Hiring a Journeyman Plumber: Why Licensed Experience Matters

Journeyman Plumber in Portland, Or Installs Faucet

For decades, plumbing has carried a reputation of drooping drawers, beat-up vans, and sloppy service that ends when the check clears. But hiring a journeyman plumber means a red carpet experience instead!

At D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we’ve spent nearly 100 years rebuilding that stereotype. Our Plaid Pros complete a rigorous education spanning half a decade and thousands of hours in the field. That’s why our team is trusted for residential, commercial, and new construction plumbing projects in Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA.

Here’s what that commitment to education and integrity means when we show up at your door.

What Is a Licensed Plumber?

A licensed plumber is a professional who has met state requirements for training, testing, and ongoing education. Holding this license means the plumber can legally perform work on your home or business and is accountable to state codes and safety standards. 

It’s important to note the difference between an individual plumber and a licensed plumbing contractor. An individual license (often called journeyman) belongs to the plumber doing the hands-on work. A contractor’s license belongs to the company, allowing it to bid jobs, pull permits, and hire licensed plumbers. 

In Oregon and Washington, the plumber doing work in your home must personally hold that license. Some companies cut corners by sending unlicensed techs under the owner’s license, but that’s illegal.

When you hire D&F, you’re getting both: a licensed plumbing company staffed with licensed journeyman plumbers.

How Do I Know If a Plumber Is Licensed and Insured?

Hiring a plumber is a big decision, and the right questions up front can protect you from costly mistakes. Here’s a quick checklist you can use before letting anyone start work in your home or business:

  • Ask for the plumber’s state license number and verify it.
  • Check with the Oregon or Washington state licensing board to confirm it’s active (more on this below).
  • Request proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
  • Confirm the plumber or company is bonded in case something goes wrong.

Taking five minutes to check these details gives you reassurance that your plumber is qualified to work on your plumbing. If they dodge the question, that’s your cue to run faster than water out of a busted pipe. 

A legit plumber will be proud to show off their credentials (after all, they worked hard for them!).

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How to Check If a Plumbing Company Is Licensed

Making sure a company is properly licensed is simple once you know where to look. Both Oregon and Washington maintain online databases where you can enter a business name or license number.

It’s easier than Facebook-stalking your old high school classmates to see who aged well. And a quick search is all it takes to know your plumber is playing by the rules. If the search comes up empty or the license has expired, that’s a big red flag.  

What Is a Journeyman Plumber?

A journeyman plumber is a licensed professional who has completed years of training and passed the state exam to prove they know their stuff. Unlike an apprentice, who’s still learning under supervision, a journeyman can work independently and is trusted to handle everything from fixing leaks to installing entire plumbing systems. 

And unlike an unlicensed handyman, a journeyman plumber is accountable to state codes and industry standards, which means no cutting corners or leaving you with surprise problems down the road.

Think of it this way: apprentices are the students, journeymen are the graduates, and unlicensed workers? They’re the ones who never stepped foot in a classroom. 

When you hire a journeyman plumber, you’re hiring someone who’s put in the hours, proven their skills, and earned the right to work on your home or business with confidence.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Journeyman Plumbing License?

Becoming a journeyman plumber doesn’t happen overnight. In Oregon and Washington, it’s a commitment that rivals the time it takes to earn a college degree plus an internship.

Here’s what that journey looks like:

  • 5 years of apprenticeship training under licensed plumbers
  • 8,000 hours of supervised fieldwork
  • Classroom instruction covering codes, safety, and system design
  • Passing the state exam to prove it all stuck

By the time someone earns their journeyman license, they’ve already tackled problems most homeowners hope they’ll never see (and they’ve been trained to fix them the right way).

Training Beyond the Journeyman License

Training doesn’t stop once our plumbers get their journeyman license. Graduates must log continuing education hours every year to keep their license.

Our team also earns specialty certifications in safety, confined space work, trench shoring, and new product training.

Every tech stays current with safety codes, which is critical for how you live today and when it’s time to resell your property later.

Then there’s the part no textbook covers: how to treat people.

D&F’s in-house coaching covers punctuality, communication, professionalism, and respect for every customer. Translation? Pros who fix the issue and protect your space while doing it.

