Having a clog or blockage in your main drain line will affect the plumbing throughout the rest of your house. From toilets that will not flush and sinks that will not drain to damaged appliances and strained plumbing, the impact of a problem with your main drain line can be severe, and often expensive. Fortunately, fixing a clog or blockage in your main drain line is not that complicated or difficult, as long as you have the right tools and information for the job.
Tools and Preparation
The key to cleaning a main line drain in Woodland-Hills, CA is to get yourself an auger or plumbing snake. Sewer rods are also effective tools for helping to clear a clog in the main drain line. Before you begin, stop using the plumbing in your home until you are sure that the main drain line is cleared. Additional water in the main line will make it more difficult to clear and could cause backups and other damage in your home.
First Step
Find the clean-out plug that will be located on a major drain pipe in places like your basement, garage, crawl space or near to your home’s foundation. Take the plug out using an adjustable wrench. Some waste water might drain when you unplug your clean-out or when you remove a clog. Always stand clear while you are removing a plug and working on any clogs. If you have a vertical drain line, then put a bucket under your clean-out.
Always wear the correct safety gear and follow any instructions from manufacturers for usage and safety while using any product to open a drain. Always employ caution when cleaning clogs and blockage in old plumbing. Certain products might not be suitable. When you are dealing with older and corroded plumbing and are concerned about causing damage, or you find that you are unable to clear the clog yourself, then contact a plumbing professional.
Second Step
If you find that you need to employ an auger, then push the cable down the pipe until it reaches the obstruction. Turn your handle clockwise, which will dig the tip directly into the blockage or clog. Then simply twist, pull and push on the cable until the clog or blockage is broken up.
If you are employing a sewer rod, direct the rod down the pipe until it reaches the clog or blockage. Push and pull on the rod until the clog or blockage is broken up.
Be sure to work the rod or auger in both directions inside the drain line, both toward your home and out away from it.
Tree Roots
Your standard drain-clearing tools will not be effective against a blockage or clog that is caused by tree roots entering an underground pipe. You must contact a professional plumber for clearing this sort of blockage.
Tips for Preventing Future Drain Problems
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Do not empty any coffee grounds, grease or materials that will clump and solidify down drains.
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If you use a disposal, then run a lot of cold water down the pipe to flush out any food particles.
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Clean your pop-up stoppers and strainers often.
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Do not flush any dense paper products down your toilet.
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If you use a septic tank, ensure that a professional inspects it every three years or so.