How to take on the blocked sewers issue
How to take on the blocked sewers issue
What are some of the best remedies to open clogged drains pipes of your bathroom? The typical plunger is easiest and speediest solution. The process is pretty straightforward to apply. The plunger will not work if you vigorously push it up and down very but not like a pneumatic drill. The most effective procedure to adopt is to cover the drain pipe completely with the bell-shaped head of the plunger and push down gently, then come up quickly and forcefully creating suction. Hopefully the suction of the upwards movement of the drainage plunger will pull what ever is stuck in your drainage back up into the bathroom toilet, tub or sink. Note that some tubs and sinks are fitted with overspill holes that must be closed with a sponge or wet towel before proceeding with the plunger.
Chemical unblocking agents can also be used to dislodge or dissolve obstructed matter. The chemicals are normally applied only after an unsuccessful attempt to remove the clog using a plunger. The chemicals must sit for a while as it eats away at the blockage, then you must run hot water down the drain pipe to flush it out. Use rough clothes that cover your body fully as things could get a bit mucky and some of the strong chemicals may spill on you and burn exposed skin. After chemical flushing, you may try the plunger again – this can cause the chemical/water mix to splash back on you – eye guards are highly advisable here. The chemical product comes with specific manufacturer’s instructions; it is important to read and follow them carefully.
The next thing you can attempt to use if your plunger is ineffective is to loosen the nuts holding the P-trap in place with pliers or a pipe wrench. Removing the drain pipe trap can release a sudden rush of waste water, so keep a mop and pail handy, put a bucket underneath the p-trap before you disconnect it. If you dont want to destroy the chrome finish of your pipes, then wrap the jaws of the pipe wrench with the electric tape; this will also help you to get a better grip. After you have removed the P-trap, clean it thoroughly to eradicate any solid material that may be blocking the pipe opening. Unfortunately if you can’t find anything, the problem probably runs a lot deeper and could be anywhere between the trap and the soil stack.
A toilet auger is the best tool for dealing with toilets that are blocked,. A drain pipe snake should be used if you are trying to unclog your sink or tub. Because of their size and length, drainage snakes are well designed for getting at blockages in small spaces in difficult to reach places. Once you have pushed deep enough, rotate the handle to screw and hook into the blockage and slowly draw it out, this should pull the blockage with it. After you have successfully removed the the blockage you should put the P-trap back into place and check if water can flow through freely. Ensure that all the joints and the P-trap are firmly sealed and that there is no leakage anywhere.
After trying all of these methods and you still have a water flow problem, it is time to contact a drainage contractor or local plumber. Some common issues that are beyond the capabilities of the common homeowner are stoppages in the soil stack or the sewer service by tree roots or even a collapsed pipe which could be the result of old age or deterioration of the pipes because of Mother Nature or an unforeseen Act of God.