What Is The Best Way To Fix A Clogged Main Drain?

The menace of a clogged main drain can strike when least expected, turning a peaceful home into a chaotic mess. One minute, you’re enjoying a hot shower; the next, you’re standing ankle-deep in a murky pool. Or perhaps you’re about to do your laundry, only to find that the sink’s become a miniature pond. 

No homeowner wishes to deal with this sort of predicament, but unfortunately, drain clogs are a common household issue. This blog post aims to demystify the main drain clog, exploring its causes, symptoms, and, most importantly, a range of effective solutions. 

Whether you’re facing slow drains, sewage backup, or even a complete blockage, we’ll guide you through possible fixes, from the straightforward plunger method to the more complex sewer snake approach, helping you reclaim the tranquility of your home. For local drain maintenance and repair,
click here to check out Full Speed Plumbing.

What are the most common main drain clogs?

To fully understand how to handle a main drain clog, you must first identify what type of clog you’re dealing with. Here are the five primary types of main drain clogs that can disrupt your household’s peace.

1. Soft blockages

These occur when softer materials, such as hair and grease, accumulate over time, slowing the water flow. For instance, a shower drain may get clogged up with hair, or grease and food particles might block a kitchen sink drain.

2. Hard blockages

These are caused by more rigid substances, like toys, paper products, or even certain types of food that don’t break down easily (think corn kernels). An example could be a child’s toy accidentally flushed down the toilet, leading to a blockage in the main drain.

3. Tree root intrusion

Tree roots can infiltrate your main drain, seeking water and nutrients, causing a blockage. These clogs usually happen in older homes with clay or cast iron pipes with small cracks or seams.

4. Structural clogs

These are caused by issues with the structure of the drain system itself, such as bellies (low spots in the line where waste collects), offset pipes (misaligned pipes), or collapsed sections due to age or damage. In these cases, the clog occurs not due to what goes into the drain but due to a fault in the drainage system’s design or condition.

5. Foreign object blockages

These occur when non-dissolvable items are disposed of down the drain, such as feminine hygiene products, wipes (even those labeled as ‘flushable’), or cat litter. These items can cause immediate and severe blockages that are often difficult to clear.

How to fix a clogged main drain

To effectively tackle a clogged main drain, you need a strategy tailored to the specific type of blockage you’re dealing with. Here’s how to tackle each type.

Soft blockages

These blockages can usually be cleared with basic household tools. A plunger is often enough to dislodge the clog, but if not, a simple hand auger or a drain snake can do the trick. Chemical drain cleaners might also work, but they should be used sparingly as they can damage your pipes over time.

Hard blockages

Removing hard blockages may require the use of a toilet or closet auger, which can reach further down the drain than a standard plunger or snake. If the blockage is due to a foreign object like a toy, it may need to be manually retrieved.

Tree root intrusion

This type of blockage is more complicated to fix and usually requires professional assistance. Plumbers may use a drain snake with a cutting blade to chop up the roots or apply a root-killing foam to the pipes.

Structural clogs

These usually require professional intervention. Methods can range from sewer pipe lining to replace the damaged section, pipe bursting for more extensive damage, or even total sewer line replacement.

Foreign object blockages

These blockages can often be cleared with a plunger or a closet auger. If the blockage is severe, a professional might have to use a drain snake or hydro jetting to clear the pipe. In some cases, the object might need to be manually retrieved.

What is the best way to fix a clogged main drain? — Conclusion

In conclusion, while minor clogs can often be handled with some DIY work, the complexity of main drain clogs can vary widely. If you’ve tried the methods outlined above and are still dealing with slow drains or backups, it’s likely time to call in a professional. A licensed plumber can assess the situation, identify the precise cause of the clog, and apply the appropriate fix. 

Dealing with a clogged drain can be extremely frustrating, but don’t feel powerless to fix it on your own. Sometimes seeking professional assistance may be best and allows for efficient resolution to ensure that life returns back to normal as quickly as possible.

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash