Unblocking of Sewer Pipes and Drains
Most homeowners will at some point in time experience blocked sewer pipes and drains. Unfortunately, some ignore the situation and think it will unblock itself. This problem can start as a minor issue and become more serious. In addition to that, blocking can cause flooding, slow water drainage, corrosion, and costly repairs. Therefore, it is recommended to reach out for help as soon as you notice the clog.
What are the causes of blocked sewer pipes and drains?
The main common household causes include:
Tree roots
When a sewer pipe is constructed on soil, the minor cracks attract roots. These roots grow into sewer pipes as they search for water. They grow larger and disrupt water flow.
Small debris
It’s important to know what you can’t flush in the toilet or sink.Small objects result in sewer drain issues. Dispose of unnecessary objects on the trashcan, recycle, or compost.
Food waste
Foods including coffee grounds, tea leaves, greasy or oily should never be disposed of in the sink. They solidify or don’t break down hence cause pipes to block.
Mineral buildup
Hard water contains minerals that easily block the drain. You can avoid this by installing a water softener.
What a plumber does
After a plumber has diagnosed the cause of the problem, they can handle the blockage. They have special equipment such as hydro-jet and drain snake for the toughest clogs. Also, they have experience on how to fix the issue. This guarantees you minimal costs and a long period without damage.
If the pipes are broken, a plumber will dig around the pipe, clear the clog then replace it with new pipes. On the other hand, if it can be fixed without digging the area, they can use high water pressure to unclog.
Methods used to detect sewer pipes and drain blockage
Here are some of the instances to know whether they are blocked:
Slow-moving water
This is the easiest way to detect. Check the drains if they drain quickly or take time when you run water. When there is a slow movement of water, it indicates there is something wrong. This is often caused by the accumulation of debris and objects over time. Generally, toilets are the first ones to clog. You will notice water moving slowly when flushing down the waste.
Foul smell
This is the easiest way to tell a blockage. You will get a foul smell from plumbing fixtures.
Gurgling sounds
When you use the plumbing system such as flushing toilets, running water on the sink, or washing machine, you will hear gurgling sounds, hissing, trickling, and bubbling noises.
Overflowing water
Generally, water drains through the main sewer. However, if it is blocked, water overflows back in fixtures. This includes toilets, shower drains, bathroom sink, and bathtub drains.
Dirty water
When you drain water, it moves backward because the sewer line is blocked. This mostly happens in floor drain, tub, and shower. This water will appear dark and have a stinky smell because it’s mixed with waste material. Most notably, use protective equipment seeing that it may have raw sewage.
Blocked plumbing fixtures
Since plumbing fixtures are connected to a sewer line, wastewater will move slowly when the sewer line is clogged.
Methods used to unblock drains
Inspection
A plumber conducts an inspection first to know the root cause of the problem. Besides that, it’s ideal to have a pipe inspection once every year.
Get internal view
Plumbing issues like leaks and poor installation can be seen from the outside. Nonetheless, a plumber has to get internal views of clogged drains. Pipe cameras are used to give the views. Also, they connect video cameras on the cable and use them to see the pipes.
Use special tools to unclog
This may include:
- Plunger: plungers are often used to unblock light clogs in toilets, sinks, and showers. A plumber can attempt to unblock a drain with the equipment. It doesn’t work, the clog is heavy and needs another tool.
- Manual Drain snake: this equipment looks like a long cable. A plumber places the end of the main drain snake in the opening of the drain. A crack is used to push it inside the drain and break the clog.
- Motorized Drain Snake: this works like Manual Drain Snake but it’s used on more stubborn clogs and big pipes. Additionally, they are automatic hence gives more power.
- Drain Auger: this tool is the same as Drain Snake. They are mostly used on larger drains to tackle clogs.
- Hydro-Jet: it is used on tougher clogs by sending pressure water in pipes to break the buildup.
- Hair snake: this tool is designed to remove hair clogs.
Final thoughts
Blocked sewer pipes and drains are the worst nightmares a homeowner can experience. This issue can affect many areas at home and pose health risks. If your sewer pipes and drains are still blocked after trying everything, it’s better to find a professional. DIY can lead to unexpected complications.
No Cracks Plumbing resolves all your plumbing issues including unblocking sewer pipes and drains. We provide efficient services in the Brisbane area. Our friendly customer services will serve you 24/7. For any plumbing help, please contact us today on 1300 130 216.