A clogged sewer line affects all the toilets and drains in your home. It is a much more difficult problem to fix than just clearing a clog in a drain.

In this article we’ll go over what you need to know about clogged sewer lines and what works to get them cleared out.

How Do You Unclog A Sewer Line?

The answer to this question depends entirely on the specific problem that is causing the clog.

  • If the clog is due to tree or plant roots in the line – then there’s not much that the average homeowner can do except to call in their plumber.
  • But if the clog is due to an object wedged in the pipe then you may be able to flush it out. But know that it requires an auger cable (or plumbing snake – a really, really long one).
  • It may also be that the clog in the sewer pipe could be a backup in the city main line instead of in your own sewer line. The signs would be exactly the same so the best way to know is to contact a few of your neighbors and ask if they are having the same problem. If they are – you can then check with your city to get some information on the problem.

Below is a list of the local water and sewer departments in the areas that Atlantis Plumbing services.

Bartow County – 770-387-5170

Cherokee County – 770-479-1813

Cobb County – 770-419-6201

Douglas County – 770-949-7617

Fulton County North – 404-612-3061

Fulton County South – 404-612-3163

Gwinnett County – 678-376-6800

Paulding County – 770-222-6868

How Do You Unclog A Sewer Line Without A Snake (aka Auger Cable)?

The first thing you must do is to stop running water and stop flushing the toilet. Adding water to the problem will not help the situation. If you want to take it an extra step you can turn off the main water supply to your house.

One way to clear out sewer line clogs is to us a Hydro Jet Cleaning service. The process is extremely efficient, cost effective and environmentally safe. It’s simply a superior method of cleaning out your pipes, downspouts and sewer lines.

For more information on hydro jet cleaning, give us a call at 770-505-8570.

Will Drano Unclog A Sewer Line?

We recommend that you avoid using a chemical drain cleaners like Drano or Liquid-Plumbr. They tend to be harsh and abrasive on your drain pipes and can end up causing more damage – especially if you have older pipes.

Can Toilet paper Clog A Sewer Line?

When it comes to toilet paper – you don’t want to flush TOO much down the toilet because that can cause a clog in your sewer line.

You also want to practice what is known as Proper Flushing.

Proper Flushing means to flush the toilet periodically while in use. In other words – don’t wait until you are finished and have put several wads of toilet paper in the bowl before you flush.

Which Toilet Paper Breaks Down Best?

In general, you want to avoid toilet paper that is cushiony or markets itself as having “extra plush”. Also, the 1 ply paper will dissolve quicker than it’s counterparts so we do recommend that type of toilet paper.


If you have any questions about clogged sewer line problems, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-505-8570. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.