Cleansing Your Sewer Line and Drains This Spring

Ensuring your sewer line and drains are clean this spring is essential for your home’s maintenance. Like any other home system, these systems can experience clogs, which are often caused by blockages within your pipes.

Fortunately, you can prevent these backups by following a few simple steps to keep your pipes running smoothly this season.

Common Causes of Sewer Backups

Sewer backups in residential areas occur due to several factors, including:

• Tree Root Intrusion
• Grease Accumulation
• Improper Disposal of Paper Products

If you encounter a sewer line clog, follow these steps to clear the blockage.

How to Clear a Sewer Line Clog

First, use a pipe wrench to loosen the cap on your main drain line before fully opening it. Once the cap is loosened, open it and allow the buildup to drain out. Be cautious and step aside as any waste caused by the clog may spill out. Let it run off entirely before attempting further repairs.

Next, feed the auger cable down the drainpipe. Each auger (or plumbing snake) comes with specific instructions, so follow those for the best results. Generally, gently feed the auger cable into your drainpipe until you hit the clog. You’ll know you’ve hit it when the cable becomes progressively harder to move. Run the auger until the clog is cleared, indicated by the water level in the drainpipe gradually decreasing and then draining out completely.

However, don’t stop running the machine immediately after the clog disappears. Smaller pockets elsewhere in the pipe could cause future issues. Once the clog is removed, spray a hose down your drainpipe at full blast to remove any lingering debris and clean off the auger.

Afterwards, slowly pull the plumbing snake out of the pipe and hose off the auger cable before winding it back onto the machine. Finally, place the cap back on your drainpipe and use the pipe wrench to tighten it up.

Preventing Drain Clogs

Avoid putting certain objects down your drain, especially if you have a garbage disposal unit. Items to avoid include:

• Bones
• Fibrous Fruits/Vegetables: Includes celery, artichokes, asparagus, lettuce
• Coffee Grounds
• Fruit Pits: Includes avocado pits, peach pits, etc.
• Corn Husks
• Eggshells
• Potato Peels
• Pasta, Rice, and Grains

Just like grease or oil, these items can clog your drain or hinder the garbage disposal blades, causing additional buildup in the disposal drain.

Cleaning Your Drains

If your drains clog, there are several preventive measures to help keep them clear:

• Run hot water through the sink after each use. Hot water helps keep oils in food products running down the drain, preventing them from building up on the pipe’s interior surface and causing clogs.
• Throw a handful of baking soda into the drain and follow it with hot water. Baking soda is a great cleaning agent that absorbs foul odors, leaving your drainpipes smelling much better.
• Pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then chase it with very hot water. Vinegar contains acetic acid, an excellent organic solvent that removes organic buildup in pipes.

Contact MillTown Plumbing

In conclusion, keeping your sewer lines and drains clean this spring is a vital part of maintaining your home’s plumbing system. By understanding the common causes of sewer backups and following the proper steps to clear clogs, you can prevent major issues before they start. Additionally, practicing good habits, like avoiding certain items in your garbage disposal and regularly cleaning your drains, will help keep your pipes running smoothly. At MillTown Plumbing, we’re here to assist with all your plumbing needs. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or need a routine maintenance check, our team is ready to help ensure your home’s plumbing remains in top condition. Don’t wait for a problem to arise—contact us today to schedule your service.