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How Does Rodding a Sewer Line Work?

Sewer rodding is a technique that plumbers use to remove sewer blockages. A camera scope is used to work through underground plumbing to find the blockage and assess how bad it is. Plumbers will be able to determine how much of the pipe is blocked, and depending on the circumstance, possibly even what is causing the clog. If roots are growing inside the pipe, it may need to be replaced instead of rodded out to address the break that has allowed roots inside. A pipe break can allow hungry roots looking for water and nutrients to find their way inside, compromising the integrity of your pipes.

However, if the camera inspection finds a normal blockage, rodding can be used to treat it. With sewer rodding metal rods of various sizes are attached together by a licensed plumber to reach the blocked area. The blockage is then broken up to allow water to move freely again through the sewer pipe. This is a common technique used to break up clogs caused by natural sediment, hair, grease, scale, or anything else that may find its way into your pipes.

In some instances, rodding cannot be used because of the location of the clog or the specifics of the pipes, including:

  • Pipe diameter
  • Pipe angles or bends
  • Age/condition of the pipes

Sewer line jetting achieves the same effect as rodding by using a high-pressure jet of water instead of fixed metal rods. While the concept is like using a pressure washer that you may have for your home exterior, the water jet is much stronger. Therefore, it can only be safely operated by a trained professional with experience using the specialized hydro jetting equipment.

The plumbing company you hire will be able to advise on which method is best for clearing out your specific sewer pipes after looking at your home plumbing.

Additional resources:
How do Roots Get into Sewer Lines?
Sewer Rodding for Beginners
Hydro Jetting Explained
Deciding between Roto Rooting and Hydro Jetting
When Can Roots Grow in your Pipes?
Does your Toilet need to be Removed for Sewer Rodding?
How to Find a Sewer Rodding Company
How Much do Tree Roots in Pipes Cost?
Do you Need Sewer Line Jetting?
Sewer Line Jetting Companies Nearby
Choosing between Sewer Jetting and Sewer Rodding
Sewer Line Plumbing Repair Near Me
Sewer Line Root Removal Costs