tips & Definitions

 What is a Main Clean Out?

A Main Clean-Out is the main Access to the home's main sewer drain system. This pipe fitting is part of the drain system located usually outside the foundation wall of the home. A main clean-out usually consist of a 4-inch diameter PVC fitting attached on the drain line that is vertically to the surface of the ground and includes a threaded cap that may be removed for: 

1. Inspection of the line. 

2. Clearing obstructions in the line.

3. Allow for the temporary relief of the drain system due to overflow conditions or a clogged line. 

What is a Kitchen Clean Out? 

A Kitchen Clean-Out is the Access to the kitchen drain system. This pipe fitting is part of the kitchen drain system located usually under the kitchen sink bellow the P-trap or outside the kitchen wall of the home. A kitchen clean-out usually consist of a 2-inch diameter PVC fitting attached on the drain line and includes a threaded cap that may be removed for: 

1. Clearing obstructions in the line. 

If your line does not have a clean-out access, or you are unsure as to whether you have a clean-out, please contact a licensed plumber to assist you in the proper installation in accordance with The Texas Plumbing Code. If you know where your clean-out is, please keep it visible and unobstructed. You may need access to it when you least expect it.

 TIPS:

What to do if experiencing a Main Line Stoppage?

1. Temporarily remove the cap on the clean-out fitting to relieve the pressure, and prevent sewage from backing up the line into your home. This temporary solution may prevent extensive damage to the home.

How can I prevent clogged drains? 

Tips for the kitchen sink

1. Pour grease into cans and throw them in the garbage. If you empty grease into the sink, the grease collects along the sides of the pipe and then food particles stick to the pipes, eventually contributing to a clog. Also too much grease can eventually cause sewer blockages since the bacteria in sewage systems cannot readily break down grease. 

2. When you are grinding up food in a disposal, run plenty of cold water to flush food particles down the pipe. Using too little water can contribute to the particles collecting along the sides of the pipe. 

3. Don't empty coffee grounds in the sink. 

4. Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain once a week to melt away any fat or grease that may have collected. 

5. If your drains clog often, periodically you may want to put 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of white vinegar down the drain. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes with the drain covered. Flush the mixture down with a kettle of boiling water. The baking soda and vinegar mixture should break down fats and keep your drains smelling fresh.

Tips for the bathroom

1. Clean the pop-up stoppers in sinks frequently. Hair often collects here and causes clogs. 

2. Never flush heavy paper products down the drain. Excess paper can clog the toilet and/or the whole sewer system. 

General Tips

1. Never dump chemicals like paint thinner down the drain. Avoid pouring hot wax or other substances in the drains. Dumping acid into your septic system is against the law. 

2. Beware of products that claim to maintain a septic system or unclog greasy soil by enzymatically attacking grease. The general consensus is that these products are ineffective and may even be harmful. Some products may use chemicals that kill the bacteria needed to break up solid wastes. 

3. If you have your own home septic tank, have a professional inspect it every two to three years. Some regions require septic tank inspection on a regular basis. Check with your local health board about the rules in your community. 

Source: Lowe's Home Safety Council founded by Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse.