Category Archives: drain backups

How to Deal with Reoccurring Clogs in your Chicagoland Home

a drain with reoccuring clogs in chicago.

Dealing with reoccurring clogs in your Chicagoland home can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, understanding the common causes of these clogs and knowing how to effectively deal with them can help you maintain a smoothly running plumbing system. Below we will explore the main reasons why clogs happen in the first place and provide you with practical solutions to resolve them.

Faulty Plumbing System

In some cases, reoccurring clogs can be attributed to a faulty plumbing system. If your home’s plumbing was not properly installed or if there are underlying issues with the pipes, it can lead to frequent clogs. Common problems include misaligned pipes, low water pressure, and inadequate pipe diameter.

To address this issue, it is essential to enlist the help of a professional plumber. A skilled plumber will be able to assess your plumbing system, identify any underlying problems, and make the necessary repairs or replacements. Investing in the expertise of a professional will ensure that the root cause of the clogs is addressed, minimizing the likelihood of future clogs.

Poor Drain Maintenance

Another common cause of reoccurring clogs is poor drain maintenance. Over time, debris, such as hair, soap residue, and food particles, can accumulate in your drains, leading to blockages. Additionally, the buildup of mineral deposits can restrict water flow and contribute to clogs.

To prevent clogs caused by poor drain maintenance, it is important to establish a regular cleaning routine. Start by removing any visible debris from the surface of the drain and then use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down any stubborn buildup. Alternatively, you can purchase drain cleaning solutions from your local hardware store.

In addition to regular cleaning, it is advisable to use drain screens or guards to catch large particles before they enter the drain. This simple preventive measure can significantly reduce the occurrence of clogs and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

In some instances, reoccurring clogs may be due to tree roots infiltrating your sewer lines. Tree roots naturally seek moisture, and they can make their way into small cracks or joints in your pipes. Once inside, the roots can grow and expand, causing blockages and potentially damaging your plumbing system.

If tree roots are the cause of your reoccurring clogs, it is crucial to address the issue promptly. Contact a professional plumber who specializes in sewer line camera inspections and repairs. They will use specialized equipment to identify the location and extent of the root intrusion, and then recommend the most appropriate course of action, which may include root removal or pipe replacement.

a clog caused by pouring grease down a drain.

When grease is poured down the drain, it cools and solidifies, clinging to the walls of the pipes.

Dispose of Grease Properly

Improper disposal of cooking grease is a common culprit for reoccurring kitchen sink clogs. When grease is poured down the drain, it cools and solidifies, clinging to the walls of the pipes. Over time, this buildup can restrict water flow and lead to clogs.

To prevent grease-related clogs, it is essential to dispose of cooking grease properly. Allow the grease to cool after cooking, and then scrape it into a disposable container. Once the container is full, seal it and throw it in the trash. Alternatively, you can use absorbent materials, such as paper towels, to soak up the grease before throwing it away.

An effective way to remove any residual grease in the pipes is to pour boiling water down the drain regularly. This will help dissolve any grease buildup and keep the pipes clear.

Install Drain Strainers

Installing drain strainers in your sinks, tubs, and showers is an easy way to prevent hair, soap residue, and other debris from entering the drain and causing clogs. These strainers are inexpensive and can be found at most home improvement stores.

Regularly cleaning the drain strainers is also important to maintain their effectiveness. Simply remove them and rinse away any accumulated debris under warm water.

In Summary

Dealing with reoccurring clogs in your Chicagoland home requires a combination of proactive measures and professional assistance, if needed. By understanding the common causes of these clogs and implementing the suggested solutions, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains free from frequent blockages. Remember to prioritize proper drain maintenance, dispose of grease correctly, and consider installing drain strainers to keep your pipes flowing smoothly. With these preventive actions, you can enjoy a clog free home and peace of mind.

How to Safely Manage a Drain Backup Situation While Waiting for Professional Help

a drain backup in a kitchen sink.