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Meet the Professional Plumbers Behind D&F’s Reputation

The best way to understand the value of journeyman training is to meet the people who’ve lived it. At D&F, our plumbers are known as the “Plaid Pros”  (a nod to our signature blue-plaid shirts that reflect the Pacific Northwest’s lumberjack grit, Portland’s hipster flair, and the outdoorsy spirit of our region). 

Behind every plaid shirt is a story of training and experience. For some, it’s decades of craftsmanship. For others, it’s the journey of learning the trade from the ground up.

One of our Plaid Pros, John H., has been a licensed plumber for 37 years, specializing in residential remodels and additions where precision is everything. He represents the seasoned expertise homeowners count on.

Scott L., meanwhile, is finishing his final year as an apprentice. He started at D&F right after high school in a support role; digging trenches, hauling supplies, and helping crews with the tough physical work that keeps jobs moving. 

He patiently waited 5 years until an apprenticeship spot opened. Today, he’s one of three apprentices training under licensed journeymen like John.

Their careers highlight how D&F invests in people. Employees gain lifelong skills, steady wages, and fantastic benefits. Homeowners gain something just as valuable: plumbing that lasts and service they can trust.

Interested in becoming one of the Plaid Pros? Check our Careers page for open positions!

Why Is It Important to Have Licensed Professionals Handle Plumbing Repairs?

Hiring licensed professionals for plumbing repairs matters because the risks of unlicensed work can threaten both your wallet and your health. Plumbing brings safe drinking water into your home and carries wastewater away. When repairs aren’t done correctly, you could face more than costly damage. 

Contaminated water, sewage backups, or mold growth can put your family’s health at risk and impact the wider community.

Licensed plumbers are trained to do the job right the first time, with accountability to state codes and ongoing education to stay current. They protect not only your home but also the health standards your entire neighborhood relies on. 

An unlicensed “fix” might look cheaper up front, but when the water damage or health hazards show up later, that bargain disappears faster than hot water in a teenager’s shower.

What Is the Difference Between Licensed and Unlicensed Plumbing Work?

Here’s how licensed plumbing work stacks up against unlicensed:

  • Legal compliance: Licensed plumbers must follow state codes and regulations.
  • Insurance coverage: Licensed professionals carry liability insurance and worker’s comp.
  • Warranty protection: Manufacturer and service warranties remain valid when licensed plumbers do the work.
  • Proper training and testing: Licensing requires years of apprenticeship, classroom hours, and passing state exams.
  • Accountability and recourse: If something goes wrong, licensed plumbers and companies can be held responsible. Unlicensed workers simply walk away.

With a licensed plumber, you’re not just paying for the repair. You’re paying for peace of mind.

How to Find a Licensed Plumber for Home Plumbing Repairs

If you’ve ever wondered who is the best plumber in Portland, OR, the answer depends on more than flashy ads or the lowest price tag. The key is knowing how to find a reliable plumber in the area. With so many options, it helps to have a simple process you can follow. 

Here are five steps to make sure you’re hiring someone who’s qualified, trustworthy, and worth letting through your front door:

  1. Verify license and insurance: Ask for their license number and proof of insurance.
  2. Read reviews: Check Google, Yelp, or Angi to see how past customers describe their experience. One or two bad reviews? Normal. A pattern of problems? Time to move on.
  3. Ask about warranties and guarantees: A good plumber will stand behind their work. We offer a workmanship guarantee on labor and parts. And by having licensed pros like us handle your install, you won’t risk voiding the manufacturer’s warranty on your new equipment.
  4. Compare estimates (but don’t default to the lowest): The cheapest option can end up costing the most once repairs fail. Look for value, not just price.
  5. Look for local experience: A plumber who knows Portland and Vancouver understands the local codes, water systems, weather’s impact, common plumbing problems, and even those pesky old pipes hiding in historic homes. While private equity firms are busy buying up plumbing companies across the country, we’re still family-owned, operated, and as local as it gets.

Follow these steps, and you’ll have the confidence that the person fixing your plumbing is qualified, accountable, and ready to do it right the first time.

Residential, Commercial, and New Construction Plumbing in Portland and Vancouver

Licensed journeyman plumbers at D&F handle every kind of project across Oregon and Washington. Whether it’s a dripping faucet at home, a major repair in a commercial building, or installing plumbing in a brand-new development, our team brings the same level of skill and professionalism. Customers throughout Portland and Vancouver know the Plaid Pros can handle it all!

