tanks will typically have a 24-inch concrete lid right in the center of the tank. Excavate in those locations to reveal the lids.

Can a septic tank never be pumped?

What Are the Consequences of Not Pumping Your Tank? If the tank is not pumped, the solids will build up in the tank and the holding capacity of the tank will be diminished. Eventually, the solids will reach the pipe that feeds into the drain field, causing a clog. Waste water backing up into the house.

Are septic tank locations public record?

Contact your local health department for public records. These permits should come with a diagram of the location where the septic system is buried. Depending on the age of your septic system, you may be able to find information regarding the location of your septic system by making a public records request.

How to Find a Sewer Cleanout

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation Cleaning up sewage lines is made possible by capped pipes that provide plumbers with a convenient approach to access sewer lines while clearing obstructions. Many house sewage systems are fitted with one or more cleanouts for the convenience of the homeowner. Despite the fact that the specific location varies depending on how your property was constructed, they are pretty straightforward to identify. Although the cleanout will most often be located directly outside your front door, it might also be at a nearby septic tank or even within your home.

If you require assistance, contact a plumber to determine the location of the cleanout.

1. 1 Consult your home’s plot drawings to determine the most convenient location for the sewer cleanout. The plot drawings for your property may have been delivered to you if you are the owner of the property. If you don’t have one, you should get in touch with your local government. It’s common for the planning or county assessor departments to maintain a database of blueprints, and they can provide you with a copy upon request. Consult your government’s website to determine if these plans are available to the general public on their website, as well. A cleanout will be included on the plans if your home has one, and its location will be indicated on the drawings whether it is indoors or outside.

• Subdivision plans may also be beneficial. A subdivision plan depicts a plot of land that has been divided into several distinct projects. There are several routes to get there, including a government planning agency, contractors, and property owners.

• 2 Hire a plumber to locate a cleanout in a straightforward manner. Some homes do not have sewer cleanouts as a result of the way building rules have changed throughout the years. Even while it’s a prevalent problem in extremely ancient homes, it can also occur in newer homes from time to time. Consult with a plumber to determine the source of the problem. If they are unable to locate a cleanout, speak with them about the possibility of having one installed.

• When a qualified plumber sends a tiny camera down the main sewer line to determine where the line branches off into a cleanout, the results are immediate. Installing a cleanout is a simple and affordable solution to make plumbing maintenance considerably easier, especially for older homes. In most cases, it will cost less than $100 USD, unless the installation needs to conduct a lot of excavation work within your home.

• When a trained plumber sends a tiny camera down the main sewage line to determine where the line branches off into a cleanout, the results are usually positive
• Plumbing maintenance may be made much easier by installing a cleanout, which is a relatively affordable means of accomplishing this. In most cases, it will cost less than $100 USD, unless the installation needs to conduct a lot of excavation work within your house.

• The ideal persons to contact are those who have worked outside your house or who have somehow come into contact with the sewage line. Contact the firm with which you had the most recent dealings.

• 4 If you still want assistance, consult with a surveyor or an engineer. Speak with any government official who has been in your neighborhood recently. If you are unsure who to contact, contact the local government’s surveryor’s office for assistance. Consult with any engineering firms that were involved in the design or construction of your house as an alternative

• The maps of the terrain in your neighborhood are maintained by surveyors for legal and safety reasons. Plot plans are frequently available to them
• Engineers use plot plans to organize construction projects while planning building projects. If you worked with a contractor to make improvements to your house, they may be able to direct you to an engineer who was involved in the project at some point.

• 5 Get in touch with any title and real estate agencies you may have utilized. Plot plans are frequently accessed by these businesses in the course of their business. Additionally, they may have dispatched someone to check your residence. Inquire whether they can provide you with a copy of the plot blueprints or at the very least information on where the cleanup will take place. Hopefully, they will be able to assist you without charging you any more fees.

• You will not receive much assistance in this manner unless the firm has worked with your particular residence. Make touch with a business with which you have recently done business.

1. 1 Make your way to the septic tank, if your home is equipped with one. A septic tank will be required in the event that your home does not have a municipal sewer line connection available. The cleanout is always in close proximity to the piping that connects your house to the tank. Before you proceed to the tank in your backyard, have a look around the neighborhood. The cleanup will most likely be located close to your residence.

• If you want to locate the septic tank, search for vent pipes that protrude from the ground. You might also consult the plot plans for your house or get advice from a plumber.

• 2 If your home is connected to a major sewer line in the street, go to the main sewer line in the street. Step out of your home’s front door and stroll down the sidewalk toward the street. Locate the nearest manhole and crawl into it. After that, look for any markings on the curb that indicate the location of the sewage line. In many instances, the concrete will be stamped with a large “S” to denote the presence of a sewer. Once you’ve discovered what you’re looking for, the cleanup won’t take long

• Outdoor, front yard cleanouts are fairly prevalent in homes built on slab foundations in warm areas with a lot of sunlight. The cleanout is frequently located in the front yard
• You may also see a “W” for water and a “G” for gas on the ground. As long as you are able to locate the sewer cleanout, you should be able to disregard these. However, keep their placement in mind in case you have to dig for the cleanout.

• 3 Return to your home and look for the cleanout container. Because you won’t be able to see the main sewer line, you’ll have to make educated guesses about where it is. Make a beeline directly for your house, starting with the letter “S. ” Keep an eye out for the cap of the cleanout truck that protrudes from the ground. Generally speaking, it will be situated between the curb and the foundation of your property.

