Allens Plumbing knows that a sewer system is crucial to the health of any home or business. However, it is inevitable that a drain will back up and could affect anyone’s day. Allens Plumbing is the Home of The Drain Surgeon. A highly qualified & skilled Drain Cleaning Technician, that is trained to properly diagnose, treat, and maintain any sewer challenge, including drain cleaning.
Most sewer problems are identified when a “backup” or “stoppage” exists—the solutions to solving this issue range from very simple to complex. The truth is, that a healthy sewer line should never back up. The Drain Surgeon’s motto is to “protect the health of its community.”
There are 2 very common reasons for a drain to back up: A clogged drain or a damaged pipe.
What is a Clogged Drain?
A clogged drain is when something is blocking the flow of water down a drain.
- Foreign Debris – items that should not go down a drain: hair, diapers, paper towels, baby wipes, toys, roots, etc.
- Build-Up – over time build-up can restrict flow as a result of the diameter of the pipe getting smaller:
- Grease Build Up – Mostly found in drains that service kitchens
- Soap Scum Build Up – Mostly found in drains that service bathrooms and laundry
- Tuberculation – Found in metallic pipes, such as cast iron where iron oxides will form as a result of a chemical reaction between bacteria in the water and the iron in the pipe walls
Common Applications for Clogged Drains
- Cable Machines “Snakes”: These machines have rotating heads that will either bind or cut the debris in the line to restore flow.
- Hydro Jetting: High-pressure water device with specialized heads that will clean the entire circumference of the drain line and flush the debris down the line. This is an effective drain cleaning method.
- Hi-Speed “Descaling” Machines: These high RPM cable machines with specialized heads will effectively pulverize hard scale or tuberculation within cast iron pipes and restore the original circumference of the pipe.
- Bio Augmentation Maintenance: Maintenance of a sewer system can be effective if done consistently and safely. The use of 100% Eco-Friendly Bacterial Solutions, can remove the harmful effects of build-up over time and keep new build-up from occurring. Harmful chemicals are NOT the answer, because they can lead to DAMAGED PIPE.
Root Treatment: Kill and remove the roots, NOT the tree.
We use the latest technology in our high-speed drain cleaning and rooter services, to dissolve even the toughest clogs! Click here to learn more about our methods!
What is a Damaged Pipe?
A damaged pipe will also block the flow of water down a drain, but the solution will need to be discovered through the application of initial drain-clearing methods as well as Diagnostic Equipment like a CCTV Sewer Inspection Camera and locator.
Common Applications for Damaged Pipes
- Dig & Replace: The most common and intrusive method of fixing a damaged pipe. Will need to consider what will need to be removed and replaced once the pipe is fixed.
- Pipe Bursting: Pull a new pipe through the old pipe. Typically 2 access points are required (beginning & end).
- Cured in Place Pipe “Lining” (C.I.P.P.): Insert a prepared felt, epoxy, & resin mix into the existing pipe, inflate, and cure in place.
- Applied in Place Pipe “Coating” (A.I.P.P): Apply an epoxy & resin mixture to the internal diameter of the existing pipe and let cure. The result is a smooth, PVC-like finish.
Best Practices For Maintaining a Healthy Sewer System
As we age, regular visits to the doctor become more necessary. The same situation applies to our homes. Unless we have replaced our system, it becomes highly recommended by The Drain Surgeon that we actively maintain our drain system.
Preventing Major Blockages
Regular maintenance ensures that minor clogs are addressed before they become significant blockages, preventing costly and disruptive plumbing emergencies and damage.
Improving Efficiency
Clean pipes and sewer lines allow water and waste to flow freely, improving the efficiency of your plumbing system and reducing the risk of backups. Regular drain cleaning can help maintain this efficiency.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Plumbing System
By regularly removing buildup and addressing minor issues, you can extend the lifespan of your pipes and fixtures, saving money on costly replacement efforts and repairs in the long run. Drain cleaning is a crucial part of this maintenance.
DIY Tips for Maintaining Your Drains
While professional services are essential, you can also take steps to maintain clear drains and prevent clogs.
Regular Flushing
Flush your drains with hot water regularly to prevent build-up. This simple step can support the effects of professional drain cleaning.
Avoid Garbage Disposals
Although garbage disposals are great at grinding food waste, that waste does not flow well in a drainage system and will increase the possibility of build-up.
Do Not Put Down Drains:
- Grease
- Paper Towels
- Baby Wipes
- Feminine Products
Use Drain Screens
Make sure all drains have a screen to catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the pipes. This can help reduce the need for frequent drain cleaning.
Use BioOne
BioOne contains no chemicals, no fillers, no soap, no surfactants, no perfumes, no scents, no enzymes, no emulsifiers, no seeds, no spores, and no pathogens. There is no mixing, no waiting, and best of all no clean-up time. BioOne is an all-natural, live vegetative, environmentally safe, State-of-the-Art, Next Generation performance-based product, that works. This can be a good supplement to professional drain cleaning.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY Maintenance is helpful, there are situations that require professional intervention. Call a professional plumber if you experience:
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- Severe or Reoccurring Clogs: Persistent issues that don’t respond to DIY methods.
- Multiple Affected Drains: Clogs affecting several drains may indicate a main sewer line issue.
- Visible Tree Roots: Roots near your sewer line can cause significant damage. Professional drain cleaning and pipe repair may be necessary.