Your home’s drain pipes funnel wastewater away from your sinks, showers, toilets and water-using appliances. If they become clogged or damaged, you’ll need drain repair to avoid sewage backing up and ruining your property and the surrounding environment. For professional help, contact Drain Repair Near Me.
It’s normal for your drains to clog occasionally, but if the problem persists, it can mean a bigger issue. Here are some signs that your drains need to be repaired.
Pipe bursting is one of the most advanced and cost-effective ways to repair underground pipes. It is a trenchless method that requires only two small pits to work, so it is less disruptive to the property and can be completed in a shorter amount of time than traditional methods. In addition to its speed and convenience, pipe bursting is also environmentally friendly. It eliminates the need for toxins and chemicals to enter the environment, and it uses pipes that are more resilient than old ones and do not leach into soil or water.
The process works by pulling a new, same-sized pipe through the old one using a hydraulic or pneumatic expansion head and a cable winch. As the old pipe breaks apart, the new pipe shifts into the space and expands into it, thereby replacing it with a single, strong line that can carry more water or waste than the old one. The new pipe can then be heat-welded above ground to the existing lines, ensuring a long-lasting and durable replacement.
This pipe bursting technique can be used to replace sewer, water, and gas lines without extensive digging. It is most often used to replace old clay or cast iron pipes that are prone to cracking and blockages caused by debris and root intrusions. In some cases, these pipes may need to be replaced immediately to prevent a costly rupture or to keep the drain system working properly. Persistent backups, even after clearing an obstruction, are a good sign that it is time to install new sewer pipes.
It is important to note that this process is still experimental, and it is not suitable for all pipes. Cement lined sewage (CMP) pipes, for example, do not typically burst or split well.
Hard water
Hard water is a common household problem that can cause a range of problems for the drains. It is a type of water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. While these minerals are not harmful to the human body, they can cause a lot of problems for the drains and other household appliances. These problems include slow drainage, clogs, and corrosion of the pipes.
The most significant problem associated with hard water is the formation of calcium deposits in the drains and pipes. These deposits are known as lime scale and can lead to a variety of issues, including reduced water flow and clogs. The best way to prevent this issue is to use a regular maintenance routine, which includes the use of a drain cleaner and a water softener.
Homeowners can typically identify hard water in their plumbing system by noticing a build-up of whitish, yellowish or greenish residue on faucets and other household fixtures. They can also look for signs of reduced water pressure or fluctuating temperatures when using showers or washing machines. A musty odor emanating from the drains is another sign of hard water and could be caused by the bacteria that thrive in these conditions.
If you have a serious problem with hard water, you should consider getting a professional plumber to clean the drains and install a water softener. This appliance will convert hard water into soft water by removing the dissolved minerals. It is a more efficient and cost-effective way to solve this issue than using traditional chemical drain cleaners. Additionally, regular plumbing inspections can help prevent hard water damage and other plumbing problems.
DIY methods
Many people turn to expensive drain cleaners when a clog occurs, but you can often get the job done with common pantry items. Baking soda and vinegar are a simple combination that can dissolve many drain clogs. Simply pour 1/2 cup baking soda and then 1/2 cup of vinegar down the drain, and then flush it with a pot of boiling water. This will produce a fizzing reaction that helps break down food and gunk, making it easier for the drain to flow.
A bent wire hanger is another rudimentary, yet effective, DIY tool for clearing out minor clogs. Straighten out a wire coat hanger, and then bend one end to create a small hook. Use this makeshift snake to fish out any hair, soap scum, or other gunk that is causing the clog. Be careful not to scratch your pipes while snaking, but this makeshift snake can often dislodge even the most stubborn of clogs.
If the clog is caused by grease, try heating it up with hot water. Pour 2 litres of hot water down the drain, and it will help to heat and dissolve any grease that has formed in the pipe. It’s also a good idea to dispose of all grease in the garbage to prevent it from cooling down and clogging your drains.
For more serious clogs, try using a plunger or a larger wire drain snake. You can often find these tools at your local hardware store. When you are using a snake, remove the drain cover and carefully feed the snake down the drain until it reaches the clog. Then, twist the head of the snake to entangle it with any clogs and pull them out of the pipe.
Drain auger or snake
Some drain clogs are so stubborn that no amount of plunger work can remove them. A professional plumber uses a tool called a drain snake, or a plumber’s auger to dig the blockage out of your pipe. This is a powerful tool, but it can be dangerous if you don’t know how to use it correctly.
Start by inserting the head of the drain snake into the clogged pipe opening. If you’re using a manual snake, then crank the handle to extend it.
Rotate the snake head while feeding it into the drain, and do not apply too much pressure. This will allow the snake to navigate bends in the pipe and break up or hook onto the clog. Once you feel the head of the drain snake hit the clog, then stop rotating it. At this point, it’s likely that the snake has gotten entangled around the clog and will mash it up as you pull it out.
After you have removed the clog, then turn on the water to test your work. If the water runs smoothly, then you’ve successfully fixed your clogged drain. Remember to run the shower or tub for a few minutes afterward to rinse away any remaining particles that the snake couldn’t remove. Also, make sure to clean and sanitize your drain snake afterward to prevent contamination. Service Force Plumbing in Maryland recommends rinsing and cleaning the snake thoroughly before storing it. You should also check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and usage. You can usually find these instructions on the manufacturer’s website. They may also be included in the owner’s manual that comes with your snake.
Call a professional
If you are experiencing recurring drain clogs, foul odors or gurgling sounds, it is time to call a professional plumber. These problems indicate a bigger issue in your plumbing system, such as damaged pipes or a sewer back up.
A clogged pipe or a leak can result in extensive water damage, so it is important to act as soon as possible. A professional plumber can assess the extent of the problem, identify the cause and recommend the best course of action for your specific situation. They will use specialized equipment, such as cameras on long fiber optic cables, to check the condition of your pipes without disturbing your home.
Leaving drain issues untreated can lead to serious problems, including corroded or broken pipes, mold and rotting floors and walls. Professional plumbers know how to find and repair these issues quickly and efficiently, saving you both time and money. They also offer routine maintenance to keep your drains running smoothly and prevent clogs and leaks from occurring again in the future.
Regular maintenance can help you save money in the long run. By keeping your drains clean, you can avoid the cost of cleaning products and prevent blockages by removing soap scum, hair, grease and other debris before they cause serious problems. Plumbers can also advise you on how to dispose of items that are not safe for your pipes, such as disposable diapers, sanitary products and toys. This can reduce your risk of expensive repairs and prevent pest infestations, such as cockroaches and flies, from invading your home. It is also a good idea to have your plumbing professionally inspected every year to catch potential problems before they become serious.