Residential Plumbing Company 

For homeowners, plumbing problems usually strike at the worst time: a cold shower before work, a clogged drain when guests arrive, or a water heater that suddenly calls it quits.

Our licensed plumbers know how to fix those residential plumbing issues quickly and safely, without cutting corners.

We handle all the essentials:

The goal is simple: keep your household running smoothly with plumbing that lasts. Because no one wants to explain to their in-laws why the guest bathroom sink is out of order again.

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Commercial Plumbing Contractors 

Commercial plumbing takes a different level of expertise. Office buildings, restaurants, and retail spaces rely on systems that have to handle heavy use every single day. A small mistake here can shut down operations and cost businesses serious money.

Our licensed journeyman plumbers are trained for:

  • Safety code compliance
  • Trenching and large-scale pipe work
  • Repairs that minimize downtime
  • Ongoing maintenance to prevent future issues

From emergency repairs to planned upgrades, we help Portland and Vancouver businesses stay open and compliant. Our plumbing protects your bottom line as much as your pipes!

New Construction Plumbing 

When it comes to new builds, plumbing has to be done right the first time. Our team partners with local builders to design and install plumbing systems that meet strict code requirements and support the long-term value of the property.

We’re known for:

  • Reliable scheduling that keeps projects on track
  • Full compliance with Oregon and Washington building codes
  • Coordination with other trades to avoid delays

Builders trust us because we show up, we deliver, and we stand behind our work. It’s one more reason Pacific Northwest developers count on the Plaid Pros to help bring their new construction projects to life.

Better Than DIY or the Lowest Bid

Going cheap or trying a YouTube “hack” can backfire fast. Hidden leaks, repeat failures, and code violations can cost thousands and may even void warranties on your most expensive systems.

D&F technicians arrive with the training and tools to solve the problem completely. No shortcuts. No guesswork. That’s why more than 60,000 homeowners across Portland and Vancouver have trusted the Plaid Pros since 1927.

When it comes to plumbing, the cheapest option is rarely the best… but the right option doesn’t have to break the bank either.

If affordability is a concern, you don’t have to settle for second-rate work. We offer flexible financing for larger projects and regularly update our specials so you can save without compromising on quality. 

Ready to work with licensed plumbers you can trust? Contact D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today or schedule service online. The Plaid Pros are here when you need us!

Top 4 Reasons To Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection in Portland, OR

Top 4 Reasons To Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection in Portland, OR

As a homeowner in Portland, OR, you know the importance of maintaining your plumbing system. One of the most effective ways to identify and solve sewer issues is through a sewer camera inspection. At D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we understand the significance of proactive plumbing maintenance. Here are the top four reasons to schedule a sewer camera inspection with our team!

SewerCamera image

Identify Blockages Early

One of the primary benefits of a Sewer Camera Inspection is its ability to detect blockages early. Over time, debris, roots, and grease can accumulate in your sewer lines, leading to clogs that can cause significant Plumbing issues. With advanced camera technology, our technicians can pinpoint the exact location and nature of the blockage before it becomes a major problem. By addressing these blockages early, you can avoid costly repairs and extensive damage to your plumbing system.

SewerCamera image

Assess Pipe Condition

Sewer camera inspections allow you to assess the overall condition of your pipes. During the inspection, our technicians can check for cracks, corrosion, and other signs of wear and tear. Understanding the state of your pipes can help you make informed decisions about maintenance or potential replacement. If your pipes are showing signs of damage, acting promptly can save you time and money in the long run.

SewerCamera image

Reduce the Need for Excavation

Traditional methods of diagnosing sewer issues often require digging up your yard to access pipes, which can be expensive and intrusive. A sewer camera inspection eliminates this need. By using a flexible camera to navigate through the pipes, we can gather important information without excavation. This method is not only more efficient but also saves you the hassle of restoring your landscape after an invasive inspection.

SewerCamera image

Increase Property Value

Regular maintenance and inspections reflect a well-cared-for home, which can increase your property value. By having a sewer camera inspection conducted, you can present potential buyers with evidence of a healthy plumbing system. Buyers are often wary of homes with plumbing issues; showing that you’ve proactively addressed any potential problems can give you a competitive edge in the market.

