Clogged drains cause everyone in the family inconvenience. Nothing works until the clog is properly removed. And, the sewer water can back up into the house leaving puddles of water with dangerous germs and pathogens. Cleaning up the mess caused by backed-up plumbing and blocked drains is not a nice job. No one can use the toilet, take a shower, or wash dishes or clothing until the plumbing is repaired. The bill for fixing a clogged drain or sewer pipe can be a challenge to pay.
The Best Way to Fix Clogged Drains is to Avoid Them
The best way to avoid clogged drains is to teach every member of the family to properly dispose of waste materials and to properly use the plumbing facilities so clogs do not occur. But, when clogs occur or a septic tank needs to be emptied, call residential plumbing services manned by professionals to do the job correctly. Because the immediate cause of the clogged drain or pipe might not be readily evident, it is best to call in a professional drain cleaning service. They have equipment such as cameras to feed into the drainage system and quickly locate the blockage. Then, they have the right equipment to clean out the drains and pipes.
Professional drain cleaners will decide where the blockage is, how extensive it is, and what means will work best to clear it out. They can use an industrial size snake to clear the clog or they can use high-pressure water to jet clean the sewer lines and pipes.
Dos and Don’ts for Drain Cleaning
Some homeowners want to do everything themselves and are tempted to clean out clogs in drains themselves. There are dos and don’ts to consider
1. The homeowner should know the location of all drainage and sewer pipes and if there is a septic tank, they should know the location of that as well and the access points.
2. Remember, the septic system or city sewer system is not a disposal unit. Do not put food scraps, grease, and bones down the kitchen sink. In the bathroom do not flush, hair, disposable diapers, feminine products, face wipes, condoms, leftover medications, or plastics down the drain. Do not wash chemicals such as paint thinner, stripper, gasoline, insect killers, and other substances down the drain. They will cause serious problems in your pipes and sewer system down the line.
3. Ignore the advertisements and do not put septic additives down the drain. When there is a slowing in drainage or a drain blockage, do not try caustic drain openers and cleaners, instead, call a professional who will safely clean up the clogs without damaging the pipes. In addition, many plumbers recommend not installing a garbage disposal or whole house-salt-based water softening system as they add too much water, salt, and food particles into the sewer system. This especially applies to homes with septic tanks.
But, Some Homeowners Want To Try to Clear Drains before They Call in Help
There are a few things a homeowner can do to clear drains if the problem is not too serious. There are tools for the homeowner who wants to clear their own pipes to have on hand and carefully use as not to damage pipes. They include a plunger, a cable auger or plumber’s snake, a closet auger, and an electric power auger. These tools must be used correctly and carefully.
If the DIY measures do not work, call a trusted plumber to come and rear the clogged drain or sewer line.