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Trenchless Sewer Pipe Installation

A busted sewer line can create a mess and a big odor. While most residential sewer lines are buried underground and tie into a central sewer system, some sewer lines in more rural areas are above ground and sometimes connect to individual home septic pump systems. Above-ground sewer line installation follows the same basic rules of in-ground systems. It will take several hours to a day to install a new line, depending on how great the distance is between the main outflow pipe near the residence to the septic pump system.

Things You'll Need

  • Curb key
  • Pipe wrench
  • Tape measure
  • Wrench
  • PVC pipe
  • PVC glue
  • PVC connector (couplings)
  • PVC saw
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Instructions

    • 1

      Shut off the power to the sewage pump and use a curb key to shut off the water to the residence. A curb key is a hand-held metal tool with a slotted end that is used to turn water systems on and off at the main.

    • 2

      Use a pipe wrench to remove the sewer line that runs from the main sewage trap to the septic pump. The main sewage trap is typically located near the home, usually near a room where the washing machine is located. If you are not sure where the main sewage trap is located, trace the line backwards from the septic pump back to the home.

    • 3

      Use a tape measure to measure the distance between the main sewage trap to the septic system. This will tell you how much PVC pipe you will need. Also, keep in mind that there should be a slight downward slope from the main trap to the septic system. You can do this, if necessary, by adjusting the leg height on the septic tank stand with a wrench

    • 4

      Use a rag to wipe off both connection ends of the pipe, at the septic system and at the main trap. Lay the pipe to be installed between the two. If necessary, cut the PVC pipe using the PVC saw to the appropriate length.

    • 5

      Apply PVC glue to both ends of the PVC pipe and install the couplings.

    • 6

      Fit the sewer line ends at the main sewage trap and at the septic pump by hand or with the pipe wrench if needed.

    • 7

      Turn the septic pump back on and use the curb key to restore water to the residence.