Scheduling a sewer camera inspection is a smart investment for any homeowner in Portland, OR. By identifying blockages early, assessing pipe conditions, reducing excavation needs, and increasing your property’s value, you can maintain a healthy plumbing system with confidence. Trust D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling to handle your sewer camera inspections and all your plumbing needs. Protect your home and invest in your peace of mind today!

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Your Spring Plumbing Checklist

Your Plumbing Checklist

Your springtime plumbing checklist in Portland OR & Vancouver WA - D&F Plumbing, Heating and CoolingSpring has sprung, but hopefully a leak hasn’t! With the warmer weather rolling in, it’s time to tackle that to-do list that’s been piling up all winter – and that includes taking a look at your plumbing system. To make sure your system is in great shape for the new season, go through this spring plumbing checklist:

Check for Leaks & Clogs

Winter can wreak havoc on your plumbing system – particularly on the pipes or fixtures that are located outdoors or near external walls. To make sure nothing is leaking and causing damage throughout your home, it’s a good idea to check around your property for any leaks or clogs. If you notice any issues, a professional plumber can help identify and fix the root cause of the problem while preventing any further damage to your home.

Change Your Hoses

While you’re checking your pipes and fixtures for leaks or damage, you can also take a look at the condition of your hoses. Check the hoses to your dishwasher, washing machine, fridge, and other appliances. Keep an eye out for any bulging or discoloration in addition to leaking and cracks. You or a professional can replace any damaged or worn out hoses to keep your appliances functioning flawlessly.

Clean Your Storm Drains

If your storm drains are clogged, you could face some serious flooding during springtime rain. Taking the time to remove any leaves, sticks, or other debris from your storm drains will keep things flowing properly, which will protect your property while preventing other issues like soil erosion. If you run into serious blockages or drainage issues, then it may be useful to invest in an outdoor drain cleaning service to keep everything in good working order.

Test Your Sump Pump

Your sump pump plays a big role in preventing basement flooding, particularly during times of heavy rain. That’s why spring is the perfect time of year to check in on your sump pump and make sure it’s functioning properly. To test your sump pump, first look to make sure that it’s plugged in correctly. Then, pour a bucket of water into the basin to see if the pump is able to clear it. If your sump pump is unable to clear the water, or you notice any signs of moisture issues in your basement, then it may be time to contact a professional.

Adjust Your Water Heater

Water heaters get a lot of use in the cold winter months, which is why spring is the perfect time of year to perform any maintenance and check in on your system. An expert can flush your tank while also screening for any potential issues to make sure yours is working wonderfully for the new season. Now is also a good time to turn down the temperature, which will save you money during the spring and summer.

What’s the Difference Between Main Line vs Drain Line?

Main Line

Unless you’re a plumber, it’s easy to confuse main lines and drain lines. Plumbers get these questions all of the time so we thought we’d finally settle this. Keep reading to finally learn the difference of a main line and drain line, including the roles they play in your home.

Main line vs drain line infographic explained by D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in Vancouver WA and Portland OR.

What is a Main Line?

To put it simply, your main line is your sewer line. It’s a line located underground that carries all wastewater from your home to a municipal connection or septic tank, not just toilet water.

Here is some additional information about your main line.

  • In addition to drain line clogs, another big threat to your main line is tree roots. If you know where your main line is located, you can strategically plant trees in areas that won’t damage your main line.
  • You’ll want to know where your cleanout is located in case it suffers a clog.
  • If you’re experiencing drain clogs at the lowest point in your home, you likely have a main line clog.
  • If there’s sewage coming out, there’s most likely a main line clog.
  • If you hear gurgling noises in another part of the home when using water, you could have a main line issue.

What Does a Main Drain Look Like?

A main drain—sometimes called the mainline pipe or plumbing main—is usually a large-diameter pipe (around 3–6 inches wide) made of PVC, ABS, cast iron, or clay depending on the age of the home. Homeowners often see it through an exterior cleanout, which typically appears as a capped, upright pipe near the yard or foundation. This cleanout gives plumbers direct access for inspections, clearing blockages, and diagnosing issues deep within the home sewer line.

