Menu

Call This Sunday to Get $50 OFF

Why Do I Have a Clogged Sewer Line?
Why Do I Have a Clogged Sewer Line?
4.8 RATING

Why Do I Have a Clogged Sewer Line?

If you've ever dealt with backed-up plumbing fixtures or a slow-draining sink, then you know how messy a clogged sewer line can be.

July 12, 2026
Why Do I Have a Clogged Sewer Line?

If you’ve ever dealt with backed-up plumbing fixtures or a slow-draining sink, then you know how messy a clogged sewer line can be. A clogged sewer line can be a nightmare if not addressed in a timely manner.

Common Causes of a Clogged Sewer Line and How to Prevent It

  • Flushing Inappropriate Items

This is perhaps the most common culprit behind a clogged sewer line. Non-flushable items such as baby wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and condoms do not break down like tissue paper does. When you flush these items down the toilet, they can get caught in the pipes, accumulate over time, and create blockages. To avoid these issues, it's best to dispose of non-flushable items properly in the trash.

  • Pipe Damage

A broken or damaged sewer line may cause a blockage and impede proper wastewater flow. A sewer line can sustain damage from construction work, extreme temperature fluctuations, soil settlement, and more. It’s advisable to inspect your sewer lines regularly to ensure they are in good condition. If you have construction work planned on your property, communicate the location of your underground pipes and plumbing systems to the contractors. Make sure they are aware of the potential risks associated with digging or excavation near those areas.

  • Tree Roots

Tree roots naturally grow toward sources of water in the soil. If you have trees near your sewer lines, the roots may infiltrate the pipes through tiny cracks or loose joints, causing a sewer line clog. Older sewer lines are more susceptible to tree root damage. To minimize the risk of tree root intrusion, it’s advisable to keep trees at least 10 feet away from your sewer lines. Also, when planting trees on your property, consider their potential growth and root spread.

  • Fats, Oil, and Grease

Fats, oil, and grease in liquid form may appear harmless since it flows easily down the drain. However, as the liquid cools, it congeals and hardens, thereby causing sewer line clogs. The ideal way to dispose of fats, oil and grease is to pour the liquid into a heat-resistant container and let it cool down and solidify. Thereafter, throw it in the trash bin.

Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line

  • Multiple fixtures are draining slowly
  • Bubbling or gurgling noise from the toilets and bathtubs
  • Pools of water in your lawn when it hasn’t rained or snowed recently
  • Backed-up plumbing fixtures
  • Offensive odors coming from your drains

Our Customers Reviews

Chahib Chakrome

Summit, NJ

The service provided was great, nothing to say about the work of the plumber. 5 stars to him. But the company charges felt way too much for the work. We would have liked to have the same plumber take care of other things in the house, but every time he check how much extra the company will charge for the job, the price just got too much. The plumber did an amazing job he selected a beautiful faucet to replace our old one. He did his best. But the company prices have no room for negotiation.

Tiffany DeSande

Plainfield, NJ

A million stars!!!! Steve and Lucas were absolutely amazing. My parents pipes burst and within 4 hours of calling they came and fixed everything!!! Very nice guys and dealt with my panicking. I will always use them if needed in the future and you all should too!!! Thank god for people like this!!! Thank you so much guys!!!

Naomi Langer-Seltzer

New Brunswick, NJ

We got very quick service, I think the plumber actually arrived in less than an hour! After reviewing what was happening, he gave us our options and performed the option we selected. This happened in the late afternoon or early evening. It was already dark and there was a lot of snow on the ground.

Steve Smith

Mountainside, NJ

I needed immediate, same day service in the early evening at my home. I went to the internet and looked up plumbing services that offered "24-hour, 7-day a week" availability. The first 3 places I called said that they could not get to me until the following day. Then I called Mr. Rooter. They were courteous and promptly got a technician to my house within an hour and a half. The technician, Lucas Kaufmann, was exceptional. The job was not easy, but he figured the problem out and got me all fixed up within an hour's time. Moving forward, I…

Stephanie Brown

Cranford, NJ

Despite what was quite obviously a busy day (day after Thanksgiving at 10pm) TJ came out and did not leave until the job was done! There were several setbacks, which at the late hour might have prompted him to leave- but he chose to stay and continue until the job was complete! I only have one bathroom so I was really hoping he could make it work, and he really did a wonderful job! So thankful for all of his help! I highly recommend TJ!

Shaheen Dhanani

Union, NJ

This is my second time using Mr. Rooter and I have to say they are an excellent company of experienced professionals! The service techs were courteous, experienced and actually spent time trying to figure out the issue before proposing the solution. They were also patient and answered all my questions without rushing the work. I will be using them again.

Christie Murphy

Montgomery, NJ

TJ was amazing! 10/10 recommend this company. We were in an emergency state of panic with a burst pipe in the middle of a bad snowstorm. TJ came with knowledge, professionalism, kindness, and found the root of the problem within five minutes of being here. We will be using him again in the spring to fix an outdoor issue he found!

Alan Abraham

Clark, NJ

The technicians were friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The price was too high I believe, but the technicians had no control over that. The technicians took their time and did a great job. I would use them again and also recommend them.

