Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. They can cause water damage, and smell, and even lead to costly repairs. Fortunately, there are several DIY methods you can use to unblock your main sewer line yourself. Here are some tips to help you out.
1. Check Your Sink Pipes
The first step to clearing a clogged drain is checking your sink pipes. If you see anything unusual, such as rusting pipe joints, damaged elbows, or leaks, it could indicate a larger problem. You can fix small issues yourself, but call a professional if you find something serious.
2. Clean Out Debris From Your Drains
If you notice any buildup of hair, food particles, soap scum, or grease around your sinks, toilets, tubs, or showers, it could mean that your drains are clogged. Use a plunger to clear out the debris, and make sure to flush everything down the toilet.
3. Try Using Vinegar
Vinegar is a great way to clean out your drains because it breaks up the solid matter and dissolves fats and oils. Pour half a cup into each of your sinks, and let it sit overnight. In the morning, run hot water over the area, and check your drains again.
What’s the Sewer Clog Location?
A clogged sink, toilet, or tub drain is usually simple to fix. But if you’re having trouble with one, it could mean there’s something stuck down there. To check, turn off the water supply to the fixture and open up the faucet. You’ll hear some gurgling sounds coming from inside the pipes. This is normal. Next, use a plunger to push the water around in the pipes. When you do this, you might notice bubbles forming near the bottom of the basin. These bubbles indicate air trapped in the pipes. Once you’ve cleared the blockage, run cold water into the system again. This will help flush out the remaining debris.
If you still aren’t seeing improvement after doing this, call a professional plumber. They can inspect the problem and determine whether it requires immediate attention or can wait until later.
Roots in sewer lines require different treatments than a deteriorated pipe. Roots can cause serious damage to the plumbing system, including cracks in the walls and floors. In addition, they can prevent sewage from flowing properly. Hydrojet cleaning machines are designed to cut through roots and other obstructions in drains and sewers.
Do Not Ignore Clogged Sewer Lines that Need a Cleanout
A clogged sewer line can lead to serious health issues, such as bacteria buildup, odors, and even flooding. If left untreated, it can cause sewage backup into your house. But there are things you can do to prevent this issue from happening. Here are some tips to help you avoid a sewage backup.
1. Know What You Should Do When You See a Clogged Drain Line
If you see a clogged drain line, don’t ignore it. Call a plumber immediately. They’ll be able to tell you exactly how to handle the situation.
2. Keep Your House Dry
When you notice a clogged drain line in your home, make sure you keep your house dry. This way, you won’t risk having water damage.
3. Don’t Dig Trenches
Digging trenches around your property isn’t necessary. Instead, call a professional plumber. He’ll be able to dig trenches without damaging your yard.
Know the Signs of a Main Sewer Line Clog
A backed-up sink or toilet suggests there is a problem with the main drain pipe. If you notice a discolored area around the toilet bowl, it might mean that there is something blocking the main sewer line. You should call a plumber immediately.
If you smell foul odors coming from your bathroom, check the pipes under your house. There are several things that could cause a blockage in the main sewer line, including tree roots, debris, or even animals.
How to Clear A Main Sewer Line Clog Yourself: Basic Approach
Plumbing problems don’t always require a plumber. You can clear most clogs yourself – even those caused by tree roots. Here’s how you do it.
1. Start by checking your local plumbing codes. If you’re unsure whether you’re allowed to clean your pipes, check with your city building inspector. In some cities, you’ll need permission; in others, you won’t.
2. Use a snake to loosen debris inside your main sewer line. This method works best for larger obstructions.
3. Remove the obstruction. Try pushing it down into the pipe with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, use a root cutter tool to cut away the obstruction.
4. Fill up the hole with water. Once you’ve cleared the obstruction, fill the hole with water to prevent future clogs.
5. Call Butler Plumbing Inc. to clear your sewer if you’re around Oklahoma.