What is a Drain Line?

Drain lines are lines located inside of your home that are connected to your plumbing fixtures such as your toilets, sinks, and showers. They don’t lead directly to your sewer system or septic tank, but they dump into the main line. When you’re having an issue with one drain line, you can generally still use the plumbing everywhere else in the home because they aren’t connected.

Understanding your Main Line and Your Drain Line

Knowing the difference between your main line and your drain line is important because they’re two entirely different things with different fixes and costs. Generally, a main line clog is going to require a professional plumber and involves more steps.

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Where Is the Main Sewer Line Located?

For most homes in Portland and Vancouver, the main sewer line runs underground from the house to the city connection near the street. Indoors, it typically starts below the lowest drain—such as in a basement or crawlspace. Outdoors, it can be accessed through a cleanout located near the foundation, driveway, or yard. Knowing where your main sewer line is located helps you detect issues sooner and prevents unnecessary digging during repairs.

Why is Main Line and Drain Line Maintenance Important?

Every homeowner in the Portland and Vancouver areas knows the importance of maintaining their homes, but often, the hidden systems like main line plumbing and drain lines are overlooked. These systems are the unsung heroes of your home, quietly and efficiently removing wastewater and ensuring a hygienic environment. But why is their maintenance so crucial?

Prevention is Cheaper than Cure

When it comes to main plumbing line and drain line plumbing, a stitch in time truly does save nine. Regular checks and maintenance by a main line plumber can spot potential issues before they escalate. Neglecting this can lead to main line drain clogs or even damage to the sewer main line. The cost of addressing these issues after they’ve become severe is significantly higher than regular upkeep. Think of it as an investment in your home’s future and your peace of mind.

Protecting Your Home from Water Damage

The main drain line in a house and the drain lines in a house play a pivotal role in directing wastewater away from your home. A clogged plumbing main drain or a backed-up main sewage line can lead to water pooling in unwanted areas. This doesn’t just mean a mess to clean up; it can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and other health hazards. For those who’ve experienced the aftermath of a burst main sewer pipe or an overflowing sewer mainline, they can attest to the importance of preemptive maintenance.

Ensuring a Healthy Living Environment

Ask yourself, “What is the main drain in a house for?” or “What is a sewer main’s purpose?” The answer is simple: to ensure that wastewater, which includes everything from used bathwater to sewage, is efficiently and safely removed from your home. A malfunctioning mainline sewer or water drain line can lead to stagnant water, which becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and pests. This not only poses a health risk but can also lead to unpleasant odors permeating your home.

While the intricacies of main plumbing and drain lines might seem confusing, understanding their importance and ensuring their regular maintenance is crucial. It’s not just about avoiding costly repairs; it’s about ensuring the longevity of your home and the health and safety of its inhabitants. While we know you’re probably not always thinking about “What is a sewer line, and why should I care?”, remember that it’s the silent guardian of your home’s hygiene and comfort. So give it some consideration once in a while!

Sewage Line Meaning (In Simple Terms)

Your sewage line is simply the pipe responsible for carrying all wastewater away from your home. When this line becomes blocked or damaged, wastewater has nowhere to go—which can result in backups, foul odors, or contaminated water entering lower drains. Understanding the sewage line’s meaning and role helps homeowners catch problems early and avoid messy or expensive emergencies.

residential main line and definition of main line

Common Signs of Main Line and Drain Line Issues

For homeowners in the Portland and Vancouver regions, understanding the health of your main line plumbing and drain lines is as essential as knowing where the best local coffee shop is. While these systems often work as smoothly as your morning brew, when issues arise, they can cause significant disruptions, turning your day as sour as a bad espresso shot… Recognizing the early signs of problems can save you from costly repairs and ensure a hygienic living environment. So, what are the telltale signs that your main plumbing line or drain line plumbing might be in distress?

Unpleasant Odors

One of the first and most noticeable signs of a problem with your main sewage line or drain lines in a house is an unpleasant odor. If you start to detect a sewage-like smell, especially around drains or in your basement, it’s a clear indication that there’s a blockage or issue with your main line sewer or plumbing main drain. This smell is not just a nuisance; it’s a warning sign that should not be ignored.

