Homeowners should not try to fix a sewer drain problem themselves because it could be serious and require a plumbing emergency. Different levels of sewer drain problems exist, and some can be health concerns.
Sewer Drains
The sewer drain is the part of the plumbing system that takes wastewater away from toilets, baths, showers and sinks and into the main sewer line. It’s sometimes called the sewer line or waste line, but it’s really just a drain.
Different homes have different types of plumbing for dealing with waste. Some have sewage pumps, others have garbage disposals, and some have septic tanks. Because the sewer drain is not easily accessible, plumbing problems with it are usually more serious than other types of plumbing problems.
A clogged sewer drain that goes unnoticed can cause major problems in a home. The sewage can go back into your home, causing odors and sewer gasses to start building up in your house. It can lead to mold, mildew, and potentially severe health problems.
Signs of a Main Sewer Drain Clog
The most apparent symptom of a sewer line clog is sewage backing up the home. This can be accompanied by a gurgling sound from the piping behind the toilet, tub, or sink. The water coming from faucets and drains may also become discolored.
Sewage backup can cause serious problems even if it doesn’t enter your home. If it’s backing up into your home, it can reach the foundation and start to damage it.
If you have a backup in your home, it is important to call a professional to fix the problem. The backup could signify a more serious issue, and the odor can be very unpleasant.
Removing a Sewer Drain Clog
The plunger is the most common tool to clear a clog. To use a plunger, fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the plunger, then place the plunger over the drain. Push and pull the plunger up and down to create suction and break up the clog.
If the clog is in an accessible location, the homeowner can try to clear it with a plunger. If the clog is in a location that is not easily accessible, the homeowner may need to use a drain snake to clear the clog. The homeowner should call a professional plumber if the clog is in the main waste line.
Preventing a Sewer Drain Clog
The best way to prevent clogs is to eliminate waste by starting with the largest pipes. You should put solid waste in the toilet, tub, shower, and sink. You shouldn’t pour water from the kitchen into the sink because this will mix the grease with the water and cause a clog.
The best way to prevent clogs in your kitchen sink is only to use them for water and soap suds. This will help avoid any materials buildup that could eventually lead to a clog.
Conclusion
If you have a slow or clogged sewer drain, you can do a few things to try and fix the problem yourself. First, use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to unclog the drain. If that doesn’t work, you may need a chemical drain cleaner. You can also try pouring hot water down the drain to melt any grease or soap buildup that may be causing the clog. If you have tried all of these things and the drain is still clogged, you will need to call a plumber to have the problem fixed.
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