How to Clean a Sewer Line on Top of the House

In order for your home's sewer system to move waste, it needs to have some air in the pipes. The sewer roof vent brings air from the outside and into the system. When the vent becomes clogged with leaves or other debris, it causes the system to work less effectively. If you feel comfortable with heights, you can clean the sewer line on top of the house in a short time. The job becomes a little easier if you recruit a helper.

Extension ladder
Plumber's snake
Garden hose
Rope, about 15 feet

Instructions

- 1
  Tie the plumber's snake and the end of the garden hose together with the rope. Climb up the ladder holding one end of the rope. When your footing is secure on the roof, pull the tools up to your level. Untie the rope and locate the roof vent.
- 2
  Clear away any easy-to-reach debris from the vent opening. Look for old bird's nests, spider webs and leaves that you can scoop out.
- 3
  Put the nozzle of the garden hose into the vent opening. Signal your helper to turn the water on. Send a forceful jet of water down into the vent system. Allow the water to run down the vent for one or two minutes. Set the hose aside.
- 4
  Lower the plumber's snake down into the roof vent. Clear any clogs or debris from the vent and then pull the snake back. Send another stream of water to flush any loosened debris down into the sewer pipes
- 5
  Toss the tools down to the ground before carefully descending the ladder. Never climb up and down a ladder with your arms full of heavy or awkward objects.

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