Slow Draining Water

  • Sinks and Bathtubs: If water is taking longer than usual to drain in your sinks or bathtubs, it could be a sign of a blockage in your drain lines.
  • Toilets: A toilet that doesn’t flush efficiently or seems to be struggling might indicate a problem with the main line drain or main plumbing.
  • Multiple Fixtures: If multiple fixtures in your home are draining slowly, it’s a strong indication of a mainline sewer issue.

Unusual Noises and Backups

  • Gurgling Sounds: If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, especially after flushing the toilet or using the sink, it’s a sign of a potential main sewer pipe problem.
  • Water Backups: Water backing up in odd places, like water appearing in the bathtub when you flush the toilet, is a clear sign of a main drain line in house issue.
  • Frequent Clogs: If you’re frequently dealing with clogs, especially in the lowest points of your home, it could be a sewer mainline problem.

Your home’s main plumbing and drain lines are vital systems that ensure wastewater is efficiently removed. Being aware of the common signs of issues can help you address problems early, saving you time, money, and potential health hazards. So, always remember to keep an ear out for those gurgling sounds, and if you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to consult with a main line plumber like the Plaid Pros at D&F Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling. And you can also take preventative measures to avoid clogged sewer lines.

Plumber doing a video scope of main sewer line and a description of common main line and drain line problems

Solutions for Main Line and Drain Line Issues

Encountering problems with your main line plumbing or drain lines can be daunting, especially when you’re unsure how to address them. While some minor issues can be resolved with DIY methods, the complexities of main plumbing line and drain line plumbing often require professional intervention. Here’s why hiring a main line plumber, like D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, is essential and the advanced techniques we employ to restore your home’s plumbing health.

Expertise and Experience

A professional main line plumber brings years of experience and knowledge to the table. We can quickly diagnose the root cause of the issue, whether it’s a main sewage line blockage or a mainline sewer malfunction, ensuring that the problem is addressed efficiently and effectively so you can get back to life’s usual routine.

Advanced Equipment and Techniques

  • Camera Inspections: Using specialized cameras, professional plumbers can get a real-time view inside your main sewer pipe and drain lines in a house, pinpointing the exact location and nature of the problem.
  • Hydro Jetting: This technique uses high-pressure water to clear blockages in your main line drain and sewer main line, ensuring a thorough cleaning without damaging the pipes. Here at D&F, we invest in the latest hydro jetting solutions for the most effective results possible.
  • Trenchless Repairs: For more severe issues, modern plumbers employ trenchless repair techniques, which allow us to fix main plumbing issues without digging up your yard.

Long-term Solutions

While DIY methods might offer a temporary fix, a professional ensures that the solution is long-lasting. We address the root cause, preventing future issues with your main line sewer or plumbing main drain.

So while the temptation to address main plumbing issues on your own might be strong, the benefits of hiring a professional far outweigh the risks. With our expertise, advanced equipment, and commitment to providing long-term solutions, you can rest assured that your home’s plumbing is in good hands. So, the next time you find yourself wondering, “What is the main drain in a house, and how do I fix it?”, remember to call the experts at D&F Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling.

Need Help Telling Main Line vs. Drain Line Issues Apart?

Because main drain plumbing problems often mimic drain line issues, homeowners sometimes waste time guessing. A professional plumber can quickly perform a camera inspection to determine whether the blockage is in a single fixture drain or deep inside the mainline pipe. Identifying the right issue early prevents unexpected sewage backups, water damage, or unnecessary repairs.

Sewer Line Cleaning Experts

Great, now you’re just a bit more educated on your plumbing terminology than you were before reading this article! Ever consider a plumbing career? 😉

Anyway, if you’re experiencing any issues with your drains or main line, let D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling help! We have the experience and knowledge to help with main line and sewer line repairs quickly. Plus we’re available for plumbing emergencies! Contact our friendly team today!

FAQs About Main Lines & Drain Lines

What’s the main difference between a main line and a drain line?

A main line carries all wastewater from your home to the city sewer or septic system, while drain lines handle smaller amounts of wastewater from individual fixtures like sinks, tubs, and laundry drains. A main line clog affects the whole house, while a drain line clog typically impacts only one area.

What does a main drain look like?