• Alternatively, the cleanout may be designated with a “S” or with an alternate designation such as “C.O.” or “clean out.” Most of the time, it is fairly straightforward to identify

• 4 Look for a pipe with a white or black cover over it. Find a white cap resting on a 4-inch (10-cm)-wide pipe and examine it. Expect the pipe to be buried, with only the cap showing. This is a standard practice. In addition, the cap will include a square-shaped button or hole on the top that will make it easily distinguishable. In the event that you have plot plans, you may utilize them to figure out where the main sewage line breaks off and enters the vertical cleanout pipe.

• The headgear attracts a lot of attention. There will be no other outdoor pipes like it in your home
• It is unique.

• 5 Inspect the sides of your house near the bathroom for signs of water damage. It is also possible that the cleanout will be located near the most significant source of drainage pipes in your property. Once you’ve determined which side of your house the bathroom is located on, go outside and look for the cleanout cap. Typically, it will be close to your home’s foundation, however you should also move toward the curb if you don’t immediately notice the cleanout.

• Side cleanouts can occur if the front yard isn’t close enough to the city’s sewage line to prevent them from occurring. Also prevalent in bigger homes with several bathrooms
• If you have multiple bathrooms on the first floor, make sure to inspect the area surrounding both of them for any signs of water damage. It is possible that the cleanout will be on either side. It’s possible that your home has many cleanouts.

• Cleanouts on the side of the house can occur if the front yard isn’t close enough to the city’s main sewage line. Also prevalent in bigger homes with several bathrooms
• If you have multiple bathrooms on the first floor, be sure to inspect the area surrounding both of them for a hidden camera. Any of the sides might be responsible for cleaning up after themselves. Depending on the size of your property, you may need to clean out many rooms.

• Keep in mind that the most usual areas for cleanouts are along the main sewage or septic line, as well as in close proximity to restrooms. It is often located at the foundation of your property. In most circumstances, if you search in those places, you will be able to locate the buried pipe
• Nevertheless, in certain rare cases, the sewer cleanout may be buried. It will be necessary to dig a little further in the most likely locations in order to locate it. Dig down approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm), taking care not to damage any underground utility wires.

1. 1 Locate the cleanout by following the drainage pipe throughout your property. Check your basement or crawlspace, if you have one, to check where the utility pipes exit your property and make sure they are not damaged. Look down the line to check if there is a plugged cleanout pipe anywhere nearby. Most of the time, the line will be just outside your home, but it may also be on the inside. The cleanout is normally located directly adjacent to the foundation of your home, so check for a clogged pipe coming out of the floor when searching for it.

• It is important to note that tracking the main sewer line in your property might be challenging. Follow the drainage lines from any neighboring utilities to see if you can find them. If the pipes go through the walls, make an educated guess as to where they are or look outside for the main sewer line. For example, in colder climates, such as Canada, cleanouts are frequently constructed inside homes to keep them from freezing during the winter.

• 2 Look for a pipe that has a cap covering it. The cover of a sewer cleanout is normally white or black in color. The cap is frequently threaded with a raised square in the middle of the threading. Cleanouts within your home are often connected to other pipelines, so look for any capped-off dead ends before proceeding. It’s be that the dead end is the cleanout you’ve been looking for

• The cleanout on a Y or T-shaped pipe fitting, for example, might be found in the basement when you search in the basement. Cleanouts in bathrooms and near floor drains are frequently identical in appearance to those found outside.

• 3 If you are unable to locate the cleanout, look near the toilets in your home. Examine each and every bathroom in your house. Ideally, the cleanout will be in one of these locations, and it will be near to the toilet. Find a little but obvious pipe protruding from the floor and investigate it further. Identifying characteristics include a black or white cap and the fact that it does not appear to be connected to anything.

• If your home is constructed in this manner, there is a good likelihood that it will require several cleanouts. Check the toilets in the other bathrooms and the ground drains as well. Bathroom cleanouts are permissible in homes built on slab foundations, particularly those in warmer temperature zones. It can happen in older homes, especially if there isn’t a decent place to conceal the cleanout outside
• Nonetheless, it is rare.

• 4 Inspect the garage and utility rooms, if your home is equipped with them. Any place that has a floor drain may also have a sewer cleanout in the same location. To begin, look for a capped pipe on the floor underneath you. Then go on to storage spaces, such as closets or other locations where a builder may have hidden anything that wasn’t supposed to be visible
• And last, check the basement.

• Because the sewer cleanout must be located near plumbing, it is unlikely to be found in locations that are too far away from drains. For example, unless there is a drain nearby, you won’t have to spend much time checking into a closet in a distant corridor. When there isn’t enough space in the basement or bathroom, utility cleanouts take place. These cleanouts are frequently secondary in nature, and their purpose is to assist plumbers in gaining access to a specific section of the sewage system.

• 5 In the event that you are unable to locate the drain elsewhere, check the attic. It is possible that the sewage cleanout is located in the attic in very rare instances. If you have an attic, examine in the area around any visible sewer vent pipes that lead to the roof. The cleanout may be located on a “Y-shaped” or “T-shaped” pipe fitting, depending on the application. The free end of the fitting is sometimes referred to as a sewer cleanout.

• In the event that you have plumbing in the attic, make sure to check it for the sewer cleanout. Attic cleanouts are uncommon, however they can be found in older homes. Unless your house also has a bathroom or other plumbing, it is unlikely that it will have a cleanout.

• 6 If there is a cleanout in the wall, open it up to have access to it. Occasionally, sewage cleanouts are obstructively covered up during renovation projects. If you think that your sewage cleanout is hidden behind a wall, you will need to get behind the wall in order to access the cleanout. Choose between cutting open the wall or smashing it with a hammer to get to the other side.