Dealing with a drain backup situation can be a frustrating and messy experience. It’s important to act swiftly and safely to minimize further damage while waiting for professional help to arrive. This article provides practical tips and steps to help you manage a drain backup situation effectively.

Understanding the Cause

Before taking any action, it’s crucial to understand the cause of the drain backup. Common reasons include clogged pipes, tree roots intrusion, or a malfunctioning sewer system. By identifying the root cause, you can take appropriate measures to prevent future instances.

Ensure Your Safety

When dealing with a drain backup, your safety should always be the top priority. Here are some important safety considerations:

  • Wear protective gear: Put on gloves, boots, and eyewear to protect yourself from any harmful bacteria or chemicals that may be present in the backup.
  • Keep children and pets away: Ensure that children and pets are kept a safe distance away from the affected area.

Contain the Backup

While waiting for professional help, it’s important to contain the backup to prevent further damage to your property. Here’s what you can do:

  • Block off the affected area: Use towels, plastic sheets, or any available barriers to contain the backup and avoid it spreading to other areas.
  • Remove excess water: If there is standing water, use a wet vacuum or bucket to remove as much water as possible. Avoid using a regular vacuum cleaner as it may get damaged.
  • Seal off drains: Cover all drains in the affected area with plastic bags and secure them tightly to prevent any unpleasant odors or sewage from escaping.

Minimize Water Usage

To prevent further strain on the drainage system and exacerbating the backup, it’s essential to minimize water usage during this time. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid flushing toilets: Only use the toilet if absolutely necessary, and dispose of any waste in a separate bag.
  • Limit showers and baths: Take quick showers or consider using alternative facilities if available.
  • Avoid using the sink: Minimize the use of sinks for washing dishes or other tasks that require water.
a pot of boiling water can be used to unclog a drain.

Carefully pour boiling water down the drain to break up grease or soap buildup. Be cautious not to use this method on PVC pipes as it may cause damage.

DIY Drain Unclogging Techniques

If you’re confident in your abilities and want to attempt to unclog the drain yourself, here are a few techniques you can try:

  • Plunger: Use a plunger to create suction and dislodge any blockages. Make sure to cover the overflow drain if applicable.
  • Boiling water: Carefully pour boiling water down the drain to break up grease or soap buildup. Be cautious not to use this method on PVC pipes as it may cause damage.
  • Baking soda and vinegar: Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar and pour it down the drain. Let it sit for a few hours before flushing it with hot water.

Communicate with Professionals

While waiting for professional help to arrive, it’s important to maintain clear communication with the plumbing company. Follow these steps:

  • Contact reliable professionals: Research and contact reputable plumbing companies that offer emergency plumbing services to ensure prompt assistance.
  • Provide accurate information: Clearly describe the situation, its severity, and any actions you’ve already taken to manage the backup.
  • Ask for estimated arrival time: Request an estimated arrival time from the plumbing company to better plan your wait time.
  • Follow their guidance: Listen carefully to any instructions or precautions provided by the professionals and follow them accordingly.

Document the Situation

It’s important to document the drain backup situation for insurance purposes or any potential future reference. Here’s what you can do:

  • Take photographs: Capture photographs of the affected areas, visible damages, and any belongings that may have been affected by the backup.
  • Create a list of damages: Note down any damages or losses caused by the backup, including furniture, appliances, or personal items.
  • Keep receipts: Keep track of any expenses incurred due to the drain backup, such as hiring plumbers or purchasing cleaning supplies.

Preventive Measures for the Future

Once the drain backup situation has been resolved, it’s important to take preventive measures to avoid future occurrences. Consider the following:

  • Dispose of waste properly: Avoid flushing large items, grease, or non-biodegradable materials down the drain to minimize the risk of clogging.
  • Install drain screens: Use drain screens or guards to catch hair, debris, and other potential clog causing substances.
  • Plant trees away from pipes: If you have trees on your property, ensure they are planted away from any underground pipes to prevent root intrusion.