A main drain—also known as a mainline pipe—is usually a large 3–6″ pipe made of PVC, ABS, cast iron, or clay. Homeowners often see it through a capped cleanout located in the yard, basement, or near the home’s foundation.

Where is the main sewer line located in most homes?

Most homes have a main sewer line running underground from the house to the street. Inside, it usually begins below the lowest fixture (basement, crawlspace, or slab). Outside, you can typically access it through a cleanout near the yard or driveway.

How can I tell if I have a main line clog or just a drain line clog?

If multiple fixtures back up at once, toilets bubble when sinks drain, or wastewater appears in lower drains, you likely have a main line clog. Slow drainage from only one sink or shower usually indicates a drain line issue.

What causes main line plumbing clogs?

Common causes include tree root intrusion, collapsed or aging pipes, flushable wipes, grease buildup, and foreign objects entering the plumbing main. Heavy rain or ground shifting can also affect older home sewer lines.

Is a main line clog considered a plumbing emergency?

Yes—because the main line handles all wastewater, a blockage can lead to sewage backups, property damage, and contamination. If you suspect a mainline pipe clog, you should contact a plumber immediately.

Who should I call for main line or drain line problems?

A licensed plumber who specializes in main drain plumbing—like D&F Plumbing, Heating & Cooling—can diagnose issues quickly using camera inspections, hydro jetting, and advanced repair techniques.

Plumbing Inspection Guide for New Homeowners

D and F Plumbing Inspection Guide for New Homeowners

Man inspecting underneath sink. D and F Plumbing serving Portland OR and Vancouver WA talks about the importance of a plumbing inspection for new homeowners.Are you in the market for a new home in the Portland metro area? You may want to consider having a plumbing inspection performed. Plumbing inspections aren’t required in most cases, but they are very useful and can potentially save you money and headaches in the future. The last thing you want is to purchase a home only to learn that you now need to invest in new plumbing.

What a Plumbing Inspection Involves

Most plumbing contractors have a checklist they use when performing an inspection, but feel free to give them additional tasks if you have a concern they aren’t aware of. The following are some common plumbing fixtures and parts your plumber should take a look at when performing an inspection.

Pipes

If you are purchasing an older home, the piping may have not been replaced in a while. Find out how old your pipes are and the material they are made of. If your inspection discovers that you have galvanized pipes, lead pipes or older bronze or brass fittings, you’ll want to have your water tested.

Main Sewer Line

Most plumbing companies offer a video sewer inspection service. With this small camera, your plumber will be able to identify any serious blockages in your sewer line or if you have tree roots invading your sewer line.

Septic System

Is the home not connected to a municipal sewer system? Have your plumber check the entire septic system including the drainfield. A non-functioning septic system will lead to seepage and pose health hazards.

Toilets

Your plumber should make sure all the toilets in the home are securely in place and ensure there aren’t any leakage or drainage issues. A leaky toilet could cause damage to your flooring. The flappers on the toilets should be checked to make sure they aren’t leaking as well.

Water Pressure and Water Discoloration

During the inspection, your plumber should run the water in the home. This not only helps determine if the pressure fits your needs but it may also be a sign of an underlying problem in the waterline. In addition to checking the water pressure, the drainage should also be examined. Slow drainage may be a sign of a serious blockage further down in your plumbing.

Discolored water should not be used for cooking or drinking. Discolored water may come from a variety of sources. Your plumbing contractor will have to inspect the plumbing throughout the home to identify the root cause before making the necessary repairs.

Water Meter

Checking the water meter is another step your plumber may inspect. If all of the faucets and shut off and the water meter is still turning, this shows there may be a leak somewhere.

Water Heater

It’s important not to forget the water heater when purchasing a home. Water heaters supply the home with hot water. These appliances can be complicated so be sure to hire a plumber who is certified to install and service water heaters.

An inspection will identify signs of corrosion and ensure there are no leaks. Find out how old the water heater is and verify the last time it was serviced. If the water is older than 10 years, you may need a replacement.

Learn More From Your Local Plumber

Don’t get lost in the excitement of buying a home. Take precautions now to ensure you are purchasing a good investment.

Many plumbing companies offer plumbing inspections on homes. They’ll let you know what should be inspected and when it’s done, they’ll tell you what needs to be repaired or replaced.