• It’s best if you leave it to a professional plumber to locate the cleanout and devise a method of getting access to it. If you are not cautious, attempting to get to it on your own might result in catastrophic harm to your property. In most cases, the cleanout will not be in the wall. It occurs sometimes in older homes that have undergone renovation work, in a similar way to how landscaping work might result in an exterior cleanout becoming disguised.

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• Question What is the location of the cleanout in respect to the rest of my pipes? Is it possible to discover it by following the pipes? David Balkan is a writer who lives in New York City. A professional plumber and the CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main David Balkan is a licensed professional plumber who also serves as the CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service and the President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning, among other positions. With over 40 years of experience as an active owner of these businesses, David is well-versed in the challenges that arise with water service lines, sewers, and drain lines. David has served on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for more than 30 years and is now the Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council’s Committee on Plumbing. As a result of his expertise and solution-oriented approach, Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service has grown to become the biggest and most trusted sewer and water main service in New York City, and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award. Plumber with over 20 years of experienceCEO of Balkan SewerWater MainExpert Answer An effective way to think about a drain system is to imagine it as a tree with branches branching off of the trunk. Each trunk of the drainage system is expected to have a cleanout at the bottom of each trunk, according to standard practice. This is especially important if you have many fixtures that are all connected to a single line that goes down, such as a line that runs from the second floor to the first floor and then to the basement.

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• Multiple sewer cleanout lines can be found in certain residences. Typically, they are utilized to get access to certain areas of the pipes, so having one on the right side of your home is preferable when trying to remove clogs in that region, for example. Once you’ve located the cleanout, you might want to consider hiring a plumber to clear out any obstructions. They are capable of dealing with difficult problems without causing any damage to your home’s plumbing system. A pipe wrench may be used to open the cap on a sewer cleanout by rotating it in the opposite direction of the clock. To dislodge a stubborn cap, heat it slowly with a hairdryer then tap it with a hammer until it comes loose. If you want to clear out a hard clog on your own, you may use a sewer drain snake to help you out. Clean water should be sprayed into the pipe subsequently to flush away any remaining obstruction debris.

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• Opening a sewage cleanout on your own is a time-consuming and filthy endeavor. After opening the cap, take a few steps back to allow any trapped water and gas to escape.

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A sewer drain cleanout is a critical component of the drainage pipe system in your home, and it should never be overlooked. Cleanouts are the only way to get rid of the problem when a sink or toilet is the source of it. A plumber will have to come in and unclog the obstruction, which will result in a sewage backup. While a professional plumber can identify the sewage line cleanout in most homes in a matter of minutes, the homeowner should be aware of its position in case of an emergency. It’s important to note that the authorities often take care of the main sewage line in the neighborhood, but they leave the systems in your property in your hands.

How the sewer line cleanout works

Your home’s sewage line is a big pipe that links all of your household’s sinks, showers, and toilets to the municipal sewer line in the city. Because all septic systems are affected when a toilet, sink, or other facility produces a blockage in a septic line, it is imperative that action be taken immediately. If you have a sewer cleanout in your home or on your property, unclogging the sewer system is a simple process. It is important to note that the service charge for unblocking the waste disposal system will be determined in part by how readily a plumber can reach it; you will pay more if there is no cleanout or if you do not know where it is.

The tube can be made of metal or plastic, depending on considerations such as the location of the dwelling and the weather conditions.

Furthermore, the location of the home or complex is determined by elements such as the weather and the materials used in the construction of the house. Homeowners in colder climates, for example, are more likely to have sewage cleanouts located near the restroom, toilet, or garage.

Where is my sewer cleanout located?

When a homeowner needs to locate a cleanout, they have a number of alternatives to choose. A sewage cleanout is considered a safety element by the utility industry. From the moment a person moves into a residence, they should be aware of their exact position. However, it is simple to detect the problem, and you may not even want expert assistance in some cases. Because there are occasions when the cleanout is buried deep within the property, this may not always be the case. The following are the numerous methods of locating a sewer drain cleanout.

1. Analyze the most likely locations– The first step entails taking a look around the house and property to see if there are any spots where you would anticipate the facility to be put. A cleanout is a 3- or 4-inch pipe that has been equipped with a screw-on cleanout cap, and it is clearly distinguished from other pipes. It is therefore possible to pinpoint its position by taking a glance around the compound. Cleanouts are often found next to the bathroom, either within or outside the house, in most residences. Although this is not generally the case, it is possible that your area is an exception. As a result, you should not be alarmed if you are unable to locate it anywhere near the restroom. Other possible locations to look include the garage, the basement, and the area along the pathway directly outside the home, among others. It is critical that you take care not to cut any other pipes, lines, or cables if the sewer cleanout access is concealed under drywall, or you might end up causing a catastrophe in your house. Take a look at the home plan – Sometimes the location of the lateral sewer line cleanout is difficult to determine with the naked eye. Where the home plan is easily available and in such a situation, it is possible to obtain it and attempt to locate the facility from there. The advantage of adopting the plot plan is that it has documentation of all other features and utilities, making it simple to locate them. The first step in identifying the sewage drain cleanout is to determine where your home’s sewer line is located. Take care not to confuse other facilities with the main sewer line, since this might result in negative consequences if you cause damage to other systems in the course of your work. According to the previous discussion, the sewer cleanout might be buried in the compound rather than being positioned within the home. Services provided by professionals It is possible that watching the compound and looking at the layout plan will not provide any results in some circumstances. This may be the case in the case of ancient buildings or residences with poorly drawn blueprints, or it could be the case in the event of a hidden sewer cleanout. Calling a professional service, as a result, may be the only choice available. With professional assistance, you can immediately identify the outdoor cleanout access, regardless of whether it is located inside the home, protruding from the ground, or buried deep inside the compound. Plumbers are equipped with the necessary equipment and knowledge to locate, replace, and repair components of a drainage plumbing system. Whether it’s through the use of a cutting-edge technique known as trenchless sewage repair or a number of other methods to unclog your sewer, you can always rely on their knowledge and experience. They can also determine the root cause of your drainage system’s frequent clogs and provide you with professional guidance on how to resolve the problem. Furthermore, when skilled plumbers locate sewer cleanouts, they will do little or no harm to the surrounding area. Even better, if the sewage cleanout was located beneath a wall, a plumber may be able to repair any damage that has occurred. In addition, if there is no lateral sewer line cleanout in the compound, a plumber can be called in to install one if one does not already exist. In addition, although though this may increase the cost of the service, it is well worth it unless you are planning on moving out of the house the same day.

Taking care of the drainage system in your house

What measures can you take to keep the drainage system from becoming clogged? If you’ve ever had to deal with a blocked drainage system, you understand the frustration that comes with it. For those who have not yet done so, it is imperative that you take preventative steps before it is too late. The following are some methods that may be used to avoid or lessen blockage of your home’s drainage system.

1. Use hot water on a regular basis – Hot water is recognized for its ability to destroy germs, but it is also an effective cure for clogged pipes. By cleaning the sinks with hot water, you may remove oils from the pipes and separate food items from the walls of the pipes, allowing them to enter the city’s central sewage system. As a result, you should make it a point to regularly clean the sinks, baths, and toilets with hot water. Drain guards should be installed on all sinks since, in certain cases, the drainage pipes become clogged as a result of a buildup of food particles in the pipes. The placement of a drainage guard on every sink in the house helps to limit the size and volume of food that enters the drain and causes clogs. You will also need to avoid dumping non-dissolvable waste in the sink or the bathroom as a result of following this recommendation. Preventative maintenance – Preventative maintenance is the most effective strategy to avoid problems with drainage systems. It is the responsibility of every homeowner to guarantee that their drainage system is examined by a licensed plumber at least once every year. Before the drain becomes clogged, it is necessary to identify and treat any potential issues that may arise. The benefits of doing so include not just saving money in the long run, but also ensuring that your system is in the finest possible shape at all times.

Conclusion

Being aware of where the sewer cleanout is located in your complex is really important. Beyond lowering the expense of sewage line repair and maintenance, it may assist you in keeping the drain clean through do-it-yourself activities and routine inspections. The sewage drain cleanout is usually located on the inside of the house, near the bathroom. If you are unable to locate the sewer cleanout by inspecting the house and the surrounding area, consulting the house design or contacting a professional plumbing firm may be necessary.

Get in touch with our knowledgeable plumbers immediately for more information on sewer line cleanup.

How to Locate Your Sewer Cleanout in Case of Emergency

The drain cleanout is a direct connection to the main sewage line, which can be found either within or outside the property. If the trap is positioned within the house, it is referred to as the main house trap; if it is located outside of the house, it is referred to as the sewer cleanout. However, despite the little shift in terminology, the purpose of this cleanup remains the same: This addition to the home plumbing system is intended to provide plumbing professionals with an easy-to-access point through which they can reach clogs and sewage backup in the main sewage line that extends from the foundation of the home, under the ground, and out to the municipal sewage system, a private septic tank, or the portion of the main house drain piping downstream of the house trap, among other locations.

Only plumbing specialists should utilize the drain cleanout, but being aware of its presence during an emergency clog or backlog may save valuable time and money in the cleaning and restoration process, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

A drain cleanout pipe is commonly three, four, or six inches in diameter and white or black in color, depending on the manufacturer.

Some residences may also have drainage pipes made of brass or copper, though these are far less common. Keep in mind the type of material used in your sewage system as you follow these easy procedures to locate the main drain or plumbing cleanout valve.

Before You Begin

Before you begin, it’s crucial to understand that the overall placement of the drain cleanout varies based on the environment of the area where you live.

• Houses built to a standard in colder areas will often have drain cleanouts installed within the structure. People who live in colder areas and whose homes were constructed on a slab foundation may find an outside drain cleanout, or they may find it in a bathroom, garage, or utility room
• Therefore, people who live in this sort of property may need to explore both indoors and outdoors. Those in warm regions will often have an external drain cleanout in the yard
• However, homes in colder climates would not.

Materials

• There are drainage pipes running throughout the house, connecting every sink, toilet, and water-using equipment, such as the dishwasher and washing machine. Therefore, discovering a drainage pipe should not be a difficult task. Look for black or white ABS, cast iron, copper, or bronze drainage pipes that lead away from the sink, toilet, or appliance you’re looking to fix or replace. In most cases, following these drainage pipes will lead you to the main sewage line.

Look for a T- or Y-Shaped Pipe Fitting With a Cap or Plug

• Whereas when a drain cleanout is built within the home, it is usually found on the main sewage line, which is positioned immediately before the main line joins the foundation of the structure. Typically, the drain cleanout will be on a T- or Y-shaped pipe fitting, and it will be equipped with a threaded stopper and a square nut. It is also possible that a plastic cap will be placed over this nut. The drain cleanout, on the other hand, is not usually put on the main line. Depending on your location, you may need to check around for a black or white pipe with a threaded plug and an oval nut
• In certain cases, you may need to dig around to discover an additional entry point to the sewage system.

Check Bathrooms, Utility Rooms, and the Garage

• If the sewage cleanout is not located on the main sewer line, you will need to look for it in other areas of the house before determining its position. Take a flashlight with you to help you see better in low-light situations. It is common for the drain cleanout to be located near a collection of drainage pipes, such as in a complete bathroom with drains for the sink, toilet, and shower. Make a visual inspection of each bathroom in the house, searching for a capped ABS plastic drain line in black or white. As a last resort, examine the utility room or garage if you can’t find the drain cleanout where you think you might have put it. Occasionally, present or past owners may have made improvements that concealed the location of the main drain cleanout. As soon as you believe that this is the case, you should contact a plumber who will be able to identify and clear up the drain cleanout without causing more damage to your property.

Test the Drain Cleanout Plug

After locating the drain cleanout, it’s a good idea to test the plug to make sure it hasn’t been seized as a result of lack of usage. Make use of a pipe wrench or a big set of channel locks to tighten the square nut on the drain cleanout plug while wearing disposable gloves. Begin to crank the nut with the wrench in small increments until it is completely loose. After removing any accumulated filth from the threads, replace the plug with a new one. In certain instances, an expanding plug may be used to cover the cleanout, which may be freed by rotating a screw located in the middle of the plug.

Warning

1. As soon as you begin to open the plug and notice water or feel pressure beneath the plug, it’s time to contact a professional. This indicates that the clog in the line has caused the pipe leading outside the home to get clogged. Depending on where you are in the world when you pull the plug, your drainage pit, yard, or house may get flooded by backed-up raw sewage.

Locating Outdoor Drain Cleanouts

• To locate an outside drain cleanout, you will first need to walk to either the septic tank, if your property is on a septic system, or the municipal sewer line, if your property is not on a septic system. It is possible to identify the sewage line by looking for the nearest manhole or by looking for a curb with a huge S stamped into the concrete.

Estimate the Direction of the Drainage Line

• Septic systems will often have the drain cleanout situated near to the residence, in line with the septic tank, in order to save space. Simply go back from the tank and towards the house, keeping an eye out for a plastic pipe protruding from the lawn or garden as you go. Similar to this, the drain cleanout on a municipal wastewater system will normally be located near to the house or other building. This drainage system should be connected to the municipal sewer system
• However, because the actual drainage line is not visible, you will need to follow a broad path around the yard in order to locate the drain cleanout pipe. Typically, the pipe is black or white in color, and it is sealed with a threaded plug that has a square nut on it and is branded S, C.O., or cleanout on the outside. Although, in some cases, this plug is protected by a plastic cap or a metal lid, this is not always the case. With this in mind, look for any things that may be used to cover or house a 3-, 4-, or 6-inch diameter pipe.

Move Lawn Decorations, Foliage, and Other Obstacles

• If you are still unable to identify the drain cleanout, it is possible that it has been accidently covered or intentionally hidden from view. The drain cleanout should be located adjacent to the residence in an area along the main sewer or septic line, which may be identified by the presence of drain pipe clusters in full or partially completed bathrooms. Begin by removing any lawn decorations that are blocking the view of the yard outside of the restrooms, gradually increasing the search area. Always keep in mind that a cleanup might be buried in a garden or hidden by overgrown vegetation. Overgrown grass may also be an issue, so you may wish to cut the lawn to make the hunt for a lost pet a little bit easier on yourself. Occasionally, the sewer cleanout is totally buried in the yard, in which case you will need to make an educated guess as to where the drainage line is coming from and use a long screwdriver to dig approximately 1 inch into the ground, probing for the pipe’s top. Nonetheless, because this approach is mainly trial and error, even with a strong informed estimate, you may want to consider hiring a professional to identify the drain cleanout
• However, this method is not without risks.

Mark and Test the Drain Cleanout

1. After identifying the drain cleanout, mark the site with a metal stake and a brightly colored flag so that you have a fast reference point in the event of an emergency. In addition, the drain cleanout plug should be checked to ensure that it may be removed if necessary. Slowly loosen the nut from the pipe with a pipe wrench or a set of big channel locks to avoid damaging the pipe. In most cases, the nut should be easy to thread out
2. However, if you notice any water or feel pressure in the line, tighten the nut again and contact a plumber to clear the obstruction in the line.

Warning

The house sewage system can be severely damaged by even the most expert do-it-yourselfers. This can result in sewage backing up into the septic system, onto the yard, or even into the house itself. It is possible to save time and effort while also saving possibly thousands of dollars in clean-up and home restoration costs if you only use qualified professional plumbers to remove blockages and perform repairs to the main drainage line and drain cleanout.

where is my septic cleanout?

Everything else that goes into a septic system, aside from waste water, should be contained within the tank itself. That is precisely what the tank is for. Sand and other heavy particles will sink to the bottom of the container, while sludge, grease, and other substances will float to the top. All of these “solids” should be removed at least once every five years, if not more frequently. It is recommended that the waste water only be discharged from the tank into a small distribution box and then to all of the perforated drainfield lines in the system.

• A simple system in this location consists of a 1,000-gallon tank, a d-box, and 210 feet of drainfield line for up to three or four bedrooms.
• The soil type and usage decide how much additional drainfield length is required.
• If they were coming from a tank, the stench coming from a tank would be substantially greater than the stink coming from the other end of a drainfield line.
• Mike

COMMON PROBLEMS — JT’s SEPTIC

You should examine the sewer cleanout on the exterior of the home if you are hearing gurgling and all of the house fixtures are clogged. This is often a black 3-4 in color “inch ABS pipe with a threaded cap is available. Remove the cap (WARNING: BE CAREFUL! (WARNING: IT MAY CONTAIN SOME PRESSURE!) : Assuming the sewage line is completely dry, you will have a clog inside the home plumbing, directly in front of the cleanout valve. Make a phone call to a plumber and have them rooter the line. Sewer line cameras are available from several rooter/plumbing businesses.

You have two options at this point: call your preferred septic provider or pull up the tank lids yourself and check the water level and solids content in the tank yourself.

Most tanks erected after January 2001 include a filter that has to be cleaned at least once a year (we clean filters—please call us).

We’ll even notify you once a year when it’s time to clean your filters!).

You should contact your favorite plumber if only one or two fixtures are clogged (for example, one toilet or a specific sink or shower). It’s likely that you have a blockage in your sewage system. In the event that your septic tank is backing up, we can assist you!

GURGLES

Whenever you flush the toilet, the water gurgles, the toilet takes an unusually long time to flush, or the water in the shower turns brownish after you have done the laundry, you are receiving a subtle indication that trouble is brewing. In order to determine when the tank was last pumped, look through your records and then contact your preferred septic provider for assistance.

ODORS

If you are experiencing unpleasant odors within your home, such as rotten eggs, it is likely that a trap or vent inside your home is not venting correctly. Call your plumber right away since these gases are harmful to both people and animals!

ODORS OUTSIDE IN THE YARD

At times, the smells emanating from the roof vents will seep into the yard due to meteorological conditions. Make use of a plumber to elevate the roof vents and/or to place a charcoal filter in the vents, as needed. It’s important to remember that your septic tank is vented via the roof.

SURFACING IN THE YARD

If you notice effluent appearing in your yard, contact your septic service provider immediately. If you see this, it indicates that your leach line has failed and you should get help right away.

HEAVY SOLIDS- OVERDUE FOR PUMPING

Contrary to common perception, you DO need to have your septic tank pumped on a regular basis. Pumping maintenance should be performed on a regular basis, otherwise your system will get overwhelmed with solid waste and eventually cause damage to your leach lines. DON’T MAKE THIS HAPPEN TO YOU! This is an extreme example of a tank that is overflowing. There is sewage flowing from the tank access holes and into the yard!

grease build up in sewer pipes

You DO need to pump your septic tank on a regular basis, contrary to common perception. Unless you do regular pump maintenance, your system will get overwhelmed with solid waste, which will eventually cause your leach lines to clog and fail completely. THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN TO YOU. In this situation, the tank is completely overfilled. There is sewage flowing from the tank access ports and into the yard!

crushed or settled pipe

This is the second most prevalent problem we notice in septic systems that are less than 10 years old. In addition to blocking flow, loose fill soil surrounding the tank is causing a backup into the house since it is pulling the pipe with it as it settles. We have even observed instances when contractors installing new systems do not correctly pack the fill earth below the pipe, resulting in pipe settlement on systems that have not been utilized or have only been used for a short length of time (see below for an example).

SEWER OUTLET PROGRESSION

When it comes to modern septic systems, this is the most typical issue we encounter. Take note of the fact that the unsupported outlet pipe is being driven down by settling dirt.

Watch as the water level in the tank rises, forcing the flow of water in the inflow sewage line to slow. This will eventually result in a clog in the inflow sewer line at some point. The solids flowing down from the house will not be able to enter the tank correctly because of the high water level.

examples of settled sewer pipes:

INSTALLATION OF A TANK AND/OR REPAIR OF SEWER PIPESTHE “POLY” PIPEIMAGES BELOW PROVIDE AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT PIPENOTTO USES WHEN INSTALLING A TANK AND/OR REPAIR OF SEWER PIPES However, despite the fact that this grade of sewer pipe is less expensive at the time of purchase, it might end up costing you a lot of money in the long run!

settled inlet sewer pipe on unused system:

Even if the septic system has not been utilized in some time, it is conceivable that problems will be discovered during the inspection process. Pipes might settle on unoccupied ground and in yards as a result of faulty installation and/or automobiles and/or ATVs running over the pipes without realizing they are there. It may be beneficial to all parties to have a skilled inspector take a look at the system and diagnose any concerns, even though the County does not require an examination on an underused system before transferring ownership.

Roots growing in and around the septic tank:

In addition to disrupting the system by clogging or destroying drainage and distribution lines, tree roots can also enter the tank, causing it to leak. Foul odors, poor drainage, and patches of vegetation in the leach field are just a few of the signs that you may have a root problem.

ERODED BAFFLES

Solids are kept in the septic tank and away from the disposal area with the use of concrete baffles. Using baffles to reduce agitation of wastewater entering the septic tank and prevent particles from escaping the tank and entering the drainfield, baffles can assist avoid drainfield damage and extend the life of the drainfield. If the baffles are broken, missing, or have never been placed, the drainfield’s life expectancy will be reduced significantly. Baffle repair normally entails the placement of a plastic tee at the end of the sewer pipes to prevent them from clogging.

orangeburg sewer pipes

Solids are kept in the septic tank and away from the disposal area with the use of concrete baffles. Using baffles to reduce agitation of wastewater entering the septic tank and prevent sediments from escaping the tank and entering the drainfield, baffles can assist avoid drainfield damage. Drainfield life will be reduced if the baffles are broken or missing, or if they are not fitted at all. The insertion of a plastic tee at the end of the sewage pipes is a common part of baffle repair.

FAQs — JT’s SEPTIC

Make sure to contact JT’s Septic as soon as possible! It is possible for us to assist you in diagnosing the problem and determining if it is a plumbing issue or a problem directly connected to your septic system. Wastewater backing up into more than one household fixture (even during dry weather), pooling water or muddy soil around your septic system or in your basement are all signs that your system needs to be checked. If you notice any of the following, contact us to have it checked: a strong odor around the septic tank and/or drainfield

Should I Use Septic Tank Additives?

If you have any questions, please contact JT’s Septic right away! It is possible for us to assist you in diagnosing the problem and determining if it is a plumbing issue or a problem that is directly connected to your septic system. In the event that you notice any of the following, please contact us to have your system checked: wastewater backing up into more than one household fixture; bright green, spongy grass on the drainfield (even during dry weather); pooling water or muddy soil around your septic system or in your basement; or, a strong smell near the septic tank and/or drainfield.

what are the PVC pipes sticking up in my yard?

Septic tank cleanouts are often located between the home and the septic tank, and they are used to snake the input line from the house to the tank. If the PVC markers are labeled with “JT’s Septic,” they indicate that they are marking the access lids to your septic tank (buried directly under the labels). Alternatively, if the pipes are further away and appear to be arbitrarily arranged in relation to the house or tank, it is possible that they are inspection ports used to check the amount of liquid in the disposal area.

will household cleaning products harm my system?

Septic tank cleanouts are often located between the home and the septic tank, and they are used to snake the input line from the house toward the tank. They identify the access lids to your septic tank if the PVC markers have the label “JT’s Septic” on them (buried directly under the labels). Depending on how far the pipes are from the home or tank and how they appear to be randomly positioned, they might be inspection ports for monitoring the liquid level in the disposal area. Visit ourCOMPONENTSpage for additional information on the various septic tank components.

How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

Most tanks require pumping every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank, the amount of wastewater that flows into the tank on a daily basis, and whether or not the tank is equipped with a trash disposal. The state of Arizona currently does not have any laws requiring maintenance and inspection (with the exception of those pertaining to the sale of a home), but the Environmental Protection Agency and local health departments strongly recommend routine maintenance to help prevent groundwater contamination due to nitrogen, phosphorus, and disease-causing bacteria that can be found in wastewater.

I just had my tank pumped and it already looks full!?!

There is a distinction between being full and being overfull! An empty septic tank will fill up as quickly as you use up the quantity of gallons it can contain in terms of water use. The tank is designed to maintain a liquid level at or near the bottom of the outflow pipe at all times. (that exits into the disposal area). When you look down into your tank, it should appear to be completely filled. It is necessary to hire an expert to assess the quantity of scum and sludge in your tank in order to decide when it is time to pump it out.

Does anyone have to be home to have jt’s pump my septic tank?

We usually advise people to have someone at their house for our service, but it is not mandatory. Our service technicians are quick and fast when it comes to finding and pumping out a problem. We enjoy having a homeowner and/or a Realtor on site for our inspections so that they may discuss any concerns that we may discover. If we happen to miss you during our service, we are more than pleased to accept a credit card payment over the phone.

Does JT’s Septic do leach line work?

Having someone present for our service is usually recommended; however, it’s not mandatory. Locating and pumping are carried out by our service pros in a timely manner.

We enjoy having a homeowner and/or a real estate agent present during our inspections to discuss any concerns that we may uncover. During our service, if we are unable to locate you, we will gladly accept your credit card payment over the telephone.

Why can’t you pump my septic tank out of the sewer cleanouts?

We have found that a tank cannot be efficiently pumped through sewage cleanouts because the pumps on our trucks are just too powerful, and there is no way to get all of the scum and debris out of the tank through a cleanout. It is advised that the tank access lids be used in order to remove all liquid and particles from the tank and to examine the baffles. To empty the tank completely, we unlock all compartments and use a pump to remove the full contents of it. The fact that you do not pump via the primary access holes in the tank itself is a disservice to yourself and your system.

how do you know the size of my tank?

Our experts and inspectors can identify the size of the tank based on the form of the tank; tanks for a normal residence are generally 1,000 or 1,250 gallons in capacity, respectively (tanks may be smaller or larger depending on bedroom count, style of tank, etc). Our trucks are outfitted with clear sight glasses, allowing our specialists to keep track of the number of gallons they are extracting from your tank. Our specialists are also trained to measure the tank measurements on the job site in order to establish the approximate gallon capacity.

why do you recommend routine maintenance and frequent pump outs when I’ve not a had a problem in the last 10 years and I’ve never had my tank pumped?

Even while many homeowners are able to go several years over the suggested maintenance time without experiencing any problems, harm is gradually being done. Solids that are insoluble in water and cannot be broken down by natural microbes are stored in the tank. This builds up over time until the tank no longer has enough space to hold everything. As a result, the solids make their way to the drain field where they fill up the pores in the earth, causing poor drainage and, eventually, the failure of the septic system and drainfield.

How long will my septic system last?

All septic systems have a defined life span, which means they will ultimately cease to function. The length of time a system will survive is determined by the system’s size, installation, soil composition, the water table, neighboring trees and roots, the amount of usage and abuse, and, most crucially, the frequency with which it is maintained and pumped.

if I have a garbage disposal Can i use it?

Yes! It is OK to use the garbage disposal for a limited amount of time, such as for food crumbs that remain after doing the dishes. Pump outs will be more frequent if the disposal is used more frequently, which will result in higher costs. The usage of a trash disposal can have a negative impact on your septic system by increasing the quantity of suspended particles that enter the system. Soil treatment areas can get clogged with suspended particles, which reduces the soil’s ability to remove waste.