Amy Swart

Berkeley Heights, NJ

Excellent service! Charles and Nicholas of Mr. Rooter arrived to my scheduled service a few minutes early, wore sanitary shoe coverings, and were extremely professional. They found the source of my leak quickly and fixed the issue. While they here, I requested an additional hydraulic heating inspection which they accommodated. They were very knowledgeable and provided helpful tips. I highly recommend this team and I will definitely call them for all future plumbing needs!!

JACKY Coppola

Wall Township, NJ

TJ came to my aid as the water pipe froze in my house. Although nothing could be done he gave me hints of what could be done my me which was very helpful. I found TJ very professional and caring about my situation. The best part of the very long night was the dogs adored him one wanted to accompany him to his next job. Thank you for employing such an amazing man. Plus today there is water running in the house. Thank you TJ and thank you Mr. Rooney plumbing for employing a man with helpful hints!!!!!

In this article, we will walk you through the main causes of a clogged sewer line and what you can do to keep your sewer line clear. We will also highlight the symptoms of a clogged sewer line to help you take prompt action.

Trust the Team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Drain Cleaning and Sewer Line Repair

If you’ve noticed signs of a clogged sewer line and are looking for an experienced plumber to help you with drain cleaning or sewer line repair, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We are a reputable plumbing service that you can trust to perform an accurate diagnosis of the problem and provide you with a reliable solution.

Latest Updates & Blog Posts

How Trenchless Technology Minimizes Damage to Lawns and Gardens
Jun 25, 2026

How Trenchless Technology Minimizes Damage to Lawns and Gardens

Sewer problems can be stressful for any homeowner. In the past, repairing or replacing a damaged sewer line often meant digging long trenches across the yard. This process could tear up lawns, disturb gardens, damage landscaping, and leave homeowners with a major cleanup project after the plumbing work is finished. Today, trenchless technology offers a cleaner and less invasive solution.

Read More
Why More Homeowners Are Investing in Whole-House Water Filtration
Jun 20, 2026

Why More Homeowners Are Investing in Whole-House Water Filtration

Clean water is something every homeowner depends on daily. From drinking and cooking to bathing, laundry, and cleaning, water affects almost every part of household life. While many people think about water quality only when there is an obvious taste, odor, or color issue, more homeowners are now taking a proactive approach by investing in whole-house water filtration.

Read More
How Better Water Quality Extends Appliance Life
Jun 12, 2026

How Better Water Quality Extends Appliance Life

Water runs through many of the most important appliances in a home. Dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters, refrigerators, ice makers, coffee makers, and garbage disposals all depend on steady, clean water to work properly. When water quality is poor, these appliances can wear out faster, work harder, and require more frequent repairs. Improving water quality is one of the simplest ways homeowners can protect their plumbing system and extend the life of household appliances.

Read More
Your Garbage Disposal May Be Warning You About Bigger Problems
Jun 04, 2026

Your Garbage Disposal May Be Warning You About Bigger Problems

A garbage disposal is one of those kitchen features people rely on without thinking much about it. It helps manage food scraps, keeps the sink cleaner, and makes kitchen cleanup more convenient. But when a disposal starts making strange noises, draining slowly, smelling bad, or shutting off unexpectedly, it may be doing more than acting up. It may be warning you about a bigger plumbing issue.

Read More
How Corrosion Leads to Pipe Failure Over Time
May 31, 2026

How Corrosion Leads to Pipe Failure Over Time

Pipes are designed to last for years, but they are not immune to wear. One of the most common reasons plumbing systems break down is corrosion. Corrosion happens slowly, often out of sight, and by the time homeowners notice a problem, the damage may already be serious. For this reason, understanding how corrosion develops can help property owners know when to call a professional plumber for inspection, plumbing repair service, or broken pipe replacement.

Read More
Slab Leak Repair vs Pipe Rerouting
May 22, 2026

Slab Leak Repair vs Pipe Rerouting

Slab leaks are one of the most serious plumbing problems homeowners can face. Because the pipes are located beneath the concrete foundation of the home, leaks can go unnoticed for weeks or even months before obvious signs appear. Once discovered, homeowners are often faced with an important decision: should the damaged pipe be repaired directly, or is pipe rerouting the better long-term solution?

Read More
The Mystery of the Slow Drain: When Is It a Simple Hair Clog vs. a Tree Root Invasion?
Jul 09, 2026

The Mystery of the Slow Drain: When Is It a Simple Hair Clog vs. a Tree Root Invasion?

A slow-moving drain may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can signal anything from a small buildup near the drain opening to a serious obstruction deep inside the sewer line. The challenge is determining whether the problem can be solved with basic drain cleaning in Jackson, NJ or requires help from a professional plumber.

Read More
How Expert Water Heater Installation Improves Efficiency and Performance
Jul 03, 2026

How Expert Water Heater Installation Improves Efficiency and Performance

A water heater is one of the most important appliances in any home. From morning showers to laundry, dishwashing, and cleaning, your household depends on hot water every day. When a water heater is installed correctly, it can provide steady comfort, better energy efficiency, and reliable performance for years. When it is installed poorly, however, homeowners may deal with high utility bills, inconsistent temperatures, leaks, safety concerns, and early system failure.

Read More