Dealing with Heavy Blockages in the Main Drain System

There is nothing worse than dealing with clogged drainage systems at your home. They will disrupt your peace of mind and the comfort that your family needs. Clogging of the main drain system could affect your entire plumbing system. Such problems may be caused by objects, dirt, and debris falling into the drain lines. It could also be induced by tree roots falling directly into the drainage system. Some of the causes cannot be controlled. However, the main drain lines must be constantly checked to ensure that they are free from any objects. Start off with a few tool options and several steps you can take to effectively manage your main drain system to avoid clogged pipes.

The Power Snake

When dealing with major types of clogs in main streams, a heavy duty sewer snake will come handy. You may consider an electric powered snake for such kind of work since hand operated snakes may not be able to clear the main line stoppage. You may rent or purchase the tools though having one of your own would be more resourceful. Involving a plumber may be a good idea to avoid damaging the drainage line that runs out of your house.

The Drain Bladder

Plumbing supply houses and home centres sell a specific blow up ball that is attached to a hose and inserted to the cleanout. Turning on the system allows the bladder to inflate sealing the drain at the same time blowing water at a high pressure down the main line drain. The pressure pushes or forces the stoppage down the stream to the main sewer line unblocking the main line stream. When setting up this system, it is necessary to place the ball into the pipe and not just the cleanout. The ball should be pushed into the cleanout a few feet deeper to confirm it is well placed.

Exterior Cleanout Necessary

Most houses especially the modern designs will have an outside cleanout plug system. You will need to locate this cap, unscrew its cover, and insert a power snake into the system to ensure thorough exterior cleanout.

Basement Cleaning

A cleanout system exists in the basement area especially for older houses. In this case, you have to remove the cleanout cap or break it with a hammer if it fails to come out. When the cleanout process is done, you may replace a new plastic cap for the broken cleanout cover.