CAN I FLUSH WET WIPESFEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS?

Yes! It is OK to use the garbage disposal for a limited amount of time, such as to dispose of food crumbs after cleaning the dishes. More frequent pump outs, on the other hand, will result from increased utilization of the disposal.

By increasing the quantity of suspended particles entering your septic system, the usage of a trash disposal can have a negative impact on your sewage system. When suspended particles reach the soil treatment area, they block soil pores, diminishing the soil’s ability to process waste products.

how often can i do laundry?

It is critical not to overburden your computer system. Instead of completing a large number of loads in a single day, try to spread them out over the course of a week. Doing no more than two loads of laundry every day – one in the morning and one in the evening – is advised.

Can I have a water softener system with a septic system?

It is unlikely that a water softener will cause damage to most septic systems, albeit they may necessitate the installation of a somewhat bigger tank disposal area.

Can We Drive Over Our Leach Field?

Neither driving on the leach field nor on the entrance and exit sewer pipes, nor on the septic tank, is suggested by the manufacturer. It is possible to restrict or slow down efficient evaporation by compacting the soil over the leach lines. Evaporation is a critical component of the drainage and disposal process. It is possible to induce settling and even rupture of sewage pipes by driving over them. It is possible to produce cracks in a tank by driving over it, especially if it is made of fiberglass or plastic.

do i have a septic systeM?

Do you utilize well water in your home? Is there no meter on the water main that leads into your home? Do your water bill or property tax bill display a “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged” or “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged”? What about your next-door neighbors? Do they have a septic system? Your home may have a septic system if any of the following questions were answered affirmatively:

How do I find my septic system?

Once you’ve confirmed that you have a septic system, you may identify it by looking at your home’s “as built” drawing, inspecting your yard for lids and manhole covers, or calling us for assistance.

How Far Does The Tank Have To Be Away From The House?

The normal setback distance from the home is 10 feet. Yavapai County is committed to upholding this obligation. Keep these setbacks as they are to allow for easier access and to avoid any potential foundation and moisture concerns.

An alarm is going off in my tank- what do I do?!

The sirens on certain alternative systems alert the homeowner to a possible problem prior to effluent or waste backing up into the house. The alarm may sound to warn a problem with the electrical system or a high quantity of liquid in the tank. A pump or float may be malfunctioning, in which case it is recommended to contact either JT’s or your alternate system maintenance provider for assistance as soon as possible.

Can I Plant A Tree Over My Leach Field?

Some alternative systems are fitted with alarms that alert the homeowner to a possible problem before effluent or waste backs up into the property. There might be an electrical problem or a high liquid level in the tank, which would cause the alarm to be activated. A pump or float may be malfunctioning, in which case you should contact either JT’s or your alternate system maintenance provider immediately.

does jt’s provide portable storage tanks?

The sirens on some alternative systems alert the homeowner to a possible problem before effluent or waste backs up into the house. The alarm may sound if there is an electrical problem or if there is a high volume of liquid in the tank. It is advised to contact either JT’s or your alternative system maintenance provider if the alert indicates an issue with a pump or a float.

can jt’s facilitate a pipeline repair?

Yes!

We are capable of repairing and replacing sewer inlet and outlet pipes. Our main line sewer camera service may also be used to plan infrastructure maintenance, as well as to aid with any and all forms of repair work. Please contact us if you would like to book a service.

why do you suggest running a sewer camera down my line?

A difficult blockage may necessitate the services of more than one plumber. Pipe obstructions can be caused by a variety of factors, including tree roots, grease, aging pipes, and foreign items. Our power snakes and Ridgid sewer cameras are excellent tools for identifying problems such as the following: Pipes that are broken, cracked, corroded, or collapsed are considered damaged and must be repaired or replaced. A clog is caused by a deposit of grease or a foreign item that prevents the passage of water.

Joints that are leaking—the seals between pipes have failed, enabling liquid to leak through.

Septic Tank Clean-Out 101

Septic tanks of various shapes and sizes are pumped out by John Kline Septic Services. From residential to commercial to municipal work, there is something for everyone. Maintaining your septic tank is essential, whether you’re in need of a clean-out or you simply want to understand more about the procedure. To learn more, continue reading or contact us now to arrange service. We provide same-day service for emergencies, and our technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Always In order to ensure that your septic tank gets cleaned out through the largest available opening, Your septic tank or system may have more than one entry point, depending on the type of tank or system you have installed.

This is normally covered with a cement lid or manhole cover that is 18-24 inches in diameter and is often raised to grade with an extension.

It also makes it difficult to completely clean out the tank, therefore it’s critical to ensure that your tank is well cleaned from the primary entry.

In spite of the fact that we recommend that you have your tank pumped out every two to three years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people living in your home, you may be able to extend the period between clean-outs without suffering any difficulties.

When it comes to septic tank cleaning, we recommend that you never go more than FIVE years between cleanings to ensure everything is operating correctly and that your tank is filtering out waste in the appropriate manner.

Ensure that your septic tank is easily accessible before scheduling your septic clean-out.

Make a notation on your manhole cover or access port if it is hidden by your landscaping so that your technician can easily locate the cleanout when he or she arrives on site.

Simply inquire or contact us in advance to inquire about the possibility of installing a riser at the time of your septic pumping.

Are you prepared to get your septic tank cleaned? We provide business and residential septic pumping services in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and the adjacent areas, including York, Lebanon, Berks, Chester, and Dauphin counties, as well as the surrounding areas. Make a call right now at 717-898-2333.