Dealing with a drain backup situation can be overwhelming, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely manage the situation while waiting for professional help. Remember to prioritize your safety, contain the backup, minimize water usage, and communicate effectively with plumbers. By taking preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of future drain backups and maintain a healthy drainage system in your home.

How Clogging Leads to a Sewer Backup

an unclogged drain

How Clogging Leads to a Sewer Backup- A sewer backup is the most disgusting drainage problem you can ever have in your home. Every year, tens of thousands of homeowners find themselves dealing with this issue in their homes. Yet, in most cases, sewer backups can be prevented if the problem is detected on time.

What is a sewer backup?

Most homes have a sewer line that carries wastewater from the sinks, drains, and toilets in the home to the main sewer lines beneath the streets. A sewer backup happens when the contents of this sewer line backflow into your home instead of flowing into the main sewer lines.

When this happens, all the content of the sewer line (including raw sewage) will start coming up inside the home via the floor drains, toilets, and sinks. A sewer backup releases foul-smelling unsanitary water into the house, causing untold problems for the home’s inhabitants, warns Compass Property Management.

What causes a sewer backup?

Sewer backups happen due to clogs inside a home’s sewer lines. Clogs make it impossible for wastewater to pass through the drainpipes. Having nowhere to go, and as more water is added from the house, the sewer line eventually fills up and spills its contents into the home.

There are many reasons why your home’s sewer lines may become clogged. Some of these reasons are outside your control because they result from natural events. But most sewer line clogs are caused by misuse of your home’s drains or failure to maintain the sewer lines properly.

Here are a few ways drain clogs can cause sewer backups:

Non-flushable items inside the drains

The only thing that should be flushed into your home’s toilets is toilet paper. When items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, fabric, dental floss, or so-called flushable products enter the toilet, they can block the sewer line. 

Hair can also block your sewer line if it gets into sink and shower drains. Soap scum is another major cause of drain clogs. It forms when soap and minerals inside hard water come into contact. Soap scum becomes a hard lining on drainpipe inner surfaces.

Cooking oil and grease buildup

A major cause of sewer line blockage is cooking oil or grease buildup inside drainpipes. Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) congeal into a hard mass as they cool inside the sewer line. This hard, sticky mass can directly block the channel or stick to the surface of the pipe. 

Once in place, the greasy lining will start to trap debris until the diameter of the pipe narrows to a point where water can no longer flow freely. If this situation is not reversed, it can culminate in a sewer backup.

Use of chemical drain cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners can dissolve the clogs inside your sewer lines. But while they remove clogs in the short term, they also cause long-term damage to sewer lines. That’s because cleaners contain caustic chemicals. 

These chemicals are responsible for the corrosive nature of cleaners that allows them to eat away the clog inside the pipes. The problem is that the chemicals can also weaken the drainpipe, causing sections to collapse, thereby blocking the pipe.

Old pipes 

If a sewer line has old pipes, it is more susceptible to clogs, and the risk of sewer backups in the home will be greater. This is particularly true for sewer lines made of clay or metal pipes because those start to degrade as soon as they are buried in the ground. 

Long terms exposure to moisture, from within and without, eventually causes the pipes to leak or even collapse. If the surrounding soil finds its way into the pipe, it can result in the sewer backing up into the home.

Earth movements

The soil around a sewer line can cause it to become clogged if that soil moves in a way that alters the position of the pipes. Upward or downward movements in the soil can change the level of the sewer line and make it difficult for water to flow freely. 

If the water inside the pipe is forced to slow down, it will deposit debris in that pipe section. This can continue until enough dirt accumulates in that lowered pipe section to block it and cause a sewer backup.

Tree roots

Tree roots may pierce a sewer line and block it. Most times, this happens due to small leaks in the pipe, which attract the attention of tree roots. To access the nutrient-rich water inside the pipe, the tree roots break into the sewer line and block it. Tree roots can also block a sewer line by growing over or above it and moving it out of place. This creates a depression inside the pipe, where debris is dumped until the entire sewer line is blocked.

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