How To Find the Main Sewer Line in Your House


Plumber inspecting outdoor sewer line Understanding the layout of your home’s plumbing system is more than just a matter of curiosity — it’s essential for maintaining the health and safety of your living environment.

One critical aspect of this system is the main sewer line, the primary conduit through which all your household wastewater travels to the municipal sewer or your septic tank.

Whether you have a plumbing emergency, are planning renovations, or want to be more informed, knowing the location of your main sewer line can save you time, money, and potential headaches.

Locating the Main Sewer Line in Your Home

The main sewer line cleanout is your direct access to your home’s sewer line, allowing for maintenance and unclogging without the need to dig up your yard. Typically, this cleanout is indoors, often in garages or crawl spaces.

You’re looking for a four-inch diameter pipe, usually capped with a screw-on lid with a notch or square knob. However, not all homes have their cleanout points indoors; some may be outside, and a few might not have an accessible cleanout at all.

How To Locate the Main Sewer Line in Your Yard

If an indoor search doesn’t reveal the main sewer line cleanout, your yard is the next place to check. Outdoor cleanouts are commonly at the foundation’s perimeter or near the property line closest to the street. These are often easily visible but can be obscured by landscaping or other objects.

Look for a pipe sticking a few inches out of the ground. If you have a bathroom on the main floor, start your search on that side of the house, as the sewer line usually runs directly from there to the municipal connection.

If you still can’t find your main sewer line, you can try to contact the previous owner of your home, if possible. They may know where it is. You can also call your city’s maintenance department or visit your local city or town hall.

Cities and towns often have maps of the municipal sewer system that can show you where your sewer line is. Of course, you can also call Beyond Wow. Our expert plumbers will locate your sewer line in no time and answer all your questions about it.

How To Tell if the Plumbing Issue Is in the Main Sewer Line

Recognizing signs of a main sewer line problem early can prevent more serious issues. Here are several signs that your main sewer line may be compromised:

  • Slow draining across multiple fixtures, not just one sink or tub
  • Ineffective results from standard unclogging methods
  • Plumbing backups in sinks, showers, and toilets, particularly if they occur simultaneously
  • Water backup or overflow when using your washing machine
  • Unusual noises like gurgling or bubbling from drains or toilets

Schedule Drain & Sewer Services With Beyond Wow

When facing uncertainties or issues with your main sewer line, it’s best to consult a plumbing professional. Beyond Wow, a trusted family-owned business serving the Austin area since 1980, offers a comprehensive range of drain and sewer services.

Our plumbers undergo weekly training to ensure they have the latest knowledge and techniques to address your plumbing needs efficiently. We offer upfront pricing, no overtime charges, and same-day services to address your issues as quickly as possible.

For issues locating your main sewer line or any other plumbing concerns, call Beyond Wow at 512-365-8866 to schedule a plumbing service in Austin.

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