Houston Drain Cleaning, Sewer Cleaning, and Rooter Services by Abacus Plumbing

Abacus Plumbing offers Professional Drain & Sewer Cleaning (Clearing), repairs and installation in both Houston and Austin, TX by background checked and licensed technicians from a company that is both licensed and insured. 

Abacus Plumbing offers emergency, 24/7 drain cleaning service for customers in the greater Houston metroplex. See a list of Abacus service areas »

Getting a second opinion on a major drain repair is critical

Watch this story featured on the Home Show Radio program featuring Tom Tynan and Abacus Drain Expert, Bob

Common Causes of Main Line Drain Failures

  • Tree Root Infiltration: Roots seek moisture and can break into the pipe through joints or cracks.
  • Grease and Debris Buildup: Over time, fats, oils, hair, wipes, and debris can clog the line.
  • Pipe Collapse or Aging Infrastructure: Old pipes (especially clay or cast iron) may corrode, collapse, or shift.
  • Foreign Objects: Flushed non-flushables (wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products) cause blockages.
  • Poor Pipe Slope or Installation: Improper grading can lead to poor flow and eventual blockages.
Drain Clearing & Clogged Drain Repair

Symptoms of a Backed-Up Main Line Drain

  • Multiple Drain Backups: Toilets, showers, and sinks all clog at once.
  • Sewage Smell: Foul odors coming from drains or around the home.
  • Gurgling Sounds: Bubbling from toilets or drains.
  • Water Backflow: Water comes up in showers or tubs when toilets are flushed.
  • Slow Drains: System-wide drainage issues, not isolated to one fixture.

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About the Abacus 123 Drain Special for Drains with Exterior Cleanout Access:

Here’s how the 123 Drain Service Works:

  • Abacus Drain Techs will CLEAR (a.k.a. Clean) the Clogged Main Line Drain
  • Then we will Video-Inspect your main line with a high-tech camera (as needed)
  • Then we will provide a Written Report with a One-Hundred & Twenty-Three Day Clog-Free Guarantee

While all drains’ primary function is to funnel water from one place to another, not all drains are equal. Of course, where they are also has an impact on the type of materials being drained through them, which can create different types of clogging issues and concerns, and methods to treat them. 

A main line drain (also called a main sewer line) is the primary drainage pipe that carries wastewater from a home's sinks, toilets, showers, and appliances to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. When it becomes clogged or backed up, it can lead to serious plumbing issues, property damage, and health risks.


How Professional Plumbers Clean or Clear a Backed-Up Main Line Drain

  • Video Camera Inspection: Plumbers often begin with a camera inspection using a waterproof, high-definition sewer camera to assess the location and nature of the blockage. This helps identify root intrusions, collapsed pipes, or buildup without digging.
  • Augering (Snaking): A motorized drain auger, or plumbing snake, is used to physically break up or extract clogs - effective for removing solid obstructions like wipes, grease, or tree roots.
  • Hydro Jetting: Uses high-pressure water jets (up to 4,000 PSI) to blast away grease, scale, and debris. More thorough than snaking, especially for greasy or sludgy buildup.
  • Root Removal: If tree roots have infiltrated the pipe, special cutters or root-killing chemicals may be used. In some cases, pipe repair or replacement is required.
  • Pipe Replacement or Relining: If a line is collapsed or severely damaged, plumbers may dig up and replace the pipe or reline it using trenchless technologies like CIPP (Cured-in-Place Pipe).
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Considerations When Hiring a Plumber to Inspect a Main Line Drain

  • Licensing and Certification: Ensure the plumber is licensed, insured, and bonded. This protects you legally and guarantees a minimum level of expertise.
  • Experience and Specialization: Look for plumbers who specialize in sewer line diagnostics and repair. Ask if they offer camera inspections and modern solutions like hydro jetting or trenchless repair.
  • Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews, BBB ratings, and referrals. Look for transparent pricing and warranties.
  • Equipment and Technology: Professionals should have access to camera systems, jetting machines, and diagnostic tools.
  • Emergency Services: Main line backups can be emergencies. Choose a plumber offering 24/7 emergency service if needed.
  • Detailed Estimates: Request a written estimate with a breakdown of costs before work begins.

Why Hire a Professional, Licensed Plumber?

  • Proper Diagnosis: Professionals use video inspection tools to pinpoint the problem accurately.
  • Effective Solutions: Licensed plumbers have the training and equipment to clean or replace lines safely.
  • Code Compliance: Plumbing work must meet local building codes; licensed plumbers ensure compliance.
  • Safety: Dealing with sewage is hazardous. A licensed pro handles it hygienically and responsibly.
  • Long-Term Savings: DIY fixes may cause recurring problems. Professionals offer long-term solutions that prevent future backups.

Health and Property Risks of Ignoring a Backed-Up Main Line

  • Sewage Contamination: Backflow can introduce bacteria, viruses, and mold into your home.
  • Water Damage: Overflowing drains can damage flooring, drywall, and foundations.
  • Structural Damage: Prolonged leaks or flooding can weaken structural components.
  • Mold Growth: Moist conditions from standing water can lead to hazardous mold growth.
  • Increased Repair Costs: Waiting can turn a small blockage into a full pipe replacement.

Summary: Why Proactivity Matters

Hiring a professional plumber to inspect and maintain your main line drain ensures that small problems don’t become costly disasters. With the right expertise and tools, licensed plumbers can quickly diagnose and fix issues, protecting your home, health, and investment.

Call the Experts

Call the drain & sewer experts at Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrrical today at 713-766-3605 or request your drain appointment online »


References and Related Drain Cleaning Articles

Abacus Plumbing’s 123 Any Drain and Sewer Cleaning Services Available in Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Pearland, Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Katy, Cinco Ranch, Spring, Cy-Fair, The Heights, Memorial Park, Friendswood, Pasadena, Baytown, and all surrounding areas.

Servicing The Greater
HOUSTON Area Since 2003!

Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical serves most cities and zip codes in Houston (please call to confirm service in your area)

  • Atascocita
  • Baytown
  • Bellaire
  • Champion Forest
  • Channelview
  • Clear Lake
  • Conroe
  • Cypress
  • Deer Park
  • Dickinson
  • Fresno
  • Friendswood
  • Fulshear
  • Houston
  • Huffman
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