The drains are an essential part of any home but they are often ignored, even when it comes to routine maintenance. Unfortunately, failing to pay them attention does increase the likelihood of them failing, resulting in wastewater and other items being unable to leave your home. 

It’s surprising how quickly this becomes an issue. If your water isn’t draining then anything entering the drains will stay there and ultimately overflow into your home. When you get sewage in your home it is hazardous to your health, stinks, and everything it’s touched will need to be thrown away.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to maintain the drains and prevent the issue. The most important of these is to inspect them annually. You can do this by investing in a drain camera. It’s inserted into the drains and gives you a picture of the inside. 

You’ll be able to spot any areas where waste is building up on the sides of the pipes. This, if left, will result in clogs and issues for you.

Eliminating the Drain Issue

If you already have an issue with your drain then the sewer camera can help you to locate it. Even when your drains are backed up and full of wastewater, you can send the camera along the pipes to find the issue.

Your next course of action will depend on where the clog is because this is almost always the issue with drains not draining.

A clog under an appliance can be broken up with a drain auger, or you may wish to use a chemical drain cleaner. This can erode the blockage and solve the issue. 

In fact, you can even put baking soda down the drain and add a little vinegar. The two compounds react viciously to each other and will effectively pressurize the clog, forcing it to break up. 

But, if the problem is further down the line, in the main sewer pipe it is better to find the first inspection hatch and take a look.

If it’s full the clog s further down the line, if it’s dry and empty the clog is before it. This tells you which direction to insert the camera to check the issue. You can then slide drain rods into the sewer pipe and attempt to break-up the clog.

Drain rods screw together, they are strong and flexible with a corkscrew-style attachment on the end. This can be twisted at the point of the clog to remove it and allow the wastewater to flow away again.

However, when unclogging any drain, particularly a sewer pipe, you should never stand above the drain. As the clog moves it can create a back pressure which will push the sewage out of the drain. If you’re standing over it you’ll get covered!

Should you be struggling with the clog it is always worth getting a professional in t help. They have the tools and experience to deal with the issue quickly and effectively.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Evandro Felippe