sewer line blockage Archives

Sewer line clogging is a huge problem that can create major issues in your plumbing system, from slow drains to bad odors or even a sewer backup. If the debris inside a sewer line is not quickly removed, it can eventually cause the line to leak or become blocked completely, asserts Whole Property Management.

What causes sewer line blockage, and what are the best solutions for the problem?

Causes of sewer line blockage

As long as there is debris inside the water that enters a sewer line, there is a chance that the line will clog and ultimately block. That is because debris will be deposited inside the pipes, impeding water flow and causing even more debris to remain inside the line.

This process will continue until enough debris has built inside the pipes to stop the water flow. When this happens, the blockage will cause various drain problems inside the home. Factors that promote sewer line blockage include:

Flushing fats, oil and grease (FOG) into the drain
Dumping starchy foods, stringy vegetables, coffee grinds, eggshells, etc. into the drain
Flushing things other than toilet paper and human waste into the toilet
Soap scum and mineral scale buildup within the pipes as a result of hard water
Tree roots intrusion into the sewer line
Ground movements that result in the formation of low points along the sewer line

The best ways to clear a blocked sewer line

The best way to deal with a blocked sewer line is to have the line cleaned professionally.

Although it is possible to clear a blocked drain using home remedies, these methods only work for clogs and blockages near the drain opening. If the problem is deep inside the sewer system, it is often not possible to fix it with DIY methods like:

Pouring a baking soda and vinegar mix into the drain
Melting the clog with a solution of salt and hot water
Using a plunger to release a clogged toilet or sink
Snagging the debris with a handheld drain snake or clothes hangar

Most times, these methods do not remove the debris inside the pipes; they push it further down the line. To clear a blocked drain with minimal risk of the problem coming back shortly, here are the best methods to use:

Mechanical/motorized drain snake

This traditional method is still widely used because of its effectiveness. Mechanical drain snaking is also known as drain snaking. It uses a mechanical auger or cutting head attached to a flexible metal cable to remove blockages from a sewer line.

The metal cable, with the attached cutting head, is inserted into the sewer line via a floor drain or cleanout. It is then pushed through the line until it reaches the site of the blockage. The spinning head at the end of the cable is used to cut through or snag the debris. This method is effective for removing blockages caused by hair, food fiber or soft materials.

Drain snakes can also be motorized instead of manually operated. Motorized drain snakes can deal with the worst kind of sewer line blockages, including tree roots and sludge removal. Motorized drains snakes can travel further into the sewer line. All drain snakes usually come with a set of cutting heads for different clogs.

Hydro-jetting has the added advantage of scouring the walls of the sewer pipes and washing the dislodged debris from the sewer line. That makes hydro-jetting a perfect method for preventing buildup inside a sewer line.

Hydro-jetting

Hydro-jetting is a modern method for clearing blocked sewer lines. It uses water as its primary agent for unclogging blocked drains. To clear a clogged sewer line, high-pressure water is sent into the line using a special machine called a “jetter.”

The typical hydro-jetting equipment consists of a water tank, a jetter to supply the required pressure, a flexible high-pressure water hose and a specialized stainless steel nozzle.

The hose is inserted into the sewer line with the nozzle at one end. Water is sprayed into the line at pressures between 4,000 and 5,500 psi. The water pressure used in hydro-jetting is enough to remove tree roots, scale and other stubborn materials from the pipes.

Sewer camera inspection

Sewer camera is not a drain-cleaning method but a step which must be taken to ensure the effectiveness of the two drain-cleaning methods discussed above. Sewer camera inspection should be done before attempting to clear a blocked sewer line.

The inspection allows for a close-up visual inspection of the sewer line. That makes it possible to locate the blockage and determine the best method for dealing with the problem. Sewer camera inspection helps you save time and money.

Conclusion

Finally, which of these two methods is the right for solving your home’s sewer line problems? It depends on the nature of the blockage. To find out what is blocking your sewer line and the best way to remove it, talk to a professional drain cleaning company.

The sewer system is necessary for urban infrastructure because it helps maintain a healthy and safe environment. Carrying away wastewater helps keep the environment secure from flooding and helps stop the spread of water-borne diseases. Therefore, it could be troublesome if a sewer backup is in your home.

The sewage system is a vital component of your commercial building since it is responsible for adequately disposing of wastewater away from the property. By strategically discarding waste, it is crucial to keep it well-maintained to avoid issues affecting its functionality.

Although the primary function of a sewer is to circulate wastewater, a commercial system is complex and requires maintenance and professional services. Installing plastic access doors and panels will allow convenient access to these critical fixtures whenever there is a need for repairs and maintenance.

But what are the common causes of backed-up sewers, and what can we do to fix and prevent it from happening again? Keep on reading to find out more!

Cause #1 Clogs or Blockages

Does your sink drain water slowly? Are there unfamiliar gurgling noises when you flush the toilet? These common signs could indicate clogged drains. Clogs mainly develop over time and are a product of a blockage that restricts the water flow from your drainpipes, impacting the plumbing throughout your entire home or establishment.

Clogged drains can affect multiple fixtures such as sinks, toilets, showers, bathtubs, and sprinkler systems. Raw sewage could travel back into your drainpipes and your plumbing fixtures from the septic tank or the main sewer lines if the clogs become severe. The situation can get messy, and you would want to contact a plumber right away for professional hydro jetting service.

Drain clogs are usually a long process of material buildup in your drains. Here are some of the common materials that can clog your pipes:

Hair
Solidified grease
Baby wipes and feminine hygiene products
Extra-thick toilet paper, facial tissues, towels, and other wiping products.
Dental floss and cotton swabs
Products labeled non-flushable

You can place a drain strainer in your bathroom drains or sinks to prevent materials from falling into your drainpipes to prevent clogs from occurring. Also, make sure to dispose of hygienic products properly and, as much as possible, minimize the amount of toilet paper that you flush down your toilet.

Cause #2 Tree Roots

Tree root invasion happens when trees roots penetrate your sewage lines, growing through your plumbing pipes or crawling around and crushing the lines, searching for the water that flows inside.

The tree root invasion process is usually slow, but it could speed up if your lines are in bad condition, with holes or cracks that conveniently allow the roots to enter the drain.

To prevent yourself from dealing with this situation, you should estimate the suitable area if you’re planning to plant a tree within your property. It will vary depending on the type of plant and its growth rate. Ensure that the site you choose will not interfere with your plumbing pipes.

Cause #3 Main Sewer Line Blockage

A blockage in your sewer system usually occurs in the main sewer line owned and maintained by your city. The sudden backup caused by a clog is similar to what you experience during a household blockage. It can also be due to insufficient design capacity if your area encounters serious growth.

The problem becomes prominent if a community has difficulties with the sewers after heavy rainfall. The main sewer blockage will continuously affect your plumbing in the entire house or establishment, rather than affecting just one drain.

To decrease the damage, once there is a block in your main sewer line, shut off all water supplies in your home or establishment and shield drain openings with material that can absorb the liquid.

Final Thoughts

Although these valuable tips are practical and helpful, you should immediately contact a professional sewer line cleaning service if nothing changes. There could potentially be a more severe cause for the blockage, which would require a possible sewer line repair or replacement.

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Best Ways to Clear a Sewer Line Blockage